Austin residents are all too familiar with the city’s seasonal weather patterns. They also understand that these patterns impact household plumbing in several ways that often require professional attention.
For example, summers bring extreme heat which causes pipes to expand due to thermal expansion, increasing the risk of leaks and pipe bursts. This particular risk may necessitate the need for new pipes. Households in colder areas of Austin are more likely to experience frozen pipes, requiring better insulation.
Weather-related plumbing issues are just one reason to count on a reliable Austin plumber.
Follow these steps to find the right plumbing experts in your area.
Identifying the Plumbing Problem
Understanding plumbing basics will help you identify issues correctly, leading to the right expert for the job. The weather-related plumbing issues above are just the start. There are more issues to watch, from spring-related basement flooding from heavy rains to common drain clogs.
The following issues may necessitate an emergency plumber:
• Flooding
• Overflowing toilet
• Frozen pipes
• Pipe bursts
• Severe clogs
• Sewer line malfunction
• Gas leaks
• Sump pump issues
• Broken water lines
Water heater failures may also call for an emergency plumber; leaks are the most telltale sign. Call an emergency plumber for any sewage, gaseous, or strange smells, too.
Plumbing Maintenance Issues
Some plumbing problems may be due to maintenance issues. Plumbing should be routinely inspected for functionality. Pipes also have an expiration date; older pipes are more prone to crack, clog, and shift out of place.
Depending on the material, pipes can last anywhere between 25 to 100 years with proper maintenance.
PVC pipes and steel can last 20 to 25 years at the least and up to 40 to 50 years at the most. Pipes made from copper are known for lasting over 50 years with the right upkeep. Brass and cast iron pipes last the longest at 70 to 100 years respectively.
Any old pipe system should be regularly inspected despite its longevity. You’ll find these systems in homes built at the turn of the century and in historic homes and, like any other plumbing system, these pipes require good household practices. For example, household members should refrain from letting objects flush down the drain like hair ties, trash, or other debris.
Avoid flushing anything down the toilet that could potentially clog the drain. Never flush kitty litter, even the brands that claim to sell flushable litter. Don’t flush sanitary products or paper towels, either.
When encountering a clog, avoid using store-bought drain cleaners with harsh chemicals. These products can eat through old pipes, causing emergency plumbing issues. Instead, a local plumber will use a snaking tool to safely remove the clog without damaging your pipes.
A local plumber can also tell you when to purchase a new showerhead, faucet, toilet, or pipe replacement. They’re trained in diagnosing issues correctly so that your money is spent wisely on the right projects.
Look out for particular sounds, especially running water that won’t stop. This sound is common with toilets that need repair. You can also hear when pipes make “clunking” sounds when they’re out of place.
Types of Affordable Austin Plumbing Services
Next, identify the right plumbing services for the issue. An expert will gladly visit your home and inspect your pipes and plumbing to diagnose the problem. The more information you have, the better.
If you’re concerned about your plumbing, check exterior plumbing parts first like faucets, showerheads, and toilet handles. Simply replacing these parts may do the trick.
Local plumbers like Plumbing Outfitters also provide faucet services for repairs and replacements. Leaky faucets waste gallons of water per day.
Local plumbers also inspect, repair, and replace garbage disposals. A quality garbage disposal is essential for any functional kitchen. If a rotten food smell is emanating from your garbage disposal, that’s your sign to call Plumbing Outfitters for cleaning, leak repair, and replacement.
Drain cleaning is another essential service offered by local plumbers. This service is part of a complete plumbing maintenance routine. Booking periodic cleanings can extend the life of your pipes and plumbing appliances.
Routine toilet maintenance is another valuable service. A plumber will inspect your toilet to ensure there is no running water and the toilet is firmly fixed in place. This service is crucial for preventing leaky toilets and overflows.
Households with tankless water heaters also need routine inspections to prevent leaks before they start. Assess the age of the water heater to determine whether it’s time for a replacement. A professional can also suggest a replacement that conserves water.
Water filtration, hydrojetting, and gas leak detection round out a complete suite of essential plumbing services for Austin households.
Contacting a Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact a plumber when there’s an issue, even when it’s just a concern. A hallmark of a reliable plumber is an option for emergency plumbing services. Plumbers should also have more than one way to contact them, whether it’s by phone or email.
Plumbing services should be available on the plumber’s website, including service areas. Austin-based plumbers service a number of areas in the city, from Williamson to Travis County. Financing may also be available; for example, Plumbing Outfitters offers financing for the Wayfinders Wolf Pack Program.
Ask your local plumber plenty of questions to gauge project timetables, experience, and product knowledge. Customer satisfaction is a priority, and quality plumbing is essential for any functioning household.
If you’re moving to a new home, book a plumbing inspection right away to ensure everything is in top shape. Plumbing Outfitters will be happy to conduct a complete inspection, along with any necessary repairs or replacements to ensure a higher quality of life.
Hire the Best Austin Plumber
Don’t settle for anything but the best for your plumbing needs. Talk to a plumbing expert about common plumbing issues so that they don’t turn into bigger emergencies. Keep the above guide handy as you navigate your own household plumbing while looking for the right expert for the job.
Let Plumbing Outfitters be your go-to plumbing experts for any job, whether it’s a routine drain cleaning or a water heater installation. We’re a team of over 20 licensed and trained plumbing experts committed to craftsmanship, professionalism, and customer service.
Call us today to talk to an Austin plumber about your needs.