Tag: plumbing

Which Plumbing Pipes are the Best for Your Home?

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which plumbing pipes are the best for your home

If you are considering replacing the plumbing pipes in your home, it’s important to know which type of pipes you are going to replace them with. The right plumbing pipes can make a great difference in your water quality and water bill! If you don’t know where to start your research, don’t worry—the pros at Leak Finders are here to help you out! Here is a quick guide on which plumbing pipes are the best for your home.

When You Should Replace Your Pipes

Replacing your pipes is no easy feat – so be sure you need new ones before you decide to replace them. Here is a list of signs that it might be time to replace your plumbing pipes:

  1. Pipe Material

If your home is older, you might have lead pipes, which can be highly dangerous and toxic. Consuming it in small quantities can be dangerous and lead to an unexpected hospital visit. If you have lead pipes, contact your plumber and see what you can do.

  1. Continuous Low Water Pressure

If you have low water pressure, it’s a little difficult to detect the exact problem. However, if you notice that you have been dealing with water pressure problems for a long time, you might have an issue with your pipes. Your plumbing might have leaks, which might lead to mold growth and other major problems.

  1. Remodeling

The best time to replace your pipes, should you decide to do so, is when you’re renovating and remodeling your home. Inspecting your pipes will be more convenient and with a plumber on-site you might have less added cost.

Best Plumbing Pipes

  • Copper

Copper pipes resist corrosion and heat and have a lifespan of roughly 50 years. If you want metal plumbing, copper pipes might be the best and most durable, though slightly more expensive, option. Copper is best used in water supply lines.

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

These pipes are a popular plastic piping option but can only be used for cold water pipes and should generally not be exposed to heat. However, they do not corrode and are much cheaper than metal options. PVC is best for vent and drainpipes.

  • Polyethylene Cross-linked Pipe (PEX)

This type of pipe is also an affordable plastic pipe and is a very flexible option. It also doesn’t rust or corrode and can be found as a hot water and cold water option. This type of pipe is best for water supply lines.

  • Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

This pipe is like PVC but a little more durable. However, it can’t be exposed to direct sunlight making it a less viable option for many homeowners. ABS pipes are best used for drain, vent and waste pipes.

 

Have any more questions about which plumbing pipes are the best for your home? Get in touch with the pros at Leak Finders! Call us today at 804-767-3580 or schedule a service with us on our website!

 

Reasons to Call an Emergency Plumber

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reasons to call an emergency plumber

On good days, plumbing issues can easily be dealt with using some DIY methods and a couple of tools. However, on the not-so-good days, you might have to call an emergency plumber. While that might not sound as appealing, mainly because of how much it can cost, it will certainly benefit your home and plumbing fixtures. Sometimes, it’s best to let the professionals handle a problem, as handling it on your own could make it worse. If you’re not convinced, keep reading. The pros at Leak Finders are here with a list of reasons why you should call an emergency plumber.

1. Risk of Water Damage

If you are dealing with burst pipes or major line leaks, it is best to contact an emergency plumber. There are risks of water damage and eventually mold growth if the leak or burst pipe is not handled properly and professionally. A plumber will have the right tools and knowledge to assess and troubleshoot the problem.

2. Sewage Backup

If there is a major clog in your drain or you are dealing with broken pipes, you might end up dealing with a sewage backup. Signs of backups are gurgling sounds from your drains and odors—if you have a sewage backup, contact an emergency plumber immediately. Sewage backups can be harmful for you and your family’s health. Emergency plumbers will have the right protection against sewage backups.

3. Clogged Drains

Sometimes clogged drains are fairly easy to fix. Usually all it takes is a baking soda and vinegar mixture or a plunger. However, sometimes clogged drains can be really stubborn and, if left ignored, can release odors and be harmful to your plumbing fixtures. Other times, drains might clear out but continue to clog up later. If you notice any of these problems, get in touch with an emergency plumber.

4. Issues with Water Heating

If your hot water heater is too old, is producing rusty water, has water boiling inside it or has leaks around it, you might have to contact a plumber. A problematic water heater can cause a lot of issues and won’t heat your water as quickly or as consistently as you need it to.

5. Toilet Overflow

Yes, an overflowing toilet is just as nightmarish as it sounds. Not only is it a great inconvenience to you and your family, it can also be harmful to your health. The dirty water coming out of your toilet can contain chemicals and bacteria that you do not want to be exposed. If you notice your toilet overflowing, get in touch with an emergency plumber immediately.

Found a reason to call an emergency plumber? Well, look no further than the pros at Leak Finders. Whether you have a utility, slap or sewer line leak, our team of experts will be ready to troubleshoot it in no time. Call us today at 804-767-3580 or schedule a service with us on our website!