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Why Hire a Plumber for a Bathroom Remodel
Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024
When remodeling your home, there are many tasks that require the work of a certified professional. While general contractors can help get most of the work done, there are certain things that should be left to specialized technicians. Plumbing is a common issue that often requires a specialist. Hiring a plumber for a bathroom remodel can help ensure your pipes are working properly and are designed for long-term use. Trying to move or install new plumbing yourself could lead to disaster down the road.
The Benefits of Using a Professional Plumber
Getting the job done right the first time around is crucial in any home remodel. Failing to properly install plumbing could cause complications that often cost more time and money. A professional plumber will help ensure your new bathroom is efficient, safe, and a boost to your property value.
Improved Efficiency
Plumbers understand how pipe systems work. They know which materials work best for certain situations and how to properly lay out the design for improved water flow. If your pipes aren’t placed properly, you could run into issues where toilets don’t flush or water only trickles out. Fixing these issues after your remodel is done can be a hassle. Ensuring your pipes are laid correctly will help prevent the need for further work down the road.
Increased Safety
When the pipes aren’t installed properly, disaster can strike at any time in the bathroom. Leaks, spills, and toilet backups can create hazardous conditions. Bathrooms are one of the number one locations for accidents, and slipping is more likely when your pipes don’t contain water as they should. More than that, toilet backups can contain toxic chemicals and waste that are dangerous to handle on your own. Not only is your health at risk, but you may have to pay extra to hire a professional to safely clean and sanitize your new bathroom.
Boosted Property Value
New pipes are a great way to boost your property value. The right piping system can last a long time, meaning new owners may not have to worry about replacements at all. This can encourage buyers to place an offer and allows you to list at a higher starting price. A new remodel for a bathroom can help lift the appearance of a home. And properly installed piping further increases that value. If you’re remodeling your home to help sell it, hiring a professional plumber ensures you get the best value for your efforts.
Where to Get a Plumber for a Bathroom Remodel
At Guardian Plumbing, we’re dedicated to helping homes in the Annapolis area stay safe and dry. If you’re planning a bathroom remodel, it’s crucial that you get your pipes inspected and possibly replaced ahead of time. This creates a strong foundation for your bathroom that prevents disaster. Call us today at 301-685-5017 to schedule an inspection and start your new bathroom off on the right foot.
Why Restaurants Should Have Annual Plumbing Inspections
Friday, July 26th, 2024
Owning a restaurant, whether big or small, can be a great business opportunity. But if there’s a sudden plumbing problem, then you could lose business while repairs take place. Presenting plumbing disasters can help ensure your building is safe from water damage and that your kitchen and bathrooms are running smoothly. With annual plumbing inspections, you can ensure your restaurant is ready for daily operations without the risk of water emergencies.
Common Restaurant Plumbing Issues Annual Inspections Could Prevent
All plumbing systems have a crossover of issues that can occur. However, restaurants have unique challenges that make annual inspections crucial. By understanding these risks, you can help protect your business against disasters.
Grease Management
No matter what kind of food you serve, grease management is almost always going to be your biggest concern. Many restaurants fail to have the proper grease traps and preventative measures in place. This can cause grease to back up in your pipes, leading to clogs and damage that often results in leaks and bursts. During your annual plumbing inspection, your technicians will check and clean your pipes to ensure they are free from grease. They can also assist you with installing and maintaining grease traps to further prevent grease buildup in your pipes.
Sewage Backup
Sewage issues can occur on any property type, but restaurants tend to be at a higher risk. This is often because customers care less about maintaining plumbing health when they aren’t at their own homes or businesses. If you don’t check your bathroom plumbing regularly, you could end up with a serious issue. Sewage backups can lead to unsafe water damage and extensive property damage. During your inspection, your technician can check on the health of your pipes to ensure there’s no damage or clogs. By keeping bathroom plumbing clean and strong, you can help protect your business.
Low Water Temperature
Keeping hot water hot in a restaurant is a top priority. Keeping dishes washed and clean isn’t always easy, but it’s especially difficult when your water isn’t hot enough. Water temperature plays a crucial role in removing debris and bacteria from dishes. And if your dishes aren’t getting cleaned properly, you could have an unsanitary eating situation. Annual inspections help ensure that your hot water is the right temperature needed to keep you and your patrons safe.
Gas Leaks
Propane and natural gas play another crucial role in keeping most restaurants running. Even a small leak can lead to illness or injury. During an annual plumbing inspection, technicians will also ensure the connection between your gas lines is secure. If there’s any sign of a problem, they’ll help provide a solution that will keep your business safe.
Schedule Your Annual Plumbing Inspection Today
Annual plumbing inspections help keep restaurants and other businesses safe from water damage and other disasters. At Guardian Plumbing Services, we strive to keep restaurants in the Annapolis area protected. Our yearly inspections help ensure your pipes are strong and clean to prevent backups or bursts. Call us today at 301-685-5017 to sign up for our Restaurant Plumbing Protection Plan and schedule your first inspection.
Why Do I Have a High Water Bill?
Monday, June 3rd, 2024
Did your jaw drop when you saw the latest amount due for your water bill? Water and sewage are necessary utilities, but if your bill is higher than usual, you might have an underlying plumbing issue.
Take action to ensure you do not accumulate these high costs from your water bill again. When you understand what can cause these skyrocketing expenses, you can intervene and ensure the costs are lower for your next billing cycle.
A plumber can help you inspect your plumbing system to diagnose and fix any issues. But you can learn more about the inspection process and potential reasons why you have a high water bill when you read on.
Causes of Expensive Water Bills
If you see a high dollar amount on your water bill, you should look into the cause of this jump in costs. Take a look at your water meter to start. Turn off your water and ensure that the meter is not moving. If it still indicates water usage, the meter may be faulty, or you may have a plumbing problem.
One of the most common causes of an increase in your water bill is a leak somewhere in your plumbing. This can present in a number of ways, since you have many fixtures attached to your plumbing system.
Constant dripping from your faucet may seem annoying, but over time, this leak can waste a significant amount of water that will impact your water bill. If you hear water constantly running after you flush a toilet, this indicates extra water usage that will also affect your bill.
A leak might also develop in a pipe that you cannot see within your home or commercial building. However, you can spot signs of a leak in your plumbing, such as pooling water, mold growth, musty smells, or discoloration and watermarks.
Old plumbing fixtures, including toilets or water-using appliances, may also use more water than necessary. You may need to replace these items to lower the cost of your water bill.
Pay attention to your water usage habits as well. In many cases, you may use more water than needed, and it can affect your bill. Do not leave the tap running when using your bathroom or kitchen sinks when not in use, for instance.
How to Reduce Your Costly Water Bill
The first step in reducing the cost of your water bill involves a thorough inspection of your plumbing. You can complete this yourself by consulting your water meter. But if you need help identifying the cause of excess water usage, you can reach out to your plumber.
Call a plumber to get an estimate for a professional plumbing inspection. They use video equipment to check pipes and other areas of your system that you otherwise may miss. This process can spot problems you might not realize affect your plumbing as well as your water bill.
This preventive care for your plumbing can also lower your risk of plumbing emergencies, like burst pipes. In the long run, an inspection can save you a great deal of money. So do not delay booking an appointment with your local plumber.
Check for Outdoor Faucet Problems
Monday, May 20th, 2024
We use plumbing inside our homes and businesses on a daily basis. If you form a clog in a toilet or spot a leak in your bathroom sink or shower, you can find the problem and seek a solution to avoid disrupting your busy schedule.
But most buildings feature outdoor plumbing as well, which can malfunction and impact your life as well. For this reason, you should always inspect outdoor faucets, like the spigot connected to your hose, for signs of issues. Prompt evaluation of these facilities can prevent serious plumbing emergencies and save you money on utility bills.
Sometimes you can fix problems with an outdoor faucet with your own troubleshooting. But more complicated concerns will require intervention from a plumber. Learn about potential problems you may notice in your outdoor spigot when you read on.
Leaky Outdoor Spigots
If you see pooling water or muddy ground near your outdoor faucet, you should first determine the source of the leak. In most cases, a leak in a spigot comes from worn-down materials within the faucet. You can replace washers, nuts, or vacuum breakers on your own with items at your local hardware store.
If the leak exists where the spigot meets a hose, this may point to damage to the faucet threads, a type of groove on the outside of the faucet. Worn threads cannot be replaced, and you may need help from a plumber to replace the entire unit. If you cannot determine the source of the leak from an outdoor faucet, consult a plumber for an inspection.
Water Pressure Problems
Do you notice water coming from an outdoor faucet seems to flow weakly or slowly? Low water pressure may indicate issues within the pipes rather than the spigot. Mineral and other build-up within the plumbing system can partially block water flow to cause pressure problems.
The clog might develop in the aerator, a small screen attached to the edge of the faucet, which you can remove, clean, and replace. However, clogs within the pipes might need professional attention to clean or replace. Give your plumber a call to find the right solution for your outdoor faucet concerns.
Burst Pipes
While leaks or low water pressure from an outdoor faucet might occur due to smaller issues, a burst pipe can also lead to pooling water or pressure issues from this spigot. You may also notice mold, bad smells, or discoloration around the faucet if a pipe in your plumbing system bursts.
If a pipe bursts, you will need urgent help from a plumber to fix the problem. Otherwise, you could see serious moisture damage on your property as well as costly utility bills.
Pipes might burst if they are old or clogged. Freezing winter temperatures might also put pipes, especially outdoor ones, at risk of serious structural damage.
To reduce this danger, you should book an inspection with your plumber. They can find warning signs and treat your plumbing to prevent this emergency scenario.
Avoid Sewer Line Stress
Friday, April 26th, 2024
The sewer line refers to the pipes that lead from your home or place of business to the main drainage system of your community’s plumbing. It allows water and waste to exit your building smoothly and without disruption to your day.
Sewer line pipes can last for many years without requiring repairs. If these pipes do suffer damage, you can be left with quite a mess. But fixing and maintaining this part of your plumbing system does not have to be a disaster.
When you call a trusted plumbing company to handle your sewer line needs, repairs and other work can be handled with ease. You can also reduce your risk of this type of plumbing emergency when you know more about how to take care of your sewer line properly. Read on to learn details about sewer line maintenance.
What Makes Sewer Lines a Hassle?
Many property owners do not think about their sewer line until a problem arises. But an issue with your sewage can come with noticeable signs that can disrupt your regular schedule.
One of the primary complaints of a broken sewer line is a foul odor. If waste cannot leave your property in a timely fashion, it might build up in your pipes and drains, and it can emit a bad smell that can permeate the building and prove incredibly distracting.
Drains in your home or commercial establishment might suffer a clog or backup. When this happens, they will dispose of wastewater slowly or not at all. You could face a risk of mold growth on the property as well if excess water lingers.
Damage to a sewer line outside of your building can leave your lawn soggy and messy. Then in some cases, a plumber might need to dig up the area to access and fix the pipes. This can be highly disruptive as well as expensive, so preventive care for your sewer line is preferable.
How to Prevent Sewer Line Problems
Sometimes damage to pipes happens outside of your control due to aging pipes or interference from external forces like tree roots. However, if you take good care of your plumbing system, you can decrease the likelihood of the development of sewer line damage.
The first bit of advice your plumber can offer regarding caring for your sewage system is to pay attention to the items you dispose of down your drains. A garbage disposal in a kitchen sink can break up some food materials you may want to get rid of. But ideally, you should toss as much food waste in your compost or trash as possible to prevent clogs.
This awareness of what you eliminate through your sewage system should apply to your toilet as well. Toilets are designed to get rid of human waste and toilet paper only. Other materials have a high risk of clogging your system, which can lead to serious damage to your sewer line.
It is also a good idea to flush and clean your plumbing system on a regular basis. Your plumber can offer more maintenance tips for your sewer line when you give them a call.
Do I Need to Replace My Sump Pump?
Wednesday, March 27th, 2024
A sump pump refers to a device that many buildings, especially those with basements that could be prone to flooding, have installed. It features a pit or tank in the ground that can collect water that might otherwise accumulate indoors and then pump it through a pipe to drain outside.
The sump pump can protect your building and stored items from serious water damage from flooding. This can prove especially useful with rainy spring weather on the horizon. But if a sump pump fails, then your home and belongings could be in danger.
You might see certain indicators of a malfunctioning sump pump that requires replacement prior to its failure. A plumber can inspect your sump pump to ensure it works properly. But you can also read on to learn five signs that can mean it is time to replace your sump pump.
More Than a Decade Old
The average sump pump will last for about ten years before requiring replacement. Sometimes it can last for fifteen years or longer. Other times you will need a new sump pump after seven years.
Routine evaluation from a plumber can give you a more solid idea of the state of your sump pump. It may be a good idea to replace your sump pump prior to its deterioration to ensure maximum protection for your property.
Makes Strange Noises
When a sump pump is in action, you might notice a quiet, low hum as the machine pushes water from the basin out of the attached drain. If the sump pump makes a significant amount of noise, such as rattling or grinding, then the motor might be broken.
A loud or strange sound could also point to a clog somewhere in the system. This may require a plumbing professional to eliminate.
Runs Nonstop
The sump pump only takes about a minute to drain water from its basin. So if you can hear the pump working for several minutes at a time, you might have a problem with the device.
The machine might not have enough power to get rid of the excess water it needs to. As a result, you could face a higher utility bill as well as a risk of flooding. So do not ignore this issue.
Not Working at All
You can anticipate your sump pump kicking into gear during a rainstorm or if outside snow begins melting. Pooling water outside can be an indicator that this water will try to enter your building too.
The sump pump should get rid of this water. But if you do not notice it turning on when it should, something is likely wrong with the machine. Give your plumber a call to identify and fix the problem.
Visible Water Damage
If you see slight damp patches or water stains near your sump pump, then water is not leaving your building in the way that it should. Moisture damage can lead to severe structural issues, mold, and rot within your property. So do not dismiss these signs of existing water damage because they could get worse.
Help for Frequent Toilet Clogs
Friday, February 23rd, 2024
A clog in a toilet can prove to be a huge hassle. We rely on our toilets to drain and eliminate waste effectively, and if the toilet clogs, it cannot accomplish this crucial task. A clog forming every once in a while can happen due to an acute accident. But if your toilet clogs on a regular basis, you should not dismiss the issue.
A plumber can evaluate the condition of your toilet and find the cause of these clogs when you schedule a plumbing inspection. But you might be able to resolve the issue on your own in some instances. Find three ways that you can prevent clogs from developing frequently in your toilet when you read on.
Pay Attention to What You Flush
The most common reason that a clog can form in your toilet is due to the types of things you flush. For instance, many people may think that they can flush facial tissues, cotton swabs, and other items. But these products are not compatible with flushing down the toilet. Avoid putting these non-flushable materials down your toilet if you want to prevent a clog.
Sometimes, if you use too much toilet paper, you can also create a clog in your toilet. Try to use only the toilet paper that you require so that you do not clog the toilet.
Purchase lower-ply tissue rather than thicker toilet paper as well, even though you might enjoy the comfort. This product might not dissolve as easily and can create a clog in your plumbing. Older models of toilets that have a lower flow can prove especially susceptible to clogs in this way.
Use a Plunger
You likely already know that your plunger can fix an acute clog in your toilet to allow the water to run through the plumbing as it should. But if you notice that your toilet clogs frequently, you might have a blockage deeper in the sewer line. These clogs might develop due to using multi-ply toilet paper or flushing other items down the toilet.
Try using your plunger to unclog this deeper blockage in the S-trap of your toilet. Not all clogs this deep in your plumbing will go away with this effort. In this case, you may need help from a professional.
Call a Plumber
While you can fix smaller, simpler clogs in your toilet by yourself, you will need help from a plumber to address chronic and complicated toilet problems. Clogs deeper within the sewer line will require specific equipment to access and clear away.
Sometimes these clogs can form due to leaks or damage even further from your house. A plumber can inspect the issue and provide repairs accordingly so that you can avoid the hassle of frequent clogs in your toilet.
They may also offer assistance if the problem with your toilet clogging stems from another issue, such as a blockage in your toilet vent. Give your plumber a call today to get an estimate for your plumbing needs.
Got Plumbing Rust Stains?
Tuesday, January 30th, 2024
Do you see reddish-brown stains around your pipes, sinks, or other plumbing fixtures? Does water seem to have this rusty color in your toilet or when it comes from a faucet? This discoloration can point to an accumulation of rust within your plumbing system.
You might feel unhappy about the stains this residue can create in your home. But it may lead to plumbing issues if you ignore this concern. Read on to learn details related to rust within your plumbing system, including its causes, dangers, and treatment options.
Causes of Rust in Plumbing Systems
Rust is a compound created when iron and oxygen mix with moisture. Although this natural reaction may seem common, your plumbing system should not routinely have rust. Rust may give your water a metallic flavor and can cause unappealing stains to your home.
Improper ventilation near pipes might cause rust to develop around the exterior of the pipes. The presence of certain bacteria or minerals within the water supply might also encourage rust formation within your plumbing system. Over time, your pipes might corrode or deteriorate, which can lead to rust accrual within your plumbing.
Sometimes rust build-up will go away on its own, especially if it occurs as a result of one specific mineral deposit that runs out. But corroded pipes will worsen. Pay attention to your water and plumbing to ensure you do not have persistent rust.
Risks of Rusty Pipes and Plumbing
As mentioned, rust within your plumbing can leave harsh-looking stains on your toilet, pipes, drains, and other fixtures. These can make your house look and feel dirty, but it also might introduce hazards to your home.
Some people might suffer skin irritation due to the presence of rust in the water. The skin might itch or become dry, leaving you susceptible to unpleasant rashes. It may also make your hair feel gritty or dull.
While some ingestion of iron in your diet is normal, you might feel sick if you continue to drink or use water containing rust. Therefore, you should not ignore metallic tastes or discoloration in your water supply.
Steps to Clean Rusted Plumbing
When you first notice rust within your plumbing, try running a faucet to try to flush the rust out of the system. If the rust-colored water does not go away, you may need to take further action. You could benefit from installing a water filter over your faucet that can eliminate rust within your water and make it safer to handle.
If the cause of rust in the water is pipe corrosion, you will need to contact a plumber. The plumber can replace damaged pipes so that you can see improved water quality. The sooner they can fix the problem, the less likely you will suffer a severe plumbing emergency such as a leaking or burst pipe.
You can create a cleaning solution made from lemon juice and salt or baking soda and vinegar to get rid of rust stains near your plumbing fixtures. Ask your plumber for advice when cleaning so that you can prevent scratching or damaging your plumbing as you get rid of rust.
Winter Cleaning for Your Plumbing
Wednesday, December 20th, 2023
Are you looking forward to the brisk weather that comes in the wintertime? Snow and chilly weather can make for a cozy atmosphere. But if harsh temperatures hurt your plumbing, you can find your season ruined.
Proper maintenance can protect your drains, pipes, and other plumbing features throughout the winter. And this will mean making an effort to keep your plumbing system clean. Read on to find advice from your local plumber that will ensure your plumbing stays clean and functions at its best this winter.
Clean Your Drains to Prevent Clogs
Your plumbing system allows water to enter and leave your residence or commercial establishment without issue. But if this system does not flow easily, you can see water pool in your sink or shower with nowhere to go.
Standing water can be messy as well as hazardous. So you want to make sure your drains function properly to dispose of water without a clog. In order to prevent drain clogs, you should clean your drains regularly in your kitchen, bathroom, and any other drain in your building.
You can mix two parts baking soda and one part salt into a container. Then carefully add four parts of vinegar to the mixture, which will make it fizz. Pour the mix down the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then flush it thoroughly with hot water.
Complete this cleaning regimen on your drains every week or two to keep them clean and lower the risk of forming clogs. This will also get rid of foul odors and prevent fruit flies. You can also ensure your drains stay clean by using a sink strainer and disposing of food waste in the trash or compost.
Schedule a Plumbing Inspection
Winter can be the perfect time to schedule an inspection of your plumbing with your local plumber. You should plan for a professional evaluation of your plumbing every two years on average to ensure the pipes are in optimal working condition.
In winter, pipes might burst in freezing weather conditions. And a plumber can identify if the pipes are at risk of this plumbing emergency.
The plumber will use video technology to view the interior of your pipes. They can find potential blockages that you might not know about in this way, including tree roots in your yard that can block sewage. Messes like sludge can form blockages as well, and this inspection can find them before they cause problems.
They can also look for signs of damage within the pipes’ structure, such as leaks, bulging, rusting, or deterioration. If left alone, leaks will worsen and cost you a significant amount of property damage. This will also be reflected in your utility bill. If the pipe bursts or breaks, it can cause even more damage.
So preventative care will help you avoid this expensive emergency. When you keep your plumbing clean, including the exterior that you can see, you can lower the chance of external elements harming your plumbing. And it can better resist the danger presented by harsh winter temperatures.
Consider a Winter Pipe Inspection
Tuesday, November 14th, 2023
With cold weather on the horizon, you know it is time to prepare your plumbing for the winter season. Unoccupied properties will require special winterization services to protect pipes from freezing when not in use. And both residential and commercial buildings will need to make efforts to avoid this concern as well.
As you practice winter plumbing maintenance, you should also consider scheduling a plumbing inspection with your local plumber. This preventative evaluation will ensure your plumbing system can endure harsh temperatures and weather conditions this weather.
Your pipes can show signs of damage that a professional eye will notice during an inspection. Learn more details about the importance of an annual plumbing inspection when you read on.
Why Do I Need a Pipe Inspection?
Pipes exist throughout a building to transport water to and away from your property. Even the most reliable plumbing systems might develop issues over time. And these concerns can often present with early indicators before a plumbing emergency develops.
A casual observer might not see these signs of plumbing concerns on their own. You should contact a plumber to complete this job because they possess the expertise and equipment to do a thorough inspection.
They use video technology to obtain a clear image of the interior of your pipes. This way, a plumber can easily identify a blockage or leak within the pipes and make repairs before the issues worsen. A swifter and more precise diagnosis of a plumbing problem can make the repair work simpler as well.
Many issues within a plumbing system might develop outside of your building. Tree roots could cause significant pipe damage that you will not know about until it progresses to an emergency.
Regular inspections of your plumbing can therefore save you property damage, time, and money in the long run. Learn more benefits of this type of routine maintenance by giving your plumber a call.
When Should I Schedule a Pipe Inspection?
The average household should schedule a plumbing inspection at least once a year. Commercial or industrial properties like restaurants that might use water on a more frequent basis may need two or more inspections per year.
You might want to call your plumber about a pipe inspection if you notice signs that there may be a potential issue with your plumbing. Unexplained noises from pipes or odors from drains, water discoloration, leaks, or clogs may seem minor but could point to a larger issue in your plumbing system. So do not hesitate to contact your local plumber.
If you have an older home, you might have an older plumbing system as well. Aging pipes might be more susceptible to damage requiring plumbing repairs. So you may need a plumber to evaluate their condition more frequently.
The wintertime could be ideal to schedule your routine pipe inspection because it ensures your plumbing is in good shape to withstand freezing temperatures. This could reduce your risk of a plumbing emergency in the coming year.
