Signs to Break Up With That Old Water Heater

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When is Water Heater Replacement Necessary?

As a homeowner, there comes a time when essential appliances need replacing. If a shower’s hot water has taken on an unexpected chill, it might be time to replace the water heater and return to enjoying warm showers and baths. But how would a homeowner know when precisely this life-saver of an appliance needs updating? This blog post will explain the common signs of a water heater malfunctioning and whether or not a repair is possible. 

Signs of Corrosion

corrosionCorrosion of water heaters is common for older models because it occurs over time and with a lack of maintenance, and it's important to keep an eye out for corrosion as a sign that the water heater may need replacing. If there’s rust on the tank, it's a sign of corrosion. It's important not to ignore this problem because if the corrosion is left unresolved, it could end up costing more in the long run because of leaks and water damage and because the worse the corrosion, the more likely a full replacement is needed. 

Depending on how bad the corrosion is and which components are involved, water heater replacement will need to be considered for the continued functionality of a home. To prevent corrosion, it is essential to get routine maintenance on the water heater. Maintenance tasks like flushing the tank and changing the anode rod are vital to preventing corrosion and extending the lifespan of a water heater. 

Water Does Not Heat When it Should

No one wants to wait around for water to heat only to find that it never will or to see a glimmer of hope with warm water only for it to turn cold quickly. If water from the water heater does not heat when it is supposed to, homeowners likely need to replace the water heater. This can seem daunting because of the cost, but replacing water heaters can be financially beneficial in the long run, thanks to their energy efficiency benefits. 

Old water heaters that don’t work efficiently anymore cost more in monthly water heating costs because they have to work harder for the same results due to the loss in efficiency. Upgrading to a new, high-efficiency water heating system with a fast recovery rate leads to decreased utility bills and will provide reliable hot water available around the clock. To maintain good efficiency in a water heater, regular water heater maintenance is crucial. 

Energy Bills Continue to Rise Without Explanation

If energy bills in the household are spiking without explanation, it may be time for a deeper investigation. If the energy bill spikes coincide with an old water heater unit or a water heater that hasn't been professionally maintained on a regular basis, the homeowner may want to look closer at the age and condition of that unit. 

Water heaters lose efficiency as they age, so if the unit is over ten years old and energy bills have risen, it’s time for a replacement. If a water heater is under five years old and is experiencing higher utility bills, it may point to neglected maintenance. A qualified plumber can help homeowners determine whether their water heaters can get by with repair and maintenance or need a replacement. Homeowners should contact their local plumber when they notice any of these signs. 

About Falcon Plumbing 

Falcon Plumbing has more than 30 years of experience as a family-owned business serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate pricing, personal attention, and same-day service. Call them today for water heater services in Miami, FL.


Celebrate the New Year With a New Plumbing Installation

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Ring in the New Year With Plumbing Fixture Upgrades!

There’s something to be said about starting the New Year right. One great place to start is by upgrading old plumbing fixtures. Not only can some of the upgrades mentioned below save homeowners money in the long run, but they can also increase the aesthetic appeal and value of the home. Read on for the best plumbing fixture upgrades and trends for the New Year!

Kitchen Sink Upgradeskitchen

Kitchen sinks have seen a lot of use throughout the years. Whether for food prep or washing dishes, the sink and faucet should function well together for optimal performance and aesthetic pleasure. Some of the most popular sink trends this year are:

  • Single-Basin - Single-basin sinks allow for a less cluttered kitchen sink experience. They can easily fit large pots and pans for easy cleaning, helping to keep the water in the sink instead of on the floor. Stainless steel is still the go-to material for these kinds of sinks. 
  • Granite Composite - Granite composite sinks are less expensive than pure granite, making them a stylish statement for any kitchen. These sinks are durable, easy to clean, and hygienic. They’re also heavy and may require more support than a stainless steel option. 

Many homeowners prefer to upgrade their faucets along with their sinks. Others just want to replace the old or leaky faucet with something better. A great option available is a touchless faucet which can help conserve water. They can have many capabilities, including voice control, sensors, and even app control. So no more getting the handle dirty after handling raw meat or sticky foods!

Bathroom Trendsbathroom

Upgrading plumbing fixtures in the bathroom can mean anything from getting a new low-flow toilet to replacing an entire bathtub or shower. But one of the easiest and cheapest ways to spruce up the bathroom is by upgrading the showerhead. One trend going strong is the use of showerheads with built-in LED lights. These lights can change colors to make showering a more pleasant experience. They can also help save water by switching on a timer to let the user know it’s time to finish up. 

Bathroom faucets are another fixture that can be upgraded, and there are many styles to choose from, including center set, single-hole, widespread, and wall-mounted. Centerset and widespread are the two most common, but single-hole faucets are becoming more popular. They have a single handle that controls the water temperature. Wall-mounted faucets are a unique option that only some bathrooms are set up for.   

Tips for Easy Installation

When it comes to any plumbing upgrade or remodel, it’s best to hire a professional. While the do-it-yourself method can seem like it will save money, most homeowners aren’t thinking about the time it takes to complete the project. And since these DIY projects almost always take longer than expected, a sunk-cost fallacy comes into play, which takes more time and effort. 

With a professional plumber, homeowners don’t have to worry about the headaches of unexpected problems. They don’t have to worry about a pipe bursting or installing the wrong fixture for the bathroom. Professionals will make quick work of the plumbing upgrades so the whole home can enjoy them quickly!

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has proudly served Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas for over 25 years. They offer flat-rate pricing and never charge more for overtime work. They also provide personal service and fast response times. Call them today for bathroom remodeling or kitchen plumbing services in Miami, FL.


Three Easy Ways to Prevent Clogged Sinks

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Live a Life Free of Drain Clogs 

Heading into the holidays can be a stressful time for homeowners. There are a lot of plans to be made and guests to be hosted, but at the same time, schedules can change for essential services making it hard to find reliable plumbers when the need arises. Add this stress to the heightened chance that a clogged sink will occur during food prep, and it can be a recipe for disaster.

Instead of waiting until the situation is dire, why not be proactive? There are several things that every homeowner can do to decrease the likelihood of having a clogged drain during the holidays. By taking action and changing a few habits, homeowners and party hosts can be confident that they are ready for anything the season can throw at them. Here are the best recommendations for dealing with and preventing clogged sinks this season.  

Hire Professional Drain Cleaning and Maintenance Services 

For a hassle-free drain cleaning experience, why not hire a professional? Cleaning drains can be a nasty job requiring specialized tools and time to which the homeowner may not have access. But this doesn’t mean they don’t have the means to unclog a drain. Simply by scheduling routine drain cleaning before the holidays get busy, homeowners can have the assurance that their drains are ready to handle the added work of preparing holiday feasts. Drain cleaning professionals are skilled at their job and have all the tools necessary to quickly clear clogged drains or prevent them from occurring at all. 

When professional drain cleaning is coupled with plumbing maintenance, the chances of a plumbing emergency drop drastically. Plumbing maintenance allows professional plumbers to be proactive with the plumbing, find any potential issues, and make repairs preemptively before damage occurs. This will enable them to stop problems before they become major emergencies. 

Use Mesh Screens 

meshOne of the primary causes of clogged sinks, especially during the holidays, is debris that makes it into the plumbing. No solid debris should ever flow down a sink drain. Instead, homeowners should get in the habit of using sink filters to remove debris before it goes down the drain. 

Whether a sink has a garbage disposal or not, the method is the same. All drains, including ones in the shower, can benefit from a drain screen to catch debris as water drains. Getting in the habit of using mesh screens can help prevent drain clogs from things like food scraps, coffee grounds, and hair. 

Change the Way Food Scraps and Grease are Dealt With 

foodAlong with using mesh screens, another habit can help eliminate clogged sinks. Instead of allowing grease and food waste into the plumbing through the drain in the kitchen sink, try these tips: 

  • Pour warm grease into a used can or grease saver so that it can be safely discarded in the garbage
  • Wash greasy dishes with hot water and dish detergent
  • Scrape the food scraps from dishes into the garbage before washing them or leaving them in the sink 
  • Peel vegetables over a bowl or trash can instead of the sink

Along with these tips, using mesh screens, routine maintenance, and drain cleaning can help homeowners prevent holiday plumbing hiccups. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a woman-owned and operated company serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They provide free estimates, same-day service, and quality workmanship. Call them today for maintenance or drain cleaning services in Miami, FL.


Reasons to Thank Plumbers This Month

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Essential Services Local Plumbers Offer 

When confronted with a plumbing problem, homeowners have two options. First, they could resort to DIY repairs that only serve as band-aids for major problems. Or, they could consult a plumbing repair service. A professional can inspect one’s plumbing system, advise a homeowner on the best solutions, and even suggest upgrades. 

This Thanksgiving, homeowners should give thanks to plumbers and the services they provide. These licensed and bonded professionals offer the following: 

Help with Water and Sewer Lines 

sewer lineIn an ideal world, a homeowner never sees their house’s water or sewer lines. However, not everyone is so lucky. There comes a time when a professional's help proves invaluable. When faced with a water or sewer line problem, an expert can: 

  • Use non-invasive measures to identify problems: These days, plumbers don’t have to destroy homeowners’ lawns to find problems. Instead, they can resort to other measures, like video inspection equipment and trenchless pipe repair, to remedy specific issues. 
  • Suggest preventative maintenance measures: Ideally, a home’s underground plumbing system can last decades without significant problems. However, this lifespan isn’t magic; it requires homeowners to practice preventative maintenance measures. Some considerations include refraining from flushing certain items and regularly scheduling professional maintenance. 

Gas Line Repair 

Gas line repair does more than keep a home’s appliance running; it also keeps a home safe. Gas leaks affect many homes each year, with some yielding lethal consequences. When performing gas line repair, a professional understands: 

  • The importance of safety: A trained professional will turn off the home’s gas supply before performing any repairs. This eliminates the likelihood of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, and other health concerns. 
  • How to replace specific components: Nothing lasts forever––and that goes for the home’s appliances and gas-powered systems. A professional understands how to remedy certain issues without causing further problems or endangering homeowners’ health. 
  • How to reduce energy costs: A faulty gas-powered appliance or system can waste hundreds of dollars in energy bills. A professional knows how to remedy seemingly-minor problems to save homeowners money on their gas bills. 

Gas line leaks are serious matters. If a homeowner suspects that they have one, they should evacuate the house and consult a professional immediately. 

Water Heater Services 

water heater The U.S. Department of Energy reports that water heaters can last anywhere from 10 to 20 plus years. However, even to reach the 10-year mark, homeowners must regularly consult with trained professionals for water heater maintenance. When a technician evaluates a water heater, they will: 

  • Check for any leaks
  • Flush the water heater tank
  • Evaluate the home’s energy bills for any unexpected increases 
  • Replace any faulty or malfunctioning components, like heating elements 
  • Measure how hot (or cold) the water gets 
  • Suggest replacing the water heater (if it’s more than 15 years old) 
  • Address any potential problems 
  • Seal any pipes 

Water heater maintenance does more than cut down on problems and unexpected expenses; it also makes a house a home. No one wants to deal with cold water during the holiday season, even in mild places like Miami. Reaching out to a water heater professional isn’t just smart––it’s crucial to a home’s habitability. 

About Falcon Plumbing 

Falcon Plumbing is family owned and has over 25 years of experience serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, same-day service, and live, friendly greetings whenever someone calls. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.


Hydrojetting Solves Several Common Sewer Line Issues

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What Exactly is Hydrojetting?

Hydrojetting or high-pressure drain cleaning is the latest innovation for breaking up sewer line clogs and cleaning sewer lines. Sewer lines are the most abused pipe in any household because they are expected to carry away a variety of types of waste without failing. However, sometimes they get overwhelmed and need attention. 

Until hydrojetting was developed, a drain auger was the best tool for the job regarding sewer line problems. Drain augers were great innovations, but they have some drawbacks. Modern hydro jets are much more powerful and versatile than drain augers or early high-pressure drain cleaning machines. These machines are so successful because they use pressurized water to cut through clogged debris while also spraying water against the inside of the pipe to remove scum and greasy buildup. Here are common scenarios that cause sewer line problems where hydrojetting can help. 

Breaks Up Invading Tree Roots 

rootsA common problem in sewer lines is tree roots that have invaded through a crack in the pipe wall. Before anyone can detect the sewer line has a crack, tree roots will send out feeders to tap into the rich water source and nutrients within. Once inside, tree roots rapidly grow, but they also catch debris in the sewer line. This makes some of the most serious clogs that plumbers see. 

Drain augers, often called rooters, were named because they were once the tool of choice against this problem. However, they often left roots within the pipe, only delaying the problem, not solving it. Hydrojetting completely removes roots, allowing for faster drainage, and once the crack is repaired, the problem is solved. 

Blasts Away Grease 

greaseAnother common cause of nasty sewer line clogs is a buildup of grease inside sewer lines that will trap any debris going down the drain. While cooking oil or grease should never be introduced into a drainage system, accidents happen. The best solution to solve these tough clogs is hydrojetting. 

Hydrojetting is also a great preventative measure because it removes any grease or debris in the pipe by blasting it with water at high pressure. After a sewer line has been cleaned and all debris flushed away, nothing is left to cause a clog. So, whether there is an active clog or just a vague feeling that a homeowner might be overdue for one, hydrojetting is the best answer. 

Pushes Non-Flushable Materials Down the Sewer Line

Non-flushable materials are things that should never be flushed down a toilet and include anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Most items deemed flushable are certainly not and can still cause damage to the plumbing, including nasty sewer line clogs. Things that shouldn’t be flushed include:

  • Wipes
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Paper towels
  • Tissues
  • Debris that falls into the toilet

When these items are flushed, they may not cause the toilet to clog, but that doesn't mean homeowners are in the clear. They can slowly build up inside the sewer line and cause a nasty clog. Hydrojetting is the best way to break up these clogs. Then homeowners can start practicing better flushing habits, so they never have to deal with these types of clogs again!

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a woman-owned and operated business serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. They provide upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and personal attention. Call them today for sewer line repair and replacement in Miami, FL


Preventing Corrosion: Defeating the Enemy of Water Pipes

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Defining Corrosion and Ways to Get the Upper Hand 

Corrosion is a form of chemical deterioration of metals through exposure to oxygen. Oxidation is another term for the process because the compounds formed in the corrosion process are known as oxides. One of the most commonly known oxides is iron oxide, aka rust. 

Corrosion comes in many forms, but whether it’s pitting, scraping, or thinning the metal, it can lead to catastrophic failure of a home’s water pipes. Though corrosion cannot be reversed, the process can be slowed, stopped, or prevented if the proper precautions are taken. Corroded water pipes do not have to become a source of inconvenience or frustration.

Using Coatings and Protective Linings as Frontline Protection

coatingThe pipes that make up a home's plumbing system are made of different materials depending on their function. PVC and PEX pipes are great and corrosion resistant, but there are times when a copper or steel pipe is still the best choice (for example, to connect to the hot water tank). 

Perhaps an older home still has functioning iron pipes that should be protected rather than replaced. Coatings and protective linings are useful in these cases. Several different material types are used to bond to the inside of metal pipes, but all have their place depending on the situation. Below are a few examples:

  • Aluminum: Aluminum is a corrosion-resistant metal often sprayed onto pipes to protect them. It requires high temperatures to apply.
  • Epoxy: Sometimes used alone and sometimes used with a flexible medium, epoxy is a liquid resin or adhesive that can cure quickly to provide a protective layer.
  • Zinc: Galvanization is often done for pipes during the manufacturing process. This adds a coating of zinc which is another corrosion-resistant metal.

Clearing the Water with a Water Softener

softenerAccording to experts, close to 90% of the homes in the United States have what is known as hard water. This means that there are minerals dissolved in the water. These minerals can deposit themselves in a home’s pipes in the form of salts which can act as corrosive materials. A water softener uses resin beads with positively charged ions to attract the negatively charged minerals in the hard water, removing them and allowing much cleaner, less corrosive water to pass into the pipes, which helps prevent corrosion. Here is a window into the process:

  • Water enters the water softener through the supply line.
  • The mineral salts (negatively charged) are attracted to the resin beads (positively charged) and precipitate from the water. 
  • The water (free of minerals) flows from the water softener into the home’s plumbing system.
  • The resin beads are flushed with salts with a stronger negative charge, and the salts that were in the hard water are flushed through the home’s drainage system. 

Professional Plumbing Maintenance

One of the simplest and most effective ways to verify that a home’s plumbing does not succumb to corrosion is by calling a professional to perform routine maintenance. A plumbing technician will also carefully examine a home’s pipes and provide recommendations when corrosion is present. They can catch any issues before they worsen and save a homeowner money and time.

About Falcon Plumbing

For over 25 years, family-owned and woman-owned and operated Falcon Plumbing has served the residents of Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.


Reasons for Low Water Pressure in the Home

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Common Reasons for Poor Water Pressure

There are many reasons for poor water pressure. Some issues just require tinkering. Others require immediate professional attention. One can ensure their home's well-being by knowing the reasons behind poor water pressure. They can also prevent rising energy costs, expensive repairs, and stress.

One may experience poor water pressure if:

Leaks Cause Water to Escape the Plumbing System

leaksPlumbing systems are complex systems of pipes, valves, and connectors. A leak in any component of the system can weaken water pressure. The less water in a system, the weaker the water pressure will be. The leak can also divert water from its destination (such as a faucet) and lead it elsewhere, like inside the home’s walls. Over time, this can lead to mold growth and other complications.

Reasons for pipe leaks include:

  • Rust: Over time, rust can compromise the pipe’s material, leading to leaks and burst pipes.
  • Root intrusion: Miami is home to many plants with intricate root systems. These roots can make their way inside pipes and cause leaks. They can also cause clogs––another cause of low water pressure.
  • Loose water connectors: At first glance, a loose water connector causes a few drips here and there. Yet, this can add up over time, leading to hundreds of gallons of wasted water and, in turn, poor water pressure.

These are just some reasons for leaks. A homeowner can prevent these issues by scheduling annual maintenance visits and installing a root barrier to protect underground pipes from intruding roots.

Clogs and Waste Buildup

Clogs and waste buildup obstruct the flow of water. Consider this scenario to understand more:

  • A homeowner turns on the shower.
  • Water comes from a groundwater source through the service line.
  • The water starts through the pipes, toward the shower, and past the water meter valve.
  • However, a clog obstructs the water’s flow, allowing a smaller amount through at a time.
  • Water trickles out of the showerhead–the opposite of what the homeowner wants.

Here, the homeowner should consult a trained professional because they have the expertise to fix clogs easily. Clogs and buildup can arise from various sources, ranging from root intrusion to septic tank waste buildup.

Broken Fixtures or Closed Valves

valveFixtures refer to things like showerheads, main water valves, faucets, drains––anything that allows the flow of water. Broken fixtures can stem from issues such as leaks, clogs, and corrosion. Without prompt attention, broken fixtures can waste water and affect the plumbing system’s operations.

Closed valves are a different matter. Valves regulate the flow of water. An open valve allows water to travel through the system. Closed valves don’t let water pass at all. Now that one knows the difference between broken fixtures and closed valves, here’s what to know:

  • A partially closed valve will allow some water to travel through the system––but not all of it.
  • Broken fixtures can’t take advantage of the water’s flow.
  • As noted, these problems will not fix their own. They require an expert’s help.

These are just some reasons why there may be the low water pressure in the shower – and the home’s other plumbing fixtures.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.


Why Should Homeowners Always Hire a Professional Plumber?

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Are Expert Repairs Needed In Your Home?

Some plumbing tasks are easy for most homeowners, like unclogging the toilet with a plunger or installing a new shower head. However, most other plumbing problems and emergencies should only be handled by licensed and experienced professionals. Because plumbing deals with water and electricity, there is very little margin for error. Inexpert installations and repairs can cost thousands of dollars in unexpected damages.

Responsible homeowners understand the value of regular maintenance. Periodically performing preventative maintenance and getting checks from an expert keeps most plumbing problems from becoming emergencies. But the unexpected can and does happen. When plumbing emergencies occur, it is always best to get help from a trained professional plumber. If necessary, shut off the water source and call for help.

Pros Prevent Costly Mistakes

diy“There are some DIY projects that are the most fun and rewarding if you simply dive in and learn as you go. And then there’s plumbing.”

~ Popular Mechanics

Saving money by performing appropriate DIY maintenance and repairs is a good thing. Paying thousands of dollars for unnecessary repairs after attempting professional-level tasks is not.

For example, given that properly installing a water heater takes a few hours and plumbers charge by the hour, some owners think they can do the job themselves and save a few hundred dollars. But if even one step in the installation process is missed or done incorrectly, any or all of the following can happen:

  • Water leaks
  • Gas leaks
  • Electrical shorts
  • Flooding
  • Water damage to walls, floors, furniture, and electronics
  • Electrical fire
  • Mold growth
  • An unusable expensive water heater with a voided warranty

None of this is an exaggeration. DIYers often overestimate their abilities and end up making costly mistakes. This example of a relatively straightforward plumbing job for a skilled professional can quickly become an expensive nightmare for an inexperienced DIY homeowner. 

Contractors Are Faster and More Efficient

time For anyone trying to do their plumbing repairs, there is nothing worse than wasting time by spending hours online half-learning how to do something, making multiple trips to the plumbing supply store, then coming home to find out that they also need specialized tools and equipment to do the job.

Trying to learn DIY plumbing requires a huge investment of time and energy. However, plumbers already carry the parts to handle most home plumbing tasks and repairs. They already have the specialized tools, equipment, and testing devices that are typically needed. And most importantly, licensed professional plumbers have the training and experience to fix the plumbing properly and use the supplies, tools, devices, and equipment necessary to get the job done quickly.

Professionalism Ensures Peace of Mind

In the state of Florida, certified plumbers are required by law to have:

  • A license issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
  • Proof of at least four years of experience or a combination of related training and experience
  • Insurance for public liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage
  • Proof that they have passed a State exam

A licensed plumber in Florida has far more training and experience than even the handiest homeowner. Plus, they are insured if an accident happens, which protects the homeowners from financial responsibility for injuries and damages. This gives homeowners peace of mind that their plumbing is in good hands, but they are protected if something bad happens. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned business with over 25 years of experience serving the residents of Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.


Here's Why DIY Plumbing Is Always the Wrong Answer

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DIY Plumbing Repairs Aren’t Worth the Risk

Plumbing work requires licenses, certifications, and (arguably), most importantly, insurance. Not everyone can be a plumber, but many homeowners look at plumbing repairs as one massive DIY project. When it comes to plumbing, it’s best if homeowners stay off of YouTube. DIY plumbing almost always has setbacks, letdowns, and overcharges, and sometimes can even make a problem worse or create an entirely new issue. 

Homeowners might think they can save a little money by doing it themselves, but they almost always end up spending more in the end. It is best to call a professional to ensure the project is completed correctly and leaves the system in better shape overall. Not only will professionals fix the problem, but they will also check out the rest of the system. 

Keep reading to learn three reasons why DIY plumbing is always a bad idea.

Without Specialized Training, Homeowners Can Misdiagnose the Problem

This is perhaps the most important thing to remember, so it is first. Professionals are professionals for a reason, and plumbing requires professionals for a reason. Plumbers go through specialized training to learn how the plumbing system works. Not only that, but they are trained, certified, licensed, and insured to use specialized tools and to work in the plumbing environment safely. 

When homeowners aren’t specially trained or certified and they try to DIY a plumbing project, they could end up sick, hurt, or in a world of expensive damage repairs when it’s all said and done. There aren’t enough YouTube videos in the world to certify a homeowner in plumbing. Many plumbing issues have the same signs, so no matter how much research a homeowner does, they could misdiagnose the problem and make the existing problem worse or create an entirely new issue. 

It Always Takes Longer To DIY a Project clock

As mentioned above, plumbers are trained professionals. That means they can get the job done faster and more efficiently than any DIY homeowner plumber. Not only that, but most plumbers have years and even decades of experience doing some of the most common plumbing jobs every single day. Homeowners might think they are saving themselves time by doing it themselves, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. 

DIY homeowner plumbers end up: 

  • Making multiple trips to the store for parts
  • Renting and re-renting often unnecessary equipment that the store clerk talked them into renting
  • Wasting gas money
  • It takes them longer to find the root cause of the problem (if they find it at all)
  • It takes them longer to fix the problem
  • It takes them longer to clean up when they’ve supposedly fixed the problem

All in all, the entire process takes longer from start to finish. 

cost

Renting the Specialized Tools Costs More Too! 

It not only takes longer for DIY homeowner plumbers to get the job done, but it also ends up costing them a lot more to do it themselves. All those trips to the hardware store add up in gas, renting tools, buying other products they think they might need (but may not need), etc. 

There is also a great chance that the homeowner will cause more damage while trying to fix the current problem, leading to even more wasted money and them having to call a professional to fix the mess anyway. It is best to call the professional first and leave all the DIY stuff for in-home activities. 

Professionals also want to note how dangerous plumbing is. All professional plumbers are insured by their employer. Therefore, everything is covered if something goes wrong or someone gets hurt on the job. Homeowners who DIY plumbing do not have this luxury. 

Falcon Plumbing Won’t Disappoint!

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned and female-owned and operated company with over 30 years of experience serving its community in Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing, same-day or next-day service, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.


The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Drains

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The Most Common Methods of Drain Cleaning 

Staying on top of drain cleaning is one of the most beneficial ways to keep drain and sewer systems tip-top shape. There are a lot of different ways to clean out drains. Of course, hiring a professional is the most prominent and influential way, but some DIY solutions are also. 

While some homeowners prefer to hire a professional drain cleaning service either because of a lack of knowledge in the drain cleaning process or lack of time, other homeowners jump at the chance to save some money by attempting to clean out their drains themselves. 

It’s not a challenging task if a person knows what they’re doing, and this guide will help to highlight some of the methods one can use to clean out their drains. 

Drain Cleaning the DIY Waymethods

While it’s common for people to purchase chemical drain cleaners from their local hardware store, homeowners should skip the drive and make their own, safer cleaning solution from scratch with household products they already have lying around. 

There are several ways to make a DIY drain cleaning solution. These include: 

  • Baking Soda and Vinegar (or lemon juice): Add ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar (or lemon juice) down the drain. Plug the chute up and leave it to sit for one hour. After an hour of waiting, pour boiling water down the drain. If necessary, repeat these steps until the drain is flowing as needed.
  • Baking Soda and Salt: Another baking soda hack is mixing ½ cup of baking soda with ½ cup of table salt. Pour the mixture down the drain and let sit for 30 minutes. Then pour in boiling water. The mixture may need to sit in the sink if the drain is severely clogged.

Still, for those who want to purchase a cleaning solution from the store, avoid liquid drain cleaners. These cleaners often have harsh and toxic chemicals that do more harm than good. 

snaking

Snaking Drains

A drain snake, or plumber’s snake, is one of the most popular methods to clean out clogged drains among DIY enthusiasts and professional plumbers alike.

The process is simple enough. Line up the end of the snake with the drain and push it inside, turning the hand crank to make sure the snake slides down the pipe. The hand crank should be turned until an obstruction is reached. Once it has found the block, rotate the snake so that it then hooks onto the clog. Continue to rotate the snake, allowing the clog to break apart. If the obstruction feels too hard and refuses to break apart, turn the crank and pull the snake up – the clog will most likely come with it. 

At this point, flush some water down the drain to see if the drain is working properly. If not, the steps above should be repeated until the clog is gone. 

Like most things in life, drain snaking comes with advantages and disadvantages. A drain snake is easier to use on older pipes and can quickly terminate easier clogs. However, drain snakes are not as proficient at handling tough clogs, debris, and build-up. Alternatively, if a person wants to unclog their toilet or shower drain, it is recommended to use a drain auger instead. 

Hydro jetting 

Another popular method of cleaning out drains is hydro jetting. This non-invasive method uses a high-pressure water jet that will work to thoroughly clean the drains from all blockages made up of clogs, debris, and buildup. 

Like snaking, hydro jetting comes with its pros and cons. Hydro jetting does a better job at clearing out the drains than snaking does and can even break up smaller tree roots that have invaded the pipes. Hydro jetting is also non-invasive, safe, and environmentally friendly. On the downside, hydro jetting can cause damage to older pipes and often uses a lot of water to clean out drains. Hydro jetting is less DIY-friendly and should only be done by a professional company with experience in hydro jetting. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has provided the residents of Miami, FL, with trusted plumbing services since 1986. They offer flat-rate pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Miami, FL.