Author Archives: Drainmen Plumbing Inc

When should you call an emergency plumber?

With what is considered to be an emergency plumbing problem being aforementioned, occasions where you need to call a plumber for emergency plumbing in particular are clear. Leaks in particular that are constant and cannot stop can be considered as such. Furthermore, when the leak or issue connected to your plumbing system is capable of flooding a room or multiple parts of your home, that should be a solid indication that you need emergency plumbing services. 

On some occasions however, plumbing emergencies can be sudden like in the case of a pipe burst. While you may not be able to see directly a pipe that is about to burst, there are signs you can understand and spot. While not visible or blatant, when being observant here are some signs a pipe may be on the way to bursting: 

• Water discoloration and odour 
• Water marks near or on the pipe
• Standing water correlating to the pipes position
• Sounds originating from pipes
• Higher water bills
• Sporadic or failing water pressure
• Shuddering pipes

Due to pipes having the job of moving water along, blockages can wreak havoc on pipes and can build up to the point that it becomes a major issue. When you detect such issues then it’d be a good idea to contact your local plumber or us for areas we serve. When it comes to other services plumbers can offer and do repairs on, water heaters for example. Whether you have a gas powered, electric, or another water heater type then you can expect plumbers to understand to be capable to repair them.

What is the most common household plumbing problem?

Just like other industries, plumbers work on a variety of issues inside the home that may not necessarily cause mass property damage, but simply be an inconvenience. Plumbers work on a wide array of service requests that do not just pertain to emergency plumbing situations. Often times it involves such events where a person’s toilet or bathtub won’t drain due to a clog or simply a person’s water heater shut off and needs to be turned back on. Here are some of the most common problems those in the plumbing industry run into: 

• Clogged drains
• Inoperable garbage disposal
• Leaking faucets
• Constantly running toilet
• Low water pressure
• Clogged toilet

Simply put, while some of these problems are not capable of causing an overt amount of damage to your home, plumbers are still the best trained to fix them. Untrained persons that attempt to make repairs, but use crude methods in doing so often make up a large portion in the repairs plumbers make each year due to the system needing to reset to it’s proper order.

• Take a look at your water meter: Turn off your water, shut off faucets and appliances like washers, and then watch the meter. If it begins to change, a fast-moving leak is present. If it doesn’t change immediately, wait a couple of hours and check it again to detect a slow leak.
• Monitor your usage: On average, a family of four uses about 12,000 gallons of water per month. If your usage habits haven’t changed but the amount of water you’re using spikes, it’s likely you have a serious leak.
• Test for toilet leaks with food coloring: Because toilets use up to 30% of your water, you can test for a toilet leak using food coloring. Put a few drops in your tank. After about 10 minutes, if the food coloring shows up in the bowl, there’s a leak.
• Check outdoor spigots for seepage: Attach your garden hose and if there is seepage through the connection, the rubber hose gasket needs to be replaced.
• Regularly check pipes under sinks for signs of leaks like mold: Check under cabinets and basins. Even if you don’t see water accumulation, you may see mold or may smell bad odors. These are signs of leaks.

Plumbing leaks aren’t always obvious, especially if they are under floors, behind walls or under ground. While you can take steps to check to see if you have a leak, you’ll want to call a professional to find the exact location of the leak. For reliable leak detection and repair in Pottstown, PA, the talented professionals at Drainmen Plumbing Inc are the team to turn to. Reach out to them anytime you suspect you have a leak by calling 484 366 9362.  

How accurate is leak detection

When you suspect you have a leak, you want to make sure the leak is found and repaired quickly. For a long time, had to dig through landscaping or cut through extensive sections of flooring or walls to find the exact location of a leak. Today, however, most plumbers use high-tech leak detection equipment that is highly accurate, as much as 90% or more. From thermal imaging cameras to special listening devices, plumbers use several types of non-invasive tools to detect leaks.  

Is there a tool to detect water leak?

Plumbers have multiple tools they can use to detect water leaks. Some plumbers use thermal cameras that detect variations in heat in walls and floors. Leaks will usually show up as cool spots on the imaging devices. One of the preferred tools for leak detection is sound detection equipment that allows them to hear water running in underground pipes. Plumbers sometimes use pipe locator clamps with the sound detection equipment. The clamps are placed around visible pipe and send out radar signals through the pipes.

What is the best water leak detector?

While plumbers have leak detection tools, you can purchase home leak detection equipment to keep track of leaks in your home. One of the top-rated sensors is the Honeywell Lyric Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze detector. It connects directly to your router. It’s main drawback is that it can’t be integrated into a broad smart-home system. In other words, if you have a smart water valve, the detector can’t connect with it to shut off water if a leak is detected.

How does a leak detector work?

The leak detectors that plumbers use or home leak detection equipment are sound-based. The detector checks the types of leaks by the frequencies they emit. High-pressure leaks emit different frequencies than low-pressure leaks. 

Can you rent leak detection equipment

Some equipment companies will rent out leak detection equipment. While these devices are generally easy to use, it typically requires some training to ensure the device finds leaks properly. Unless you have some training and skills, it’s recommended you hire a professional to detect leaks. Learn more about Drainmen Plumbing Inc’s leak detection services by giving us a call at 484 366 9362. Not only can we detect the leak quickly, we can get started on the repair immediately so no further damage will be caused.

How much does leak detection cost?

Leak detection costs will vary. On average, however, you can expect to pay anywhere between $175 to $350. Prices will be affected by the leak’s location, the type of leak, and the type of equipment required. If your leak is hard to access or if you have a leak that involves Category 3 black water—dangerous to health—the detection services and repair costs will be affected. Similarly, if expensive equipment is required, the cost will be higher.

Hydro Jetting vs Snaking

There is, in fact, a difference between hydro jetting and drain snaking. With hydro jetting, a plumber is using a rod and feeding highly-pressurized water throughout a section of the plumbing, usually main lines. While drain snaking, you are still focusing on a specific section of the plumbing, but it’s usually closer to the house. Drain snaking is not as effective because it will not remove all traces of a clog, instead only removing bits and pieces. So which is better? It ultimately depends on your situation and your needs. Jetting is essentially pressure washing your plumbing and it’s incredibly effective, though it can be very harsh on older plumbing. Whereas drain snakes are good for removing surface-level clogs, however, it can easily scratch or damage the pipes as well. That in mind, everyone wants to know is hydro jetting safe? It absolutely is! Though it can be incredibly powerful, when used correctly, there should be no damage to your plumbing. This method will cost more than snaking a drain. It will probably be about as much as a gutter installation, so that’s something homeowners can use to budget for.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is hydro jetting safe for pipes?
  • Yes, but there are certain circumstances in which hydro jetting would be good and bad. Older pipes that could be damaged, corroded, or rusted may be more likely to be damaged by the pressurized water, which is very powerful.
• How effective is hydro jetting?
  • It absolutely is. This is a solution that has proven time and time again to be one of the most effective ways of clearing plumbing lines. While it can be aggressive, this method of cleaning is the most effective, thorough, and reliable.
• What does hydro jetting cost?
  • It really will depend on how far down the line the clog is and other factors. However, most plumbers offer base rates between $350 and $600 for cleaning services. Contact your local plumber for more information. 
• What does hydro jetting mean?
  • This refers to a process of using highly pressurized water to clean and clear out the plumbing on your property. It is often used to remove clogs in your main water or sewer line. 
• Can snaking a drain damage pipes?
  • Yes, the wrong size or improper use of a drain snake can damage your plumbing. Drain snakes can result in significant damages such as scraping, puncturing, and more. No matter what the problem is, rely on a professional plumber to avoid serious problems.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heater Installation

If you have been considering a tankless water heater for your home, there are a few things to consider. You will have more advantages in comparison, but there are also many things that may make this system more challenging. You are always welcome to contact anyone at Drainmen Plumbing Inc to go over your options. 

• Compact: One of the best advantages of a tankless heater is the fact that it is smaller. This isn’t a large, bulky tank and system, but a compact and efficient one. 
• Energy-Efficient: Since this system essentially heats water “on-demand”, there is virtually no stand-by loss. Meaning, there is no energy wasted having to keep water hot or to heat it up. 
• Less Water Waste: Again, since water heats up “on-demand”, there is also less water waste. You aren’t running the tap, letting water drain away, waiting for it to heat up. A few seconds after turning on a faucet, you’ll have hot water.  
• Unlimited Hot Water: Another great thing about a tankless system is that you basically have unlimited hot water. As long as you are operating within the means of your system, it will never run out of hot water. 
• Lifespan: Probably the best benefit of a tankless system is the life-expectancy. More traditional water heaters have lifespans between 10-15 years. A tankless heater has about double that lifespan, going 20-years or longer. 

Whether you need water heater repair services or you are looking to get a tankless water heater with installation, contact Drainmen Plumbing Inc. We are the experts you need for a project like this. While more traditional units can generally be installed without an expert, we do not recommend that for a tankless system. Instead, rely on us. We can help you have an effortless and efficient system in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much does a tankless water heater cost with installation?
  • The overall cost will depend on a few things. A single unit may cost you about $1,000 while a whole house system could get all the way up to $3,000. On top of that, you need to factor in possible remodel, rewiring in your home, and more, all of which cause the cost to be so much. 
• Can a homeowner install a tankless water heater?
  • While traditional heaters are loved because of how easy they are install, the same isn’t always true for a tankless system. It is not recommended for a homeowner to attempt installation. There are several steps that will likely require a professional plumber for the job. 
• What is the downside of a tankless water heater?
  • One of the biggest drawbacks can be the lack of water. Often, homeowners choose the wrong size tankless heater which means it can’t always keep up with the demand for hot water. You may experience less or reduced hot water time. 
• Why is tankless water heater installation so expensive?
  • For the most part, tankless water heaters are expensive because they do require more for installation than typical heaters. You will likely need to rewire parts of your home, remodel to accommodate a smaller unit, and more. All of this adds up to a higher total cost. 
• Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?
  • Yes, they do! However, because of how effective and efficient they operate, tankless heaters often need less maintenance than a traditional one. That doesn’t mean you won’t ever have to provide maintenance, but it will likely be less than usual.

What is water filtration system?

A water filtration system is a system of filters that incorporates attachments to your water supply be it by a faucet drain or in conjunction with your water lines that will in some way alter the composition and makeup of water for the better. Although filters can stand-alone different types can be combined together to form a system of more in-depth and well-rounded filtration.

How does a whole house water filtration system work?

A water filtration system works by being placed at the point of entry or point of use in a home. Point of entry systems is placed in the main water line at the point where water enters your home so water essential acts as a central filtration system that can send water to all rooms of the house. With point of use filters, a water filtration system is instead placed on the drain/point where water is being used such as under a kitchen sink or wherever else.

What is the best whole house water filtration system?

Typically what’s considered the best water filtration system for home is a three-step system that incorporates three different compartments that build off of one another for water purification. First, a pre-filter will get rid of larger sediments, dirt, and chlorine. Then, a secondary filter (typically reverse-osmosis) will use a film where water is pushed through a semi-permeable membrane where it catches onto smaller particles as small as .0001 microns. This is where viruses, bacteria, and other dangers are caught. Finally, a post-filter will act as a final polish to kill bacteria as seen with UV light. 

Why is water filtration important?

A water filtration system is important in that it will get rid of contaminants in water that are hazardous to health. Not only will it help with short term health but it will assist with long term health as well. Take into consideration that certain heavy metals and chemicals can be present in a city’s water supply depending on the location and water source. What’s more, inorganic and organic compounds can be found in water as well. You may find bacteria, pesticides, chlorine in the water that you drink, wash laundry with, or bath in without the addition of a filter to take these particles away. If exposed, digested or absorbed into your skin for a long period of time health problems can emerge. In order to improve the longevity of health, it’s important to take the necessary steps if within your power with a water filtration system.

Do I need a water filter or water softener?

Water Filtration System vs Water Softener

Although both can be incorporated into a water filtration system both a water filter and water softener will behave differently when it comes to water treatment. A water softener is often mistaken as a filter yet it doesn’t take away any contaminants as much as a filter.  A water softener mainly improves the taste. How this works is that the elements that make up hard water are replaced with sodium to make it taste better. Witha water softener calcium carbonate, magnesium, and limescale can be lessened although not filtered. A water filtration system, however, will get rid of impurities entirely and go further by preventing other bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and heavy metals from being in the water. It’s important to know, a water softener and water filter essentially cost similarly yet one will ultimately do more.

Contact A Professional

When you’re wanting a water filtration system for home or business it’s important to get into contact with your local plumbing contractor in Pottstown, PA. There are many water filtration system benefits like increased health of the occupants of your property. Ultimately a water filtration system will provide both short term and long term health benefits that go beyond more enjoyable drinking water. For any other questions that you may have regarding a water filtration system or help with other areas of your property like roof leak repair be sure to contact a professional for assistance today.

If you’re interested in a water filtration system in Pottstown, PA call 484 366 9362 with Drainmen Plumbing Inc! 

If the rotten-egg smell isn’t present or it’s faint, gas leaks also reveal themselves through the lines hissing, the presence of bubbles in the water near the gas line, or the pilot light burns a yellow or orange flame rather than blue. You may also notice dead plants around the area of the leak. You also may feel sick and experience nausea, headaches, eye or throat irritation, trouble breathing, or even memory loss.

If you suspect a gas leak, you need to open your doors and windows, and clear out of the home immediately. Once outside, report the gas leak to the gas company or fire department, so they can shut off the gas. You should then have a professional come to repair the gas line.

Do plumbers work on gas lines?

Who can fix a gas leak? Normally, you have just a few options when it comes to gas line repair in house and who can fix a gas leak: 

• Gas company technician
• A trained plumber
• A trained HVAC technician
• A homeowner

While the gas company may repair a gas line that’s broken on the street, they might not repair the portion of the gas lines maintained by individual homeowners. This will often depend on the individual gas company. Should you need a gas line repair, it’s usually up to the individual to find a professional to repair the line and stop the leak. While individuals can make the repairs themselves, it’s recommended they hire a specialty plumber or HVAC technician to do the job. Gas line leaks can be dangerous, and a professional natural gas plumber will have the right training and tools to get the job done safely and right. Make sure when hiring a specialty plumber for gas line repair, that person is licensed for work on natural gas lines.

If you have a gas appliance like a or stove or water heater that needs to be repaired, you can rely on the professionals at Drainmen Plumbing Inc. To find out more or schedule services, give us a call at 484 366 9362.

If you have gas appliances like gas furnaces, an HVAC technician will be needed. HVAC technicians will also be needed for air conditioning installation or other heating and cooling services.

Gas line repair DIY

While for safety’s sake it’s not recommended that you take up a gas line repair yourself, it is possible, especially for a smaller leak. Still, no matter the size of the leak, it’s preferable that a professional tend to the repair. The first step when repairing a gas line is to shut off the gas valve to stop the flow of gas into your home. You’ll then want to check for hairline cracks or holes. To seal the line, you’ll need to buy gas-rated pipe sleeves. You’ll also want to check the threads on the pipe. If they are loosened or warped, this may be the cause of the leak. You may just need to tighten the pipe with a wrench, but if this doesn’t work you will need to replace the whole pipe. Once the pipe is replaced, you’ll test it with a bubble solution. If the leak is repaired, there will be no bubbles.

Again, it’s best to save any gas line repair for a professional to avoid any safety issues. DIY repairs should be saved only for minor problems like a loose pipe. A bad repair could lead to serious problems, including explosion. 

How much does it cost to repair a gas line?

The gas line repair cost will vary. If you have only one line to a single appliance, you can expect to pay anywhere between $150 to $650, including labor and materials. If the gas line that runs to the house has to be replaced you could spend anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000. You may also have to purchase a new appliance, which could cost anywhere from $400 to $5,000, depending on the type of appliance you are replacing. 

How do they fix a gas leak?

No matter how extensive the repair may be, the first thing that’s required is shutting off the gas flow. The plumber will then test each gas line to find the source of the leak. Usually this is done by applying a soap solution to each fitting. When the soap bubbles, the leak has been found. Some plumbers may also perform an air pressure test. After the source of the leak is found, the plumber will then begin repairing the leak. This usually requires the pipe to be replaced.

If you’ve discovered you have a gas leak, and need gas line repair in Pottstown, PA, depend on the professionals at Drainmen Plumbing Inc. When you need our services, call us at 484 366 9362.

What Are the Signs of a Slab Leak?

Early detection is an incredibly important aspect of detecting leaks occurring in a foundation. When slab leaks are left undetected and unrepaired, a slab leak can eventually lead to thousands of dollars in water damage and structural damage to the home. For homeowners, the signs are subtle but necessary for detection. Sudden, unexplained spikes in water bills, water pooling where it shouldn’t, damp carpet or warped hard flooring, and mold and mildew are just some of the signs. A decrease in water pressure and a hot water heater that’s constantly running are also signs of a slab leak.

How Much Do Slab Leaks Cost to Fix?

The average slab leak repair cost — which typically includes hiring a professional to come to the home and find the leak — can cost from $150 dollars to $400 dollars. This cost ultimately depends on how difficult it is to determine where the leak is occurring. Additionally, the cost to remove the concrete and repair the damage to the pipe can cost around $2,000. The overall cost depends on where the leak is and how easy it is to access. Thankfully, many homeowner’s insurance policies cover water damage to carpet, flooring, and cabinets, however, they do not cover costs associated with repairing the damaged pipes.

What Causes a Leak in the Slab?

Slab leaks happen when the pipes in the foundation of a home become corroded. Slab leaks can also occur if a pipe bursts. Usually, these are the two main culprits. Most homeowners are unaware that the home’s piping is funneled through the foundation. Homes are built this way because it’s the most straightforward way to handle the plumbing in a home. Moreover, it is the least expensive way to attain water in the home. When slab leaks happen, it’s because the pipes in the foundation have developed pinhole leaks. These leaks are caused by corrosion and can happen as a symptom of the home settling on the foundation.

What Happens If You Don’t Fix a Slab Leak?

The consequences of slab leaks can be disastrous. Even the smallest leak can lead to substantial issues as the problems associated with the leak worsen over time. Leaks that occur always lead to water damage to the surrounding area, including the structure of the home. The foundation may shift, leading to tiles splitting, doors not closing correctly, and more. Articles of furniture and miscellaneous possessions can develop mold or mildew in cases where slab leaks are left too long untreated. These fungi are to be taken seriously, as they can sicken the inhabitants of the home. Mold develops spores that can travel through the HVAC system of a home, becoming a health issue.

Slab Leak in Foundation

While there are no pipes in the concrete slab, there can still be a leak within the foundation of a property. Depending on the symptom, homeowners may be experiencing a sewer leak or multiple leaks (such as freshwater leaks). Evidence of sewer leaks includes cracks in the walls and the foundation, uneven or sloping floors, wall rotation, bowing of walls, separation of doors, windows, and garage doors, and spontaneous mold growth. Determining which specific pipe has erupted is a process that an established plumbing company can uncover. Slab leak service in Pottstown, PA can assist property owners who are experiencing the stressful experience of a slab leak. Slab leak detection can assist homeowners with alleviated water damage and correct and enhance the ultimate function of the home.

Slab Leak in New Home

Purchasing a new home is an extraordinarily exciting experience. New homes present an opportunity for homeowners to possess safety and security within the comfort of their own home. However, this sense of comfort can be compromised with a hidden slab leak. Homeowners should be on the lookout for red flags. The signs and symptoms for slab leaks include damp spots on the floor or carpets, annoyingly low water pressure in the shower, high water bills, and more. Slab leak detection should be initiated as soon as possible in order to maximize water damage resistance. For homeowners seeking a fresh finish for their hardwood flooring after recovering from water damage, select an appropriately qualified hardwood floor company. Hardwood floors can become one of the first victims in a slab leak.

Slab Leak Causes

The causes of slab leaks can be numerous. Please consult the list below to understand more about potential causes for slab leaks.

• Improper construction. One of the most common sources for slab leaks is improperly installed or poor-quality pipes. Copper pipes, in particular, can exhibit corrosion at a fairly fast rate. Pipes of the copper variety are invariably softer and offer less resistance to the elements.
• Outside pressure. Water pressure is not the only kind of pressure that can create a slab leak. Shifts in the underlying soil of a foundation can cause the home to move, putting increased pressure on pipes.
• Poor water quality. In addition to water pressure, it is important for homeowners to keep an eye out for the pH of their water. Water that is excessively acidic (hard_ or excessively alkaline (soft) can corrode pipes, leading to faster pipe deterioration.

Do you require slab leak detection for your home? Our staff at Drainmen Plumbing Inc are ready to take your phone call at __PHONE__. Receive accurate slab leak detection in Pottstown, PA today!

Is it Worth It?

A water well pump is exactly what it sounds like. This is a pump that extracts water from a well. Typically the two are installed around the same time by a plumbing company. There are several types of well pumps including:

• Hand pumps
• Injector pumps
• Solar pumps
• And more

If you are considering a well-pump you are probably wondering if it is even worth it. Long answer short, yes, a well-pump is worth it. Depending on your location and needs, a well-pump can be more beneficial and efficient than relying on water from the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many years do well pumps last?
  • It does depend on the type of pump and the installation, but most pumps will last between 8 and 10 years, sometimes up to 15.
• How to tell if your well pump is bad?
  • Look for fluctuations in water pressure, high electric bills, scalding water during showers, and spitting faucets.
• How much does a well pump cost?
  • It costs about $1,000 to replace and install a pump as well as the related parts.
• Can a well run dry?
  • If there is a drought, yes, a water well can run dry. There are several, easy repairs that can be done to add more water to a well, many of which don’t involve excavation.
• How do you clean a well pump?
  • There are several things that can be done to clean a well pump. The best bet is to let a professional plumber, like someone from Drainmen Plumbing Inc, to professionally clean the pump and filters.