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.

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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.

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3 Plumbing FAQs to Read at the Start of 2022

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Check Out the Answers to These FAQs About Plumbing 

Most homeowners want to know what the most common plumbing problems are and how to avoid them. Reading the answers to plumbing's most frequently asked questions can help get homeowners started off on the right foot in 2022. 

What Are The Most Common Plumbing Problems Homeowners Should Avoid?

drainsClogged drain repair, toilet repair, burst pipe repair, and backed-up sewer line repair are just a few of the common problems plumbers get calls about every day. Clogged drains are usually a result of the wrong thing being flushed down the drain. 

Whether it’s a clump of hair, baby wipes, or a child's toy, something has to become lodged in the pipe preventing the drain from clearing. Tree roots can also grow into the pipes and cause clogs, sometimes even resulting in burst pipes. Burst pipes are more common in the winter when pipes freeze over, but they can happen all year round. 

Toilets are also notorious for needing constant repairs. This is because most toilets use a valve system to flush, and valves are known to wear out easily and need replacement every once in a while. Tightening loose components and replacing worn-out valves can help to prevent the toilet from running water constantly. 

How to Know When It's Time To Call a Plumber?

callClogged drains, resulting from flushing too much toilet paper, can be fixed with a plunger, but for more severe clogs and back-ups, a professional plumber should be called. Drain cleaning services from a professional plumber are often necessary to fix recurring clogged drains. 

Any sort of leak should be fixed by a plumber right away. Water line leaks can cause serious water damage to the home, leading to structural damage and mold growth. Leaking fixtures should not be left running. If possible, the water should be shut off to keep the leak from spreading until the plumber arrives. 

Gas leaks are another problem that plumbing companies deal with frequently. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous, and if there is ever a gas leak detection in the home, a professional should be called right away. It is recommended to leave the residence until a qualified professional arrives for gas line repair. 

How Does Plumbing Maintenance Prevent Plumbing Problems?

Trusting a professional plumber with system maintenance and repairs can go a long way in improving the longevity of the plumbing system. As soon as a problem is noticed, it should be repaired to prevent it from becoming a larger issue. 

During regularly scheduled maintenance, the plumber will have a chance to evaluate the plumbing system for leaks or broken parts to prevent a problem before it starts. 

To prevent clogged drains and sewer lines, homeowners should be mindful of what goes down the drain. Garbage disposals in kitchen sinks and hair traps in the bathroom drains can help to prevent a buildup of debris leading to blockage. 

Drain cleaning services from a local plumbing company can be scheduled annually or bi-annually as a preventative measure against clogs and backups. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a local family-owned plumbing service company that offers comprehensive services at fair prices from professional plumbers. They have been proud to serve Miami, Fl, and the surrounding communities with the high-quality plumbing services they deserve for over 25 years. 

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Give Thanks for Plumbing Technicians This Month!

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Plumbers Provide Critical and Specialized Services!

Now is the time of year to take stock of all things to be grateful for. For homeowners and their families, in particular, there are many things they probably take for granted with homeownership that they should be especially grateful for this year. One of those is the services of plumbing technicians.

Plumbing contractors provide a slew of vital services that are easily taken for granted. And most homeowners probably understand that when it comes to home plumbing, these are often not the easiest or most pleasant of tasks. Homeowners should give extra thanks this year to their local plumbers for the variety of crucial services they provide, to be discussed below.

Clogged Toilet Repairstoilet

The first crucial service that plumbers provide is clogged toilet repairs. Now, homeowners can take care of most normal everyday clogs by using a plunger. However, professional help is often needed if there are more complex issues or if the clog is severe.

For example, clogged toilets can be a result of something separate from the toilet itself. There may be backups due to a sewer line issue or a clogged drain that runs directly to or near the toilet. It is also possible that some sort of foreign object got stuck in the toilet and is not easily removed. In all these cases, professional plumbers will be able to identify the issue and resolve it in an efficient manner.

water heater Water Heaters Help

Another important service that plumbers provide has to do with water heaters. These are very important components of home plumbing because they generate and deliver warm water throughout the home. Of course, given that temperatures are dropping, this will become even more important in the coming months.

Professional plumbers can help with all aspects of water heaters. Perhaps homeowners want a new tank - plumbers can help homeowners choose between the various options, like conventional water heaters, tankless water heaters, solar-powered water heaters, and more. Plumbers can then help with the actual water heater installation and help with any water heater repairs needed down the line.

Sewer Line Help

The third and perhaps most crucial service that professional plumbers provide is help with the sewer lines. Most homeowners probably know that when it comes to dealing with the sewage system, it can be an extremely unpleasant endeavor. After all, sewage contains all of the waste coming from the home - it can smell foul and be extremely messy.

Two key services that plumbers can provide are basic sewer line installation, and sewer line repair should any issues occur. The sewer line is relatively complex and not something that homeowners would ever want to handle on their own, especially if they have little to no experience in doing so. If homeowners want any sort of help with their sewer lines or suspect and issues (even if only minor), they should call for professional plumbing help immediately.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing of Miami, FL, was founded in 1986 with the belief in delivering good old-fashioned service to the community. Their team of professionals takes a personalized approach to each customer and offers upfront pricing and accurate solutions. Give them a call for plumbing help today!

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Differentiating Plumbing Problems From Plumbing Emergencies

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Distinguishing Important From Urgent

So let’s say everything is going well – the summer sun is shining, the kids are playing outdoors, and it seems like nothing can go wrong. Until…the pesky plumbing issue arrives. Maybe it is a leak, abnormal water flow, or a strange odor or sound coming from one of the home plumbing fixtures. Maybe it is mild, maybe it is severe, or maybe it is somewhere in between.

How exactly do homeowners know if their plumbing issue is mild or severe? Well, to do this, they need to know how to differentiate an important problem from an urgent situation. Read on for three examples of common plumbing problems to see which should be considered important versus urgent.

Urgent Case: Broken Pipe

pipe Let’s say there is a broken pipe. With regard to the type of issue, this is most certainly an urgent one, as broken pipes can be highly detrimental not only to the home but also to homeowners and their families.

The signs associated with a broken pipe will be fairly obvious, and the costs of repairs can be through the roof. Here are some common signs:

  • Abnormal sounds
  • Diminished water quality
  • Foul smells, potentially related to sewage
  • Leaks, damp spots, or general water damage
  • Unusually high water pressure fluctuations

If homeowners notice any of these signs, they should seek professional help immediately, as the problem can worsen pretty quickly and lead to even more damage and potentially hazardous outcomes.

Important Case: Clogged Toilet

toilet

Let’s now say there is a clogged toilet. Most homeowners have probably dealt with this at least once in their lives (though more likely, many times)! While clogged toilets can be a pain to deal with, these are typically considered important but not urgent. Homeowners can address most clogged toilets themselves using a basic plunger.

There are, however, some specialized cases when a clogged toilet might become an urgent issue. For example, if the toilet clog is extreme or left unaddressed and causes a water overflow, this can lead to damage in and around the toilet area. This can affect the floor tiling and overall bathroom infrastructure. However, so long as homeowners address the clogged toilets in a timely manner, they should not have to worry about this becoming urgent.

Urgent Case: Sewage System Backup

Lastly, let’s say there is a sewage system backup. As with most sewer problems, this is absolutely an urgent issue because of the effects it can have on the home plumbing system and the health effects that can result for homeowners and their families. There are a number of issues that can result from sewage system backups, including:

  • Airborne contaminants
  • Backups into the home plumbing system
  • Groundwater contamination, which can impact water quality

Sewage system backups can also be extremely costly and even more costly if they are not addressed and resolved early enough. If homeowners even just suspect a sewage system backup, then they should call for professional help immediately.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing of Miami, FL, has been providing expert plumbing solutions since 1986. Their team of technicians prioritizes accurate solutions, as they believe in leaving no detail overlooked. They provide upfront pricing, live customer service, and quality products and materials for each of their clients. Call Falcon Plumbing today for emergency plumbing repairs in Miami!

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Watch Out for These Common Plumbing Issues This Spring!

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Plumbing Challenges Brought About by April Showers

The saying always goes, “April showers bring May flowers.” Well, it seems whoever said this left out the part about how April showers also bring some very pesky plumbing issues! With spring on the horizon, homeowners must prepare their homes for some major rain.

Spring showers can put people’s homes at risk for significant plumbing issues. It is crucial for homeowners to know what issues to look out for, as these can cause severe damage if not addressed early. Here are three common plumbing issues homeowners should watch out for this spring. 

Soaked Soil

It might seem quite obvious to say that excess rain can lead to soaked soil. But what is less apparent is how this impacts home plumbing. The biggest concern homeowners should be worried about is septic system backups.

Septic systems are a critical part of home plumbing since they facilitate the processing of household wastewater. When soil becomes saturated, wastewater cannot properly drain from the septic tank. This can lead to major backups that may find their way into the home’s indoor plumbing fixtures. Not great!

Given that septic systems are mostly underground, these backups can be hard to spot before some nasty symptoms arise. Here are some common signs:

  • Foul odors
  • Slow draining (toilets, sinks, etc.)
  • Water backups (basement)

Septic system backups can also contaminate groundwater and therefore affect the quality of drinking water. Even without a septic system backup, groundwater can be contaminated by flooded soil on its own, as flooding limits the soil’s ability to filter out harmful pathogens in the water.

Leaks in the Foundation

foundationFoundation leaks are another primary concern related to excess rain. Homes are typically built overtop concrete “foundations,” which provide stability to the overall structure. The foundations sit on top of the soil, so naturally, excessive rain can affect the stability of the foundation itself. Clearly a cause for concern!

With each new rain, the soil gradually moves and reforms as it constantly fluctuates between saturated and dry states. When the soil reforms, the foundation shifts by microscopic amounts, which places increasing amounts of stress on the structure and can result in foundational leaks over time.

There are several potential signs of foundational leaks, including:

  • Dampness or puddles
  • Mold
  • Obvious foundational cracks or fractures
  • Overactive water meter
  • Sudden difficulty with opening windows/doors
  • Uneven floors

Repairing leaks in the foundation can be a complicated endeavor, so homeowners should seek professional help for identification and repairs.

Damaged Underground Pipes

pipes In addition to causing leaks, shifts in the home foundation due to excess rain can lead to broken underground pipes. This typically happens when the stress buildup is so high that it overwhelms pipes built within the foundation. This can also occur if the pressure of heavy soil overwhelms the pipes running underground.

Homeowners will be able to tell fairly quickly if there is a burst pipe, as the pipes might make strange sounds, water might flow improperly, or water might become discolored. In this case, homeowners should seek immediate professional help.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing of Miami, FL, is a women-owned and operated company that has been in business since 1986. They provide honest upfront pricing, and their experienced team provides quality solutions with top-notch customer service. Call them for immediate help today!

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Have You Ever Wondered How a Plumbing Snake Works on Clogs?

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Discover How Snaking Pipes Can Be of Help in Clog Removal

Plumbers use a pipe snaking tool to clear clogs that block drains. The tool consists of a long metal cable with a handle with an uncoiled spring at the end. Typical plumbing snakes can stretch up to 50 feet, with the ability to coil it up for ease of storage.

Usually, a snake or pipe auger comes in handy for clogs that are too stubborn to remove with a plunger. This article discusses the process of snaking pipes and how it can help remove some of the toughest blockages from your plumbing.

Removing Visible Obstructions Made Easy

removing visible obstructionsBlockages have a strange way of occurring unexpectedly. If you don’t take any steps fast enough, your drains will stop flowing completely, and can eventually lead to a bigger problem like burst pipes.

Before you call a plumber, you could try a few quick fixes such as pouring boiling water, baking soda or white vinegar into the drain. This can help breakdown the blockage and often removes smaller ones altogether. Similarly, you can stop this issue altogether in high-usage areas like your tube or kitchen sink by adding a drain filter - just remember to clean it.

Essentially, when you’re dealing with a clog, the first thing you should do is to try and remove visible blockages from the troubled area. If the clog is small enough, this will fix it, and you’ll be back to working order in no time.

Using the Snake for Drain cleaning

Snaking is not a replacement for drain cleaning, and an even less competitor when referencing hydro-jetting vs. snaking. So first off, you need to ensure that the drain is clear of obstacles. As mentioned earlier, boiling water and chemicals when poured into the drain help dissolve grease.

Nonetheless, using a snaking pipe is not difficult. You may have to put on work clothes as the task will get you dirty. Once you identify a point of entry, insert the snaking pipe into the drain. Do not force it but begin to rotate its handle slowly and maintain a consistent pace. Proceed until you encounter the obstacle.

drain cleaning

Once found, the snake will wrap into or around the blockage. After a bit of spinning, you can pull the snake, which will essentially pull the blockage out of the pipe. In some cases, you may have to repeat the process, but eventually, the pipe will be completely free and clear.

Contact a Professional Plumber

professional plumberSnaking until you eventually clear a clog sounds easy. That is not a surprise. However, cleaning your drain after unclogging involves a lot more work and experience and could possibly leave you a broken pipe to repair.

If you’re struggling to find a fix ditch the DIY methods and opt for professional help. Trained plumbing contractors have the expertise, heavy-duty machinery, and tools needed to break up and remove any blockage in your plumbing.

Not only will it provide you an effective fit, but also you’ll have some peace of mind knowing you have someone to call on if the issue returns!

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing offers burst pipe repairs, kitchen plumbing, toilet repair, and drain cleaning, among other services. The company provides its expertise to clients in Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. It is a family business with over 25 years of existence.

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New And Exciting Plumbing Tips for The New And Exciting Year

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Smart Tips You Can Use To Help Save Water

It’s that time again when people ring out the old year and ring in the new year. During this time many folks are making new years resolutions. Some want to get healthier and some want to learn new things. As a homeowner, there is plenty to learn in order to keep your home comfortable and in good working order.

While you should always work with a plumbing expert to keep your home in tip-top shape, there are some things you can do to make a difference. In this article, plumbing professionals will cover easy to implement tips you can use for a more successful new year.

Address Water Leaks Quickly

saving waterAs most all have heard elders say “1 inch of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. In other words, if you do preventative maintenance on your plumbing it will prevent you from having to have repairs done later. Check for drips or leaks in and around your pipes, faucets, and showerheads.

Also be sure to check appliances such as garbage disposals, refrigerators, and water heaters, as these appliances can also be sources of leaks that most people would not suspect. Even the smallest leak can have a big impact on your home.

Not only can it cause damage to countertops and cabinetry, but if left unrepaired for extended periods of time, you can see an increase in your water bill along with a decrease in water pressure.

Another general maintenance tip is to check drains for slow draining or clogs. One of the more common plumbing issues you can face in your home, a clog can easily damage plumbing if left uncleaned. While your toilet and kitchen sink are generally the main culprits, be sure to look at any outdoor drainage spots as well in order to save water.

Making the Switch to Eco-Friendly Pipe Materials

Copper is commonly used for water pipes and is also considered eco-friendly. The installation of copper pipes does not require solvent-based adhesives for installation. These adhesives contain harmful compounds take are not environmentally friendly. Copper is also a recyclable metal.

eco friendly

While PVC is the most commonly used pipe material in most homes, it can actually have a big impact on the environment. Not only does it require harsh adhesives to seal, but it’s also a challenge to recycle. While you’re not always going to have a need for pipe replacement, if you are planning an upgrade in your home, switching to eco-friendly pipe materials can help.

Don’t Forget Your Water Filter

water filtersProper basic plumbing maintenance of your existing water filter will ensure the cleanliness of the water and improve your entire plumbing system. Water filters are meant to do what the say, filter the water. These filters will remove dirt, debris, harsh chemicals from your water.

Not only does this make the water safer to drink, but also it can help with your plumbing system. How? Those same impurities that can harm your health, can also hurt your plumbing. Whether it’s harmful bacteria that eat away at your pipes or mineral deposits that create blockages in your plumbing, keeping impurities out of the water can help limit repairs.

Also, since you’ll be drinking more water at home, you’ll be spending less on purchasing bottles. The New Year is an amazing time when you can truly make a difference in your home. Get started today with some of the helpful tips above!

Call Falcon Plumbing Today

Falcon Plumbing specializes in residential and commercial plumbing services. They provide plumbing services by appointments and provide 24/7 emergency service with no overtime charges. They believe in old fashioned customer service to the community and can help you with all your plumbing needs.

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