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The Top 8 Reasons Why You Won't Regret Hiring A Professional Plumber For Your Bathroom Remodel In North West Houston

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:24:53 GMT

It might seem tempting to attempt to fix that broken pipe in your attic or replace the outdated plumbing fixtures in your master bath on your own; after all, think about how much money you would be saving? Or maybe you will opt to go with the cheaper alternative of hiring an unlicensed handyman who promises he can do the work; and after all, how hard can it be right? But before you make that fateful decision that might leave you with compounded consequences, please read the following list of reasons why you will never regret hiring a licensed and insured plumbing company to handle your plumbing repairs for your home.

1 Expertise and Training:

Licensed plumbers undergo extensive training, must document thousands of hours of experience and pass multiple tests to gain their licensure that attests to their knowledge and skills to handle a wide range of plumbing issues effectively. Plumbing repairs are not always straightforward and there are lots of unknowns you can run into when fixing something that may have been installed incorrectly to begin with or in an older house that was not built to the current code. Licensed plumbers have the expertise to accurately diagnose complex (and not so complex) problems and provide effective solutions the first time.

2. Insurance Coverage:

To be a Licensed plumbing company in Texas, it is required to carry at least a $300,000 liability insurance policy, and be overseen by a Responsible Master Plumber (RMP). This protects you in case of accidental damage to your property during the repair process. This is a huge point to consider when trying to choose between a professional versus a handyman. Yes, it does factor into their overhead and hence, price of the job, but this is just the limit they are willing to go to make sure they can guarantee their customers are protected and any unforeseen problem can be remedied in an expert manner without cutting corners or lying to cover up something that will cause big problems later.

3. Upfront estimates and a signed contract agreement for the work to be done:

A professional plumbing company knows what gives a customer peace of mind; and having an up-front, accurate estimate of costs and a thorough description of the work to be done does just that. Nothing is more frustrating than being sold a cheap estimate for a job as a word-of-mouth promise and then having that number go ever higher as “unforeseen” issues arise during the course of the job. A licensed, certified plumbing company is well-aware of all costs that are involved in a job and refer to a detailed parts cost list to ensure that their estimate is accurate.

4. Guaranteed Work:

Many professional plumbing companies offer warranties or guarantees on their work, ensuring that if issues arise after the repair, they will return to fix it at no additional cost. This offers great peace of mind and is worth considering.

5. Code Compliance:

Professional plumbers are well-versed in local building codes and regulations specific to plumbing issues, ensuring that all work is done in compliance with legal standards.

6. Public Accountability:

A professional, licensed plumbing company will have a presence in the public domains that can vouch for their quality of work, such as a professional website, Google My Business Account, Angi listings, as well as a Social Media Presence. All of which serve to communicate to the public that they are striving to win your trust and your business. On the other hand, a cheap handyman is often a “one man show” with nothing but a business card to vouch for his skills. If he has no website and no official business formation documentation like an LLC, steer clear. Promises for cheap work fall empty when he disappears with your money leaving behind an unfinished job or worse, damages to your home and no means to hold him accountable. In a big city like Houston, scenarios like this happen far too often.

7. Proper Tools and Equipment:

Licensed plumbers have access to specialized tools and equipment, which allows them to diagnose and resolve plumbing problems more efficiently. Everything is getting high tech these days, and the plumbing industry is no exception; with specialized cameras that can inspect a sewer line to locate a break or infrared moisture sensors to detect and locate a mystery leak in a home, a professional company is sure to remove any doubt as to what may be causing the problem.

8. Long-Term Cost Savings:

I hope you can see by now that while hiring a licensed plumber may seem more expensive upfront, their work is often more durable and reliable, saving you money on future repairs.

In the end, it's really about protecting the value of your home and most importantly, your peace of mind. Hiring a licensed, insured plumbing company offers numerous benefits, including expertise, safety, quality, and peace of mind. While DIY and handyman services have their place, complex plumbing tasks are best left to professionals to ensure safety and long-term reliability.

Call Blue Frog Plumbing of North West Houston for a free estimate and peace of mind that your bathroom remodel and home plumbing will be in capable hands!

Signs You Need a Water Heater Repair Service | Tomball, TX

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Дерябин Андрей Николаевич at istock

As your water heater works hard day after day to provide hot water to your home, it's not unlikely that it will break down at some point. It's all too easy to ignore the signs of a deteriorating water heater until you go to have a shower and freezing cold water comes out. So, it's a good idea to have the number of a trusted water heater repair company in Tomball, TX to hand in case of an emergency. All homeowners should also be able to recognize these signs that a water heater repair is necessary so you can get your system up and running as soon as possible.

1. Uneven Water Temperatures

If you find that your faucets are producing lukewarm or cold water when you need it to be hot, but other times your system works just fine, this is a sign that you need to book a water heater repair . The most common reason for irregular water temperatures is mineral buildup inside the unit. When mineral deposits start to cover the heating elements, this can stop them from heating your water properly.

If there is a problem with your heating elements, you can usually have them repaired or replaced. However, it's worth bearing in mind the age of your water heater. If it's relatively new, it's probably worth having a water heater repair . However, it may be better all round to replace the heater if it is very old.

2. Discolored Water

Although hazy water isn't usually a sign of an issue as long as it returns to normal once the pressure has stabilized, your tap water should only every be clear. Brown or reddish water or dark flecks are a sign that you have sedimentation problems in your water heater. As this can be hazardous to your health, you should book a water heater repair right away.

A qualified water heater repair technician can clean your unit to see if this solves the issue. If not, it could indicate that you have a rusty water tank.

3. Strange Noises

As your water heater gets older, it can start to make rumbling, banging or clanking noises. While it's normal for a water heater to make a soft whirring sound, anything more than this needs to be assessed by a water heater repair professional.

Noisy water heaters can be caused by a range of issues such as mineral deposits or a broken dip tube. Ignoring the issue could cause significant damage to your unit, and you may need to replace it if it's not dealt with quickly.

A repair technician will be able to flush your unit and give it a thorough clean, repairing any broken or loose components to fix your noisy water heater.

4. Leaking

If you see water accumulating around your water heater, this could be dangerous if you have electrical appliances nearby. If you have a water heater with a large tank, this also poses a serious flooding risk. It could also cause rust and corrosion inside your water heater, so it's important to book a water heater repair technician right away. While you wait for your plumber to arrive, turn off the water heater's water and electric supply to make sure it's safe.

5. Corrosion or Rust

The main telltale sign of corrosion or rust is discolored water. If your water heater is corroded or rusty, this is a sign that it needs to be replaced. However, if you can't afford a new unit right away you may be able to have the damaged parts replaced as an interim measure. However, this is only a temporary solution until you can raise the money you need for a replacement.

6. Not Enough Hot Water

Your water heater should be able to provide enough hot water for your household needs. If you have a water heater with a tank, it should be able to keep around 40 gallons of water hot at a time.

If you run out of hot water, this can be a sign that the heating elements are malfunctioning, and they may need to be replaced.

7. Reduced Water Flow

If the rate that the water flows out of your faucet is uneven or you notice variations in water pressure, this could be a sign that there is sediment buildup inside your system or a problem with your piping. You shouldn't ignore this sign, as the mineral buildup will gradually get worse and lead to the water heater ceasing to work altogether.

A water heater repair technician will often be able to fix the problem by flushing and descaling your water heater and cleaning the pipes that supply it.

How to Avoid a Water Heater Repair

Many homeowners never think about their water heater until it breaks down. However, there are a few maintenance steps you can take to keep your system running smoothly for as long as possible.

Draining and flushing the system a couple of times a year stops sediment from settling inside your unit and causing damage. It's also important to check your water heater's pressure relief valve every year. As the water heats up, it expands and creates pressure, which must be released by the valve. As a faulty valve is a common cause of issues with water heaters, it's a good idea to make sure it's in good condition. You can ask a local plumber in Tomball, TX to carry out your water heater maintenance for you.

The Bottom Line

A broken or faulty water heater can cause big problems, especially if it happens in the winter when you need your heating system more than ever. If your heater stops working properly, call bluefrog Plumbing & Drain of Northwest Houston to help get you up and running again. We provide water heater repair, maintenance and replacement services in Tomball, TX to make sure you're not left without hot water.

What’s Causing an Unpleasant Smell in My Drain? | Insight from Your Trusted Katy, TX Drain Cleaning Professional

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 23:22:47 GMT

Photo By traveliving at Shutterstock

There are some awe-inspiring things that people have invented and created over the years: Complex architecture, mind-boggling technology, beautiful clothing, a business to suit every need — and indoor plumbing. It's something we take for granted, but most of us have only enjoyed the luxury of enjoying hot water on demand and flushing away waste for less than 150 years. However, it's not just a one-way street. Sometimes the people of Katy, TX 's lovely clean plumbing systems can malfunction or get backed up, causing a smell that's not only unpleasant; but potentially dangerous.

In some cases, deep drain cleaning is the solution. Otherwise, it could be a more complex issue with your plumbing or something deeper in the sewerage works. Plumbing can be complicated, so don't be disheartened if you need to call in professionals to give you a hand with harder to reach areas of pipe or drain cleaning . If the smell persists, it's crucial to get a plumber to find the source, identify any health risks and fix them immediately.

Check if There's Water in the Trap

Thankfully, the most common solution for an unpleasant smell in the drain is a simple one. You might begin smelling your drain if the water trap in a drainpipe has gone dry and fixing this can be as simple as running some fresh water!

Underneath most sinks, there is a u-shaped bend in the pipe known as the water trap. If you've ever dropped something you shouldn't have down the sink, it's likely to have ended up there. Not many people are aware that the actual reason the trap exists isn't just to catch things we've lost. It's there to provide a water barrier between our plug and what lurks deeper within the pipe.

If you've got a sink in the loft or a room you don't use much, you may not have run any water down it for some time. All of the water sitting in the u-bend may have evaporated, which can lead to a faint smell of sewerage as gases rise up through the pipe. To fix, just run some water down the sink and wait for a while to see if the stink vanishes. If you have a floor drain that hasn't been used for some time, slowly pour a bucket of warm water down there.

Pipe and Drain Cleaning Could Be the Solution

If you've run water down each sink the home and the smell hasn't gone away, you may need to get your rubber gloves out for some pipe or drain cleaning . A smelly biofilm has likely built up in the pipe of your kitchen sink, waste disposal unit or anywhere else where you wash food or biodegradable materials down the drain. We all know what happens when a fruit or vegetable is left out to rot, so imagine what happens when a lot of residue collects in your plumbing system.

Depending on the type of pipe, drain cleaning can be quick and easy or more of a challenge. You'll need to scrub away the scum from the entire pipe to prevent the build-up from quickly forming again. To do this yourself, take off the drain cover and use a flexible pipe brush to scour the inside of the pipe.

If you've given it an almighty scrub, but the smell isn't going away — it could be deeper in the system. A professional drain cleaning service will be able to get to the bottom of the problem. Mixing a half bleach, half water solution and pouring it down the drain could temporarily minimize the smell while you wait for a plumber.

Could It Be a Fatberg?

If your efforts at drain cleaning have been unsuccessful, you may have a fatberg on your hands. The best measures to protect against fatbergs developing are preventative. So, if you've got one in your plumbing system, you'll need to get stricter about what goes down the drain and what goes in the trash. In many cases, wet wipes or sanitary products may claim to be flushable — but this is a sales pitch. Never put anything but human waste and toilet paper down the toilet, and ensure the following never goes down the drain:

Coffee grounds
Nail clippings
Eggshells
Oil/grease/fat
Hair
Food trimmings or leftovers
Salad dressing
Mayonnaise
Candle wax

Fatbergs are usually made up of baby wipes, dental floss, hair and congealed fat. These items aren't water-soluble, so they take a very long time to break down and clog up sewerage systems. What starts as a small clump of fat and hair gradually gathers more items and becomes a bigger and bigger problem. The smell from a fatberg can be highly undesirable, so if you can't identify the source of a smell or a blockage, this could be the issue.

What Causes an Unpleasant Drain Smell?

Dry water trap
Trapped food
Bacteria
Fatbergs
Partial blockages
Old pipe accessories

Contact Your Utility Provider if the Bad Smell Persists

If you've noticed that sewerage smells are coming from every drain in the house, it's likely a bigger problem than pipe or drain cleaning can resolve. If you've moved into a home that has been empty for a while, we'd recommend that you try filling every trap in the house and wait to see if that fixes it. However, if the traps are full and the odor still seems to be everywhere, the issue is probably in the sewerage system. Call your utility provider so they can investigate. If it turns out you're responsible for the repairs, call a plumber to help you track down the source. They may be able to do it using cameras, but in extreme cases, there may be digging involved.

Get Help with Drain Cleaning in Katy, TX

If you've encountered a drain cleaning emergency or need help identifying a plumbing problem in Katy, TX , call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston today at 346-222-5848.

Common Plumbing Myths People Believe | Insight from Your Trusted Spring, TX Plumbing Repair Service Provider

Thu, 21 May 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By enterlinedesign at Shutterstock

We've all fallen victim to the myths and stories we shouldn't believe. People buy into tales such as that the moon can affect how we behave, that we only use 10% of our brains, and that our nails and hair continue to grow after death. Well, the plumbing industry also has its own collection of myths that you probably believe but shouldn't! Keep reading for the complete, and sometimes surprising, list.

Myth One: Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Can Fix a Clogged Drain

More likely than not, you have bought drain cleaner at the store in the hope that it would fix a slow-draining sink. Why'd you do it? You probably didn't want to pay for or bother booking plumbing repair . But you probably noticed that in a few days or a week, the drain started to display the same issues as before.

Drain cleaners can actually do more harm than good. That drain cleaner is made up of corrosive substances that will eat through a clog but also eat through your pipes. Only professional plumbers can fix a clogged drain. A plumber will use a hydro-jet or snake to clean out your drain thoroughly without using harmful chemicals that destroy your pipes.

Myth Two: Ice Cubes Will Sharpen Your Garbage Disposal

We aren't sure where this myth got started, but it's a common belief in many households. However, this thought process defies logic. Garbage disposals don't have blades that need sharpening. Instead, they have teeth-like fixtures called impellers that grind solids into liquids as the unit turns. Ice chips will simply melt and go down the drain, with no impact on your garbage disposal or it's impellers.

If your garbage disposal isn't working at an optimal level, it's time to call for plumbing repair . A professional can quickly fix your garbage disposal, so it's performing like it used to.

Myth Three: Hot Water Melts the Grease in Pipes

You know that you're not supposed to throw grease and fat down the sink. Grease will solidify once it's cold and can combine with particles of food and dirt to clog up your drain. Unfortunately, some people think if they run boiling hot water after dumping grease, it will "melt and wash away the grease."

Yes, hot water melts grease as it goes down the drain. However, when the hot fat hits the pipes, it will cool, solidify, and build-up. A grease clog is especially challenging to fix, as the grease likely made it far down your pipe before solidifying. That means that a regular household snake won't fix the clog. Putting fat down the sink will ultimately result in your requiring plumbing repair , so avoid it at all costs.

Myth Four: Flushable Wipes

It's a genius marketing tactic, but it also happens to be a lie. You may have seen "flushable wipes" on the market for baby wipes and sanitizing wipes. However, do not flush these down the toilet. These wipes simply cannot break down the way toilet paper does and will eventually clog up your pipes. Avoid future expensive plumbing repair s and stick to throwing those wipes in the garbage.

Myth Five: A Little Leak Isn't Worth Plumbing Repair

Maybe the drip, drip, drip from the kitchen sink doesn't bug you that much. But what should bug you is the water bill you're racking up! If a faucet drips just two times per minute, it adds up to one gallon of water per week! Not only does this hurt the wallet, but it's also is terrible for the environment. And, that little leak can turn into a more significant plumbing problem down the road. Avoid all the headache and schedule a plumbing repair the minute you hear the dripping.

Myth Six: In-Tank Toilet Cleaners Aren't Harmful

It's a product that has become more and more popular in recent years. Install a semi-permanent cleaning device along the side of the toilet bowl, and the bowl is automatically cleaned with every flush. Sounds great, right? Unfortunately, this product falls under the "too good to be true" category. The chemicals in these products can sometimes cause the toilet parts to wear out. We recommend avoiding them altogether.

Myth Seven: If Water Goes Down the Drain, Your Drain Is Clog-Free

We understand why people believe this one. Water goes down the drain, so the drain can't be clogged. It might sound right but it's not always true. Sometimes, water will make its way down the drain, but there is still a clog. Some additional clogged drain signs o watch out for are:

The drain is producing a bad odor
The bathtub or basement drains are backed up
The water is slow to drain

If you're experiencing any of these signs, you likely have a clogged drain. Call for a plumber right away to address the problem before it gets worse. The plumber will need to assess where the blockage is, if there are multiple clogs, and what caused them.

Myth Eight: Most Plumbing Repairs Can Be Done DIY

Thanks to countless YouTube videos, every person thinks they are a DIY plumber. Plumbing is an incredibly complicated and intricate process. Even professional plumbers that have gone through schooling are made to spend months shadowing an experienced professional to gain real-world experience. Don't assume you can DIY a plumbing repair. Calling a plumber for an assessment or a simple fix is actually quite inexpensive. The alternative is trying to fix a problem on your own, causing significant damage, and requiring much more expensive repairs at the end of the day.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston

bluefrog is a national brand with a local franchise in Spring, TX . The Northwest Houston location has been serving its community for several years, offering exceptional plumbing services. bluefrog Plumbing + Drain always hires trusted, certified plumbers that always arrive on time and promise a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether you have a small or huge plumbing problem, we can handle it for you quickly, expertly, and at an affordable price. Call today to receive a quote or to book an appointment for your next plumbing repair .

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Emergency Plumber? | The Heights, TX

Thu, 14 May 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By AndreyPopov at istock

As much as you might try to keep up with plumbing maintenance and repairs, you never know when you're going to have a plumbing emergency. The important thing to remember if you've got a plumbing emergency is that calling a plumber sooner rather than later saves you a lot of money and hassle. Leaving an emergency plumbing problem can lead to serious water damage in your The Heights, TX , home that can cost thousands to repair. If you're thinking about hiring an emergency plumber , here's what you need to know about how much it will cost you.

What Is a Plumbing Emergency?

There are a lot of plumbing problems you can have, and some of them aren't such a big deal. If you don't have quite the same water pressure you used to or you need something added to your plumbing system, you can wait for a scheduled appointment. Sometimes, however, you need to hire an emergency plumbing service to get to your home right away. Knowing when to hire an emergency plumber can be the difference between a minor problem and severe water damage in your home.

If you've got a broken water line that's leaking a lot of water into your home, you need to call an emergency plumber . Not only can a broken water line cost you a lot of money on your water bill, you'll also end up having to pay for structural repairs if you let too much water flow. You should also call an emergency plumbing service if you've got mold or standing water in your home, as these can be dangerous to deal with on your own. Calling a plumber could keep you from having to deal with a sewage backup, which is about as bad as it gets.

The Cost of Emergency Plumbing

When you have a plumbing emergency in your home, you might be hesitant to call an emergency plumber . The fact of the matter is, you have to spend a little bit more when you're having somebody come to your home on short notice to fix a problem. On top of that, many emergency problems are fairly difficult to fix. The good news is, emergency plumbing services won't cost you an arm and a leg.

You can expect to pay more for an emergency plumber since they work with your schedule, but the cost of emergency plumbing services depends on what you're having done. As long as you make the phone call early and don't have a major leak or other plumbing problem, you shouldn't have to spend too much on emergency plumbing services.

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to hiring an emergency plumbing service is the fact that you're saving money by preventing damage to your home. While you might have to spend a little more to have somebody come out to your home on short notice, you're also avoiding thousands in potential structural repair damage.

Preventing Plumbing Emergencies

If you're worried about the cost of hiring an emergency plumbing service, the thing you should be most worried about is preventing plumbing emergencies in the first place. The better you take care of your plumbing system, the less likely you are to experience a major problem. This is why it's important to have a plumber take a look at your plumbing every once in a while.

As far as preventing burst pipes goes, the best thing you can do is make sure you don't have any pipes that are susceptible to freezing. If any of the pipes in your home are in a poorly insulated area or an exterior wall, you should have a plumber insulate them to make sure they don't freeze during the winter.

Preventing sewage backups and standing water is often a matter of keeping your drains and pipes clean. If you have a lot of sludge building up and blocking your pipes, it could cause some of the water or sewage from the pipes to back up into your home. Any problem that involves standing water or potential sewage in your home requires the help of an emergency plumber.

Handling Plumbing Emergencies

The best way to prevent serious water damage in your The Heights, TX , home is to have a plan of action in case you encounter a plumbing emergency. You never know when you're going to have a serious leak or some other plumbing problem, so you should have a plan prepared just in case.

If there's a leak or some other problem that involves standing water in your home, you should turn off your water as soon as possible. If you don't know where your main water shut off valve is, you can have a plumber show you where it's at. Shutting your water off helps prevent serious water damage that can occur in the time it takes for an emergency plumber to arrive at your home.

You should also avoid dealing with any emergency plumbing problems on your own. As tempting as it may be to get started on the cleanup process, it's best to let an emergency plumber handle everything so you aren't exposing yourself to any toxins. While this may cost a little more, it can keep you from getting sick and it makes dealing with a plumbing emergency a lot easier.

The Smart Call

When you have a plumbing emergency in your The Heights, TX , home, you need to make sure you have a good plan. Not only do you need to know how to shut your water off, you also need to have a good plumber you can call.

If you want to make dealing with plumbing emergencies easy, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston is here to help. Next time you need an emergency plumber to stop a leak in a hurry or clean up a mess, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain at (346) 222-5848.

Choosing the Right Plumbing Service | Tips from Your Trusted Tomball, TX Plumber

Fri, 08 May 2020 02:48:18 GMT

Photo By JRJfin at Shutterstock

Residential and commercial customers with leaky pipes, clogged drains and other plumbing issues turn to our reliable plumbers in Tomball, TX . Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain comes to your house or place of business to provide fast, effective plumbing services.

We appreciate customers who troubleshoot their plumbing issues and take an active interest in resolving the situation. We send a professional technician who can explain the problem plainly and who patiently answers any and all questions you may have.

When it comes to plumbing, it's best to leave the work an experienced plumbing technician. Each bluefrog Plumbing + Drain technician is also fully insured to protect our customers and give them confidence in our services.

Our dedicated technicians perform only the services needed. Let us get your plumbing system working at rates you can afford — with no hidden fees or unexpected costs. Not only do we get the job done right the first time, but you will also enjoy transparent service in which our plumbing specialist explains the work that needs to be done before beginning.

How Can You Get the Best Plumbing Services?

Just call us and a bluefrog technician arrives at your Tomball, TX , home or business to assess your plumbing system and make the repairs quickly. For example, if you have an old hot water heater that bursts, we will do our best to repair it before your basement floods, causing permanent damage. Food, oil and grease clogs cause backups in the kitchen drain. We have the technology, tools and knowledge to come to the rescue.

After the plumber diagnoses the problem, they give you an itemized estimate. We won't begin repairs before you give us your approval on the bill.

Dislodging Obstructions

If you have a small child, you may already know how frustrating it is to keep them from throwing things down the toilet. Your bluefrog Plumbing + Drain plumber removes the object with minimal impact to your pipes.

Our technicians use traditional tools such as plungers to augers to clear the pipe. We also have more advanced tools if the source of the problem proves elusive. Our plumber can help solve the problem quickly so you can get back to your other responsibilities.

Experienced Plumber for Sewer Leaks

Sewer line leaks require specialized expertise. Don't trust your sewer leak repairs to just any plumbing company. You can rely on our trained technicians to sort out any problems in the sewer lines that connect your home to the city waste system or your private septic system.

If you have broken sewer lines, it might be hard to get a local plumber with the expertise to spot and resolve the source of the problem. Because it's a health and safety hazard, we advise customers to never fix their own sewer line systems. Our technicians use the highest standards to safeguard the safety of your family while quickly fixing the problem.

Water Heaters

Call a professional who can handle traditional water heaters with tanks as well as modern tankless water heating systems. Certified bluefrog Plumbing + Drain technicians have many years of experience fixing all makes and models of water heaters. Schedule an appointment for maintenance or repairs today.

Plumbing Services with an Auger

Cleaning a drainpipe or sewer line with an auger and various attachments can get your pipes flowing freely faster. The auger takes care of the blockage and clears any buildup in the pipe.

When you have a blockage in your home plumbing system, our technicians find the drain cap closest to the leak, obstruction or any other issue. When we take off the cap it releases the buildup. The plumber then feeds the cable into your drainpipe. This may be enough to release some clogs immediately. At other times, we have to run the auger out to the municipal line or septic tank to find the block.

Protective clothing and equipment safeguard our technicians as they do their job. So, leave the dirty work to bluefrog Plumbing.

Video Cameras

As part of our state-of-the-art technology, video cameras provide a great resource and help our technicians find damaged or broken pipes, blockages and other problems. A first-hand look at a clog helps your plumber devise a successful course of action.

The video camera sits on the end of a flexible rod that fits through the pipes in your home. High-resolution images help the plumber diagnose the issue quickly. If needed, the video can be saved and provided to customers for personal or insurance purposes. Transmitters report the depth and location of the problem, so it can be fixed fast.

If you have questions about our video cameras or any other technology employed by bluefrog professionals, call us today for more information.

Maintenance Contracts

Regular maintenance on your Tomball, TX , plumbing system, can save you money. Our plumbing technicians can perform regular inspections and handle maintenance tasks that can avoid more costly repairs down the line.

Our maintenance contracts include annual maintenance. We may use mild chemicals to ensure that your drains remain free clogs and blockages. Contact us directly for more information on specific plans available.

How often should you schedule preventive maintenance? That depends on whether it's a commercial or residential property and the complexity of your plumbing system. Older properties tend to require more maintenance. However, if you've maintained your plumbing system well in the past, our technician may recommend annual inspections to make sure you don't run into major plumbing issues.

Choosing the Right Plumbing Service

Choose bluefrog Plumbing + Drain to provide professional plumbing service to your Tomball, TX , home or business. Contact us today for a free work estimate. We provide honest feedback on the scope and cost of any problems in your drainpipes or sewer lines.

Are Tankless Water Heaters Worth It? | Cypress, TX

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 19:14:06 GMT

Photo By BanksPhotos at istock

Tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular with homeowners in Cypress, TX recently as an alternative to traditional systems with tanks. This type of heater uses less energy and has a lower impact on the environment. However, they can also cost up to three times as much to buy and install as a regular heater, so many homeowners want to know if they're really worth the price you pay.

What Are Tankless Water Heaters?

Tankless systems, as the name suggests, do not store hot water in a tank in your mechanicals room or basement. Instead, they heat water as and when you need it, meaning you never run out of hot water. The process works like this:

A sensor turns on the gas burner or electrical heating element when you turn on the faucet, allowing hot water to enter the heater.
The water is heated to a temperature chosen by you, which can be changed whenever you like depending on your needs.
The heater continues to heat water until you turn off the faucet, at which point it stops immediately.

Energy Bills Savings

Tankless water heater s use less energy than traditional systems with a tank because they don't heat large amounts of water at once. Instead, they only heat the amount of water you need at the time that you need it.

They also help to lower your water bills by reducing the amount of water poured needlessly down the plughole. If you have a regular water heater, the hot water cools in the pipes when you turn the faucet off. You're probably used to having to let the tap run for a little while until the water runs hot. With a tankless system , you'll get hot water as soon as you turn the faucet on.

You can save more money on your utility bills if you choose a heater that's Energy Star-certified . These models must meet rigorous standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy to prove that they operate as efficiently as possible.

Lifespan

As long as you perform proper maintenance, tankless systems can last around 20 years. This is significantly longer than traditional models with a tank, which start to develop corrosion and other issues after around 10 years regardless of how well you care for them, meaning they will need to be replaced.

Space Saving

Tankless water heater s can be a good solution for homeowners who are short on space. While you need enough room in your basement or utility closet to store a large tank if you opt for a traditional system, tankless systems are much smaller and can be placed in a cupboard or mounted on a wall.

Unit and Installation Costs

The cost of buying and installing a tankless water heater is the main factor that puts many people off. Tankless systems are significantly more expensive than traditional systems, coming in at around $1,000-$2,000 for a gas-powered model before any installation costs are factored in.

You could possibly save money by buying an electric model, which is much cheaper and shouldn't set you back more than $900. However, you may need to update your electrical panel and/or have your house rewired in order to fit it, which could cost thousands of dollars.

However, you should bear in mind the energy savings you will make by installing a tankless system and offset them against the purchasing and installation costs. You won't see big energy savings straight away, but over the course of the heater's lifetime, you may well save enough to make a tankless system a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Environmental Impact

Impact on the environment is a major consideration for many people in Cypress, TX when choosing a water heating system for their home. Tankless water heaters are better for the environment than traditional systems because they are more energy-efficient to run. If you buy an electric model, it will not produce any greenhouse gas emissions.

How Many Units Will I Need?

A single tankless water heater unit should be able to provide enough hot water for a modestly sized household. However, Americans use more water per household than most other places in the world, so one unit is unlikely to be able to cope with the hot water demands of a larger house, especially if some of your faucets and fixtures are located far away from the unit and you have multiple bathrooms.

To solve this issue, you could choose to have two or more tankless systems installed near the points of use in your home. However, this will significantly increase the cost of buying and installing the units as opposed to choosing a traditional system.

Warranties

Tankless water heaters generally come with longer warranties than traditional systems because they are expected to last longer. This means that you will be protected for a longer period of time if something goes wrong and you need to have your heater repaired or replaced. You can expect to get a warranty lasting up to 20 years to match the expected lifespan of your tankless system.

However, your warranty will require that you carry out annual maintenance on your heater to keep it in good running order. You should flush the system regularly to prevent limescale from building up which could otherwise damage the unit. If you live in a hard water area, you may also need to use a water softener. It's important to factor in maintenance costs when deciding whether to get a tankless system.

The Bottom Line

Deciding whether or not to get a tankless system is a very personal choice and depends on your home and financial circumstances. If you're interested in finding out whether this type of heater could be a good fit for you, give bluefrog Plumbing and Drain of Northwest Houston a call. We can help Cypress, TX homeowners to choose and install a tankless water heater and deal with all your servicing, repairs and maintenance needs.

Upgrade Your Home with Help from Your Plumbing Service | Katy, TX

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Ozgur Coskun at Shutterstock

Your home should fit your lifestyle. If it doesn't, you can upgrade it so that it does. For any remodeling job, you should make sure that you have a licensed, insured plumbing service taking care of the work. Otherwise, you are taking a huge risk with your biggest asset.

When you choose a remodeling upgrade for your home, you might want to consider what it will add to your life. Think about options that will either add value to your home, make it more convenient for your family's lifestyle, or save you money on your utility bills.

There are many ways your plumbing service can help you transform and customize your Katy, TX home. Here are a few options, to get your imagination going. The possibilities are virtually limitless.

Install Stylish Low Flow Plumbing Fixtures

If you're looking for a fast, less expensive project to get the ball rolling on your remodeling plans, replacing your old shower heads and faucets with low flow models is a great place to start. For a surprisingly low price, you can have your plumbing service install these money-saving fixtures.

You will find a wide assortment of styles and colors to enhance your bathrooms and kitchen, so you can look good while you're saving money on your water bill. By simply switching to a low flow shower head, you could save around 2,100 gallons of water each year. That is a tremendous savings of both your hard-earned money and the planet's valuable resources.

Replace Your Water Heater System

If you have an old gas or electric water heater, your plumbing service can upgrade your home with to tankless system. There are many benefits to this switch, including saving money on your monthly utility bills.

Tankless water heaters work much differently than their predecessors. There is no tank to hold the heated water in, which is good for several reasons. First, if you have a tank, it could become rusted or damaged, causing a big mess if it bursts. No tank, no repairs to the tank.

Second, it takes a lot of energy to heat up a giant tank of water and keep it hot until someone needs to use it. Tankless water heaters heat up the water as you need it, which burns a lot less energy.

But one of the most appealing aspects of tankless water heaters is that, without a tank to limit your hot water, you will never run out. Even if you are the last one to get ready in the morning, you will still have plenty of hot water.

Add an Extra Bathroom

Regardless of the size of your household, the bathroom often seems to be occupied just when you need it. Your plumbing service can help you add another full or half bathroom to your home. You just have to decide where you want them to put it.

A master bathroom has become more than a luxury in modern times. If you have an older home that wasn't built with one, now is the perfect time to update. The privacy of it alone makes it well worth the cost.

If you have children in your household, you might want to give them a bathroom of their own. Not only would that help keep the mess in the main bathroom to a minimum, it would keep the bathroom from being constantly occupied.

With the popularity of tiny homes, she sheds, and man caves, small buildings are popping up everywhere. If you have one of these structures on your property, it would be very convenient to have a half bath to use. Find out what it will take for your plumbing service to install a bathroom in your hideaway and make it much easier to enjoy.

Spoil Yourself with a Professional Chef's Kitchen

If you have always dreamed of a fully equipped professional kitchen, now is the time to make that dream a reality. Your plumbing service can transform your inefficient, cramped kitchen into a wide-open workspace that you will love. They can add a prep sink, to make mealtime cooking easier.

Professional stoves with gas burners are preferred by many chefs because it is much easier to control the heat than with an electric stove. Your plumbing service can run a gas line to your new stove, so you can master the art of gourmet cooking.

Build a Luxurious Home Spa

After a hard day's work, wouldn't it be great to come home to a relaxing spa? You can have one in your own Katy, TX home, with a little help from your plumbing service.

Deep, free-standing tubs give you the chance to soak away the worries of the day in style. There are many styles, shapes, and colors to choose from, including classic clawfoot tubs and modern rectangular soak tubs made of marble. The artistic aesthetic makes them as beautiful as they are functional.

If your muscles are aching after a long day, you might enjoy having your plumbing service install a whirlpool. The powerful jets can massage away your aches and pains whenever you like when you own the spa.

You don't have to stop with the tub. For a shower experience you will never forget, have your plumbing service install a system of shower heads in multiple directions. Or you could opt for a rainfall shower head and wide glass shower walls, for a gentle rain sensation with a sophisticated look.

Create an Exciting Outdoor Entertainment Space

In Katy, TX , a lot of entertaining is done outdoors. With the bright Texas sunshine and warm summer weather, you might want to consider designing a stunning outdoor space to entertain your family and friends.

With enough yard space, you can let your imagination run wild. From a simple outdoor kitchen to a fully-equipped building with dance floor and bathrooms, you can create a space that your guests will talk about for years to come.

Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston today for more information on how your plumber can help you upgrade your Katy, TX home.

9 Common Plumbing Problems and How an Emergency Plumber Can Help | Cypress, TX

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By New Africa at Shutterstock

Most homeowners in Cypress, TX , have experienced either a minor or severe problem with their water and sewer lines. When you have leaking faucets in your house or any other plumbing-related problem, immediately contact an emergency plumber for repairs to avoid serious damages and costly repairs.

There are some preventative measures for the most common plumbing problems, although it's virtually impossible to prevent the occurrence of all plumbing emergencies successfully.

Here are some typical plumbing problems and how an emergency plumber can help in fixing them.

Slow Draining Sink

This is a plumbing emergency that occurs when you have a blockage in the drains, restricting smooth water flow. Knotted hairs and soaps are the common reasons for slow draining bathroom sinks, while food remains, and congealed fat are the reasons for blockages in kitchen sinks.

Slow draining sinks are repaired by removing the obstacles causing blockage using a plumber’s snake or a plunger. Clearing the drain can also be achieved by using chemical clog removers or pouring vinegar and baking soda down the drain. It's essential to know that repeated use of chemicals to clear drains can erode the inner surface of your drainage pipes.

Running Toilets

Running toilet is a plumbing emergency that occurs when water stops flowing from your toilet's tank to the bowl. Running toilets causes water wastage because almost two hundred gallons of water is lost per day.

Common causes of running toilets include improperly sized flapper chains, damaged refill tubes, corroded toilet handles, and worn out flush valves or flapper seals. With the right knowledge and toilet repair kit, you can replace the offending parts on your own. However, when the problem persists, even after making replacements, you must contact an emergency plumber to help to fix the problem.

Blocked Pipes and Drains

This is a plumbing problem that often occurs in most homes. When you notice a backflow of wastewater in your sink, toilet, or bathroom, it means there is an obstacle in your drains. If this problem is not addressed quickly, it can expose you and your family members to health hazards or result in severe plumbing emergencies.

Blocked drains are caused by the accumulation of solid materials that create blockages in pipes. Good examples of these objects include soaps, hair, and other foreign materials. Having a blockage in the sewer line is a severe problem that should be attended to as soon as possible. When you have such an emergency, you must contact your emergency plumber to help fix the problem.

Burst Pipes

This predicament ranks high among the most damaging plumbing problems. With a burst pipe, your water utility bill is likely to skyrocket because of too much water loss. If your pipes are old and corroded, you must make replacements in due time to avoid burst pipes and the potential subsequent damages.

When your pipes burst, you should turn off your main valve and then contact an emergency plumber to fix the burst. Pipe bursts repair can be done by making joint connections to the damaged part of the pipe, or even replacing your entire waterline with new pipes.

Low Water Pressure

This is a plumbing emergency that often occurs in old homes in Cypress, TX . Low water pressure is indicated by water trickling instead of gushing out of your taps. The problem is caused by the accumulation of mineral sediments that are deposited on your faucet aerators or leaking pipes.

Faucets aerators that are partially blocked should be soaked in vinegar while those that are entirely blocked should be cleaned using a toothbrush dipped in vinegar to scrub, loosen, and remove the mineral deposits.

Frozen Pipes

This plumbing emergency often occurs in unoccupied houses, but even occupied ones are also at risk. When your pipes are frozen, you can pour hot water on them to raise the temperature of the icy water inside. This must be done slowly to avoid rapid melting that can lead to the pipes breaking.

You should leave water trickling from your faucets during icy seasons to prevent it from freezing inside the pipes. This is simply because flowing water does not freeze. Another option is to hire a plumber to cover your pipes with insulating material during cold seasons.

Water Heater Problems

Hot water remains one of the necessities in most homes. No hot water in your home indicates that there is a problem with your water heater. Old water heaters often wear out because of age, and the best solution to this is contacting a professional emergency plumber to install a new one.

Other issues that can cause your water heater to fail include electrical problems that are evidenced by blown fuses. A leaking water heater will not serve you right, and you must contact your emergency plumber for repair service.

Gas Leaks

Natural gas is odorless and highly flammable. When you have a gas leak in your house, you and your family members can be in great danger. You will know that there is a gas leak when there is a strong smell of rotten eggs in your house.

After detecting a gas leak, you should immediately evacuate the building to ensure that your family's safety. If the shut-off valve is at an easily accessible spot, make sure you shut it off before contacting your emergency plumber.

A Worn-Out Hose Bibb

The hose Bibb only serves for some period and cannot last through several seasons, especially in places that experience winter. The changes in temperature cause the hose bibb to crack and lose its sturdiness, making it highly prone to leakage. To avoid replacing your hose bibb more often, consider purchasing a heavy-duty, frost- brand instead of an ordinary hose bibb.

Minor plumbing problems can extend and become severe with time if left unattended. They must be repaired as soon as they are detected. Luckily, homeowners in Cypress, TX , experiencing any of the above plumbing emergencies can contact the professional emergency plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston .

How Regular Plumbing Maintenance Protects Your Plumbing System | Insight from Your Trusted Katy, TX Plumbers

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Minerva Studio

Everyone relies on their plumbing to work every day. When it doesn't, it can throw the entire household off their schedule. There's never a good time to be without plumbing services. Fortunately, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of having a plumbing emergency.

Many plumbers offer 24-hour emergency plumbing services seven days a week, including nights, weekends, and holidays, it is true. But emergency plumbing services are often higher than regularly scheduled work. Plus, there's the added convenience of not being without water while plumbers work on the problem.

Professionals know that the best way to keep your plumbing in its best shape is to make sure you schedule regular plumbing maintenance. The old saying is true; an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. Don't wait until you have an emergency to Below are a few of the ways that scheduling routine maintenance can help your plumbers keep your system in good working order for years to come.

System Inspection

Plumbers can detect potential problems before they cause system failure with regular plumbing inspections. Technological advances have made the inspection process easy and much more effective in locating problem areas in your pipes.

Professionals advise that you have your Katy, TX home plumbing system inspected at least once every two years. They will insert a video camera into your pipes, so they can get a detailed look at what is happening there. If there are any obstructions or damage pipes anywhere, plumbers can know about it before it causes a plumbing breakdown.

Sometimes, your sewer pipes can be damaged by invasive tree roots. Having your plumbing checked regularly can help you catch the problem early, before you have to replace a whole section of piping.

Drain Cleaning

When you hire a registered plumber for professional drain cleaning, you know your pipes are as clean as they can possibly be. Modern techniques give them the chance to give you a much more efficient cleaning in a short amount of time.

Plumbers often use hydro jetting to flush out whatever is hanging around your drain pipes. In this process, high-pressure water is forced through your pipes, which removes even the biggest clogs easily and thoroughly. It strips the gunk off the inside of your pipes, leaving them as clean as new.

You should have your drains checked and cleaned at least one time every two years, according to professionals. However, if you start smelling foul odors from your drains, you may have a problem that requires professional drain cleaning services more frequently.

Gas Line Inspection

Of all the plumbing problems you could have, a leak in a gas line is the most dangerous. Gas is toxic for humans and animals to breathe, and it can cause severe health issues or even death. To make certain that your family is safe, you should have your gas line inspected by a professional.

In order to reduce your risk of gas line problems, plumbers advise homeowners to have their gas lines inspected every year. Many Katy, TX homeowners want to have their gas lines checked every year before the winter months. That way, their heating system will be in good working order before you need it.

A typical gas line inspection involves checking for leaks, corrosion, or improper grounding in your pipes. With an annual check, plumbers can catch any problems before they escalate. It is important that, even with regular gas line inspections, you know what to do if you have a leaking gas line.

The gas that fuels your home doesn't have an odor. A chemical is added to it that makes it smell like rotten eggs in your home if you have a leak. If you notice a sulphur smell near your gas appliances, like your heater, you have a leak somewhere in the line.

Each of your gas appliances has a connection to the gas supply. Many times, leaks occur in one of the connections in your gas line. Instead of trying to track down the exact location of your gas leak, you should turn off the gas supply as quickly as possible. Get everyone, including your family pets, out of the house immediately. As soon as you are far enough away to be safe, call your plumbers for emergency assistance. They can turn off the main supply line when they arrive and take care of the leak. Remember to stay out of the house until you are told that it is safe to enter.

Water Heater Inspection

It's easy to forget about your water heater until you find yourself out of hot water. To avoid this problem, you should have your water heater professionally inspected on a regular basis.

You should have received a manufacturer's guideline for regular maintenance when you purchased your water heater. If you didn't or don't know where it is, you can follow general rules for service. How often you need a check depends largely on how many people you have in your household.

For a household with one or two people, you should have your water heater inspected every six months. If you have a larger family with three to five people, you should have a plumber check your water heater every four months, to make sure that everything is working properly.

Your inspection will include a check of the water temperature, pressure-relief valves, pipes, and tank, to make sure all are working as they should. They will check for rust in the tank or any place that its integrity is compromised before it bursts and ruins your flooring and belongings.

When it comes to your home's plumbing system, regular maintenance can be a real asset for any homeowner. In Katy, TX , bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston offers superior maintenance for your entire plumbing system. Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain today to find out more about scheduling regular inspection and maintenance for your home.

Your Clogged Drain: A Petri Dish for Bacteria | Insight from Your Trusted Drain Cleaning Service in The Woodlands, TX

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Scharvik at istock

You do everything you can to keep your home in The Woodlands, TX , clean and your family safe from dangers like bacteria, but if your kitchen sink is overdue for drain cleaning service, then you may be overlooking a source for hidden germs in your home. The truth is that a clogged drain can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can cause your family to become seriously sick.

Germs Lurking in Your Sink

So, what's the attraction? As it turns out, the high level of moisture found in a clogged drain provides the ideal environment for certain types of bacteria that usually makes their way to your sink from a food source, says researchers at Miami University. Some common bacteria that like to take up residence and make themselves at home in clogged drains include:

Campylobacter. Raw milk, raw animal food, vegetables, and unchlorinated water can be sources of this bacteria that sometimes make their way to your drain. Exposure to these dangerous bacteria can lead to symptoms like muscle pain, headache, fever, and bloody diarrhea.
Escherichia coli (E.coli). Drains exposed to contaminated food or drinks can be harboring E. coli, which causes a range of symptoms, from nausea and vomiting to fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Salmonella. This type of bacteria usually ends up in the drain from raw meat, dairy products, or fresh produce. It can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, bloody stool, and diarrhea in addition to child and headache.
Staphylococcus aureus. Staph bacteria thrive in wet environments, waiting to find a host, which makes your drain particularly tempting. Staph causes everything from infected wounds to toxic shock and pneumonia.

These are four guests that you don't want in your home in The Woodlands, TX , period. Regular professional drain cleaning can help, but you may also need to reach out to your plumbing professional for one-off service. So how do you know if you have a problem?

Signs of a Clogged Drain

There are some telltale signs that your drain is in dire need of drain cleaning. Watch for:

Slow draining. If you have a clog and water flow is impeded, then the drain will not allow water through as quickly as it normally does.
Bad odor. If you notice a smell emanating from your kitchen drain, it's usually caused by waste that is clogging the drain (and harboring untold bacteria). Your best move is to schedule drain cleaning right away with your local plumber. Keep in mind that if you smell a bad odor from more than one drain, you may have a problem in the sewage system.
Gurgling noises. Air in the drain can cause your drain to gurgle and make strange noises, and more often than not, the air is the result of an obstruction from grease or dirt that creates air bubbles. Professional drain cleaning can help clear the debris from your drain so that air and wastewater moves freely.
Food particles in the sink. If you run your dishwasher only to notice that you later have food particles in your sink, then you can pretty much guarantee that you have a clog. The problem can lie with the drain itself or the dishwasher. Have your plumber take a look.
Repeat clogs. If you are continually plunging the kitchen drain or a drain in the bathroom, you may have a larger problem lurking somewhere in your plumbing system. An evaluation and inspection by your plumbing professional is your first step to eliminate the problem once and for all.
Multiple drains clogs. You may have an advanced plumbing issue if you have more than one drain clogged at once; a main sewer clog can sometimes be to blame, and drain cleaning is in your plumbing system's future.

DIY for Clogged Drains?

While it's tempting to take on drain cleaning yourself, the truth is that most of the methods that homeowners use are ill-effective or may even cause more harm. For example, you may use a plunger to tackle a clog in the kitchen drain, but the result may be that your actions just force the clog further on down the system to cause problems elsewhere, deeper in your pipes. Some DIY plumbers who take on drain cleaning themselves often find that going for a quick fix by doing it themselves only leads to paying more later when they exacerbate the problem in the first place. Professional plumbers know the ins and outs of drain cleaning, and what's more, they have the equipment needed to identify and break up clogs fast, including inspection cameras and other tools.

How About Drain Clearing Chemicals?

Your local hardware or home store likely has a lot of promising products on the shelf that you're tempted to try. Commercially available drain cleaners are popular, but some of them can be dangerous to use, both for you and your plumbing. All of them are caustic, posing a risk if you inhale their fumes or get them on your skin, and others contain hydrochloric acid, a highly corrosive substance that can erode your pipes and in worst-case scenarios, cause enough damage to eventually require replacement or even sewer repairs. And finally, there's no way of knowing for sure if they'll work. Typically, drain cleaning chemicals remove only the most minor clogs, and if you have a backed-up sewer line or broken pipe, they can make the situation even worse and up costing thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Protecting Your Family

As you can see, a clogged drain is not just a nuisance; it can put your family at risk for disease and illness. Trust bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston in The Woodlands, TX , to keep your drains running smoothly and your family safer. Contact our licensed plumbing professionals for drain cleaning service and we'll hop on over right away.

What Your Plumber Wants You to Know About Common Causes of Water Damage in The Woodlands, TX

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By yavdat at istock

When it comes to protecting your home from water damage you need to know what you're dealing with, right? You need to make sure that you're keeping your home in the best shape possible and that absolutely depends on you and your plumber working together. So, how do you make sure you're taking care of your home properly? You want to avoid these common problems that could result in a whole lot of damage for your home in The Woodlands, TX .

Flat Roof

If you have a flat roof it's something you should get looked at frequently. Your roof may appear completely flat, but it might not actually be. That's because it's designed for water to still flow slightly so that it doesn't pool on top of the roof. If you don't have this type of angle to your roof, however, then you may want to contact a professional to find out more. After all, a flat roof is going to leave you susceptible to a whole lot of water damage. If the water can't get anywhere, it sits on top of the roof for an extended period of time.

If the water continues to sit in the same spot it will start to break down the roof itself and it can start to seep into anywhere that it can. That means it can start to flow down your walls and it can cause a whole lot of problems overall. You could end up with water damage that extends through your ceiling and down into walls and floors. The longer it's left to its own the worse it could get and that all comes from flat roofs and a professional plumber is needed to help.

Leaking Pipes

You would think that you would know if you had a pipe leaking somewhere in your house, but you might not. That's because a lot of your pipes are actually behind the walls or under the floors or hidden in ceilings. Those are all things that you can't see and when they start to leak it takes a while before that leak actually starts to show through the wall. If that happens you could end up with some serious problems because now you've got a bigger mess. By the time you know about the leak it's something much bigger.

Calling a plumber to take a look at soon as you suspect a leak is the best thing to do. Even if there isn't one, it's always going to be better to err on the side of caution rather than trying to deal with a potential problem for as long as you can. So, what are you going to do? Well, the first thing that you should do is monitor your water bill. If you see your water bill go up for no reason that's a sign of a leak somewhere. If you can hear water running when there shouldn't be that's another sign you need to call a plumber to check things out.

Humidity

If you're noticing a whole lot of humidity in one area of your house it could mean that there's a moisture problem. The worst thing is that the humidity can continue to get worse. It may start out as a minor problem, but it can absolutely turn into something a whole lot bigger. You don't want to deal with humidity in your home, but if it's starting to condensate and you're getting actual, visible moisture throughout the house then you're going to need even faster response.

Call a plumber if you start to experience any level of humidity in your space. It may be something you can combat with a dehumidifier, but it may be something more serious that needs to be looked at. A professional plumber will be able to let you know just what's going on and what your next steps should be in order to take care of the problem. From there, you'll be able to get your home back and start feeling comfortable there again. Not to mention you can remove the risk of developing water damage in your home.

Fixture Problems

If you're noticing water around any of the fixtures or appliances in your home that's definitely not a good sign. You want to make sure that you're doing everything you can to take care of these problems immediately. Cleaning up the water is the first step, but that doesn't actually fix the problem. Instead, make sure that you call a professional plumber to take a look at just what's going on. They'll be able to figure out why your fixtures are leaking, and they can take care of the problem right away. After all, you need your fixtures to work, right?

If those fixtures continue to leak and you don't get it fixed you could be causing a lot of bigger problems. That's because water is getting into your floors or your walls and it's sitting there. Everything that you clean up from the surface is not the only water. That means you're missing some of the important stuff. So, make sure that you're paying attention to just where the water is coming from and that you get a plumber to take a closer look. They'll be able to fix the system that's not working and cut your risk of serious water damage.

No one wants to deal with water damage in their home and by taking a look at each of these problems you can make sure that you don't have to. What could be better than looking around your home and knowing that it's safe for your entire family? When you call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston we'll send out a plumber to take care of anything that your home needs. We can get to you in The Woodlands, TX and make sure that your water problems don't turn into a much bigger issue. After all, you don't want to be dealing with leaking pipes and water damage in your home.

What You Need to Know About Your Plumbing Service After the Holidays | Tomball, TX

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Zuraisham Salleh at istock

The holidays are a great time for getting together with your loved ones. You spend time with your friends and family and have great big meals and gatherings. They can be a lot of fun. But they can also mean a whole lot of trouble for your plumbing and plumbing service . At least, if you're not careful. That's why knowing about these common plumbing service needs after the holidays might just help you to keep things in better shape for your Tomball, TX home.

Clogged Sinks

No matter how often you tell your relatives not to scrape their plates off into the sink they always seem to do it anyway, right? And then you end up with a bunch of gunk in your garbage disposal and a need for plumbing service . This is one of the most common things that can happen when you have a lot of people over. After all, when everyone is trying to get rid of their plates and silverware at the same time so they can get back to the family gathering it can be a bit of a mess. That's where all that food can get put down your disposal.

The unfortunate thing is that much of that food isn't meant to go in your disposal at all, let alone to go in such large quantities. You could overload the disposal and then if no one is running it in between that causes even more problems. By the time you're done with that holiday you could end up with a whole lot of plumbing service needs. But the good news is it's a relatively easy fix for a professional to come out to your home and take care of those clogged sinks.

Cold Water

With all those people in your home and some of them staying over you could very easily run out of hot water. The problem is there are too many people trying to take a shower in the morning. You might be trying to do too many dishes to get everything cleaned up from the day before and in the long run your water heater just isn't able to keep up. After all, if you have a traditional water heater it's only able to heat so much water at a time. From there, you have to wait for it to get all the water ready again.

Now, if you have a tankless water heater, you'll actually be able to keep everyone going for a whole lot longer. All you need to do is make sure that you're only using one source of hot water at a time. If you do, you'll be able to cut the problems that you're experiencing. You may not need professional plumbing service for this one unless you run out of hot water entirely and before you should. In that case it could be a problem with the water heater where it's not working at all or the pilot light went out.

Clogged Toilets

This is one no one likes to think about but unfortunately, it's very possible when you have all of those people in your home. It's definitely not something you want to even think about but … you have to. After all, with all of those people in the house something is bound to go wrong, right? You end up with all kinds of problems and then you have to figure out what to do about it. And so many things could go wrong with adults and children milling about unaccompanied for so long.

With small children you could end up with them flushing items that aren't supposed to go into the toilet, which can cause it to clog. Others might be flushing too much toilet paper or not flushing the toilet. All of these things can cause serious problems immediately or down the line. Either way, you'll end up needing plumbing service to deal with it and that's going to be a hassle for you. There's no real way for you to solve this problem before it starts. After all, you assume that everyone knows how to flush the toilet and that you wouldn't have to help them along … but that's not always the case.

What You Need to Do

The best thing that you can do is keep an eye on your house. You want to make sure that you tell people not to put food in your garbage disposal. You may want to tell them to leave their plates at the table and you will take care of them or supervise everyone scrapping plates into the trash before putting them in the sink. This will help keep all that food from overwhelming your garbage disposal. At the very least make sure you're running the disposal frequently as people are scrapping food to clear out the system without overloading it.

You should also keep an eye on bathrooms around the house just to be sure that toilets are flushed properly and that nothing is being left in there that shouldn't be. If your family uses the moist towels but knows not to flush them that doesn't mean your guests do too. The best thing to do is put those away somewhere that no one is going to get into them. You don't want them to flush anything that isn't supposed to go into the drain.

After the holidays or a family gathering you may be looking for plumbing service to take care of some of the mess that's left behind. Our plumbing service is exactly what you're looking for. Just call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston to take care of the problem for you. If you need any kind of plumbing service in Tomball, TX you can just give us a call to take care of it. We can come out to your house at any time and make sure that your plumbing system is working the way it should. Your Tomball, TX home is in good hands.

What Should You Look for in a Plumber? | The Heights, TX

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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It's always important to research before choosing your plumber when you move into a new home. Choosing the right service experts for your home will ensure you build a relationship that will last for years to come. The Heights, TX has many options but what do you need to look for when you're considering a new expert to get repair done. We'll look specifically at plumber s here and what you need to look for.

Variety of Services

When you call for help in your house do you want a specialist or a general handyman? While a general handyman can do most basic work for your house with a single call, they may not be able to fix everything you need done with a specific area, especially with a plumber . A quality plumbing service should have a variety of services that they are able to do but they all should all relate to the pipes in your house. Your basic plumber s will do drain cleaning and repairs on things like sinks and toilets. They will also work with your water heater and sump pumps, if you have one.

More advanced plumbers will also do things like be available for anytime service, sometimes called emergency plumbers. These more advanced experts will be able to help you with purchasing the right appliances and may have a selection of trusted products in stock. That means they'll have the opportunity to just run back to their home office or just their truck if you're lucky and have the replacement done in no time. They also might offer things like specialized camera inspections of your lines and be able to work on and replace your gas lines inside your house. These services are sought after by those in the field and you should remember that when you are looking.

Expertise and Training

In Texas your plumber should have a license. This is how you know they went through the correct training and learning process to get the job done right without guesswork. When calling for the first time ask what their license number is and check it against the state board to ensure it's in compliance. You don't want to be the person in The Heights, TX who hires an unlicensed professional and ends up having to try to make a claim against your insurance because they botched the job. That's never fun and having a licensed professional will decrease the likelihood of anything going wrong during the process.

There are two levels to the licensing in Texas, a journeyman license and a master license. The journeyman must have a current apprentice or limited registration in Texas or came from one in another state. They must also have 8,000 hours of experience working under the supervision of another licensed professional. The proof of which is submitted to the licensing board to ensure they aren't just cheating the hours. You must also be a high school graduate and have proof of citizenship or nationalization papers to the United States. After you have your journeyman's license for over a year you can then submit to the license board to get your masters license. If a person looking to get a license works 40 hours a week every week it will take almost five years to be able to achieve their master license, it's not a short-term career switch.

Local Connection

Having a plumber that is local is another great qualifier for when you need to call for service. Local doesn't just mean they've got a location nearby but are they part of your community? Having a ghost presence in towns is something that isn't desirable because they may not know all the ins and outs of the local system and that would increase their opportunity for making mistakes. Besides, you also want your local businesses to succeed and supporting them is the best way to do that. The ones that are most in tune with the area will also try to be part of Chamber of Commerce activities and hold a membership. This shows a dedication to the area and a willingness to work together with other businesses to improve your community. Some may even go above and beyond and host or sponsor community events sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce to show another level of dedication.

A Reputation Worth Admiring

We now live in a magical world that even twenty years ago would have been seen as impossible when it comes to evaluating professional services in town. Before the advent of major online review systems, you had to call around to your friends in town and hope they could suggest a good professional for whatever trade or professional service you needed. Today you can go to many different places to get an idea as to how they treat their other customers or even if they have other customers. If you start by looking at their website or social media, you can compare reviews there against their reviews on other sites like Google or Angie's List. You can also seek out your local Chamber of Commerce and see who's recommended by them, or at least listed, in their area. Remember to read all reviews carefully to ensure that they have a consistent sound to them that seems genuine and positive.

When you are in need of a plumber in The Heights, TX always remember the experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwestern Houston . They have experts available twenty-four hours a day seven days a week to help you with all your plumbing and drainage needs. They offer many services including drain cleaning, water heater repair and replacement, water filtration and softener service and replacement, sump pump work, gas line repair, and sewer and water line repair. Reach out to them to book an appointment and get an estimate on whatever service you may need.

How Can I Reduce Plumbing Repair? |Cypress, TX

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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If you're looking to reduce your reliance on plumbing repair , then the first thing you need to learn is how to take better care of your pipes. You want to make sure that you're doing everything you can to keep them in great shape. But of course, many people don't even think about the pipes running through their home until there's some kind of a problem. So, what should you be paying attention to and how could you keep from needing so much plumbing repair in your Cypress, TX home? Well, there are quite a few things to keep in mind.

Chemical Cleaners Are Not Your Friends

You absolutely don't want to use chemical cleaners at all. These cleaners are not going to help you get rid of clogs (at least not permanently) and they're not going to be good for your pipes. Instead, the harsh chemicals can actually start to wear away at your pipes, breaking them down from the inside out. That means you end up with a whole lot more damage than you end up with benefits. Chemical cleaners also wreak havoc all the way through the line.

That cleaner is going to get into your septic field, where it kills of bacteria that are necessary to keep the septic field operating. From there, it also gets into the ground and into the water table where it can cause problems for the environment and the animals that come into contact with it. That chemical cleaner is causing a whole lot of problems from the moment you put it down your drain because it's not going to just disappear. That's why it's always a good idea to get professional plumbing repair instead.

Set Your Water Pressure Right

Did you know that your water pressure can actually cause problems for your pipes? Well, having water pressure that's too high is absolutely a problem. It can force water through the pipes at too fast of speeds. Not only that but it's pushing too much water at that fast speed and that causes damage to the pipes themselves. You could end up with pipes bursting and leaks throughout your home. Those leaks could cause a great deal of damage and end up being a big repair for you in the long run.

If you set your water pressure too low this could be a problem for you as well. Pressure that's too low may mean that water is left sitting in the pipes and that could mean that it stagnates or that it starts to rust out the pipes that are around it. Water is supposed to continuously flow through your pipes and if it's not doing that you could end up with just as many problems requiring that plumbing repair . So, what are you going to do? You should talk with a professional to find out more about how to set your water pressure to the right setting.

Fix Your Leaks

If you do notice that you have a leak you absolutely need to get it fixed as soon as possible. Talk with a professional about plumbing repair and make sure that you're resolving the issue. It may seem like the leak is minor or that it will be okay for a little while. The truth is that it's extremely problematic. Even a small leak could cost you hundreds of dollars on your monthly water bill. And if you're ignoring a larger leak it could cost you a whole lot more. Not to mention that little leak could easily turn into something a whole lot bigger.

Get Your Drains Cleaned

Getting your drains cleaned is an important preventive measure to keep you from needing as much repair and it absolutely works. In fact, you want to be sure that you have your drains cleaned regularly because this is going to help you identify any problems before they turn into something major. In fact, you may be able to get problems taken care of before they even really become problems. That's because with a cleaning a professional is going to take a look at everything and can see where a potential problem is forming.

So, what are you going to do when it comes to drain cleaning? You should call a professional in plumbing repair to make sure that they take a look. Sure, you could wait until you notice something going wrong, but if you call and schedule a cleaning before that happens, you're going to set yourself up for a whole lot better outcome. You'll be able to make sure that leaks are caught before they turn into something major. You'll also be able to get rid of clogs before you even realize that they are there.

Keep Your Drains Cleared

Now, this one seems obvious, but the important thing is to make sure that you're not flushing things that aren't supposed to go down the drain. That means your toilet as well as your garbage disposal. In general, water goes in the garbage disposal (and the least amount of food possible) and human waste and toilet paper go in the toilet. Those are the only things that should be going into your drains. If you're flushing anything else, you're running the risk of needing some pretty extensive plumbing repair. Even if it doesn't happen immediately, it absolutely can over time.

When you're ready to schedule any type of plumbing repair make sure you call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . We can come out to your Cypress, TX home in no time and make sure that your drains are clear, and your plumbing system is working the way it should. You'll be happier with the end result in no time. After all, if you can get your water working right and your drains working right it's definitely going to help you around your home. No plumbing repair is a problem for us. All you have to do is call.

The Common Types of Water Heater Repair | Spring, TX

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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When it comes to your water heater you never want to have to deal with repair, but it's a fact of life. At some point you'll have a problem with your water heater, and you'll have to get it fixed. So, what do you do? Well, the best thing that you can do is understand the problems that can happen before they do. In general, there are three different types of water heater repair that you may need in your Spring, TX home.

Broken Dip Tubes

One of the first things that can go wrong with your water heater is a broken dip tube. The dip tube is the pipe that brings your water in from your city water connection and through the system. So, it goes from the city water connection through the water heater tank and down to the heat exchanger. Your water is heated down at the bottom and then rises to the top. If you have a broken dip tube it means that you could have cold water getting into the area where the hot water is supposed to be. That's going to decrease your hot water supply.

What's really good about this is that it's actually really simple to fix. Generally, it means that the tube has broken off and a professional in water heater repair will be able to take care of it for you quickly. That's the most important thing, after all. The faster you can get something taken care of the less problems you're going to have overall and the better it's going to be for you and your household. This is something that a professional can take care of in no time at all.

Faulty Burner

If your burner isn't working properly that's another problem that you need to take care of quickly. But this type of water heater repair can be even more important. A faulty burner is part of a gas unit, and it can have problems because of a number of different features. If there's rust or dirt on the surface it may not ignite properly. If the gas flow isn't as high as it should be that can also cause serious problems and the burner may not ignite. All of this could mean that you don't have enough heating power and that means you're not going to get as much hot water as you're expecting. It's definitely not going to be a good experience.

If you have a faulty burner and it's not lighting properly that could mean that gas is escaping into your house. That means it's even more important for you to call a professional in water heater repair so you can get everything taken care of a whole lot faster. Without someone to fix it that gas could cause harm to your family or could even result in a fire. If you notice a problem with your burner, make sure that you call a professional in water heater repair immediately to get it looked at.

Faulty Heating Element

On the other side of things is the faulty ignition from an electric water heater. This is still just as problematic for your family, though not quite as dangerous overall. There are actually two different heating elements that are in use with an electric water heater. And that electric water heater needs both of them. If one dies out, you'll still get some heat to your system but you're not going to get as much as you would with both.

If both of them are faulty you won't have hot water at all. So, if you notice that the water, you're getting is somewhat lukewarm but it's not hot then it means you might have a problem with the heating element. That's when you should call a professional and get it taken care of immediately. Someone who knows about water heater repair will be able to take a look at the heating elements and determine what's not working the way it should. From there, they can get everything fixed up and ready to go for you in no time.

What You Need to Do

The most important thing is to monitor your water. If you notice that you're not getting as much hot water as you did before it's a sign that there's something wrong with your hot water heater. Getting a professional in water heater repair to come out to your home and take a look is going to make it a whole lot easier for you. They can figure out what's going on and why your water heater is failing. Then, they can take care of fixing the problem quickly, to get you back up and running.

When you first start noticing a change is going to be the best time to take action. That's because you'll be able to get it taken care of faster. If you wait too long and it's not an emergency service, it could take longer for someone to get to your house for an appointment. So, make sure that you look into what's going on and you get a professional to do so as well. You want your water heater repair to be done as soon as possible because hot water is definitely going to be an important aspect for you.

If you're looking for water heater repair in Spring, TX make sure you call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . We can get to you in no time and make sure that anything you need is taken care of. Your water heater repair is important, whether it's something that's threatening the safety of your family or not. That means we want to take care of getting it resolved for you. All you need to do is give us a call and we'll schedule you an appointment. From there, we'll come out to your house and take care of the problem to get you and your family back to normal.

Everything You Need to Know About Water Pressure Problems | Tips from Your Trusted Tomball, TX Plumbing Service Provider

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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There are a lot of things that can go wrong with your plumbing system, and none of them are pleasant. One of the worst feelings is having a lack of water pressure in your Tomball, TX , home that leaves you feeling like you're not quite getting clean in the shower or removing all the gunk from your dishes. Fortunately, there are ways to solve that problem with the help of a plumbing service . If you don't feel like you're getting enough water pressure in an individual fixture or all throughout your home, here's everything you need to know.

Pin It Down

One of the first things you need to consider if you're trying to figure out why you have low water pressure is where the problem is actually occurring. Often times, a low water pressure problem will be confined to one room or fixture in your home, which can be a big hint when it comes to finding a solution.

When you call a plumbing service to take a look at the pipes and fixtures in your Tomball, TX , home, make sure they know whether the water pressure problem is occurring throughout the home or confined to a single area. This will help your plumber get to the bottom of the problem quicker so you don't have to deal with low water pressure for quite as long.

Pipes and Water Pressure

The fact of the matter is, poor water pressure can be caused by problems in various parts of your plumbing system. The most common cause of poor water pressure is a part of the plumbing system through which water can't easily flow. If you want to get your water pressure back to normal, it's generally as simple as having a plumbing service locate and knock out whatever is blocking up part of the system.

In a lot of cases, your poor water pressure is going to be caused by a pipe that's old and has a lot of buildup in it. While the water flows smoothly through the rest of your plumbing system, this pipe slows things down a lot and has a serious effect on water pressure. In most cases, the only way to fix a problem like this is to have a plumbing service replace the problem pipes in your plumbing system.

Having problem pipes that cause low water pressure is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's a tough problem to have because having entire sections of pipe replaced can be a big job. Repair costs would likely be much lower if there was a small problem with a fixture in your home. The good news, however, is that it's fairly easy to determine when a pipe is causing a water pressure problem, so you can be confident that a plumbing service will get the problem fixed.

Fixture Problems

If you've only got low water pressure in one sink or another fixture in your home, chances are the problem is stemming from the fixture itself. One of the easiest ways to determine this is to try all the sinks in your home. If you've got identical sinks in two bathrooms and one is providing far better water pressure, there's something wrong with the other sink.

The good news about fixture problems is that they aren't always major. While there are cases where a plumbing service may need to install an entirely new faucet, your problem could be as simple as a clogged aerator that's not letting water flow through properly.

Water Demand

Every home is different when it comes to water use. While some households may do fine with a single modest water heater, others may need a larger, more efficient water heater or even a second water heater. When it comes to the water pressure in your home, the amount of water your home can supply vs. the demand for that water plays a big role.

Water enters your home through a main line, which then sends the water through various pipes to get it to the fixtures and appliances that need it. This is an effective system as long as you've got enough water flowing through your main line to supply the other lines. If you've got a lot of people living in your house or you happen to use a lot of water, that increased demand can cause a lot of plumbing service problems, including low water pressure.

The Valves

While there are a lot of fairly large problems that can cause low water pressure, there are lots of smaller ones, too. If you've got low water pressure in your home, make sure you have a plumbing service check all the little things before doing costly work like installing fixtures or replacing pipe.

As dumb as it may sound, the poor water pressure in your home could be caused by a valve that's partially closed. There are two valves that can reduce the water supply to your home, and they may have been closed and reopened during your last plumbing service call. The good news is, this is the simplest way to get your water pressure back to normal, so this problem is ideal. Next time you have a plumbing service professional come to your home to do work, have them take a look at the valves to make sure they're fully opened.

The Easy Way Out

Taking good care of your plumbing system is crucial if you like having a plumbing system that works. Unfortunately, it can also be a bit overwhelming without the help of a good professional.

If you need a plumbing professional to get your water pressure sorted out or fix another problem, you can count on the folks at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . No matter what kind of plumbing problem you've got in your Tomball, TX , home, you can give bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston a call today to get it sorted out.

Three Common Reasons Your Kitchen Sink Clogs and Signs You Should Call an Emergency Plumber | Cypress, TX

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Nobody wants to deal with a clogged drain in their kitchen. Not only is it unsightly, but it also impairs your ability to prepare meals, wash your dishes, and essentially take care of your family and a hygienic manner. That is why you should call an emergency plumber in Cypress, TX right away after discovering your drain issue.

The longer you wait the more the mess will fester and there's a good chance you'll experience a backup that will compound the situation. It can be tempting to try to fix the problem on your own, but unless you actually resolve the reason why your drain is clogging you will find yourself in need of a plumber in Cypress, TX anyhow. There is, unfortunately, no magic solution that will keep a drain from clogging over and over again if you don't fix the problem.

While an emergency plumber is the right call, you might want to learn some of the common reasons why your sink clogged in the first place to avoid a second plumbing visit. The following list highlights some of the top reason’s kitchen sinks clog in Cypress, TX . Changing a few of your habits may be all it takes to stay away from an emergency plumber visit.

Allowing Grease and Oils to Slip Down the Drain

Greece and oils Can be difficult to dispose of which is why many people slip them down the sink under the guise "of what no one sees won't hurt." Unfortunately, every time you do this you are hurting your sink drain and the rest of your plumbing system.

Take a minute and think about what it looks like when you let melted butter or bacon fat sit in the pan for an hour before attempting to clean it. That thick slimy mess is not pleasant at all, and that is essentially what you pour down your drain every time you wash it out in the sink. While it may go down a liquid, it will congeal as it warms. Unfortunately, this usually happens inside of your pipes. Over time if you keep adding layer over layer of grease to the side of your pipes eventually you will experience a blockage.

You can call an emergency plumber and they should be able to break up the blockage, but if you don't stop pouring the grease down your drain your sink will clog again. While this may be beneficial to the plumber, it isn't to you. If you want to keep your kitchen sink open, you need to pour all grease and oils into a receptacle that can then be disposed of properly. It may take an extra minute to do so, but that extra minute can save you hundreds in emergency plumbing bills.

Too Many Food Scraps in the Sink

The same way it's easier to drain grease down the sink, some people let a few food scraps slide here and there. It may be a noodle or two after draining, some onion skins, or cheese strings that end up down the drain. At the time it's hard to imagine a few food scraps causing a large enough problem that you will end up needing an emergency plumber . The problem is that a few food scraps during dinner one day, and then the next, and then the next add up over time. Eventually, you may even almost have an entire meal accumulated below your drain.

Other people think that because they have a garbage disposal they can drop anything down the sink. Although this would be nice, it is pretty far removed from reality. Most emergency plumbers will actually tell you they see the worst clogs in homes with a garbage disposal. This is because the residents truly believe they can send everything down the drain, and the end result is massive clogs. If you want to keep your emergency plumbing bills at bay, then you are going to want to start scraping all food scraps into the trash before you start washing or rinsing dishes.

Eventual Soap and Chemical Build-up

It may seem counterproductive to say that soap can cause a clog and scum, but unfortunately, it is true. Soap that mixes with mineral-heavy water will over time build up creating that unsightly soap scum line you see running along your bathtub, shower, and even kitchen sink. If you are like most people, a lot of different soaps probably go down your drain from dish soap to hand soap. Other chemicals from common cleaning supplies can do the same thing.

While you can't stop using soap in the kitchen sink, you should be aware of its effects and make a conscious effort to choose drain friendly soap brands. A little more research is worth avoiding an emergency plumber. If it's just a minor clog from soap scum, a healthy dose of baking soda and vinegar may help. However, if the kitchen sink is to the point where nothing is going down the drain, this combo will only add to the scum that is already pooling in the sink. At this point, it's best to skip to the plumber.

If the emergency plumber tells you that your clog was caused by soap scum, it may be worth looking into a water softener. A water softener will remove the hard minerals from your water which will prevent the soap scum from forming. After you install a water softener you should have no further issues with your soap or clogs.

If you are dealing with a kitchen sink that isn't draining, bluefrog Plumbing and Drain of Northwest Houston can send out an emergency plumber to troubleshoot the situation. Not only will our expert team of plumbers get your sink draining properly, but we can assess the situation and offer you some advice to prevent future clogs. Give us a call today and get back to your daily activities without interruption.

Top Causes of Water Leaks in Your Home and When You Need Plumbing Repair | Spring, TX

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Most people don't think about their plumbing system until they notice a lack of water pressure, no hot water, or a leak. At that point they start to pay a lot more attention to their plumbing system and call a Spring, TX company for help with plumbing repair .

Leaks are one of the most popular plumbing issues that plumbing repair companies get called about in Spring, TX . While there can be hundreds of reasons for leaks in your home, there are some common causes. Knowing what causes leaks may help you prevent them and help you treat them when they do. Here are just a few of the top causes of water leaks in your home.

Frozen Pipes

While frozen pipes are not as common in Spring, TX , there are occasionally cool nights and because Texas homeowners are not used to preparing for a deep freeze they get caught off guard. A plumbing repair associate will tell you that frozen pipes have a high likelihood of bursting. Frozen pipes can cause severe flood damage and result in a very high repair bill due to the high amount of property damage. For this reason, you should always insulate our pipes even if you live in a generally warmer region. If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, you can try to thaw them out with a blow dryer while you wait for a plumber to come out and investigate.

Poor Construction or Initial Installation

Homeowners in a newer home are often surprised when they find themselves with leaks, but failure to properly prepare the foundation of a home can lead to leaks. Ideally, soil is properly compacted so that there is not much settling over time. This also prevents the foundation of the home from shifting. However, when this isn't done or when the soil is not of high quality, the foundation can shift leading to your plumbing system shifting as well. If you think this could be an issue you should call for plumbing repair right away. Proper adjustment of piping could save you from needing to replace your entire plumbing system.

The shifting often causes pipes to break, crack, and even burst. Along the same vein, a major plumbing system like your water heater or even your facets can start leaking because of poor installation. This is why it is best to hire licensed plumbers to handle any plumbing repair tasks or installation tasks around your home. Hiring a plumber to do the job right the first time will save you from calling for emergency plumbing service which usually will cost you a lot more.

Roots in Your Sewer System

While you may only think about the plumbing inside of your home, the truth is your plumbing system extends well into the front and possibly backyard of your home. There are pipes buried many feet under the ground that take your sewage water back out of your home. These pipes are often disrupted by invasive tree roots that slowly poke through joints in the piping. Eventually, as the roots grow larger they can cause the joints to push apart or even collapse from the force.

As a result, you will probably notice a very strong sewer smell emerging from the ground. This is due to the leaking sewage under the ground. You also may notice that your drains are starting to drain slowly or not at all. Tree roots are one of the leading causes of clogged drains and backups into the house. If you think you have a problem with tree root intrusion you need to call for plumbing repair in Spring, TX right away. If you can avoid a costly and smelly backup you will be ahead.

Leaky Appliances or Fixtures

Sometimes a leak is not coming from a pipe, but instead from an appliance or a fixture. For instance, you may notice water pooling on the ground around your toilet, out of the side of a damaged faucet, or from a crack in your dishwasher hose. All of these can cause small damage that goes unnoticed over time until the wood underneath is rotted through and gives way.

A regular plumbing inspection done by a licensed plumber can help troubleshoot some of these issues, but there are also some tests you can do at home to try to prevent a late-night emergency call for plumbing repair. Every so once in a while, you should try to rock your toilet to see if it rocks at all around the base. It should sit firmly and securely on the floor. You also may want to examine the hoses of your washing machine, dishwasher, and ice machine from time to time to ensure that the hoses don't show any sign of wear. If these appliances have rubber hoses, you may want to think about replacing them with much more durable steel braided hoses instead.

Pipe Corrosion

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do about natural corrosion that occurs in your piping system. Older homes tend to have more water leaks because they're copper and steel pipes have corroded from the minerals inside of hard water. Corroding pipes tend to leak before they burst, which means that any leak should be a sign that you need to call for plumbing repair. Catching a leak early can help you save your home from massive water damage down the line.

If you notice a leak in your home, give bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston a call. We have a team of highly experienced plumbers that are ready to troubleshoot the cause of any leak in your home. We offer suburb plumbing repair and maintenance options to our customers so you don't have to worry about the leak causing permanent damage to your home.

Common Water Heater Noises and What They Mean | Insight from Your Trusted Plumber in The Woodlands, TX

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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The water heater in your home never gets a break. It works hard around the clock to make sure that there is always hot water in your house ready for use. It's easy to forget about your water heater until something goes wrong because it is hidden away in a garage or utility closet, but it's not something you should ignore. Not only can a water heater emergency result in a cold shower, it can also result in a lot of flood damage.

For this reason, you should pay attention to any sounds or odd actions that your water heater may be making. These sounds can be a clue to an issue with your water heater. Prompt action can save you a lot of money and hours of frustration while you wait for a plumber from The Woodlands, TX to show up. Here are a few of the most common sounds that a water heater may make, and what they mean.

Popping Sounds

A good sign that you should call a plumber is a popping, cracking, or clunking noise that is coming from the vicinity of your water heater. If you hear any noise that could fall into this category, it is probably a sign of mineral buildup on the bottom of the tank. Mineral buildup is unavoidable because after years of use with hard water the magnesium carbonate and calcium deposits collect and slowly drift to the bottom of the tank.

Popping noises from your water heater may indicate that the sediment at the bottom of your tank is getting thick and lowering the efficiency of your water tank. This is because the thick layer may start interfering with heat transfer. You don't want to ignore this problem for long because it will have short term and long-term effects. For now, you will notice that your electricity or gas bill (depending on the type of water heater) is probably inching higher and higher. Down the road, if you don't call a plumber your water heater will fail. Replacing a water heater is much more expensive than repairing one, so it's smart to call in a plumber sooner than later.

The good news is that regular water heater maintenance or even an on-demand service call can easily fix this problem. A plumber can clean out the sediment with simple maintenance and restore the performance level of your water heater. It is a good idea to have a routine visit booked every year to ensure your water heater reaches its full lifespan.

Hissing Noises

Sometimes a hissing noise can be normal, and sometimes it can be a sign of mineral buildup in an electric water heater. To judge what is going on in your case it depends on how your water heater usually performs. If you have an electric water heater that has always made a hissing sound then this is probably normal for your model. You can have a plumber check it, but some simply hiss as the water warms.

However, if the sound is new then it is more likely an indication that the sediment is building up. The heating electrodes are prone to hissing as they heat up if the sediment is settled in over top of them. It's similar to oil crackling in a pan as it heats. As mentioned above, a simple call to a plumber can alleviate the problem and lengthen the lifespan of your water heater.

Banging Noises

Booming or banging from a water heater can indicate a very serious problem, so it should not be taken lightly. If you hear booming or banging at the beginning of your water heater's cycle then immediately turn it off and call your plumbing service in The Woodlands, TX right away. This constitutes a plumbing emergency because the sounds might be a warning that the oil or gas is reigniting when the burner starts. If this is left unaddressed your water heater could actually explode.

A banging noise can also mean that the thermal expansion in your water heater is higher than normal. If this is the case then you will usually notice the noise when the water heater is reheating a large amount of water. It is most commonly noticed when you turn your water heater back on after a long trip or vacation. However, since the banging noise can also indicate the potential for a deadly explosion, any banging noise should be investigated by a plumbing service. If something serious is occurring the plumber can troubleshoot the crisis, and if it is thermal expansion then adding an expansion tank could resolve the issue.

Whistling or Screeching Sounds

Screeching or whistling sounds might unnerve you in the middle of the night, but usually, they are not signs for alarm. Once you get over your shock, take a look at the control valve near the water heater and check to see if it is partly closed off for some reason. Reopening the valve may solve the issue. Then take a look at the exhaust flue. Sometimes it can be releasing the air at an odd angle which creates the whistling noise when you turn up the temperature of your water heater. If you can't figure out the problem or are uncomfortable with making any of these adjustments just call a plumbing service in The Woodlands, TX . They can easily sort out the problem.

Ticking, Tapping, or Clicking Noises

For the most part, any ticking, tapping, or clicking noises from your water heater are normal. They are a normal part of the water heater operating and are nothing to be alarmed about. However, any new noise or something that sounds off to you is always worth further investigation.

bluefrog Plumbing and Drain of Northwest Houston is always happy to come out and investigate any odd noises your water heater may be making. We will send out one of our highly experienced plumbers to investigate and resolve the matter for you. If you have any worries, give us a call today.

Common Plumbing Sounds Explained | Bluefrog Plumbing

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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You don't have to be a trained plumber to know that sounds coming from your plumbing system are not great. Many people ignore the odd sounds they hear because they don't want to deal with a large plumbing bill, but ignoring them will likely only increase the costs of a plumber 's visit. Usually the quicker you act the better the situation will be.

Sounds in your plumbing system more often than not indicate some type of issue. The problem may be small at first, but if you don't fix it then it could grow into a system wide issue. Any plumbing service worth its name in The Heights, TX will tell you that anything out of the ordinary is a sign that it's time to call out a local service.

A lot of times the sound can be fixed quickly and easily, because the sound itself can be used as a diagnostic tool. Instead of having to investigate the issue, a trained plumbing service may be able to use the noise itself to actually figure out the problem. With this in mind, it can be useful to differentiate between the many common signs of plumbing issues in your home

The following is a quick look at several of the most common plumbing noises, and what they may mean. Remember, it is always best to get the professional opinion of a plumber in The Heights, TX , but it may relax you a bit to know that a simple knocking noise doesn't mean you need a complete overhaul. Not all sounds are extremely problematic, but a few are.

Loud Banging Noises

A banging noise that starts the minute that you turn your water on is referred to by plumber s as a water hammer. Some people get so used to the banging noise that they hardly notice it, but there is something you can do about it. Water hammers generally occur because there is a closed valve still stopping the flow of water from flowing unhindered through the pipe. When you open the faucet no doubt the water starts rushing towards it, but a closed valve abruptly stops it.

Not only will this create a loud banging noise, but it will eventually loosen up the joints in your piping system. Eventually, this can lead to leaks around the joints and even damage to your pipes. Usually, the water hammer is caused by air chambers in the pipe valves that get clogged by the overflow of pressurized water. Water can take a close look at the air chambers and clean them out to prevent clogging. Additionally, they will take a good look at the piping and replace any parts that may be damaged by the situation before a leak or flood occurs.

Jiggling or Shaking Pipes

Most pipes shake a bit when you turn the water on, but if they are shaking enough that you actually can hear them, this is an indication that something is off. Usually, it means that the pipes are not fully secured. A few mounting straps can help secure pipes that have loosened up over time. If you already have straps on the pipes, you may want to go along the piping and tighten up the straps. Keep an eye out for any straps that may have pulled off or simply worn away over time.

If your shaking pipes are hidden behind a wall or in another tough to reach place, then give a plumber in The Heights, TX a call. They are used to working with pipes in hard to reach locations and can secure your pipes properly before any joints work loose. Most likely the plumber will also inspect the quality of the hidden pipes since they are not usually visible, which can be a great proactive step to preventing any future problems.

A Loud Screeching Noise

Anyone who watches horror films knows that loud screeching noises are never a good sign. A screech from your plumbing system is also not a great sound. The screech usually occurs as you are turning on a faucet. Instead of immediate water flow, you hear a high-pitched whine and then the water shoots out afterward. The good news is that usually that screeching noise is caused by a defective or loose part inside of the faucet. Repairing or replacing your faucet is the best way to fix this problem.

If your faucet is semi-new, then it is possible that it was not installed correctly in the first place. A plumber can easily look over your faucet system to determine whether the installation was an issue. Replacing it is always an issue if that does not solve the problem.

Gurgling Drains

In theory, water should simply run down your drains, but if you hear gurgling coming from your sink, shower, or bathtub there is a good chance you have a clog. If there is a clog somewhere in your piping the water will gurgle on its way down as it passes through the clog. Water will still drain with a partial clog, so the fact that water is going down the drain does not mean that your drains are clean. Many people wait until the drain stops working completely to call a plumber, but you can save yourself a lot of hassle by calling a plumber when the gurgling starts. Fixing a partial clog before a major block-up will save you from frustration, smelly odors, and an emergency plumbing service bill.

If you notice the gurgling sounds when you any of the drains in your home then it's more likely an issue with your drain vents. Drains that are not regularly cleaned will result in the gurgling noise. You can easily have them cleaned or replaced by calling bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . A simple cleaning can save you a big headache.

What Your Plumbers Have to Tell You About Preventing Drain Problems | Katy, TX

Sat, 29 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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When it comes to protecting your home, you want to make sure that you're also looking out for the drains that run throughout your house. And the truth is, there are a number of things that can go wrong. So, we're going to look at some of the things that your plumbers want to tell you about protecting the drains in your Katy, TX home. If you haven't been paying attention to these before you definitely will be once you realize just what they could mean for you and your plumbing situation.

Avoid Grease and Oil

Grease and oil are two of the absolute worst things for your drains and any plumbers in your area will tell you that. It's because these two things go into your drain as a liquid but when they get in there they start to cool and as they cool they turn into a semi-solid. Then they cause buildup and blockages that you can't get out. Other things get stuck behind them and before you know it you have a serious clog that requires professional plumbers help to remove.

Install Drain Screens

Drain screens are a thin piece of metal (usually) that covers the drains in your showers and tubs (though you can put them in other drains too). They have small holes that allow water to drain through, but anything else gets stuck on top. This is great to keep soap, hair and dirt out of the drains, which can all cause clogs and blockages. Drain screens are simple to use, inexpensive and could save you a whole lot of money in plumbing fees because when you get a clog you need to call local plumbers to help out.

Keep Food Out

You don't want to put food into a drain that doesn't have a garbage disposal because it doesn't get broken down. With a garbage disposal anything that you put into the drain will be broken down by the blades. If you don't have this, however, that food is going to pass directly into the pipes and plumbing without being broken down at all. Then, you're going to have large pieces of food that can cause a blockage. They could also start to break down somewhere in the drain and cause a really bad smell that's hard to remove without plumbers help.

Cut the Food Down

If you do have a garbage disposal you can put some foods down the drain (though it's best if you still don't). The most important thing is to only put soft foods down the drain and things that can easily be broken up. Coffee grounds and rice are two things that retain water and can get stuck and clogged in a drain. Nuts and seeds can get jammed into the disposal itself and cause serious damage. Potato peels and corn husks can get wrapped around the disposal causing even more damage. So be careful what you do put down the disposal, and only if you absolutely have to.

Keep Your Toilet Clear

You don't want to put anything into your toilet other than toilet paper and human waste. Even things like paper towels and wet wipes are no good for your toilet or the plumbing system beyond it. Make sure that these things go into the trash and your toilet paper is the only thing that makes its way into the toilet to get flushed down. Anything else could cause a backup or it could just cause damage somewhere further down the line.

Use Cold Water

Your local plumbers want you to know that if you're rinsing anything down your garbage disposal it's actually a good thing to keep the cold water running. Now, you already know you need water, but you may not have paid much attention to the temperature of it. The important thing to note is that cold water is going to make sure everything flows through even better and your local plumbers would tell you that to make sure you don't end up with a clog because of poorly flushed out drains.

Boil Out the Drain

Now, contrary to what we just said, boiling water can be a good thing to put down your drain as well. You want to do this when you're cleaning things out and the great thing is that the hot water can actually help break down grease and oils that do manage to get into the drain. Even small amounts of these things can be a problem over time so using boiling water can help you to break them down and flush them away quickly, before they have time to cool and harden again. This is a great way to clean out the drains regularly.

Get Professional Maintenance

Your local plumbers definitely want you to know that regular maintenance is the key to everything. If you take the time to call a plumber and schedule routine checkups for your plumbing it's going to save you a great deal of money in the long run. They can take care of minor problems before they turn into something major or even before you realize that there's something wrong. Wouldn't it be great to cut down the number of times you have to call those local plumbers ? And you can if you do regular maintenance.

When you're looking for a professional to take care of your Katy, TX home make sure you call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . You're definitely going to want the best possible care for your home and this is where you're going to get it. We'll treat your home just like we would treat our own and that means we're going to get the problem taken care of right away. Whether you have a major problem, a minor problem or just want general maintenance, we're going to get it taken care of for you in no time at all. Just give us a call and schedule an appointment for your Katy, TX home.

Your Preferred Tankless Water Heater Service Partner | Cypress, TX

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Do you want to incorporate some latest additions to your Cypress, TX home? Well, tankless water heaters are one way to do so. The systems have gained a lot of popularity across the United States due to their many benefits, key among them being the ability to continuously heat water so there is enough for your next water-related activity. If you have a traditional water heater that keeps leaving you in the cold, then it's time to consider an upgrade.

How Does a Tankless Water Heater Operate?

Unlike the conventional storage water system that can be exhausted and take a long time to refill and reheat, tankless system never run out of hot water. The water heater provides hot water as there is a demand for it. It heats up water as it passes through the heat exchanger and sends it back out to your home's piping system. It's critical to work with certified technicians that can do the job right.

Installation

We offer installation services for various types of tankless systems. These include;

Electric-powered
Propane-powered
Gas-powered
Solar-powered

Our certified professionals can help you determine the system that best suits your needs and lifestyle. We'll walk you through all the available options, taking the time to explain the difference between the different types of tankless systems as well as traditional water heaters.

Once the equipment is fitted above the proper water and fuel lines in your home, our professionals will go ahead and connect the system to its proper fuel source, whether it's an electric or a natural gas line.

Here are a few things to consider during your tankless systems installations;

Hot water demand (number of people in the household)
Fuel type, availability, and cost
The estimated energy efficiency of different models
Local municipal code requirements
Maintenance and repair information
Length of warranty

Benefits

Reduced Energy Bills

Investing in a tankless water heater is a smart way to reduce related energy bills as you enjoy the wonderful benefit of a steady on-demand hot water supply. While the systems have a high initial cost, they have the potential to save significant amounts of money over their lifetime due to reduced energy costs. This is because tankless water heater s don't have to continuously heat stored water to maintain its appropriate temperature. Instead, they heat water whenever there is a demand, meaning they run a fraction of the time a traditional model does, resulting in considerable savings.

Saves Space

The equipment is compact and can be installed practically anywhere in your house be it in your garage, basement, attic, utility room or an outside wall. You will do away with storage tanks saving a lot of space.

Repairs

As a leading plumbing company in Cypress, TX , you can count on our professionals to provide 24/7 emergency service for your tankless water heater repairs. Whether your equipment hasn't been running as it used to or it stopped working altogether, our technicians have the skills, tools, and knowledge to diagnose the problem and leave your system working at full capacity.

If a replacement is necessary, our experts will guide you on the way forward taking into consideration your family's water usage needs and energy usage requirements.

Signs Your Tankless Water Heater Needs Repair

When your water heating system is acting up or causing some fuss, you need to call our professionals to come to inspect and service your equipment. Ignoring the problem can only make it worse, so make sure to watch for the following warning signs.

Lukewarm water that doesn't get hot
Variable temperatures where water gets too hot or cold
Water heater shutting itself off
Electrical issues in the home
Discolored water or strange taste in water
Water heater keeps making unusual sounds
Leaky systems though this is rare
Your tankless system is giving you warning signals that there is a problem

Most of these problems are usually caused by clogged filters, heating element issues, loose connections/valves or water supply issues. If you experience any of these problems, don't assume but instead schedule a repair service.

Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is necessary for your tankless water heater equipment just like any other water heater, to ensure optimal longevity and efficiency. Maintenance should be done at least once every year. You, however, may need to have your system checked more regularly if the area you live in has hard water or if your water heater is set to a high temperature.

Most tankless systems are designed to last for over 20 years. Lack of maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan not to forget the increased energy bills.

Descaling Process

If you live in an area with hard water, descaling will be necessary from time to time. Hard water contains a lot of minerals that build-up within the heat exchanger, clogging the passages and limiting water flow. Though you can reset the water heater without addressing the problem, the issue will keep arising. To remove the accumulated mineral deposits, you'll need to flush the system otherwise the heat exchanger component can be damaged as not enough water will be passing through to cool it down.

If your tankless water heater is set at a high temperature, the higher the chances of mineral build-up around the heating elements since chemicals dissolve faster when heat is applied.

Performing any maintenance work on your tankless system is best left in the hands of professionals to ensure safety and compliance with the manufacturer's specifications. We'll professionally descale your equipment making sure there is no build-up around the heating elements.

Contact us to Schedule Your Tankless Water Heaters Appointment Anywhere in Cypress, TX

Are you looking for an efficient, reliable and compact way to heat your water? Contact the experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston for a tankless water heater installation, repair or maintenance service that you can count on. When installed and maintained properly, these wonderful appliances can be the perfect solution to your family's varied hot water needs.

Choosing a Professional Water Heater Repair Service | Tomball, TX

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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You rely on your water heater for a host of things in your home. From bathing to cooking and cleaning, your water heater is certainly a crucial component in your home. bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston is your preferred partner in water heater repair and maintenance services in Tomball, TX . We provide fast, efficient and reliable services to both residential and commercial clients in the area.

Our team of qualified technicians has the knowledge and experience to correctly diagnose and repair your water heater and leave it working at full capacity. No matter how small or big the repairs, you can trust our experts to deliver the best service. We repair all major brands of water heaters and guarantee quality workmanship on every job.

Whether it's a residential gas or electric water heater or a tankless and commercial water heater, you can trust our team to get the job done correctly the first time. We offer prompt, same-day service to ensure your issue is sorted in the shortest time possible.

Common Water Heater Repair Services

Anytime that you're faced with a decision for a water heater repair , it's important you entrust the work of an experienced team you can trust. Here are some of the services we offer;

Electric element repairs
Gas control valve repairs
Pilot assembly repair
Temperature/pressure relief valves
Hot and cold flex lines
Tankless water heater repairs
Commercial water heater repair

What Happens During a Repair Appointment?

During a repair appointment, our experienced technicians will examine your water heater, recommend any repairs and give you a quote. At this point, you may choose to continue with the repairs, do a complete water heater replacement or decline the repairs. Our technicians will provide their insights and recommend the proper repairs or water heater replacement if necessary.

Tell-Tale Signs of a Water Heater Repair Service

Usually, the decision to repair or replace your problematic water heater comes down to the age and the existing condition of the water heater. There are a number of signs that indicate a water heater problem. Being able to identify and address these issues early on can help prevent larger and more costly damage down the road. Here are some warning signs.

The Unit No Longer Produces Hot Water

Do you find yourself routinely having to put up with cold water even if the water heater is on? If adjusting the thermostat doesn't solve the problem, chances are there could be a problem with the heating element. Have a professional inspect the component and conduct the necessary repairs.

Water Is Lukewarm

If your water heater seems to be underperforming and not getting water heated to the correct temperature, it could be another sign of a bad element in electric heaters or faulty burner in gas water heaters. If this is a new occurrence and everyone used to get sufficient hot water for use before, the water heater could probably be losing on heating power.

Leaking Water Heater

If you find your water heater leaking causing water to pool around its base, it may be time to call a plumber to see if a repair is possible. If the leak can't be repaired, you might need to replace your unit. You need to address this promptly as leaks can cause rusting or cause damage to the floors, drywall or mold damage.

Corrosion

If you notice that some parts of your water heater are corroded, contact a professional to fix the corroded parts. Even rust-colored water is a telltale sign of a degrading water heater.

Increase in Power Bills

Ordinarily, when dealing with a malfunctioning water heater, it tends to work harder than normal using more energy which results in higher energy bills. You might want to contact a water heater repair technician to identify the problem.

The Unit Makes Unusual, Rumbling Noises

Is your water heater noisy or making more noise than usual? This usually is an indication of sediment build-up at the bottom of your tank. Over time, sediments at the bottom of the tank harden causing damage to your water heater. If you happen to hear such rumbling and banging sounds, make sure you contact a water heater repair professional to have the issue addressed.

Your Water Heater Is More Than 10 Years

Water heaters are designed to last between 8 and 12 years . If yours is approaching or is past this age range, then it might not be working as efficiently as it once did, resulting in higher energy bills and uncomfortable showers. Talking to a water heater expert can point you to the next course of action.

Whatever the issue, we're ready and equipped to help out with any of your hot water needs. It's crucial that you only rely on qualified and licensed technicians to handle any repair or maintenance of your water heaters. DIY or amateur work can be detrimental and potentially damage your water heater further.

Water Heater Tune-ups

As a leading plumbing company in Tomball, TX , we offer professional water heater tune-ups to keep your fixtures working efficiently. A water heater tune-up should be done annually to help you avoid major, costly problems, ensure the system is working efficiently as well as extend the life of your heating system.

During a tune-up service, our technicians will inspect your heating system for efficiency issues, health risks and other potential problems that are associated with an improperly-working system. You want your system to deliver excellent performance and energy-efficiency, and that's our wish too. If you would like to get a water heater tune-up, don't hesitate to schedule a maintenance service and we'll be glad to serve.

Call Now for Water Heater Repair Services in Tomball, TX

When your water heater is underperforming, it can cause major inconveniences depending on how frequent your hot water needs are. That's why you need a partner that can solve your water issues quickly and efficiently.

Contact us today for all your water heater repair needs. Our solutions guarantee safety and peace of mind. We look forward to hearing from you.

What Exactly Is in My Drains? | Insight from Your Trusted Drain Cleaning Service in The Woodlands, TX

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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When you need a drain cleaning service at your home in The Woodlands, TX one of the first questions you ask yourself is probably along the lines of "what the heck is down there?" Well this should give you a good idea on exactly what it could be that's down there causing you problems and why you shouldn't put them down there if you can help it.

The one that you may have heard before is to not put grease or fat remains down your drain. It's fairly common knowledge that water and oil don't mix but a lot of the time we don't think about that when disposing of that grease from cooking. What happens is that as the fat cools or ages it actually gets solid and sticks to the edge of your pipes restricting the drainage flow out of your sinks, causing you to need a drain cleaning service . Some of the better ways to avoid this is to just stop dumping it down the drain, and check with your local regulations to see what they suggest for disposal of such materials.

Another common specific kitchen item that clogs your drains is coffee grounds. If you use a permanent filter or those make your own pod for a disposable coffee machine you have probably rinsed it out in your kitchen sink. This causes all sorts of issues as the coffee breaks down and gets lodged in your pipe lining and as they break down they actually swell and become gummy in consistency leading to the clogged pipes. To make it worse they are abrasive and can contribute to damage to pipes if done enough. So not only will a plumbing service be able to help you remove them from your drain you can ensure they won't damage your pipes in the future.

If you have a sink attached food waste disposal you probably grind your waste in the little pot beneath the sink. The particle remains after going through that miniature blender will probably end up being small enough to pass through to the sewer system to be treated. If you don't have a disposal this will be the number one reason that a drain cleaning service will be called to fix a problem. Leftover food particles are quite large and can stick to almost anything including your plumbing. This means that you are taking a big risk dropping your food scraps into the sink. There are other, less harmful ways, to dispose of your food waste and if you aren't utilizing them on a normal basis you may want to do that soon so that you don't damage your pipes.

Everybody knows that toilet paper can be put in the drains but what about paper towels? Generally, you should not as they are designed to hold up more to abrasive action and not break down in contact with liquids as quickly. So, while your drain cleaning service could take care of that for you, remember that you shouldn't put it down your drains. They'll absorb more water and lead to a halt in the flow of other waste causing massive backups that need to be corrected before they cause damage to your house. The same can be said with napkins as they are also not designed to go down the drains much like paper towels.

In the bathroom you put that toilet paper down the toilet but don't put it down the sink. Another item that would likely lead to you needing a drain cleaning service are cotton balls. Sure, they're small and made from a natural material but the way they are woven together means that they stay together when made wet, causing them to be little balls of solid waste ready to stick to your pipes and cause you trouble. Considering they stay together when they are wet that's a problem because you want things that break apart when they are immersed. You wouldn't tear up your shirts into little bits and put them down the drain, so why would you do it with cotton balls made of the same material?

Now an item that is newer to the consumer market but is marketed very deceptively is the flushable wipe. Flushable wipes are one of the largest contributors to what is called "fatbergs" in municipal sewage lines, things that not even your local drain cleaning service can touch. Not only are they not breaking down like toilet paper when they get flushed they are binding to other items in the sewer system like the previously mentioned greases and fat remains. That's a problem because they have been aggressively marketed to us in The Woodlands, TX over the past decade or so as an added "clean" for us personally but it has caused drain cleaning services more headaches as they are difficult to remove in full. They do sort of break down but they don't break down enough to properly pass through a sewage treatment and become a magnet for other stuff down there.

The last item is also the one that is usually outside of our control and that is hair. The average person loses about 100 hairs a day just off the top of your head and a lot of that will end up in the drains. If you don't have preventative measures to keep it out of your drains it will stick to almost anything in the drains causing more problems that will dictate a call for a drain cleaning service. While there is not much you can do to stop the hair from coming out you should be careful with letting a lot of it fall into the drains and causing more damage. You would think it would break down as it's natural but that can take several years meaning it will stay there for a lot longer than you want. In your drains.

These reasons are why we suggest calling bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston as your drain cleaning service for The Woodlands, TX . Their professional staff and distinguished service will ensure you get exactly what you pay for at a price that is reasonable. Give them a call today to see what they can do for you.

When Is It Time to Call in an Emergency Plumber? | Cypress, TX

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 18:04:40 GMT

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We've all been there. Water starts gushing from a sink, or the toilet doesn't flush, or the basement is suddenly full of water, but there's nothing coming out of the kitchen tap. As domestic disasters go, plumbing problems are a reasonably common occurrence, even when systems are carefully maintained.

When plumbing problems arise it's useful, in fact, it's essential, to know there's an emergency plumber a phone call away. The professional plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, TX are standing by 24/7 to respond to your plumbing emergency. They can quickly secure your home, preventing further damage, then troubleshoot and identify the problem and provide solutions that get right to the heart of the matter.

Don't kid yourself that you can do a better job with a couple of tools and a few minutes of YouTube video instruction. Plumbing, and especially emergency plumbing, is just a bit more complex than most DIY tasks around the home. It requires a knowledge of infrastructure and special diagnostic equipment as well as good nerves and a steady hand. The following six signs indicate scenarios where DIY enthusiasm is not particularly useful, and it's time to call in a professional emergency plumber .

Overflowing Toilet

Whether it's caused by a clog or a blockage, or some other more serious problem, an overflowing toilet is a dramatic event. Usually turning off the water main is the first thing a homeowner should do --- but then what? This is one of those times when you definitely need to call in an emergency plumber . Most overflowing toilets are due to a clog or blockage. But not always. It could be a serious issue with the sewer main that is causing the problem. An emergency plumber will have the right tools and comprehensive knowledge of the entire plumbing system to diagnose the problem and get it fixed.

Flooding

With climate change altering water tables and extreme weather events becoming more frequent, flooding has become more common in many parts of the world, including Cypress, TX . But household floods can also occur when small pipes burst and water leaks go undetected, or when water seeps in through the foundation. If your home has a basement below grade, it may be vulnerable to these types of scenario. Or if your home in unattended for any length of time, a broken pipe, drain, water heater or faucet can cause damage that no one will notice until it's too late.

No Water

Ever wake up in the morning to find yourself with no running water? You can't put the coffee on, let alone have a shower before heading to work. It can be an eerie and distressing experience, and also an indication that something is seriously wrong somewhere along the plumbing pipeline. There could be a community-wide problem, or your lack of water may have something to do with a sudden decrease in pressure, or something like a broken pipe or water line. No matter the cause, living without water is a challenge and an emergency plumber should be consulted asap.

Burst or Frozen Pipes

Even in Cypress, TX , at some times, at some elevations, pipes can freeze and burst. Pipes can also burst or become compromised by errant tree roots, sudden pressure from a violent rainfall, a misplaced excavator doing landscaping, and other forces too numerous to imagine. Because the potential for damage to your home's structure and finishes is so large, burst or frozen pipes demand professional attention, and the services of an emergency plumber. A skilled technician will be able to gently thaw pipes, replace damaged sections and get everything back to flowing the way it should.

Sewer Backup

Sewer backups are a serious incident with the potential for damage and health bio hazards. Many things can cause a sewer to back up, including aging sewer systems or deteriorated connections between municipal sewer mains and the pipes in your home. Too much rainwater or melted snow entering the sewer system at once, as can happen during extreme weather events, can also lead to backups. And there can be blockages in the main sewer lines that have nothing to do with the systems in your home.

Regardless of what causes them, sewer backups almost always require the services of an emergency plumber. This is just not a job a homeowner should ever tackle on their own. That's for safety reasons, but also because city inspections and insurance adjustments may result from such an occurrence.

Natural Disasters

Excessive rainfall, saturated ground or flooding of waterways can put added pressure on plumbing infrastructure. When that happens systems can collapse or fail at any point along the pipeline. If this happens, calling an emergency plumber should be the first thing you do. They'll be able to coordinate with municipal and emergency services to get your home's systems safely back on track. They can also assist with the documentation that may be required for insurance purposes or if safety inspections are involved during the repair and restoration process.

Owning a home comes periodic adventures in broken systems, repair and restoration. If you're a homeowner in the Cypress, TX area and are experiencing a household plumbing disaster, don't hesitate to call in an emergency plumber to make things right. The experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston are standing by 24/7 to help.

And not just in an emergency. Because a plumbing professional comes equipped with special tools and industry knowledge, they'll be able to spot and troubleshoot smaller potential problems, before they become a costly and damaging issue. Call now to learn more about bluefrog Plumbing + Drain's extensive menu of emergency and maintenance services.

What Is a Sewer Line Inspection? | Insight from Your Trusted Katy, TX Drain Cleaning Service

Sat, 15 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By mikeledray at Shutterstock

You may not think about your drain system much, but this home feature is very important to the function of your home. All it takes is one pipe clog or non-functioning drain to create a plumbing disaster. Your drain system suffers a lot of daily wear and tear, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on every component of your drain system. You can do this by hiring a drain cleaning service in Katy, TX to complete an annual drain inspection.

A yearly drain cleaning service is all you need to ensure that your drain system is in good condition. Not only is it quick and painless, but it can save you a lot of money. Like most things, being proactive about maintenance will always pay off and save you from a frustrating emergency drain cleaning service call in Katy, TX .

What is a Drain Inspection?

A drain inspection usually involves the use of a closed-circuit camera that is very tiny and attached to the end of a flexible rod or wire that can be run down through your piping lines. The technician will slowly move the camera along the access points to identify any clogs or blockages and check the overall condition of the piping in your sewer system.

The purpose of the inspection is twofold: to identify a problem or identify a potential problem. If the plumbing conducting the inspection notices a blockage they may recommend that you have a full drain cleaning service completed. This drain cleaning will be highly effective since they can see where the build-up, clog, or blockage is and what exactly it is composed of. If the problem is developing, a drain cleaning service can catch it before you have to deal with a wastewater backup or flooding.

How Often Should I Get a Drain Inspection?

Most plumbers will recommend that you have your home sewage lines inspected annually if your home is ten years old or older. Since most of the sewer lines are buried in the ground there is never a perfect way of knowing when problems are arising, but an older home is more likely to have problems than a newer home.

The older a home gets the more likely it is to have sewage draining issues, but some new homeowners may notice sewer issues as well. This is especially true if they live in heavily wooded areas or if there is improper use of the drainage system from within the home. If a home has a history of clogs that require a drain cleaning service, it may be a good idea to start planning on an annual drain cleaning service regardless of the home's age.

Save Yourself Time

Many people avoid annual drain cleaning services because they don't want to deal with scheduling. Most families have hectic schedules these days, so it is understandable to avoid adding one more thing to the week. However, a sewer inspection can save you time down the road.

Leaks and clogs in the sewer system are issues that build up slowly over time. One day everything may be fine in your home, and the next day you could have sewage backing up and flooding over into your bathroom or basement. An inspection only takes a few hours of one day once a year. A backed-up drain quickly becomes an emergency that will ruin the whole day and possibly more as you deal with water damage and clean up after the repair.

Skip Over Pipeline Issues

An annual inspection looks at more than just organic buildup in your pipes and clogs in your sewer line. When conducting a plumbing inspection, most plumbers also check out the structure of the home plumbing line to ensure that everything is healthy. A plumbing system relies on all components to be flowing correctly for it to work. Even one small problem like a slow drain or leaking drain can be all it takes to cause major issues. You don't have to worry about any of these issues if you have an annual plumbing inspection. While emergencies do happen, they are much less likely to occur if you keep a close eye on the health of your plumbing system.

Other Benefits of a Sewer Line Inspection

While you may already be leaning towards an annual sewer line inspection, there are other benefits that you may want to keep in mind. For instance, even if your sewer line is in great shape the inspection will map out your system which can come in handy down the line. You can use this map as a backup reference if you start a home project or need to make repairs in the future.

A sewer line inspection is also a great idea for a homeowner that has experienced several clogged drains within the same year. While clogs do happen from time to time, a recurrent clog probably means that a blockage in the sewer system is not adequately getting addressed. A sewer line inspection allows the plumber and homeowner to see the exact nature of the clog so that it can be fully eradicated. Paying for one inspection is much cheaper than paying for an emergency plumber to come out multiple times for emergency drain cleaning service .

Whether you have noticed a drain issue or just recognize that your plumbing system in Katy, TX could use a thorough inspection, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston would be happy to set up a sewer line inspection. Our team of highly qualified professionals will inspect your pipes and then walk you through the results so you can make any repairs if necessary. It is always better to be aware of the condition of your plumbing system then shocked by a plumbing emergency.

Why Is My Water Bill Suddenly So High? Common Plumbing Issues That Are Affecting Your Water Bill | Insight from Your Trusted Tomball, TX Plumbing Service

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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If you recently opened your Tomball, TX water bill and almost kneeled over in shock, then there is a good chance you need to call your local plumbing service . An extremely high water bill that can't be explained is usually an indication that there is a problem with your plumbing system. If you fail to fix the problem, you will have to deal with a higher than usual water bill every month until you do. This can get costly very quickly, which I'm s why it is important to call in a plumbing company to investigate the minute you think something may be wrong with your system.

Depending on what is causing the problem, the actual issue with your plumbing system could even turn into an emergency. At this point not only would you have to call for emergency help from a plumbing service , but the cost of your repairs and water bill will jump exponentially. As with most home problems, the quicker you get help the better the outcome. Here are just a few of the most common reasons your water bill may be high in Tomball, TX . Keep in mind that there are dozens of other reasons which is why it is wise to get input from a plumber with experience.

Leaking Toilet Flappers

Toilets are often the culprits of a shockingly high water bill. If one thing is off in the cycle a toilet can easily keep running which means it is wasting water all day without anyone knowing. The flapper is a common issue with toilets that are not functioning properly. If you look in the toilet tank you will see a large rubber plug near the bottom. If it is doing its job you will not hear any dripping sounds. If you do hear these sounds, they are indicative of a failing flapper. Some people put a small amount of food coloring into the tank and then check the bowl thirty minutes later. Colored water indicates that the flapper is leaking. A plumber can also help you diagnose the problem.

Leaks in the Toilet Overflow

The flapper is not the only component of the toilet that can go bad and cause your water bill to spike. A leak in the toilet overflow can also cause problems. Sometimes the overflow pipe is not able to properly function because the water is leaking over top of it. In this case, the ballcock valve simply needs to be adjusted which is an easy fix, but an expensive one if you don't seek the help of a plumbing service . You can test for this by placing some pepper over the toilet tank. If the pepper moves towards the center then this is an indication that the overflow is leaking. Like the flapper you want to have a plumber look at this quickly because as your water bill demonstrates, the expense of wasted water adds up quickly.

Leaking Faucets

Toilets are not the only cause of a high water bill, leaky faucets in your home may be slowly consuming water without your knowledge. Even a faucet that is only dripping a little bit can waste massive gallons of water each month. Believe it or not, a faucet that is leaking one drip per second wastes 21 liters per day. That is why it is a good idea to call a Tomball, TX plumbing service right away if you notice any of your faucets leaking. Quick attention can save you massive amounts on your water bill.

While some people try to repair leaky faucets on their own, sometimes the issue is larger than just a loose fixture. If your faucets are leaking due to pressure issues or improper installation a professional plumber is the best way to resolve the issue once and for all.

Leaks Under Your Home

If your toilet looks okay and you can't find any leaky faucets, there is a good chance that you have a hidden leak. Leaks can occur out of sight either under your home in the foundation or buried in the walls. Either way you will need a professional plumbing service to diagnose the problem.

A good way to determine if a leak is present is by shutting off the water main in your home. Make sure every single sink and water source is off in your home. Then walk outside and take a look at your water meter. If the meter is still running (the needle is jumping) then this is an indication that there is a leak. If the meter is still than a leak is not the problem. Either way you will need a plumbing service to determine why the bill is high, but a hidden leak is a bit more emergent.

A plumbing service can use their diagnostic tools to isolate where the leak is so that it can be handled regionally. While a hidden leak may seem like a large repair, plumbing services have tools that make it possible to repair a leak with minimal disruption to your home.

Broken Meter

While it is not usually the case, sometimes a broken water meter may be the reason that your water bill reading is off. If you suspect this may be the case and a plumbing service has already checked out your home for leaks, and was unable to find one, then it may be time to call your local water authority.

Seasonal Changes in Water Use

Keep in mind also that during different seasons water use can vary in your home. During the summer for example you may water your grass, fill kids’ pools, or wash your car more all of which can affect your water bill. If you cannot account for the change in your water bill, then it is time to call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain .

Choosing the Right Plumbing Repair Service | Spring, TX

Sun, 09 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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When your pipes are leaking, the drain is clogged, or the toilet keeps running, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for reliable plumbing repair in Spring, TX . Whether it's a routine call or an emergency, our technicians come to your home or business to take care of the problem and get you back to your busy day.

Our Plumbing Services

To ensure all your plumbing needs are fulfilled, we can perform a range of services that include:

Drain Cleaning and Repair
Gas Line Repair
Water Heater Repair
Tankless Water Heaters Repair
Sump Pumps Repair
Plumbing Fixtures Repair
Leak Detection & Repair
Water & Sewer Line Repair

When your pipes and fixtures need attention, trust a licensed and insured plumber from bluefrog Drain + Plumbing. We ensure that our technicians receive the appropriate training before we send them to our customers. So, instead of fixing the problem on your own and potentially making it worse, consider calling us first.

bluefrog Drain + Plumbing also handles commercial plumbing. Call us when you need a diagnosis and repair of your vital commercial plumbing system. We'll get things back on track fast for the comfort and safety of your employees and customers.

How Our Plumbing Services Work

When you contact us for a plumbing repair service for your Spring, TX , home or business, bluefrog plumbers show up with the proper parts and tools to finish the job. If the hot water heater bursts and your garage or basement, we'll be there. Food, oil and grease accumulate in drains and pipes, but we can auger out the pipes and give tips on how to prevent future problems.

Let our technicians figure out the problem and provide a valid estimate. We also make sure you understand what repairs are needed before we start.

Drain Problems

If you've been hearing odd sounds coming from your drain pipes, clog might be to blame. As part of our plumbing repair services, bluefrog Drain + Plumbing can conduct plumbing repair services such as leaking and collapsed drains, drain pipe repairs and removal of obstructions. We can lay new sewer lines if needed.

Sewer Leaks

If you have an issue with your septic system of lines leading to the city sewer system, we can help. Sinking soil and lush green spots sometimes give away the source of these problems, or you can just follow your nose. Dealing with a sewer leak requires protective gear to prevent health risks to you and your family, so leave this job to our experienced technicians.

We look for cracked, broken pipes, root incursion and obstructions that are the cause of the leak and make the necessary repairs at affordable rates.

Water Heaters

Whether your plumbing repair involves a traditional water heater or a tankless system, we train our plumbers to handle both equally well. At bluefrog Drain + Plumbing, our technicians are certified and familiar with all brands of water heaters. All you have to do is schedule an appointment or call us for emergency leak services.

Clearing Pipes

Many times, plumbing repair services involve clearing out the drain and sewer pipes in your home or business. To do this, our plumbers may use an auger with an attachment to clear the blockage.

Our commercial augers are powerful and often finish the job in moments, which minimizes the disruption of your day. In other cases, we may need to run the cable to the city line. We'll do whatever is necessary to ensure the problem is fixed the first time.

Again, this job is best left to professionals since many augers are simply not powerful enough to get the job done. It's also easy to damage the pipes if you aren't careful.

Video Camera Services

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain technicians are trained to use video cameras when necessary to determine the source of a cracked or broken pipe. This makes it easier to conduct the needed plumbing repair.

A flexible rod with a high-resolution camera attached gives us clear images so we can view the area of damage on a monitor. We can even make a videotape for future troubleshooting in your Spring, TX , home or business. The camera gives us a reading on the location and depth of the problem so we can complete repairs quickly.

Maintenance Contracts

Our annual inspection and repair contracts provide regular maintenance and inspections so that you can catch plumbing issues before they require expensive replacements.

Over time, this can save you money on catastrophic repairs. Ask our customer service team what plans are available. Our technicians typically provide great advice on maintaining the plumbing in proper working order throughout the year.

If you want to know the condition of a business or property that you plan to invest in, we can perform an inspection to let you know what you're getting into.

Regarding the right maintenance plan for your home or business, that depends on the age of the building and condition of the plumbing. Our technicians can visit the property to give you a fair estimate and propose a maintenance plan that works for you.

Choosing the Right Plumbing Service

Choose bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Spring, TX , when you need plumbing repair or maintenance services for your home. We proudly serve northwest Houston and the surrounding areas. Our licensed and trained team provides affordable plumbing services requiring inspection, installations and replacement of pipes, appliances or fixtures.

Contact us today if you suspect a problem with your drain and sewer pipes. Our technicians give you free work estimates and tell you what they need to do so you have an idea of how long the work may take. Leave the plumbing repair to us so you can get on with your day.

When Do You Need Professional Drain Cleaning Service? | Katy, TX

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By BanksPhotos at istock

Imagine this. You are doing the dishes as you whistle a merry tune. The kitchen sink is full of utensils, and your hands are elbow deep in soap suds. You're finally rid of all the grime and the plates, cups, and spoons before you are sparkling clean glistening in the soapy water. You need to rinse the utensils, so you reach down and undo the rubber drain stopper.

The water isn't draining away. You feel the drain, and the pipe feels clear, but there is a blockage somewhere. You groan in exasperation as you go off in search of a plumber.

This is a common scenario across households all over the country. The drainage system is a utility most often taken for granted and hardly noticed until it conks out, sometimes gobbling up considerable expense not budgeted for. But should this be the case?

What Are the Common Plumbing Systems?

Plumbing is any system designed to carry or transport water or any other fluids or gas using pipes, valves, tanks and other fixtures in a building or infrastructure development. Plumbing is a critical component of sanitation in any housing project. The most common categories of plumbing systems are waste removal and conveyance of potable water.

Other categories include sewage and septic systems, water and waste recycling systems, rainwater, surface, and underground water drainage, gas piping, and heating and cooling systems using water to convey thermal energy.

Most large cities and densely populated areas pipe solid and liquid waste to sewage treatment plants where the waste is separated and the water partly purified. This is then emptied into streams, rivers and other bodies of water. These systems are critical to public health and sanitation, and it is of vital importance to keep them running efficiently.

Professional Drain Cleaning Service

Like any other appliances, plumbing systems are prone to wear and tear. It is, therefore, imperative that you schedule regular drain cleaning to keep your plumbing in tip-top condition. A broken or malfunctioning system may exhibit the following symptoms;

You may notice your plumbing in the bathroom, kitchen or elsewhere draining slowly. This could be a sign that there could be a buildup caused by some blockage, and you will need to seek an expert drain cleaning service .
Standing water in your bathtub or sinks may encourage contamination. This may put the health of your family in jeopardy.
Foul odors coming from the drainage system is a sure sign of sewage buildup within the pipes.
Gurgling or sighing noises coming from the drainage system when you flush the toilet or turn on the water at the sink or shower should be a wakeup call to bring in the drain cleaning pros.

Common Drain Problems

Some of the problems a professional drain cleaning service provider deals with include leaking or broken pipes, need for repairs or replacement of fixtures or pipes, procuring additional or new plumbing lines, and clearing of blocked systems.

Sewer Line Drain Cleaning

Foul odors coming from your drainage systems are embarrassing and uncomfortable. Sewage waste buildup also has the potential of putting your family's health at risk. It is time you invited a drain cleaning service .

Multiple Drain Services

One blockage in a critical area of the piping may cause multiple blockages around the house. It may be frustrating for you to try to identify where the blockage is or downright impossible for you to do so. The drain cleaning service will pinpoint the weak point and deal with it, ensuring a free-flowing, trouble-free system.

Storm Drain Cleaning

Storm drains should always be kept in good condition as a weak system can cause devastating damage if you get caught by a freak storm. Flooding may happen and lead to significant damage to the house and the drainage system.

Shower Drain Cleaning

Shower systems are prone to frequent blockage due to buildup of soap scum and saltwater crusting or deposits of hair. Water pooling on the floor for extended periods will damage and weaken tiles and other surfaces. This is another area that needs constant monitoring, and quick response by a pro drain cleaning service once noted.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston City - Katy, TX

It is of vital importance that you engage professionals who understand that drain cleaning services entail much more than flashing water down the pipes. bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston in Katy, TX , employs various proven techniques to open or clear blocked pipes and to ensure they remain clear. Some of these methods are;

Pipe snaking. This involves using a snake pipe to unclog minor blockages in the pipes
Chemicals may be used to unblock drainage systems. The chemicals must be safe to the pipes and be able to perform the task quickly and efficiently.
Replacement may be necessary depending on the extent of the clog or interior damage to the pipe.

Why Consult bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston?

A clogged drainage system can cause serious health problems or cost you heavily in repairs and expensive replacements if left unattended for too long. By choosing bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, you are backed by many years of professional service by those who fully understand the plumbing business. The fast, efficient and diligent service offered will give you peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is in good and capable hands.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain provides 24-hour drain cleaning services in Katy, TX . It also offers coupons, discounts, and free quotes for all services. Furthermore, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain engages your insurance provider to guarantee any damage resulting from any weaknesses in your plumbing system.

Advantages of Working with bluefrog Plumbing + Drain

Reduced blockages of all drainage systems in your house
Elimination of undesirable odors
Fully functioning drainage system
Reduced plumbing repairs and replacement costs
Reduced stress from faulty plumbing systems
Clean well-drained systems

Once you sense a problem anywhere in your home, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain immediately to have your problem solved promptly and efficiently, at any hour, by the experts. A qualified drain cleaning service plumber will be at your service within an hour.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning Services | Katy, TX

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By By MilsiArt at Shutterstock

It's not unusual to encounter problems with the drainage system. It can be anything from an inconsistent flow of water and low water pressure to a stinky odor emanating from the system.

If a drain system is well installed, it can work well for a long time, but like any other home structure, it's subject to breakdowns. A lot of people run to cheap plumbers to solve their faulty drainage. This might not be the best solution because there might be a series of problems hidden behind the main issue, and inexperienced plumbers may not be quick to realize the magnitude of the problem.

Several benefits come along with hiring a professional drain cleaning service , including:

Removing Foul Odors

Odors from the drainage system can be unbearable. If you notice any unusual smell from your drainage, contact a drain cleaning professional as soon as possible. Don't be tempted to mask the foul smell using air fresheners and ignore the source.

A smelly drain indicates that there could be blockages in your drainage. If water is still draining from your sinks and tubs, there may be a build-up of dirt within your pipes.

Frequent cleaning of your drainage system can help keep away repugnant odors. It would be best if you depended on professional plumbers because they're knowledgeable and reliable.

Repairing Undetected Damages

When you entrust a professional drain cleaning service with your system, they will not only look at the presenting problem but also check through the whole network for pipe damages and repair any faulty components.

It's easy to forget the pipes in your house's basement because they are hardly in sight. A professional in Katy, TX , can save you a lot of potential drainage problems by inspecting them.

If your walls and floor start feeling cold, it could be a sign of water leakage in the pipes underneath their surfaces. Walls and floors can't hold a large amount of water. If soaked enough, they'll end up breaking and result in costly repairs.

Reducing Water Bills

When a leaking pipe in your drainage system goes undetected, it may increase the amount of water you use, causing your water bill to increase by a significant margin. Ducts that drain into your septic tank are notorious for such leaks, mainly because they are out of sight.

Hiring a professional can save you hundreds of dollars in bills. Professionals have advanced methods of detecting leaks in your drainage system fast, making it easy to note the source of the problem and repair it before utility bills skyrocket.

Improving Your Home Hygiene

Everyone wants a clean and hygienic home. However, if you don't take care of your drainage, it might mask the cleanliness of your home.

Tiny insects like drain flies find an excellent habitat around dirty sinks. If you notice these flying insects around the walls of your sink, or on the drainage holes, it indicates that your system requires some cleaning. Regular cleaning can help avert the creation of a breeding ground for the stubborn flies.

Also, when you don't clean your drainage system, there are high chances that mold and mildew may grow in the darker parts of your pipes. Breathing the air that comes from these mold-infested drains is harmful to your health and that of your family.

Clogged gutters may cause a backup of raw sewage from your channels onto the surface of your home, creating an ugly sight. Backed up sewage also poses a health risk to you and your family members. Hiring a professional drain cleaning service in Katy, TX , may save you a visit to the doctor.

Speeding up Water Flow

Slow drainage is a sign that there is a build-up of dirt in your pipes. To avoid missing a shower because of an uncooperative drain, drain cleaning service from a professional is essential.

Reasons contributing to dirt build-up in the drainage system include children stuffing objects into drain pipes, which end up slowing down water flow. Also, if you have recently been hosting parties in your home, the surge in usage may cause stress on the drains. Remains from foods passing through the drainage sometimes contain greasy material that builds up in the pipes, causing clogs and bad odors.

Drain soapy water, hair, and other materials coming from the bathroom may also clog the system. Professional drain cleaning service is thus vital in optimizing water flow.

Keeping Your Pipes Healthy

Accumulation of chemicals, grease, and other materials can lead to corrosion of the pipes in the drainage system. Chemicals take time to break down and can easily destroy the pipes and cause leakage.

Professional drain cleaning service helps to clear the chemicals fast before they get a chance to corrode the pipes. Properly maintained drainage systems have a long-life span with little or no malfunctions.

Corroded pipes are a huge expense because they can only be replaced, and the replacement process includes digging into floors and walls. To avoid going through this trouble, ensure that a professional plumber regularly cleans your drains.

Improving the Safety of Your Drainage System

Contacting a specialist for a drain cleaning service is essential for the safety of your system. A pro can navigate with utmost caution to avoid further damage to your drains. Professional drain cleaners also have the latest technology used in drain cleaning for fast and quality results.

A professional drain cleaning service also gives you a platform for expert advice on the best way to maintain your system. With this information, you can take precautions to avoid surprise drainage malfunctions.

Always Go with the Pros!

Don't always rush to pick the first plumber to solve your drainage problems. Choosing a professional drain cleaning service gives you peace of mind knowing that your system is in the hands of certified technicians.

Reliable contractors also have insurance coverage, which means that in case of damages occur on your property, you will be covered. If you need a reputable drain cleaning service in Katy, TX , don't hesitate to contact the plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing+ Drain of Northwest Houston .

8 Plumbing Problems Our Plumbers See Often in Katy, TX and What They Mean

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 00:29:39 GMT

Photo By aristotoo at istock

There are all kinds of problems that can happen with your plumbing and you may not even realize how much of a problem they are. But we're going to talk to you about some of the most common things that happen and what they actually mean for you (not to mention what's actually causing them). That way you're going to be better prepared when you call local plumbers out to your Katy, TX home to get the problem taken care of.

Leaking Pipes

Pipes leak for a range of different reasons from clogs to problems with the actual installation to freezing and a whole lot more. But this is definitely one of the most common reasons that we get called out to a house. After all, most people don't think of calling a plumber unless there's a problem and since many people experience a leaking pipe … this happens to be one of the most common things for our team of plumbers . Leaks may not seem like too big of a deal (depending on how extensive they are) but they absolutely can be.

Failing Water Pressure

If the water pressure in your home isn't as good as you would like you will probably call a professional to come out and take care of it, right? Well, that's what most people do. When the water pressure is low and they can't get enough of it to wash the dishes or take a good shower most people will give their local plumbers a call to see what's going on. The answer could be something as simple as a clog or it could be as big as rust and corrosion in the line, cracks in the sewer or even leaks somewhere within your house.

Running Toilet

If your toilet is running it could be a result of worn out seals or valves, improperly sized pieces and even corrosion. No matter what's causing the problem, however, you could be paying a whole lot in water because of that running toilet. And you could be wasting a lot of water in general too. Just leaving your toilet running could cost up to 200 gallons in a single day. And that's going to be back for your budget and also bad for the environment. It's definitely a reason you're going to want to call your local plumbers .

Failing Water Heater

No one likes to have cold water when they're trying to wash their dishes or take a shower. So, when the hot water runs out and doesn't come back people tend to call their local plumbers . It could be anything from corrosion in the line to problems with the heating element to having a bad electrical connection. You could also have a water heater that wasn't put in right or that just can't accommodate the needs of your household. No matter what the reason, it's important to call someone and get it taken care of.

Dripping Faucets

If your faucets are dripping this is another thing that doesn't seem like a big deal … until you realize just how much water you could be wasting. Even a small drip or a very slow or gradual one could become a big problem. The most important thing is to call your local plumbers right away to take a look. They'll save you money and help the environment by cutting down on those drips. Even better, the problem is usually something simple like worn out washers, though it could be that the faucet wasn't installed right.

Failing Sump Pump

When the sump pump stops working is when everyone calls. After all, no one wants to deal with a faulty sump pump. This can happen as a result of problems with switches, too much water, large clogs, or just a really old sump pump. Unfortunately, the fix for this one can vary from something minor to needing an entirely new system put in. That's why it's so important to call on your local plumbers early, they can make sure that the problem is taken care of when it's going to require the least work possible.

Clogged Drains

Most people try to fix a clogged drain themselves before they call the plumbers, which is actually a big problem. Trying to use a chemical cleaner to remove a clog only makes things worse. And the hoses and other options that are available at standard stores just can't do it. Clogs are generally food particles or debris that gets into the line and it's easy enough for professional plumbers to take care of, but it can be a whole lot of hassle for anyone else. Not to mention you could end up with even bigger problems.

When it comes down to it, you want to make sure that you're getting any of these problems taken care of right away. While they may not seem like a big deal in some instances, they definitely are. A small amount of water dripping out of your faucet will gradually build up. You'll be surprised just how much it can cost you to have that water dripping for even a single day. The same for if your toilet is running. Sure, you might notice a problem with your sump pump or a clogged drain, but no matter what's going on it's going to be important to make that phone call.

Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston today and schedule an appointment to get your plumbing looked at. You want to make sure that you have everything taken care of as quickly as possible and you want to be sure it's done right. We can make sure of all of that and a whole lot more. Our team of plumbers is ready and able to take care of any plumbing job that you might need. Whether you need something small or something major, there's no job that we aren't able to get taken care of for you and your Katy, TX home.

What You Need to Know About Your Emergency Plumber | Cypress, TX

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Do you have an emergency plumber ready and waiting for your call? If you have someone on your speed dial already that's great and it's definitely important that you do. After all, you never know when something could come up and suddenly you're faced with a big emergency. When you find an emergency plumber , however, there are some important things that you need to know so you can be sure they're going to get the job done. After all, you don't want your Cypress, TX home to be unprotected.

First, you want to make sure that they actually are an emergency plumber . The worst thing is to have an emergency and call up your plumber only to find out that they don't actually offer emergency services. You don't want to be calling around in the middle of the night to find someone that can take care of your emergency. You thought you had someone ready, after all. So, make sure that the person you're planning on calling is actually an emergency plumber , able to take care of problems at any time of the day or night.

Next, make sure that they have a staffed phone line 24/7. Just because they offer emergency plumber s doesn't mean that they actually have someone on the phone at all hours. They might have late hours or early hours instead. Or they might have someone that checks in once an hour or so to see if any calls have come in. That's definitely not what you want. You want someone who you can call and talk to at any moment and get them to your house immediately too. After all, it's not going to do you any good to have to wait around.

You need someone who is actually going to come out to your house immediately as well. Sure, there might be other emergencies going on, but unless someone else has a bigger emergency than you there really shouldn't be any reason that you have to wait. And you definitely shouldn't have to schedule an appointment. You should be able to call and they should be able to get to you quickly, the faster the better. After all, that's what you're calling them for. If you have to wait around for an appointment for an emergency plumber you might as well call someone else, or even wait until morning.

The emergency plumber that you hire needs to be trained in whatever emergency that you have. That means you're going to have to talk with the company long before you actually have that emergency. You need to know what type of services they're able to do and what they would be able to do for you if it's the middle of the night or a holiday or even the weekend. You want to know that they can take care of things and that you won't be calling them out to your house only to find out they don't know how to take care of whatever it is you're dealing with.

Also, you want to know just how much the services you're getting are going to cost you. Talk to them before you find yourself in that late-night situation where you don't really have any other choice. You want to know what you can do and you definitely want to make sure that you know what extra charges might be added. Be sure to ask if there are added fees for calling after hours or on a holiday. You don't want to be blindsided by those extra costs.

Finally, make sure that you're comfortable with the people who are going to be coming out to your house. You want to make sure that you're not going to be unhappy or concerned bringing them into your home after hours. In fact, you should be making sure you're comfortable with anyone that you hire, no matter if they're going to be there during the day or the night. Talk with the people before you hire them and find out just how you feel about having them around. You deserve to only hire people you want around, after all.

When it comes to hiring an emergency plumber you want to make sure that you're paying attention to all of these things and that's going to mean asking some serious questions. Make sure that you're sitting down with anyone you're thinking of hiring to work on plumbing in and around your home. You want to know all about their fees, their regular charges and definitely their hours. You want to know what you can expect and just how you're going to get what it is that you're looking for. The right company should be upfront about all of these things.

When you sit down with us, at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, you're going to get all of the answers that you need. You're also going to be more than happy with what we have to offer because we're not only open and staffed 24/7, but we give you all of the same charges for your services whether it's the middle of the day or the middle of the night. You don't have to pay extra just to get an emergency taken care of because we know that these things happen to everyone.

Give us a call at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston to set up an appointment for any kind of plumbing service that you might need. Then, make sure that you keep our number in your phone so that the next time you have a plumbing emergency you're going to know who to call. You don't have to sit around and wait for something to happen. You can make sure that you have a plan in place for anything that might happen. And you can absolutely make sure that we're the ones you're going to call. We have a team of emergency plumbers in Cypress, TX and we'll take care of anything you need.

Plumbing Maintenance Tips from Your Trusted Plumbing Service | Tomball, TX

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Good examples of plumbing problems that require immediate plumbing service include running toilets, clogged drains, busted water heaters, and leaky pipes and faucets, among others. All these problems are a nuisance as they require you to dig deeper into your pocket to repair them. However, these problems can be prevented from occurring through regular maintenance practices, some of which are simple to undertake by yourself.

The need to have a smoothly operating and efficient plumbing system calls for regular preventive and maintenance measures. Below are some basic tips on how to ensure that your drains and sewer lines serve you best.

Inspect Possible Leaks on Your Appliances and Bare Pipes

Many appliances within your household, such as refrigerators, washing machines, garbage disposal units, water heaters, and showers, rely on water to function in one way or the other. Breakages on pipes connecting to your household apparatus result in dreadful leakages.

Various signs can help you detect a leakage before it causes further damage. Great examples of such symptoms are water pooling around on the floor and ugly patches on the surfaces of your walls and ceiling. You can seek plumbing service from a qualified technician in Tomball, TX , to schedule regular leak detection services.

Clean out Drains to Avoid Clogging

Having clogged drains causes water to drain from your sinks slowly. To remove the clogging obstacles, you can pass hot water with vinegar down the drain and flush them out. If this preventive maintenance practice is done on regular occasions, your drains will always flow smoothly.

Instead of using harsh chemicals that may result in the erosion of the inner surfaces of pipes, the other alternative is the use of common household drain cleaners. Never try to remove drain clogs in commercial establishments such as hotels by yourself. You may be liable for further damages if they happen to occur. You should seek plumbing service from an expert to save both time and money.

Always Consider What You Flush Down the Drain

One of the easiest and surest ways of preventing clogging in your drains is by considering what goes down your system. Pouring either oil or grease down the sink is highly condemned by plumbing experts because such materials tend to harden with time and cause clogging.

While cleaning utensils, ensure that you never let food scraps flow down the kitchen sink. Also, don't allow hair to build up in your shower drain as it contributes to the formation of clots within the drain. The clots impose unnecessary stress on the pipes by increasing the water pressure. To get rid of the clots, plumbing service from a professional plumber in Tomball, TX , is essential.

Treat Your Water with Water Softener

Water with too many minerals is called hard water. Hard water contains a high content of calcium and magnesium, making it a nuisance when it comes to activities like washing clothes and utensils, and even bathing.

As the water continues to flow in your house, these minerals build up within the pipes. This leads to increased water pressure, which reduces the life span of your home's plumbing system. To combat this problem, consider investing in water softeners. They can also ensure that your appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters, run smoothly for quite a long time.

Get Your Sewer Main Line Cleaned

The main sewer line connects your home sewer system to the municipal one. Waste coming out of your household must pass through this sewer line. If it gets clogged, there is a high possibility of sewage flowing back into your house.

Seeking plumbing service from a technician to clean the sewer line is one of the easiest ways to avoid blockage and dreadful backups.

Regularly Check Out Your Sewer System Lines

You should be aware of where and how your sewer systems run to monitor the roots of trees growing nearby, as they are capable of causing damage to the pipes. You should also seek plumbing service from a pro plumber to snake your sewer line on regular occasions. Snaking helps prevent all the damages resulting from clogging.

Regulate Water Pressure

High water pressure increases the possibility of leaks, which, to a great extent, reduces the life span of your plumbing system. High pressure is said to make your faucets, pipe joints, and appliance valves work extra harder, thus damaging them.

Detecting high water pressure is done using a hose bib gauge, which is readily available in hardware stores. If high pressure is detected, plumbing service is necessary to install a pressure reducer.

Avoid Overloading Your System

You should never overload your sewage system with a lot of wastewater from the toilets, bathrooms, and washing machines. Instead, consider the following:

Use water efficiently
Make use of a pit latrine
Use appliances that are water efficient
Ensure you re-use water where possible

Insulate Your Pipes

It's essential that you insulate your pipes, especially if the climate around your areas is very cold. Insulation prevents the pipes from freezing during icy seasons. When pipes freeze, they end up cracking and bursting. Pipe insulation plumbing service can be done using a thermal insulating plumbers’ tape.

Make Repairs as Soon as Possible

In case of any plumbing problem, may it be a dripping faucet or a running toilet, never delay in hiring a professional plumbing service to look at it. These problems may seem minor at first but can cause extensive damages to your plumbing system that might be very expensive to repair. The so-called minor problems could be signs of other underlying serious issues.

To help you save your money for other purposes, and also increase the life span of your plumbing system, it's best that you keep updating your household's plumbing fixtures. A good example is having a newer water toilet, whose operating system is efficient and uses less water to flush.

Issues with the plumbing system can cause significant damage to your house. Therefore, it's vital that you schedule periodic plumbing service inspections with professional plumbers from bluefrog Plumbing + Drain in Tomball, TX .

Sounds That Mean You Probably Need Plumbing Repair | Spring, TX

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By AzmanL at istock

If you're not quite sure when you need plumbing repair or what a good sign is we're going to talk about some of the sounds that you might be hearing around your house. Sure, any house is going to make some noise. And older houses are going to make even more noise than others. So, what do you do? You want to know what you're listening for so you know when you need to call a plumber to your Spring, TX home and when your house might just be settling.

Screeching – If anything is screeching it's definitely going to be a problem. You may have thought this was just about pipes that hadn't been used in a long time and that can be the case, but there are other things you want to look into as well. For example, it could mean that something is broken in your water system. It could mean that there's a loose part or even that there's something damaged. You'll want to get someone out to take a look at it and see what they can do as far as plumbing repair.

Banging – If you hear something banging then chances are there's definitely a problem going on. What this usually means (if it's happening in your plumbing anyway) is that water is moving too quickly through the pipes. This causes the pipes to move and hit each other (since most of your pipes are running right alongside each other). When you hear this banging it definitely means you need to do something about it. You're going to need plumbing repair, especially since your pipes could be damaging each other as they're banging around.

Knocking – This is another sound that happens when there's a problem and you're in need of plumbing repair. What you might hear is something that sounds like a person knocking on your door. It will generally happen consistently but it's not going to be very loud. In most cases this happens because your water pressure is far too variable, which could mean that something is happening in the lines. There might be a leak or a clog or some other reason that the water pressure fluctuates. And that knocking sound that's coming out of your walls is the only sign of it.

Gurgling – You've probably heard your drains gurgle before, but where you might not think this is a big deal, it can actually be quite a problem. You absolutely don't want your pipes doing this because it means that there's something in the way that they're trying to get around. It means that there's a clog somewhere in there that the water can't just flow right through. Calling a professional for plumbing repair will allow the problem to be resolved quickly and you won't have to worry about this sound anymore. If you do hear it though, don't ignore it. Get the pros out there as soon as possible.

Shaking – If you have really good hearing you probably hear your pipes shaking all the time. That's because when the water pushes through (even when it's at the right water pressure) you're going to have some noise to it. When that shaking gets loud, however, it means that the pipes are moving around entirely too much. That's definitely not a good sign and it means you need to call the pros for plumbing repair. Luckily, if the shaking hasn't been going on for too long and caused damage you can get this one fixed relatively quickly and easily.

Clanging – This one is the same as the banging that we mentioned already. If you hear anything clanging it means that there's something going wrong and you absolutely want to get it taken care of. You want to make sure that you're listening for this type of sound and that you're doing something about it right away. Plumbing repair doesn't need to be difficult. You just need to know who you're going to call and you need to call them up as soon as you notice a problem. With this type of sound, you'll definitely know something is happening.

Humming – When your pipes are working well you may hear something that sounds a little bit like a gentle hum. This is usually pretty steady and should be relatively even. It shouldn't sound like humming a song, where the tone changes but rather like humming a single note. This is something that you should have to listen quite close to hear and you may not notice it at all, but it means that things are working the way that they should and there's no reason for you to be concerned about anything. There's no plumbing repair needed here.

If you've noticed any of these sounds you'll want to know what you need to do. After all, you don't want your pipes to be making strange sounds or causing you any kind of problems. Instead, you want to make sure that you're getting the water you're supposed to be getting and you're not setting yourself up for problems. When you know the right company to call when there comes a problem you're definitely going to be on the right track. And the company you should be calling is bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston .

At bluefrog Plumbing we can take care of any kind of plumbing problems that you might have. If you notice any of these sounds going on with your plumbing in the walls or anywhere else in your home we can take care of it. If you notice that you have a leak, a burst pipe or even a plumbing emergency we can send our plumbing repair team over to take care of it. After all, plumbing repair is what we do in Spring, TX and we have no problem making sure that your home is operating smoothly when it comes to your plumbing.

Noises That You Should Be Listening For | Insight from Your Trusted Plumber in The Woodlands, TX

Sat, 18 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Do you notice some weird noises when you're sitting around in your house? Maybe you notice them a lot or maybe you've just started noticing that they happen randomly. Well, you're definitely going to want to be listening out for these types of sounds and you're going to want to know just what they actually mean. After all, you're not going to be able to get someone to fix what you don't even know is wrong, right? And your plumber in The Woodlands, TX is definitely going to be asking about it.

Dripping Faucets – It's not just your faucets that could be dripping. In fact, you might hear dripping and not even see anything that's leaking. If that's the case it doesn't mean that you can ignore it. Rather, it means that there's something going on within the walls in your home and that could potentially be even more of a problem than just dealing with a leaking faucet. You definitely don't want to have those dripping sounds happening without it being directly related to the faucets that you can see (not that you want those to be leaking either).

Whistling – If you notice any type of whistling in your toilet or in any faucet that you turn on you want to call a professional plumber to take a look. Sure, it could be something minor, like your pipe is old and it takes a little bit of time to get it up and running. Everyone knows about those old houses that might have squealing pipes first thing in the morning. But if you're noticing it lasting or noticing it at strange periods of the day you're definitely going to want to get it checked out by a real plumber to see what's going on.

Toilet Gurgling – If your toilet is gurgling then it means that you have a problem with the flapper. In general, it means that the flapper isn't actually coming down in the right way to cover the entire opening for the valve. What this means is that your water is running still in the toilet and that's going to be costing you a whole lot of money because it could actually expel gallons of water in a single day. That's definitely not something that you want (or maybe the plumber who's coming up with it) and it's not going to be good for the environment either.

Rattling – If your pipes are actually rattling it means that they're probably up in the ceiling or around in the walls. When those pipes are installed they're going to be fastened together. If that fastener doesn't stay where it's supposed to be you could end up with rattling as water moves through the pipe. That's because as the pipe fills with water it's going to move slightly because of the water pressure. This is going to result in a rattling sound that has nothing to do with your game.

Banging Sounds – If you're hearing banging then chances are what you're hearing is the water pressure being too high. It's forcing its way through your pipes and because it's not really designed to work that way, you're hearing the banging sounds as one pipe hits the next one and both of them continue to shake and hit one another. That's going to cause damage to the pipes as well as being simply annoying. Slamming together like that can cause some serious damage to the pipes in your walls. A professional plumber will take care of this kind of thing for you.

Ticking Sounds – For some, those dripping faucets may sound like some type of ticking. So, if you happen to notice a ticking sound keep an eye out for where it started from. If you can see a drip in your faucet then call a plumber to take a look at it and make sure it can be fixed easily. On the other, you're going to want to look even closer if you find that you can't see a problem. Just like with the dripping faucet earlier, you could actually be hearing something that's happening within the walls, which definitely isn't good for your plans.

Screeching – This is another one that tends to come up with old plumber systems. You might even be surprised to hear this type of sound coming from anywhere near your plumbing. The reason that it happens, however, is that water pressure starts to build up and cause even more damage to the inside of the system. If you hear screeching you want to call a plumber to make sure that it gets taken care of and you're home in The Woodlands, TX is definitely going to need it. After all, you want to make sure that the job is getting done consistently.

There are a number of different sounds that you could hear when it comes to your pipes. You might hear the same sounds every single day or you might hear sounds sporadically throughout different times of the year. You never know when it's going to kick up but you should be keeping track so you can talk with a professional plumber about everything that's going on. You don't want to start trying to fix things yourself because you'll end up with an even bigger problem than you had when you started. Calling a professional is the best way to go.

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston , we make sure that everything you need as far as your plumbing is taken care of. We have great plumbers on stand who are ready and willing to help you out with anything that you might need. Whether you need a small plumbing job or you're looking to get something far more extensive resolved, you're definitely going to be in the right place when you work with us. We make sure that everything about our team is top notch and that goes for everything that we use to get the job done as well.

What to Lookout for with Your Plumbing During Cooler Nights | Insight from Your Trusted Plumber in The Heights, TX

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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When you own a home, you are responsible for anything that goes wrong. Sometimes this may mean very little to you, especially if you own a newer home, but other times this can mean you are paying for repairs frequently. For some reason, it seems like more things go wrong during the cold and chilly winter months than others. This is especially true when it comes to plumbing.

While the weather in The Heights, TX may not be as frigid as other parts of the US, there are certain months where temperatures can dip towards freezing during the night. Due to the generally mild weather, a lot of homeowners don't think about the damage the cold can have on their plumbing systems. A plumber can tell you that this results in a lot of emergency calls for them throughout the winter months.

Being aware of what can happen during the winter months can help you prevent a late-night call to a plumber , or at least make you aware of when to call a plumber . There are a few things a savvy homeowner should be on the lookout for during the cooler nights of winter in The Heights, TX .

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are not a common occurrence in The Heights, TX , but they do happen from time to time when the area receives unseasonably cold weather at night. Homes and piping in Texas are commonly not insulated for cold weather, so a patch of cold nights can be enough to cause an issue. You may be shocked to wake up and find out your water isn't working, but if this happens your first call should be to a plumber .

If you suspect that your pipes are frozen, you need to immediately turn off the water to your home. Water running along a system that has frozen pipes can cause a clog that in turn can lead to a burst pipe. Once the water is turned off, call in a plumber to diagnose the problem. If the pipes are frozen they can generally offer you professional solutions, but if it turns out to be another issue they can promptly troubleshoot it and get your water flow corrected.

Break in Your Water Line

A frozen pipe is never a good issue, but a frozen pipe can lead to a water line break depending on how long the pipe is left unattended. This is one reason why we emphasis just how important it is to call a plumber if you suspect an issue with frozen pipes. Standing water often leads to a water line break because it is easy for that standing water to freeze. Once that water freezes it blocks the line until eventually the water line breaks or bursts from the water pressure.

These major leaks can turn out to be quite expensive to repair, so the smart move is to call a plumber before it gets to that point. A professional plumber can install pressure relief valves along your water line in areas that are prone to freezing on cold nights to help prevent the chance of blockages. Oftentimes these preventative measures are all it takes to ensure that your plumbing remains sound.

No Hot Water

Waking up without hot water is not a great way to start the day, but it does happen from time to time and can signal that something is wrong with your water heater. Before calling a plumbing company in The Heights, TX , make sure that no one has been using the hot water because with a standard water heater you can run out of hot water. If it's not a case of someone taking a very long shower, then it is time to seek out help from a professional plumber.

A lot of times hot water shortages occur during the winter months because the hot water cools as it travels upwards along very cold pipes. The cold pipes chill the hot water so you don't receive hot water until the chilled pipes themselves are warmed also. Although it is certainly better to have this type of issue, it is an inconvenience because more hot water is consumed in the colder months than any other time of the year. Sometimes simply insulating your pipes a bit better can help solve this problem.

Clogged Drains

The other number one reason people call the plumber during the winter months is surprisingly clogged drains. Most likely it is because people are cooking in their kitchens during the winter months, and this results in materials slipping down the drain that normally wouldn't. You can prevent this by limiting your garbage disposal use and making sure that you are only tossing degradable, small items down the drain.

While it may seem easier to toss everything in the drain while hosting a party, it is worth the extra minute walk to the trash can. It is better to spend a couple of extra minutes prepping for your occasion versus a few hours dealing with a plumber and a clogged sink. No one wants to apologize for the odor of a clogged sink during a holiday gathering, and no one wants to pay for an emergency plumber to come bail them out on the weekends or holidays.

Believe it or not, toilets are just as likely to get clogged during the holiday season as well because they tend to be used more than any other season. More holiday guests mean more traffic to the bathroom. Try to reduce the risk of a clog by only allowing guests to use toilet paper (no wet wipes) during the holiday season and keep small children out of the restroom. This helps eliminate the chance of an odd toy or bath item ending up in your piping system. Contact bluefrog Plumbing and Drain of Northwest Houston to schedule an appointment!

What You Need to Know About Tankless Water Heaters | Cypress, TX

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Jaromir Chalabala at Shutterstock

Have you been thinking about getting a new water heater but you're not quite sure what you want to get? Maybe you've been thinking about tankless water heaters in Cypress, TX or maybe you haven't. Maybe you haven't even thought about one before but you want to take a closer look. Well, we're going to talk about all the things you should know about these water heaters so you can make the right decision for your household. After all, you want to make sure your new water heater is going to work, right?

One of the best things about tankless water heaters is the fact that they take up a whole lot less space than a traditional water heater. If you have a large water heater in your home it's going to take up floor space and you're not going to be able to put anything within a set distance around it. On the other hand, tankless water heaters are far smaller and it doesn't even need any floor space. That's going to be a whole lot more convenient for you, especially if you have a small home.

Another great benefit is that they tend to be more energy efficient for just about any household. You're not going to be heating a whole lot of water and then storing it and you don't have to worry about wasting all that energy keeping the water hot when you're not using it. Instead, tankless water heaters will give you hot water when you need it and nothing when you don't. That's definitely going to help you cut back on the amount of energy that you're wasting, which is going to lead us to the next benefit.

It's going to be a whole lot cheaper to use this type of water heater instead of a traditional one. The main reason? That energy efficiency that we just mentioned. You don't have to worry about spending so much money on energy to heat water you're not even using when you have one of these water heaters. That's going to save you a whole lot of money and before you know it you're going to be much better off than you were before, even when you count the amount of money that you're going to have to spend on the water heater itself.

You'll find that these water heaters tend to last a whole lot longer than the traditional water heaters as well. That's because tankless water heaters have far fewer moving parts. That means far fewer things that can break and less repairs that are needed. That means you're going to save money in several different ways. All you need to do is choose the one that fits into your household the best and you're going to be saving more money than you might think in no time at all.

For most households there's going to be plenty of hot water to take care of your needs as well. So, if you need to take a shower and then you need to wash the dishes you'll likely have enough water to do it. If not, you just wait a few minutes and you'll be able to get started on the next task. Even though there's no water stored and waiting for you there's still going to be plenty of water coming through and at a speed that's good enough to keep you with the water that you need. You'll still be able to continue using this water heater the way you would expect.

Now, there are a couple of downsides to tankless water heaters. One of the first is the upfront cost. You're going to spend more to purchase one of these water heaters than you will a traditional one. That's because the technology is newer and a little more expensive to make. You might also pay a little more for the installation process. But you are going to see a lot of cost cutting after you've gotten this water heater up and running. You'll have less expense related to heating the water and to maintenance. So overall, you're going to be coming out ahead, it just might take a little while.

Another downside is that you're not going to have a whole lot of hot water available at once. While tankless water heaters will be able to provide enough on-demand hot water for most purposes, it's not going to be enough for everyone. If you need to take a shower while someone does the dishes and the laundry is going you're not going to have enough hot water to take care of everything. You'll need to prioritize your tasks and you're definitely going to need to use only one source of hot water at a time.

If you're looking to get the most benefits possible out of your new water heater you can absolutely look at tankless water heaters. They have a number of great benefits and they can be a whole lot more convenient than a traditional water heater in a number of ways. You may be surprised at just how much you can do with this type of water heater and just how much better it could be for your home and your family. Just make sure that you're talking with your local plumber about the pros and cons for your household and then make sure you're making the right choice.

With bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston you're definitely going to be off to the right start. We'll help you figure out exactly what you want for your new tankless water heaters and we'll get everything installed and ready for you. All you need to do is give us a call and we'll make sure you make the right decision for your Cypress, TX home. After all, you want to make sure that your entire family is going to be comfortable, right? And that's going to happen even easier with the right water heater.

Hot Water Heater Repair 101 | Tomball, TX

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Arguably one of the most important components in your Tomball, TX , home, is your water heater. Unless you turn it off while you're on vacation, you likely use it each and every day, usually repeatedly. Without it, you can't bathe and shower, you can't wash dishes, and you can't do laundry. So, when your water heater is on the fritz, life comes to a screeching halt (normal life, anyway). Let's take a look at hot water heater repairs that may necessitate a call to your plumber.

Leaks

One of the most common hot water heater repair calls is due to leaks. If you think you have a leak, then the location of the leak is important. If the leak is on top the heater, there are a few possibilities to consider. First of all, the hot outlet or cold inlet pipes may have become loose. The inlet valve could be leaking, or the T&P valve might be experiencing failure.

If the leak is coming from the bottom of your water heater, then this might be just simple compensation. However, it might also be the case that a small amount of moisture is being pushed through the unit's overflow pipe due to the T&P valve opening to release pressure from the tank. Another problem may be that your electric heating gasket is leaking. The actual water tank itself may be leaking. This is a worst-case scenario, however, and requires more than a water heater repair —you'll have to replace the entire water heater.

Water is Not Getting Hot

The most common reason for water not getting hot inside your hot water heater is a logical one—a circuit breaker has been tripped. First, check your breaker box to make sure that is not the case. Otherwise, you may have a problem with the heating elements in your heater (most heaters have two). If one of those elements fails, then it will need to be replaced, and you'll probably need to call out a water heater repair specialist for the task since it's not as simple as it sounds. A third possibility is that the water heater's thermostat has a problem with its limit or reset switch. This switch sometimes trips if the water too hot or if the unit simply fails. A failed switch or thermostat will also require a visit by a water heater repair pro.

Water is Much Too Hot

If your water is too hot when it comes out of the tap, then the temperature has been set too high. Most homeowners can reset the temperature to the desired level easily. However, if the water is still too hot, you may have a wiring issue on your hands, or you may need to get a replacement thermostat.

Reduction in Hot Water Supply

Tomball, TX , water heater repair specialists often get calls about water heaters that aren't producing enough hot water. Typically, the homeowner notices that the hot water in the shower runs out more quickly than usual. This is almost always due to a thermostat issue. Sometimes the solution is just to adjust the water temperature to a higher level (be careful with this, as scalding injuries can result if it is adjusted too high). Keep in mind that during the winter, you may need to adjust the temperature of your hot water heater due to water cooling more quickly through cold pipes in your plumbing system.

Another possible reason for this issue is that your thermostat is faulty, there's a loose wire somewhere in the heater, a heating element has gone bad, or your water tank is not large enough for your needs. If your needs have changed since you bought your hot water heater or you moved into your home, then you might want to consider a unit with a larger tank, or go for a tankless water heater that flash heats water on demand, giving you a boundless supply of hot water for larger households.

Excessive Reheating Times

If it is taking your hot water heater longer than historically normal for your unit to "recover" after all hot water is used, then the problem is usually with the heating elements. Sediment sometimes builds up on the heater's elements, resulting in lessened performance and eventual failure. This is another reason that bi-annual maintenance is recommended, as flushing by a professional can reduce the chance of damage from this buildup. The issue may also lie with your thermostat, which may have failed and need replacement.

Discolored or Smelly Water

Rusty water coming through your pipes may be a sign of corrosion of the tank itself or its anode rode. Unchecked, this corrosion can lead to a serious leak. Discolored water can also be indicative of scale that has built up on the unit's heating element or sediment that has made its way through the tank to your tap. Flushing can help and may extend the life of your tank.

Foul smells (usually like rotten eggs or sulfur) in your water can be due to bacteria in your water heater's tank. This is more likely if your water supply is derived from a well. Flushing the tank regularly by a water heater repair pro can help. Temporarily adjusting the water temperature to 140 degrees can kill of the bacteria after flushing, hopefully ridding the problem for good.

Sounds Coming from Water Heater

Scale buildup on the heating elements in your water heater or the buildup of sediment in the tank's bottom can cause strange pops, hisses, bangs, and knocks. Noises may also indicate a possible leak somewhere in the tank or there could be too much pressure inside. Always have a water heater repair professional look at your water heater if it's making noise to ensure that it is safe to operate and doesn't need service.

For hot water heater repair , reach out to bluefrog Plumbing + Drain in Tomball, TX , for fast service by certified plumbing professionals.

Why Drain Cleaning Maintenance Is Important | The Woodlands, TX

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By OSJPHOTO at Shutterstock

Home maintenance is the key to having a safe, functioning home that lasts a long time. While most people remember to clean their gutters and repaint their walls, drain cleaning maintenance is often overlooked. Most people wait to call a plumber until they already have a problem, but plumbers should be used for preventative purposes too. Drain cleaning service from a professional plumber is essential to save money and protect your home from expensive repairs. If you need plumbing services, including drain cleaning, in The Woodlands, TX , bluefrog Plumbing + Drain is always here to help.

What Is a House Drain?

First, let's explain exactly what a house drain is. A house drain is the system of horizontal piping located throughout the home's underground, or sometimes the basement or cellar. The pipeline connects from the home to the house sewer. These pipes are usually made of iron or copper and can handle a lot of heavy usage. House drains manage all of the materials that go down your drains, from the toilets, kitchen sink, and showers. Sometimes, house drains also receive the discharge of sewage from all soil, waste lines, rainwater from rain leaders, cellar, area, yard, and sub-soil drains.

Why Drain Cleaning Matters

Every day your drains are put to work. In the kitchen, food scraps and grease get washed down the drain. In the bathrooms, hair, dirt, and soap get washed down the drains. Without proper drain cleaning service , all of these particles can build up and cause serious problems to your home's pipes and sewage lines. Scheduling regular drain cleaning maintenance ensures your pipes remain unblocked and don't cause problems within your home.

The Benefits of Keeping Your Drains Clean

There are many benefits to regular drain cleaning maintenance.

Improves the Lifespan of Drains

Like all appliances and products, with regular drain cleaning service , the longevity of your pipes can increase. This can help you to delay future replacement costs and save money.

It's important to note that using chemical store-bought drain cleaners do not do the same job as a plumber. These products are often not effective, and if used too often, can actually damage your pipes. A plumber uses snakes and other professional equipment to get deep into pipes and remove hardened build-up from all sides of the tube.

Reduce Leaks

Clogs in your pipes can also lead to corrosion, which then can cause leaks. And, these leaks can significantly impact your water bill. Additionally, appliances such as your dishwasher and washing machine can be impacted by these leaks. To keep your appliances working and your utility bills down, ensure you schedule regular drain cleaning maintenance.

Eliminates Bad Odors

Drain cleaning service rids your pipes of any food particles and grease that may be collecting and rotting in your pipes. If there is a significant build-up of food, it can start to smell bad in the home. Cleaning your drains will eliminate any existing bad odors.

Clear Clogs for Faster Drainage

Have you gone to take a shower and watched the water collect around your ankles? A clogged drain tends to drain slower and slower. A clogged drain can also be an indication of a more significant plumbing issue. The clog can be coming from your septic tank or sewer.

Regular drain cleaning will clear clogs to ensure your pipes continue to drain at their normal pace. Additionally, you will be avoiding the potential for flooding or water damage that can sometimes come with clogs.

Reduces Expensive Repairs

With regular drain cleaning service , your plumber can catch small pipe issues before they turn into big, expensive repairs. Pipes can wear down from aging, overflow, or acquire damages from clogs. If these types of problems aren't addressed immediately, it can cause serious problems later.

Bacteria Growth

When your pipes become backed up, the particles of food can be a breeding ground for bacteria, pathogens, and fungus to grow. This bacteria can be harmful to your family, contaminating your drinking water. Regular drain cleaning service will eliminate any bacteria growth before it becomes hazardous.

How Often Should I Get Drain Cleaning Service?

You should view drain cleaning service as a part of regular household maintenance. How often you will need drain cleaning maintenance will depend on your household details. For example, you'll need to consider:

How much you use your drains
How many people are in your household
How old your pipes are

In general, at a minimum, drain cleaning service should be scheduled annually. A small household of two or three people may be fine with annual service. A larger family or an older home may require more frequent cleanings. Discuss with your plumber how often they think your home needs to schedule a drain cleaning maintenance per year.

Should You DIY Drain Cleaning?

It's not recommended you attempt to DIY (do-it-yourself) a drain cleaning. Your pipes are a crucial part of the inner workings of your home and are connected to many things. You would never try to take apart your engine or conduct surgery on yourself, so why would you attempt drain cleaning on your own? Always schedule a drain cleaning service with a professional plumber. They have been trained in the task and know how to get the best results. They also understand how to spot any other plumbing issues while they're cleaning. Keeping your drains clean can save you money, keep your home smelling fresh, eliminate dangerous bacteria, and catch other plumbing issues early on.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain in The Woodlands, TX

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain is available for anyone in The Woodlands, TX looking for professional plumbing services. As a national brand, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain is committed to providing professional quality services at all of its locations. All technicians are highly trained and available 24/7 for emergency plumbing issues. Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for drain cleaning, water heater repairs and installation (including tankless water heaters), sewer and water line repairs, camera inspections, leak detection and repair, gas leak detection, plumbing fixtures, and re-piping.

9 Signs You Need to Call a Plumbing Service | Tomball, TX

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By WAYHOME studio at Shutterstock

With YouTube videos and DIY websites telling you how to fix any problem in your home, it can be confusing to know when you should actually pay for plumbing service . However, fixing plumbing problems on your own can lead to more costly issues down the road. Additionally, if your home insurance finds out you conducted DIY plumbing work that caused significant problems down the road, your insurance policy could be void!

So, how can you tell when you should sell out the cash for a plumber? Well, we've outlined the top nine signs you need to avoid DIY and schedule a plumbing service appointment.

Drains Aren't Draining

If you take a shower and see the water rise to your ankles or try to wash the dishes and find your items swimming around in a mini-pool, you have a draining issue. These problems are usually a result of clogged drains. If a plunger doesn't work, or the issue keeps coming up repeatedly, it's time to call for professional plumber. You can't know what's clogging the drain, from food to objects. A licensed plumber can investigate, unclog your pipe, and provide tips to avoid similar issues in the future.

Low Water Pressure

If you find yourself having to take longer and longer showers because of low water pressure or are spending a long-time washing dishes, it's likely the sign of a bigger problem. Low water pressure is a nuisance, wastes your time, and can also raise your water bill significantly.

Low water pressure is likely due to a clog in the water system preventing water from running out at full capacity. Or, can be due to cracked or broken pipes in the house or the foundation. These types of jobs should only be handled by a professional.

Smell of Sewage

The smell of sewage or a bad odor throughout the house is both unpleasant and a problem that should be addressed right away. Smelling wastewater in the home can be due to clogged pipes, drainpipes that aren't ventilating, or damage to sewage systems and pumps. These problems can lead to environmental and health issues, so it's critical to pay for plumbing service to solve this problem quickly and correctly.

No Water

If you go to turn on your sink or shower and no water comes out, there's likely a significant plumbing problem at hand. You need water running throughout your home to take a shower, wash your hands, wash dishes, cook, and go to the bathroom. Most likely, no water coming out is a sign of a pipe blockage or a pipe leak. Do not try to DIY this issue and book plumbing service immediately to get water running again.

Lack of Hot Water

If you do have water, but it's never hot or doesn't stay hot for long, it's an indication of a plumbing issue. Let's be honest, no one wants to take cold showers. And, families shouldn't have to argue about who gets the single hot shower for the day. A lack of hot water could be a water heater problem, a sign your water heater tank is too small, or a pilot light malfunction. For those living in Tomball, TX , hard water is common throughout the city. While not a health risk, hard water can cause mineral build-up which can cause damage to the water heater. Whatever the issue is, rest assured it's best tackled by a professional. The sooner you schedule plumbing service , the sooner your entire household can enjoy hot showers again.

Frozen Pipes

The minute you spot frozen pipes, it's time not only to schedule plumbing service but call for an emergency plumber. When pipes freeze over, the following situation can be burst pipes. And, a burst pipe can seep water and sewage into your home, causing extensive damage to your home and belongings.

Never attempt to unfreeze your pipes yourself, as this can trigger a pipe burst.

Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet can be a small inconvenience and something that many homeowners think, "I will get around to eventually." However, a dripping faucet can lead to hundreds of gallons of water lost throughout the year. This is both a massive hit on your wallet and not very environmentally friendly. Unless you have fixed a leaky faucet before, it's typically better to use a professional plumbing service.

Smelling Gas

Homes now have an added artificial smell to gas, as an alert system for homeowners. The minute you smell gas in your home, you should act immediately. A gas leak can be hazardous to your health and your safety if someone ignites a fire. Promptly ensure all appliances are turned off and exit the property. After alerting your gas company about the issue, call an emergency plumber for assistance.

Toilet Keeps Running

You're alone in the house, and you haven't been to the washroom for a while, but you hear the toilet running. It's a problem you probably won't even notice until the house is completely quiet. Regardless, it is a problem that needs fixing. Along with increasing your water bill, a continuously running toilet can be a sign of a more significant plumbing issue. Most likely, the seal connecting the tank and the toilet bowl has malfunctioned and needs alterations. Schedule an appointment for a plumbing service before your utility bill gets any higher.

Installing New Appliances

If you're working on renovations or simply doing an appliance overhaul, you may need a plumber for installation. Appliances such as water heaters, refrigerators, washing machines, new sinks, and dishwashers connect to your plumbing. Attempting installation on your own can ruin the brand-new appliance and cause damage to the plumbing. Call a professional for a quick and safe installation.

bluefrog Tomball, TX for All Your Plumbing Service Needs

bluefrog is a national plumbing company offering services throughout the United States, including Tomball, TX . bluefrog provides services for both residential and commercial clients. Customers can rest assured that all plumbers are certified, always on time, and provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Specifically, bluefrog specializes in drain cleaning, leak detection, and sewer line repair, but can tackle plumbing jobs of all varieties. All customers receive free home evaluations and estimates, so it's risk-free to test out bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for your plumbing needs. Call (346) 222-5848 or fill out a submission form online.

Concerned About Your Drains? | Tips from Your Trusted Drain Cleaning Service in The Woodlands, TX

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By ktasimar at Shutterstock

Drain cleaning service can be a useful part of drain maintenance. In turn, drain maintenance can reduce the chances of The Woodlands, TX residents running into clogs and other plumbing problems, meaning that it can be more than worthwhile from a long-term perspective. However, while scheduling drain cleaning service on a regular basis can be very helpful, The Woodlands, TX residents should also exercise care and caution when it comes to how they choose to use their drains. After all, there are numerous incidences of people having to call in a plumber because they have put something down the drain that they shouldn't have.

What Are the Things that You Should Never Put Down Your Drains?

To minimize the need for drain cleaning service , here are some of the things that The Woodlands, TX residents should never put down their drains:

Oil and Grease

Oil and grease should never be poured down the drain. This is because these substances can congeal into something much more solid inside the pipes, which can be a huge problem for a couple of reasons. One, the resulting sludge is more than capable of obstructing the flow of water on its own. Two, the resulting sludge makes it easier for other objects to get stuck, thus making a clog even likelier. Initially, interested individuals are likely to see a partial clog, meaning that water will still get through at a slower rate. However, what is particularly nasty about oil and sludge is the ease with which they can snare other objects, meaning that it is very much possible for that partial clog to turn into a complete clog unless interested individuals call for drain cleaning service .

Rice and Noodles

Rice and noodles are both examples of things that shouldn't be put down the drain. This is because both of them will swell when soaked in water, thus causing them to take up much more space than what their dry forms would indicate. Even worse, they are also capable of turning into sticky messes that will snare other objects, meaning that they can cause some of the same issues as oil and grease.

Egg Shells and Coffee Grounds

Speaking of which, hard organic waste such as egg shells and coffee grounds should never be entrusted to the drain. In their case, this is because they won't break down on their own within a reasonable time frame, meaning that they can stick around in the pipes for a very, very long time to come. This is particularly true when they have been dumped down the same drain as oil and grease because that can see them trapped there until drain cleaning service can get them out.

Paper Towels

Paper towels are biodegradable. However, being biodegradable doesn't mean that something will go away in an instant, meaning that paper towels are more than capable of causing a clog when they have been dumped down a drain. On top of this, it should be mentioned that paper towels are deliberately designed to be water-absorbent, thus making them very good at creating obstructions in water-bearing pipes.

Household Fluids

People have been known to pour a wide range of household fluids into their drains. However, this tends to be a bad idea for a wide range of reasons even if they won't necessarily contribute to the chances of a clog. For example, some household fluids are harsh enough to cause damage to the pipes, which is something that can increase the chances of leaks and other plumbing problems in the future. In contrast, other household fluids are a serious problem because they are pollutants that are best kept away from the water supply. Generally speaking, unless something was meant to be put down a drain, it is best to get rid of it using some other much more appropriate method.

Cleaning Products

Cleaning products are pretty iffy. Partly, this is because cleaning products tend to contain potentially harmful chemicals, meaning that they shouldn't be put in a position to enter the water supply. However, it should also be noted that there are some cleaning products out there that are strong enough to cause damage to the material of the pipes, particularly with frequent exposure. Thanks to this, interested individuals should avoid putting cleaning products down their drain, particularly if they care about the environment in addition to caring about minimizing their need for drain cleaning service.

Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain

Having said that, when people experience some kind of problem with their drains, they should contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain in The Woodlands, TX area, a reliable and reputable professional for drain cleaning service as well as other plumbing services as soon as possible. This is important for two reasons. First, they might not have a clear idea of what is causing the plumbing problem, meaning that they might want to get a professional to figure out said issue before proceeding to providing drain cleaning service as well as other plumbing services as needed. Second, plumbing problems are like other problems in that they tend to get worse and worse over time, meaning that a speedy resolution is needed before they can transform into something much more nightmarish such as a flooded basement.

Of course, if interested individuals want to get the best results from their drain cleaning service, they need to contact professionals who they can trust. Naturally, this means asking questions, not just to verify their potential plumber's claims of expertise and experience but also to make sure that they have a clear understanding of the relevant topics before proceeding further. Due to this, we are ready to answer everything that interested individuals ask us so that they can be sure of making the right choices for themselves.

Tips from Trusted Plumbers for Maintaining Your Plumbing System | Katy, TX

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By kurhan at Shutterstock

If you're like most people, you can't afford to pay for expensive repairs or replace crucial parts of your plumbing system. This is why it's so important to make sure you do what you can to extend the life of your plumbing system and prevent frequent problems. The best way to do this is to have plumbers come to your Katy, TX , home every once in a while for maintenance. However, there are a lot of little things you can do in the meantime to make sure you're taking the best care of your plumbing.

Seasonal Maintenance

The simplest thing you can do to make sure your plumbing system doesn't have any problems is hire a plumber to do seasonal maintenance. Most plumbers will recommend you have seasonal plumbing maintenance done a few times each year. However, it's particularly important to have maintenance done during the fall if you aren't comfortable preparing your home for the coming winter.

A big part of having seasonal plumbing maintenance done is the fact that it puts you on a schedule that ensures you take care of your plumbing. When it comes to preparing your plumbing for any season but winter, there isn't a whole lot you need to do that's specific to that season. The big thing during winter is making sure your pipes don't freeze and burst.

When you have seasonal plumbing maintenance done, plumbers will check for leaks and clogs in your plumbing system. Depending on the time of year, your gutters and downspouts will be cleaned. It's also a good idea to have all the fixtures and appliances in your home inspected at this time.

Timely Repairs

Nobody wants to spend money on costly plumbing repairs, but spending a little bit now is better than spending a fortune in the future. Plumbing problems don't simply get better on their own, and most of them get worse if you don't do anything about them.

If you notice a problem with your plumbing, you should have professional plumbers get it fixed right away. Whether you're dealing with a small leak or a decrease in water pressure throughout your Katy, TX , home, fixing problems now prevents them from getting worse. Over time, leaks get bigger and bigger and will eventually cause significant water damage and a spike in your water bill.

The best way to make sure you're not letting plumbing problems get worse is to have plumbers you can call as soon as something goes wrong. Between the cost of major repairs and the convenience of having a problem-free plumbing system, it's always worth spending a little money to have plumbing problems fixed.

Drain Tips

Something a lot of homeowners don't think about is the effect they have on their drains. While plumbers do their best to make sure your plumbing system can handle what you put down the drains, there are some things they simply can't handle.

Flushable wipes are one of the biggest things you should stay away from when it comes to drain clogs. While these wipes are marketed as being safe to flush, they don't break down well in water and tend to cause clogs. Other clog-causing items people commonly flush include makeup products, menstrual products and cotton swabs.

When it comes to your kitchen sink, you should put as little food down the drain as possible. Even if you have a garbage disposal, your sink drain simply isn't designed to handle a bunch of food going down it. Some things, such as bones, stringy foods and grease, are especially bad to put down the drain.

Harsh drain cleaners are another thing you should avoid putting down your drains. While Drano may be one of the most popular drain cleaners, most plumbers would tell you to stay far away from it. The chemicals in harsh drain cleaners can damage pipes, which is why it's always better to use an enzyme-based drain cleaner.

Preparing for Winter

Every winter, you need to make sure you're preparing your plumbing for the cold weather. Preventing frozen pipes is the most important part of making sure your home is ready for winter. While there are some little things you can do yourself, you can always call a plumber to make sure everything is in order.

First off, you need to shut off and drain your hose bib to keep it from freezing. Since hose bibs are located on outside walls with little or no insulation, they're the most likely to freeze. If you've got pipes in poorly insulated areas or on exterior walls, you might consider wrapping them with a heat cable to keep them from freezing.

Fixtures and Appliances

Every once in a while, you should take a look at the fixtures and appliances in your Katy, TX , home. While plumbers are more likely to spot a problem with a faucet or water heater, there are plenty of more obvious problems, too.

The main thing you want to watch out for is leaking, but strange noises and smells are also common signs of a problem. If you notice a loud noise every time you use hot water or a moldy smell in your bathroom, you should have somebody take a look at it.

Simplify Things

As important as it is to stay on top of plumbing maintenance, it isn't easy. Aside from calling plumbers to take care of major seasonal maintenance, it's also important to know what you should and shouldn't do if you want your plumbing to last.

Fortunately, the plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston are here for all your plumbing maintenance and repair needs. Whether you need to set up a seasonal maintenance schedule, have a major problem fixed or get your plumbing prepared for winter, we can help. Next time you need top-quality plumbing maintenance and repairs, call bluefrog at (346) 222-5848.

Do You Need a Tankless Water Heater? | Cypress, TX

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Spok83 at Shutterstock

Having a water heater in your Cypress, TX , home is a huge luxury, especially when you consider the alternative. However, your water heater might not always be enough to keep your home supplied with hot water, especially if you've got an older model or a smaller water heater. On top of that, households that use a lot of hot water may have problems. This is why a lot of homeowners opt for tankless water heaters or point-of-use heaters that are designed to provide hot water on demand. If you're wondering whether making the upgrade to point-of-use tankless water heater s is worth it, here's what you need to know.

Point-of-Use Water Heater Basics

Traditional water heaters store a certain amount of water in a tank and heat it up for use in your home. While this does a good job of providing you with hot water, it can also leave you with no hot water at times. Tankless heaters provide hot water on demand but may not be able to supply everything in your home at once.

The best way to make sure you're getting enough hot water to every fixture and appliance in your home is to make use of point-of-use water heaters. While not all point-of-use water heaters are tankless, many of today's most popular models are. These water heaters are designed to be installed in a bathroom or kitchen near fixtures and appliances that need a lot of hot water. Since each water heater provides water to one or two fixtures, you always have enough hot water to shower, wash your hands and more.

Just like tankless water heater s, you have to make sure your point-of-use water heaters provide enough hot water for your Cypress, TX , home. The best way to determine this is to have a plumber calculate your hot water needs.

Price Comparison

One of the most important things to consider if you're thinking about having point-of-use water heaters installed in your home is the cost. Not only do you have to consider how much it costs to have the water heaters installed, you also have to think about operating cost.

If there's one thing you have to come to terms with when it comes to point-of-use water heaters, it's the large upfront investment. While it's not necessarily a huge jump in price from installing a single water heater, you're going to have to spend a bit more to have three or four water heaters installed. You also have to consider the difference between tank-type and tankless water heater s.

In terms of operating cost, you don't have a ton to worry about with point-of-use water heaters. Installing a point-of-use tankless water heater means you're only heating as much water as you need for each fixture, which can actually save you money compared to keeping 50 gallons of water hot. While you're unlikely to see huge savings, operating cost isn't something you have to worry about.

Tankless vs. Tank-Type

When you're shopping for point-of-use water heaters for your home, you have your choice between tank-type and tankless water heaters. The type of water heater you choose not only determines how much you have to spend upfront, it also impacts future performance and water heating bill costs.

One easy way to look at the differences between tank-type and tankless point-of-use water heaters is to compare them to full-size models. While a tank-type water heater may cost a little bit less upfront, it has a potentially higher operating cost since it has to keep a tank of water at a specified temperature until you use it. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, heats water when you need it so you aren't unnecessarily heating water.

Ultimately, both tank-type and tankless water heaters are great if you're looking for a point-of-use model. The type of water heater you choose depends on what you need for your home and how much you're willing to invest. The bottom line is, both of these types of water heaters are solid if you're opting for a point-of-use water heater.

Finding the Right Model

Once you've decided what type of point-of-use water heater you want, the next thing you need to choose is a brand and model. Whether you're looking for tank-type or tankless water heaters, it's important to do your research and make sure you're choosing a water heater that's built to last and guaranteed by the manufacturer.

Arguably the biggest thing to look for is a good warranty. While a reputable name plays a big role in weeding through the best tankless water heaters, one of the easiest ways to find quality products is to look for a brand that guarantees its water heaters. Keep in mind that water heaters aren't made to last incredibly long, so you shouldn't expect an incredibly long warranty.

As important as the warranty is, it's not something you should have to worry about if you buy your tankless water heaters from a reputable brand. If you don't want to worry about repairing or replacing the water heater in your Cypress, TX , home a few years after you buy it, shopping for a plumber-recommended model is a good start.

Upgrade Your Home

You deserve the very best when it comes to comfort and convenience in your home, which is why upgrading your hot water system with tankless water heaters is such a worthwhile investment. The good news is, you can upgrade your water heater without spending a fortune or having to sit on your computer doing research all day.

If you want to make sure you always have hot water in your Cypress, TX , home, call the pros at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . Not only can we help you find the perfect water heater setup for your home, we can also get it installed right so you can count on it all year long. To schedule an appointment or find out more about replacing your water heater, call us at (346) 222-5848 today.

The Most Common Causes of Clogged Drains | Tips from Your Trusted Katy, TX Drain Cleaning Service Provider

Sat, 21 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By New Africa at Shutterstock

Clogged or slow-running drains are no fun, but that's a problem most homeowners are likely to encounter at some point. Whether you have a buildup of scum in your shower or bathroom sink drain or there's some kind of food clogging up your kitchen sink, there are a lot of ways to clog a drain in your Katy, TX , home. Even worse, you can end up spending a fortune having drain cleaning services come to your home over and over again. If you want to keep your drains clean and avoid calling plumbers all the time, check out these common causes of drain clogs.

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper is designed to break down in your toilet and drain pipes so it doesn't clog things up, but that's only if you don't use too much. Using too much toilet paper is especially a problem in households with small children, but it's something plenty of adults are guilty of too.

While using too much toilet paper probably doesn't warrant a call to a drain cleaning service , it may be the reason your toilet seems to be clogged most of the time. As the toilet paper breaks down over time, your toilet will eventually unclog and function normally again.

Flushable Wipes

As great of an idea as flushable wipes are, the fact of the matter is they aren't as flushable as they're made out to be. While toilet paper will eventually break down in pipes, flushable wipes are known to be some of the biggest culprits when it comes to clogged drains. Even if a wipe is marketed as flushable, it's best to avoid products like that altogether.

If you do use flushable wipes for a long period of time, you're almost guaranteed to have to call a drain cleaning service to remove a clog at some point.

Hair and Soap

When it comes to the bathroom drains in your Katy, TX , home, chances are you're dealing with clogs caused by hair and soap. Whether you've got people shaving in your shower or bathroom sink or simply a lot of people using the shower, hair and soap clogs are always a risk.

The only real way to prevent having to call a drain cleaning service for hair and soap clogs is to put a strainer over drains where these clogs are a problem. You can find cheap strainers that fit over your shower drain to keep it clean, but you may want to consult a plumber when it comes to preventing clogs in your bathroom sink.

Grease

Grease clogs are one of the most common reasons people call drain cleaning service s. As much as professionals stress the importance of not putting grease down any drains, there are a lot of homeowners who still do it. The fact of the matter is, grease will eventually harden in your drains and it's almost guaranteed to cause a clog.

If you have a clog in your kitchen sink and you commonly dump grease down it, you need to call a drain cleaning service. In the future, you should keep a jar on hand that you can fill with grease and dispose of in the garbage. While rinsing a bit of grease out of pans is inevitable, you should get as much of it in the garbage as you can.

Food

Many homeowners think having a garbage disposal means you can simply put anything in your kitchen sink, but that's not the case. If you want to avoid spending a fortune on drain cleaning services, you should do your best to put as much food in the garbage can as you possibly can. As easy as it may seem to put everything in the garbage disposal, you should consider it a last defense for any food you do get in your kitchen sink drain.

There are some foods you should very specifically avoid putting down your garbage disposal, such as animal bones, stringy foods and coffee grounds.

Roots

While you can do a lot to prevent drain clogs, there are times you'll have to call a plumber where you couldn't have prevented it. Aside from putting the wrong stuff down drains, physical obstructions are one of the most common causes of drain clogs. Often times, these clogs are a result of a root that's grown into a pipe in your plumbing system.

The worst part about clogs that are caused by roots is that they can be tough to diagnose. You may have a plumber clean your pipes and remove what seems to be a clog, but the problem persists. This is a problem you need to have fixed right away.

Mineral Buildup

Although the things that go down your drain are what usually cause clogs, you may also have a clog in a pipe because of a mineral buildup. When there's a thick enough mineral buildup on the inside of the pipe, the inside diameter of that pipe reaches a point where water flow is severely restricted.

If you've got pipes with a lot of mineral buildup inside, it's best to replace them instead of calling a drain cleaning service. On top of that, you might want to consider installing a whole-house water softener if you've got hard water that's causing that mineral buildup.

A Last Resort

Hopefully you're taking good care of the drains in your Katy, TX , home and preventing clogs, but you never know when a clog will strike. The best thing you can do is take preventative steps to reduce the risks of clogs in your home.

If you do have a clog that you simply can't seem to take care of, the folks at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston are here to help. Our drain cleaning services experts can get your pipes unclogged in a hurry so you can resume business as usual. To get your drains flowing smoothly again, give bluefrog of Northwest Houston a call at (346) 222-5848.

7 Things to Consider Before Hiring a Plumbing Repair Company | Spring, TX

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Dean Drobot at Shutterstock

The first step to making sure your plumbing system is in its best shape is to pick a qualified plumber to take care of any repairs and maintenance your home needs. This is crucial for the success of the repair work and the longevity of your household plumbing.

When it comes to something as important to your home as plumbing repair , you should always make sure you have a dependable Spring, TX company in charge. But how do you choose the right repair service for your home?

If you follow a few simple steps, you can greatly increase your chances of finding the right Spring, TX plumbing repair service for your home.

Confirm Their Qualifications

One of the first things you should learn about a plumbing repair company is its professional qualifications. Only a technician that is properly trained to handle something as important as repairs to your plumbing system should be allowed to work on it.

You should be able to find out what licenses and certifications a plumbing repair company has very easily. Start by checking the company's website. You should find any information you need regarding the licenses they claim.

You can verify that this information is true by checking the state plumbing contractor licenses online. Here, you will find out if the contractor licensing is up to date.

Another thing that your repair tech should have is experience. There are many lessons about repairing a plumbing system that can only be learned on the job.

Finally, you should confirm that the company is fully insured. This is the only way you and your property will be protected if an accident occurs.

Make Sure They Offer Emergency Plumbing Repair Around the Clock

If you are like most people, you have home emergencies that don't follow the clock. Often, you will need your plumbing repair technician after hours, on weekends, or even on a holiday.

You should look for a company that offers emergency plumbing repair services any time of the day, every day of the year. And you should make your decision before an emergency happens.

You should know that most plumbing repair services offer around-the-clock emergency repair, but it could cost you. In Spring, TX , bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston offers emergency repair services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and there's never a fee for after hours, weekends, or holidays.

Ask Them for Local References or Referrals

Most plumbers have a website that includes testimonials and reviews of that company's work. This is a great place to start but don't rely solely on it to make your decision.

You could check some independent sites online that offer reviews of local businesses. It might give you more information to go on, from an unbiased source.

But the best way to find out how satisfied a company's customers are with their work is to ask the company for some references or referrals. You should have no trouble finding a local source to give you their perspective.

Understand that you are not being rude by asking for referrals. If you wanted a job, you would be expected to provide verification about your skills and work ethic. This is no different.

A professional plumbing company will have no problem providing you with the resource you need to make a qualified decision. All you have to do is ask.

Get an Estimate for Services Before You Hire

Never sign a contract with a plumbing service without getting a quote for charges first. This is important for a lot of reasons.

First, your estimate shows the work that your plumber knows has to be done, along with the charges for those services. While other problems sometimes surface before the job is done, your estimate constitutes an agreement between you and your plumbing company about the services and parts you will be billed for.

Your quote is your protection against price gouging and being charged for fraudulent services. Any professional will make sure you get an estimate before you hire them.

Another reason is simply that you have the right to compare prices and plumbing services. It is your home, and you have every right to be picky about who works on it.

Choose Quality Before Cost

Ok, it's important to compare costs between plumbing service companies. But be smart about choosing the right bargain.

Some unlicensed plumbing repair workers offer fantastic prices for repairs. They claim they can provide the same services as any licensed plumber.

The problem is, if that were true, they would charge a fair market rate for services, just like any Spring, TX plumber. And even if the services are adequate, you will get no guarantees and the work could take a lot longer to finish.

Another thing to look for in a price that seems too good to be true is that it is not just the starting price for repair. If there are any hidden fees to be added on after the job, you need to find out now.

Instead of jumping for the lowest price, make sure that you are getting first-rate quality of work. This is ultimately the most important factor in finding a repair service that you can trust to keep your plumbing in top shape.

Know What is Included in Your Maintenance Contract

The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all standard contract for plumbing maintenance. One company's services that are covered can vary greatly from those of another

Take the time to read your maintenance contract in full. If there are any points that you don't understand, ask your repair technician for clarification. Your plumber can explain the details, if they are unclear.

This knowledge will help you understand what services bluefrog Plumbing + Drain will provide, if you should need further work in the future. Your contract will stipulate any maintenance work that they will be responsible for, and how often.

Things to Know About Your Home’s Plumbing System | Tips from Your Trusted Plumber in The Heights, TX

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Yunus Malik at Shutterstock

Plumber s are integral to your home's plumbing system. They keep it running smoothly and efficiently and they handle any emergencies that pop up, setting things right again within your home in The Heights, TX . Here’s a look into some firsthand knowledge from trusted plumbers that will help you maintain a healthy plumbing system.

Detecting Leaks

Leaks are not only costly because they run up your water bill. They can also cost thousands of dollars in property damage if left undetected. Protecting your home's pipe system is the best way to prevent expensive leaks. While there are some things to look for when checking out your home to see if you have a leak afoot, leaks are not always easy to spot.

Because leaks often occur around joints, keep a look out for water spots on the ceiling, wet spots on your floor, and sagging floorboards near sources of water, such as bathtubs and washers. Mildew on floor, carpets or walls is another sign that moisture is leaking into your home, possibly from a leaking pipe. If the ground around your home is damp or wet, then you may have a leak that needs sniffing out. Furthermore, check for a sudden increase in your water bill with no uptick in usage, and be on the lookout for a change in water pressure, which can indicate water being lost somewhere throughout the pipe system. Maintain the area beneath your sinks, keeping them free from clutter so that you can easily spot leaks and drips if they spring up.

Protection for Your Pipes

Pipes that are protected from damage see the least number of leaks. Inexpensive and easy-to-install foam tubes can help. These foam tubes serve not just to protect the pipes running through your home from external damage, but also from damage due to frozen water inside, which expands and can cause cracking and leaking. The foam staves off this damage by serving as insulation.

Be Weather Aware

When the weatherman forecasts freezing temps or if you go away during the winter on vacay, it's a good idea to open your exterior taps to allow a slight amount of water to flow. This will prevent frozen pipes from outdoor faucets around your home in The Heights, TX . Be sure to remove your home's hoses from any exterior faucets when fall comes to a close. Failing to do so can lead to frozen water in the pipes leading to the hose tap, which can cause freezing and damage. Close all interior valves that work to control your exterior faucets, and then drain any water from those faucets too.

Some TLC for Your H2O Heater

Let's face it; without hot water, life comes to a screeching standstill until the plumber arrives. You can't bathe, wash dishes, or do laundry. But with a little TLC for your water heater, you can put the plumber 's visit on hold. The key to a properly running and functioning water heater is maintenance. Drain your water heater's pipes annually. This removes sediment that sinks to the bottom and eventually erodes the heater. Insulate pipes running into and from the heater with foam tubes. Keep an eye on the pressure relief valve by lifting its handle and allowing it to snap back down from time to time. You'll know it's working appropriately if you see steam escape from the valve. And remember, keep the temperature at no more than 120 degrees F. This avoids scalds and saves on energy costs while preventing your heater from working too hard.

Also, know when it's time to throw in the proverbial towel and go for a new hot water heater instead. If yours is eight years old or older, and it's starting to give you trouble, it may be a sounder financial move to just buy a new one as opposed to patching it with parts or keeping your plumber on speed dial.

Be Kind to Your Toilet

Little items stuck in the toilet can lead to big clogs and costly visits by your plumber. Be sure that everyone in your home—from youngest to oldest—knows what you can and cannot flush down the toilet. Big no-no's include feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, paper towels, and cooking grease. Ashtrays emptied down the toilet can cause major problems too. And it goes without saying that toy cars and doll shoes should never go into the toilet either.

A locking lid to keep kids of tender years from tossing little items in the toilet is a wise investment in most homes. It also doesn't hurt to keep a wet/dry vac on hand, which can be instrumental in reaching a toy or other obstruction without calling out your plumber, especially since plunging often sends the obstruction further down the pipe, causing a more complex clog.

Give Your Sump Pump Some Love

Sump pumps are godsends if you have an area of the home that's prone to flooding, so keeping yours running efficiently is always a good way to fend off visits by your plumber. Be sure to clean your pump's inlet screen at least once per season and test the pump each season by pouring water into its basin. This should cause the pump to start once the float inside rises to the top. And be sure it's turned on. Nothing's worse than a flooding situation that is made worse because everyone assumed the pump was plugged in when it was not.

And Last but Not Least

Know when it's time to call out a pro plumber . While a few DIY moves can save you money, not all plumbing jobs can be done by even the most avid DIYer. Keep bluefrog Plumbing + Drain in Houston at the top of your list for all your plumbing needs in The Heights, TX . We'll hop on over 24/7 to help.

6 Plumbing Repairs You Should Never DIY | Tips from Your Reliable Plumber in The Woodlands, TX

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Monkey Business Images at Shutterstock

DIYing can be rewarding and can save you money in some instances, but there are a few plumbing jobs that require a plumber' s special skills, training and expertise. And while DIY may seem simple enough (cleaning the showerhead to improve water pressure or removing a toy from the toilet drain with a shop-vac), the truth is that some home plumbing jobs require a trained eye and special equipment that most average homeowners just don't have. You wouldn't call out a roofer to pull your tooth, right? The same logic applies to some of the most frequent service calls that plumber s see in The Woodlands, TX, area. Let's run down a few scenarios where it's always best to err on the side of calling out the big guns.

Rapid Leak from Water Supply Line

If you ever experience a rapid leak from a supply line in your plumbing system, you may feel like you're in the midst of a slapstick comedy. But the damage that results is anything but funny. A water line bursting in your home can lead to major flooding and thousands of dollars in damages. And while these breaks aren't common, you need to have your plumber 's number ready so that you can react quickly. But first, find the shut-off valve nearest to the leak and turn it off. If that's not possible find the main water supply valve and shut the water off to the whole house. Then get on the horn to your plumber ; locating and repairing a pipe with a catastrophic leak is beyond the scope of most folks. Don't risk it.

No Water in the Home, Anywhere

Assuming the utility company has not shut your water off for non-payment, then a scenario such as this can be ominous and definitely requires a call for service from your local plumber . In most cases where water stops flowing in a home, the problem is localized to just one specific spot, such as a kitchen sink or a bathtub. It is a rare event that you have no water in the home at all.

Do a quick check of all taps within the home to be sure that none of them permit water flow when turned. Check both hot and cold taps; this may help indicate a problem with the water heater, as cold water will still be delivered if the tank is not heating hot water.

A likely but not-too-common problem may be that a buried pipe leading from your meter has been damaged or has burst, and water is no longer being diverted into your home. The leak may also be around your home's water meter. A professional will need to be brought in to determine where the leak is located and make necessary repairs.

Sewer Line Leaks and Odors

If you're noticing smelly water or mushy, murky soil gathering in pools in the yard, you may have a blocked or broke sewage line. Other signs include a bathtub or toilet filling up with wastewater when you run the tap or flush. Your main sewer line is paramount to the functioning of your plumbing system. It is the line that carries wastewater from sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, washers, and dishwasher. Until it's repaired, life can pretty much come to a standstill. Again, this is a job for a professional, not a DIYer, even the smartest DIYer. A plumber comes equipped with sewage inspection equipment that can help him to find the problem and fix it quickly so that you and your family can get on with your lives.

Rapid Drainage Line Leaking

While the trap located just below your bathroom or kitchen sink can likely be installed by most homeowners when there's a leak, the same cannot be said of the drainage lines that lie just beyond that trap. These lines are not easily accessible, so if you find that a drainage line has an active leak but is out of reach beyond a wall or beneath your floor, the time to call out a plumber is at hand. Doing so right away can prevent additional costly damage to your floor, sub-floor, paint and drywall and also help you move on with your day without second-guessing if you've done the repair correctly.

Frozen Pipes

Texas weather can get very cold, and frozen pipes in The Woodlands, TX, is not uncommon. If you didn't take all the necessary precautions plumbers suggest, such as insulating your pipes with foam, so on, prior to freezing weather, you may find yourself with frozen pipes. Look for frost on exposed piping and taps that have nothing coming from them. If the ice inside expands to the point where the pipe cracks, you'll have a major league when the pipes thaw. Fixing it yourself is likely not an option, since reconnecting sections of pipe that are cracked can be a big undertaking for a DIY homeowner. Call your professional plumbing service instead.

Natural Gas Leak from Water Heater

Gas leaks are nothing to play with. If you smell a natural gas leak in the home and cannot locate where it's coming from, open the home's windows and doors and then call a plumber from outside. You should also call your gas company, especially if the odor is near your home's gas meter. Oftentimes the source of a leak is the water heater. Modern gas water heaters have a flame sensor that automatically shuts off the gas if the pilot light is not engaged, so if you smell gas near the area where your water heater is installed, something is definitely amiss. Leads could be coming from flexible or rigid pipes running to the heater, or you may have a faulty flame sensor. Either way, don't delay in having it checked out by a pro.

Count on bluefrog Plumbing + Drain to handle all of your emergency plumbing needs in The Woodlands, TX . Our techs are ready to hop to the challenge.

How to Select a New Water Heater | Tips from Your Trusted Tomball, TX Water Heater Repair Service Provider

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Minerva Studio at Shutterstock

So, you called a plumber for water heater repair and found out you need a replacement instead. Having to select a new water heater is actually a great problem. Sure, it's not going to be the cheapest expense ever. However, modern water heaters are often more compact and can save you money on your utility bill compared to their old counterparts. Additionally, a new unit can also reduce the need for frequent water heater repair when taken care of correctly. The crucial step is to understand how to select the right water heater unit for your needs.

Electric vs Gas Water Heaters

The first question to answer is the type of energy source you have for your water heater. A gas water heater uses natural gas or propane to heat the unit. Alternatively, an electric water heater is plugged into an outlet and uses your home's electricity. However, just because your old water heater used one type of energy source, doesn't mean you can't choose a different kind for your new unit.

Gas Water Heaters

There are advantages to each choice. A gas water heater is a higher upfront cost but is more affordable to operate long-term. Gas water heaters also have a faster turnaround time after hot water is depleted, so your home is always supplied with warm water. However, a gas water heater may not be an option for some households as the unit must be vented outside. It also can cost more when it comes to hot water repair for gas units.

Electric Water Heaters

Most homes have electric water heaters. They are straightforward to install and maintain. Additionally, hot water repair for electrical units is more affordable most of the time. When looking at the big picture, though, the electric water heater can be more expensive overall due to the cost of the electricity used.

In general, you should choose what matches the majority of your major appliances. If most things are gas-operated, then you should consider selecting a gas water heater.

Choosing the Size of Your Water Heater

Next, you'll want to analyze the size of the water heater you'll need. Typically, you select the size depending on the number of people in the house. Also, think about the amount of water your entire household uses during "heavy water use" seasons.

When considering units, most manufacturers include recommendations on their labels. For example, a family of four would look at a 50-60-gallon water heater or larger. However, this is just an estimate and can vary quite a bit from family to family. For example, a family that uses three or more water appliances in a single hour will require a larger tank than a family that is more water-conservative.

Choosing the right size for the water heater is crucial. Selecting a unit that is too small can result in never having enough hot water for the household. Or, the system will be overworked due to the significant demand and will require constant calls to the plumber for water heater repair . Alternatively, a water heater that's too big means you will have more massive utility bills than necessary as the unit keeps heating water that you're not even using.

Lastly, when choosing a model, consider the unit's FHR (first-hour rating). This rating tells you how much water the unit will heat in a set amount of time. FHR, combined with the unit's size, can give you a more accurate idea of what your household will need.

Types of Water Heaters

After deciding on the energy source and the sizing, you will have to determine the type of water heater you want.

Traditional Water Heater

A traditional water heater is the most popular choice found in many homes. Ranging in sizes between 20-80 gallons, this type of water heater holds the water inside its tank. As hot water releases from the top of the tank, it's replaced with cold water at the bottom. As these units are so standard, they are also the cheapest for future instances when you require water heater repair . However, as the system keeps a reservoir of hot water always available, there is energy wasted through constant heating.

Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are modern and compact, making them a perfect option for smaller homes. They also save homeowners money as they're not continually heating a tank full of water to be on standby. Tankless water heaters provide a constant stream of hot water and are available in both gas or electric models. In general, tankless units require less frequent calls for water heater repair.

Hybrid Water Heater

A hybrid water heater has the tank of a traditional water heater but uses a heat pump to heat the water on demand. This type of unit is a more costly option. Along with high upfront costs, hybrid water heaters are complicated to install and require frequent maintenance. If homeowners don't keep up with regular filter cleaning, they will be up for numerous water heater repair calls to their local plumber. Hybrid water heaters require a lot of space and a drain (as they produce compensation). This option is best for people who don't mind the investment and live in warmer climates, as this type of unit can't handle extreme cold.

Point-of-Use Water Heater

A point-of-use water heater delivers hot water exclusively to one faucet or sink. They are often added to existing systems, utility rooms, or tiny homes.

Professional Installation

Always hire a professional plumber for water heater repair or installation. Before you assume you need to replace your unit, a professional may be able to save it. If it is time for a replacement, a plumber can make recommendations on which system to purchase and can install it risk-free.

bluefrog Plumbing Tomball, TX Offers Water Heater Repair & Installation

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain has been serving the community of Tomball, TX , for years. bluefrog offers its clients the expertise they need for everything about water heaters, from water heater repair to installations and unit recommendations. Serving both commercial and residential customers, bluefrog Plumbing in the Tomball, TX offers free diagnostic and no overtime charges. Call today for water heater repair or installation.

Do You Need an Emergency Plumber? | Cypress, TX

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By kurhan at Shutterstock

Detecting a plumbing problem can be much easier said than done. After all, much of the plumbing system is out-of-sight and thus out-of-mind for Cypress, TX residents, meaning that it is very common for them to miss out on potential warning signs until something very blatant shows up. Unfortunately, such occurrences tend to be a serious problem that need to be corrected as soon as possible, which is something that interested individuals can do by contacting the right emergency plumber.

Having said that, choosing the right plumber in Cypress, TX isn't so simple and straightforward, meaning that interested individuals should read up on some of the characteristics that they should be looking for in their candidates. This is important because while interested individuals will be in a hurry, they need to make sure that they get everything right on the first go if they want to minimize the potential costs and complications. As a result, they need to exercise both care and consideration when making their choice for the purpose of protecting their interests.

What Are the Qualities that You Want in an Emergency Plumber?

Here are some examples of the characteristics that Cypress, TX residents should look for in an emergency plumber :

24/7 Service

First and foremost, an emergency plumber can't be considered an emergency plumber unless they offer 24/7 service. This is because plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, which in turn, means that the emergency provider of plumbing services must be prepared to move at any time. If one of their potential candidates can't come in for whatever reason, interested individuals should move on to the rest. After all, if they could afford to wait, they wouldn't be look for a plumber in the first place.

Ability to Solve the Problem

Second, emergency plumber s must be capable of handling the plumbing problems that have been entrusted to them. Unfortunately, it tends to be rather difficult for plumbers to come up with a perfect assessment of whether they can handle the plumbing problem or not until they have actually managed to get a good look at what is going on. As such, interested individuals will want to check out potential candidates with the known ability to handle a wide range of plumbing problems under a wide range of circumstances. There is no guarantee that their potential candidates will be capable of handling their exact plumbing problems, but the more versatile that said individuals happen to be, the better the chances of success in this regard. On the whole, choosing an emergency plumber with the best chances of success in solving a plumbing problem is critical for minimizing the potential costs and complications.

Expertise and Experience

Of course, interested individuals need to make sure that their chosen candidates are actually capable of handling the plumbing problem that will be entrusted to them based on their expertise and experience. After all, anyone can make any claim, meaning that it is a good idea to trust but verify when it comes to contractors. Since emergency plumbers get called in for emergencies, interested individuals won't be able to conduct the thorough checks that they would be capable of performing under better circumstances. However, that is no excuse for them to pass up on every potential check that there is. For instance, they should still look up the potential candidate's name on the Internet to see what their past customers have to say about them, which should take no more than a very short period of time in exchange for a huge measure of peace of mind.

Timeliness

Even when plumbers call themselves emergency plumbers, that doesn't necessarily mean that they can actually act with the timeliness needed to ensure the best results for their customers. The best candidates can get going with minimal delay, which is very important for a couple of reasons. One, being forced to wait while being unable to do anything can be an extremely frustrating situation for those who need help. Two, timely assistance will be decisive in minimizing the damage done by the plumbing problem that necessitated emergency plumbing services.

Preparedness

Those who provide emergency plumbing services should have all of the plumbing tools, equipment, and supplies that they need with them at all times. After all, if they find out that they need something that they don't have on mind, they aren't going to be able to buy it from a store when it is during the middle of the night. For that matter, if someone who provides emergency plumbing services is so sloppy when it comes to something so fundamental, chances are good that same sloppiness will extend to the rest of their work in other ways as well. Something that doesn't bode well for the ultimate results for their customers.

Thoroughness

On a related note, the people who provide emergency plumbing services should be thorough. In fact, they should be even more thorough than their counterparts because the consequences of an error can be so much more severe thanks to the seriousness of the situation. It can be difficult to gauge a potential candidate's thoroughness, but there are nonetheless some things that can offer insight. For example, if a plumber makes sure to put on the appropriate protective equipment even when they are performing emergency plumbing, that can be interpreted as an encouraging sign because they are still keeping the fundamentals in mind. Likewise, if a plumber offers warranties on their work, that shows their seriousness as a professional because it acknowledges their potential to make mistakes in spite of their expertise and experience.

Contact Us

Need emergency plumbing services? Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for further information as soon as time permits. We understand the urgency of such situations, which is why we make sure to answer interested individuals' questions in a swift manner so that they can make the right choices for themselves as soon as possible.

Signs That You Need Water Heater Repair | Tomball, TX

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By darksoul72 at Shutterstock

A water heater has proven to be a necessity in the majority of households. Most activities of everyday living, including showering, laundry, cooking and dish cleaning, require the use of warm or hot water.

Just like any other mechanical component, a heating system is bound to malfunction from time to time either due to wear and tear or because of physical hits. As a homeowner, it's essential to know the signs that indicate you need a water heater repair .

Age of Your Heater

While you can try to prolong the lifespan of your water heater by regularly maintaining it, the chances are that it will reach its maximum working level at some point. The most challenging bit is that most homeowners don't realize when a water heater reaches its expiration date. Being unaware of this may lead to high risks once the water heater starts to act out.

Most water heaters last between eight to ten years. If your water heater has reached this age, it's highly likely that it isn't working as it should. It can cause you to spend a lot more on your electricity bills.

It's crucial at this point that you reach out to a professional water heater repair technician in Tomball, TX . They will help you assess the situation and advise you whether you need a repair or replacement.

No Hot Water

A hot shower is one of the essential parts of our day to day lives. After a long day, it relaxes you for the night. Therefore, it could be quite hectic once you turn on your shower and realize you don't have hot water.

If you try to make adjustments on your thermostat and it still fails to work, you might be having a significant problem with your water heating system. There might be a leak in the water heater that can result in water merging around the base area.

Another factor that could cause the water heater to lose heat is if mineral deposits accumulate in the system. If the deposits build up over a long period, they may cover the heating elements in the water heating system, barring them from functioning as required. You must call a water heater repair technician to find out if you need a repair for the system rather than buying a new one.

Fluctuating Water Temperatures

If you notice a frequent swing in the water temperatures of your heater, it's a visible indication that there is a defect in your water heater. The temperatures might be ranging from too hot, sometimes lukewarm and other times excessively cold.

With the help of a professional water heater repair technician in Tomball, TX , you could find out what causes the irregularities. It's also vital that you recall when you first purchased the heater. It enables the technician to make estimations on the level of repair needed, or if it's too old, you might need a replacement.

Water Discoloration

It's irrefutable that any water coming from your taps should be colorless. Sometimes when there is too much pressure in the water, it may tend to be somehow hazy, but once the pressure is low, it should become colorless.

Therefore, if you notice dark or brownish particles or even brownish water, the heater may be having a problem. However, the discoloration may not only be coming from the heater but also rusty pipes and inlet valves. The problem is, it's not easy to distinguish where the rust is mainly coming from at all times.

If your piping system is made up of galvanized pipes, the rust could be forming from the inside. For you to find out whether the rust is from the pipes or not, you should drain some buckets of hot water from the tank. If the water is still rusty after several buckets, then the tank may be compromised.

It's a visible indication that it's time a professional comes in to check your water heater. Rusty water may pose a health hazard to you and your family. Considering a water heater repair technician in Tomball, TX , would be the first step to fix your rule.

Weird Noises

It's not unusual for any appliance to produce some noise while working. However, like the water heating system ages, it may start building a low buzzing sound, then after a while, there might be banging, popping and cracking noises. It should alert you of a defect in the heater.

In most instances, a noisy water heater is the consequence of the accumulation of mineral deposits in the tank and progressively on the heating elements. Other rare cases could be that the water heater has a broken dip tube, which results in the mixing of cold and hot water.

You must seek the help of a water heater repair technician in Tomball, TX , because once the noise progresses, it may weaken the build-up of your heater, causing it to form delicate lines and eventually start leaking.

If your system hasn't progressed to the leaking level, a water heater repair technician can flush all water in the heating system and clean the inside of your heater. This way, the noises will stop, and you will have a functioning water heater.

Low Water Pressure

Other than reducing the efficiency of your water heating elements, the accumulation of mineral deposits may block the pipes within the system, causing a reduction in the pressure of water coming out of your water heating system. Therefore, having a water heater repair technician coming to check the heating system regularly is fundamental.

Other factors that may cause reduced pressure include poor designing of the system and kinked lines of distribution.

Know What to Expect with A Malfunctioning Water Heater

You don't want to turn on your shower one morning, and it fails to produce hot water. It can get to your nerves. A regular maintenance check by a bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston may be the best way to avoid surprises and a cold bath in winter!

Everything You Need to Know About Slab Leak Repair | Spring, TX

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By mohamadhafizmohamad at Shutterstock

Do you have a basement under your Spring, TX home? If you don't then it means that your home is actually resting on what's called a slab. This is a solid, concrete patch that provides structure and support for everything above it. As you can definitely tell, it's something that's extremely important. When you develop a leak under the slab, however, it can result in a whole lot of problems for your entire house, because it can damage the structural integrity of your home.

What is a Slab Leak?

When we're talking about a slab leak we're talking about the copper pipes that run underneath the slab of your home. These are the same pipes that are running throughout your house, but if the leak happens above that slab, such as in your wall or ceiling, they're actually called pinhole leaks instead. So, what's the big deal about a slab leak and what should you know so you can make sure that you're able to get the problem taken care of and get your slab leak repair as soon as possible?

How it Happens

So, just how does a slab leak actually hap0pen? The truth is there are a number of different reasons that you might need slab leak repair . First, there could have been damage when the pipes were actually damaged. Have you ever watched the process of building a house? If you have then you've probably seen that it's messy and clumsy and that things can definitely get dropped or banged around. If the pipes are banged around when they're being installed, however, it could cause damage. If they're not installed right in the first place (whether they're damaged or not) that can also cause problems before you even start.

Next, if your house shifts it can shift the way weight is distributed across the foundation and that can result in more serious strain on the pipes. Shifting in your house can occur as a result of a number of things and can actually be a normal course of events over time. If you live in an area with tornados, however, this can be even more likely because the strong winds can push the house. This causes a lot of undue pressure on the pipes under your slab, which they're just not ready for.

Next, if your pipes aren't well protected under the house they could actually result in problems. Pipes that are set on or too close to gravel, concrete or other pipes could actually be damaged as a result. That's because all of these things rub against each other and it can actually break down the exterior of the pipe. As the pipe breaks down it becomes less capable of performing the job that it's supposed to do and could even result in holes that can leak. And you won't know anything about it until you need slab leak repair .

Finally, pipes can corrode as time goes on. In fact, pipes that are underground are definitely going to corrode eventually, so you want to make sure that you're paying attention to the protection that your pipes have or had when they were installed. Soil causes the pipes to corrode and when they corrode they definitely start to develop leaks. Unfortunately, they could develop several leaks because of the way that corrosion happens and the way that they are made. And that's going to be a very serious slab leak repair .

Do You Need Help?

Is your slab leaking? Do you need slab leak repair ? Well, there are a few different ways that you can find out or at least that you can get a good idea. So, let's take a little closer look at what some of these things are and how you can make sure that you're aware as soon as possible of any problem with your slab. For one thing, you'll likely notice an increase in your water bill if you have any kind of leak, and especially if you have a slab leak. Watch out for any dramatic changes that don't have a logical cause (you just had a houseful of guests for the last month, for example).

You should also listen for running water or the sound of water in your home when you're not actually running anything. This is a sign that there's something running that shouldn't be. Likewise, if you notice a drop in the water pressure in your home it's a sign that something else is taking that water away. That could be a sign of a leak somewhere, but especially a leak that occurs under the house.

If you notice dampness or warmth under your floors or if you notice cracks in the walls or even moisture under carpeting these are also all signs that something is going on and that you may have a leak. That's because the leak starts to work its way up and into your home. As this happens it forces too much water into the floorboards and the walls, which will start to become waterlogged and rot from the bottom up. It's an extremely dangerous thing to happen and it means you need a whole lot more than just slab leak repair.

If you're concerned about a problem with the slab in your Spring, TX house then you're going to want to talk to bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of NW Houston about slab leak repair . Make sure you explain what's going on and get them out quickly to take a closer look at just what's going on in and around your home. You could find yourself with a very serious problem if you don't get slab leak repair done quickly. It's the foundation of your house that's seeing the problems and that's only going to cause more trouble and make a much more expensive problem as you continue to let it go.

Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions | From Your Katy, TX Plumber

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

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Certain questions seem to come up every week for plumbers in Katy, TX . While every home has its own individual plumbing system, they have a lot of the same common issues. From black specks in water to knocking pipes, chances are professionals in your area have already dealt with the same issue.

It may interest you to read about some of the most common plumbing questions plumbers in Katy, TX here. While these explanations are not a substitute for a proper plumbing assessment, they can give you a good idea of why something is happening.

Figuring out why a plumbing problem is occurring is the first step to getting it fixed. Use your knowledge to recognize problems as they occur and call local professionals to fix the problem before it becomes an emergency. Here are just a few of the most popular plumbing questions in Katy, TX .

Why Are There Black Specks in My Tap Water?

Black specks in your tap water can be very alarming, and they are a signal that something is wrong with your plumbing system. Generally, one of three things is causing them. Pipe corrosion is often a culprit because as old pipes start to corrode small pieces of rusty pipe can break off and come out through the cold water tap.

Second, it is possible that your water heater is corroding. Similar to the corroded pipes, small black specks from the water heater can break off, but if this is the case, you will notice them coming out of the hot water tap. Many people see the black specks appear on the sides of their showers, tub, or sinks.

Finally, if you notice that the black specks are somewhat rubbery, there is a good chance that they are disintegrated pieces of a washer, rubber gasket, or supply hose from somewhere in your plumbing system. Rubber is highly durable, but if the part has not been replaced in decades continual exposure to disinfectants in city water can break it down.

Regardless of the cause, black specks always demand a call to the plumbers . You don't want to accidentally drink black specks regardless of their cause. Most professionals will be able to take a look at where the black specks are coming from and isolate a cause fairly quickly.

Is High Water Pressure an Issue?

A lot of people love high water pressure because they feel it helps them clean things faster and they enjoy a steady beat on their back in the shower. However, as comforting as high-water pressure can feel, it may not be the best choice for your home.

The first place it can hurt is your wallet. For every ten minutes you consume water at a high-water pressure you waste anywhere from six to 26 gallons of water. This can quickly add up to a very costly water bill. Plus, it stresses out your home plumbing system which means you may be calling the plumbers more often than you like. Additionally, high water pressure can reduce the lifespan of your washing machine, dishwasher, and water heater. Unless the comfort of high-water pressure is worth hundreds of dollars to you, it may be time to rethink it.

Ideally your water pressure should be set somewhere between 45 and 55 PSI. Anything higher is considered excessive and can lead to pipes breaking or cracking, a reduced service life for plumbing fixtures, and leaks. If you constantly hear banging pipes, your toilet is always running, or your faucets are leaking then it may be a sign your water pressure is too high and you need to call the professionals. Of course, all of these signs can also indicate other issues with your plumbing, so if you notice any of them a call to the plumbers is in order.

Why Do My Pipes Make A Knocking Noise?

As briefly mentioned above, knocking pipes can indicate that there is a problem with your water pressure which is why you should call the plumbers if you notice the problem consistently. Pressure is important because it is what enables water to flow out your faucets from the piping system. Low water pressure can also cause the knocking noise, so both should be investigated.

However, there are many other causes for knocking pipes. For instance, sediment may be built up in your pipelines disrupting the flow leading to the knocking noise. The bottom line is your pipes should not be making any noises. If they are loud enough for you to notice then something is wrong and it is time to call the plumbers.

Why is My Water Cloudy?

Your water should not look like skim milk, so if it is starting to it may be time to call the plumbers in Katy, TX . Most often cloudy water is caused by air bubbles that are released by changes in temperature and pressure outside. Cold weather can be the cause of cloudy water, but if this is the case they should dissipate with some time. If the cloudy water does not disappear after sitting in an open glass for a few minutes then there is something else wrong.

On occasion dirt can get into your water supply. Dirt and sand diluted in the water create the cloudy color you see. Usually it is harmless and may not even taste that bad, but it certainly does not look appetizing. A sediment filter may be all it takes, but the plumbers can give you an expert opinion to make sure that there isn't something larger wrong causing the cloudy water.

Finally, if your water is cloudy and has a rotten egg smell to it this is a sign that hydrogen sulfur is in your water. Sulfur bacteria love to live in wells or plumbing where little oxygen is present. This can be caused by a malfunctioning water heater or your well. It is best to have the plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston test your water and then offer you solutions if it turns out that sulfur is responsible for the odor and color.

Is It Time for You to Get a Tankless Water Heater? | Cypress, TX

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By skimin0k at Shutterstock

People in Cypress, TX who are thinking about getting a new water heater should consider the full range of options that are available to them. This means that they should look at tankless water heaters , which possess a number of characteristics that can make them better-suited for interested individuals than their tanked counterparts under certain circumstances.

How Do You Know that It Is Time for You to Get a Tankless Water Heater?

For those who are curious in Cypress, TX , here are some indications that it might be time for them to look into tankless water heater s:

You Have an Aging Water Heater

Buying a new water heater is expensive. As a result, people in Cypress, TX shouldn't buy a tankless system unless their current water heater has exhausted most of its useful lifespan. Generally speaking, water heaters can be expected to last for 8 to 12 years. However, different patterns of use can result in very different degrees of wear and tear, meaning that this is by no means set in stone. Still, it is a useful general guideline for whether a particular water heater is coming to the end of its useful lifespan or not, meaning that interested individuals should keep in mind. Otherwise, if interested individuals can still get further usefulness out of their current water heater, they should stick with it for the time being unless they have a very pressing desire for something new.

You Desire Reduced Energy Use

There are a couple of main reasons why people might want reduced energy use from their water heaters. One, they want a lower energy bill. Two, they want to reduce their impact on the environment. Under the right circumstances, tankless water heater s can help interested individuals with both of these goals.

In short, tankless systems don't need to keep entire tanks of hot water ready for their owners' use. As a result, they don't need to use energy to keep their tanks of hot water at the right temperature for human use. Instead, they just need energy to heat the water as hot water becomes necessary, thus making for a fair amount of potential savings. Over time, this can result in a very noticeable difference on the energy bill. Moreover, less energy means less consumption of the resources needed to create that energy, thus making for less of an impact on the environment as well.

You Desire Increased Availability of Hot Water

On a related note, one of the biggest issues with tanked water heaters is that their tanks can store limited amounts of hot water. Once a tank has run out, the water heater that is attached to that tank can be refilled with more hot water. However, it will take time for said water to reach the necessary temperature, thus making for quite a wait. In contrast, the hot water that comes out of tankless water heater s is always heated on the spot, meaning that interested individuals can get as much hot water as they need and want. There is still a bit of wait time for the water to heat, but this is something that can be managed in various ways. Due to this, people who want a more readily available source of hot water for more people living in the same space can find that tankless systems are an excellent choice for their particular needs and circumstances.

You Are Planning to Stay with Your Current Home for a Long Time

One of the curious upsides of tankless water heaters compared to their tanked counterparts is that they can be expected to last longer. To be exact, some models of tankless systems are estimated to have expected useful lifespans of 20 years or more so long as they receive the proper maintenance, which is about twice as long as their tanked counterparts. However, this is situationally useful. For instance, if someone needs a new water heater but knows that they won't be staying in their current home for a long period of time, getting a tankless water heater means that they won't be able to extract all of the value from its expected useful lifespan. That doesn't necessarily mean that tankless systems can't still be worth it even when interested individuals won't be around for the full period of time, but it does make them less pleasing than under other conditions.

You Are Short on Living Space

Living space is a valuable commodity. As a result, chances are good that most people in Cypress, TX are less than enthusiastic about things taking up huge amounts of their living space if that wasn't absolutely necessary. This is one area in which tankless water heaters either always or almost always have a clear advantage over their tanked counterparts. Simply put, they are tankless, meaning that there is no need for them to have a huge tank that can be very hard to accommodate in smaller buildings. Moreover, this is actually beneficial for people with renovation ambitions because that same lack of tank means that tankless systems can be fitted into a wider range of locations in a wider range of rooms than otherwise possible.

Contact Us

Those who still have questions that they want to ask about tankless water heaters shouldn't hesitate to bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston as soon as time permits. We believe in making sure that our clients get exactly what they need for their plumbing needs, which necessitates informing them about their potential options as well as what each of those potential options can do for them. As such, we aren't just ready to answer any questions directed at us, we are downright eager to do so.

Have You Spotted Black Flecks in Your Water? | Tips from Your Plumber in The Woodlands, TX

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Antonio Guillem at Shutterstock

Water is one of the necessities of life. As a result, it makes perfect sense for people in The Woodlands, TX to be concerned when they see black flecks in their water. After all, there are a lot of substances that can have a harmful effect on them and their loved ones when consumed in this manner, meaning it is best for them to call in a professional plumber as soon as possible.

What Are Some Potential Causes of Black Flecks in Your Water?

For those who are curious, here are some of the most common causes of black flecks in their water:

Corrosion of the Pipe

Pipes are built to last. However, there is a limit to how long even the best pipes put together using the best materials and the best manufacturing techniques an last. As a result, there will come a time when pipes start to corrode. Sometimes, this is because the material of the pipe has a poor response to something in the water. Other times, this is because the material of the pipe is eroded by either fast-moving water or substances suspended in fast-moving water. Whatever the case, pipe corrosion is a very real problem with very real consequences for people in The Woodlands, TX , not least because the phenomenon will cause the pipe to become unusable with sufficient passage of time.

Fortunately, pipe corrosion can be very noticeable. Unfortunately, it tends to be very noticeable because of the bits and pieces of corroded pipe suspended in the water that flows through the plumbing system, which can look like black flecks. Still, interested individuals might want to focus on the upside of such situations, which is why they have been forewarned about a serious issue with their plumbing system before it can turn into something even worse.

Corrosion of the Water Heater

Of course, the corrosion of other components of the plumbing system can cause black flecks to show up in the water of people in The Woodlands, TX as well. In particular, it is worth mentioning the corrosion of the water heater, which is a common occurrence that interested individuals should keep a watchful eye out for.

Essentially, higher temperatures increase the rate at which the electrochemical corrosion reaction occurs. Thanks to this, pipes as well as other components of plumbing systems that carry hot water are much more susceptible to corrosion than their cold-water counterparts. The hotter the water, the more true this becomes, which is why interested individuals will want to pay attention to their water heater for potential problems. They can handle this on their own. However, they can also call in a plumber for water heater care and maintenance, which comes with another useful effect in extending its useful lifespan.

Breakdown of Rubber

Sometimes, people in The Woodlands, TX will encounter black flecks that are more rubbery than hard. When that happens, there is a good chance that the black flecks actually come from rubber components such as hoses, gaskets, and washers that have started to break down. In part, this is because rubber components are just as susceptible to the passage of time as any other object. However, it should also be noted that some of the substances that can be found in water can have a negative effect on rubber as well, thus speeding up the rate at which it deteriorates.

How Can You Get Rid of Unknown Substances in Your Water?

Of course, black flecks are far from the only unknown substances that can be found in the water that comes out of pipes. However, there is a problem in that these other unknown substances can have an even wider range of potential causes, meaning that there is no way for a single article to cover even the most common among them. Similarly, even if interested individuals have some experience with handling these issues, there is no guarantee that they know how to deal with their exact problem when they run into it.

As such, the most sensible option is that call in a plumber to take a look at the plumbing system. Plumber s are the ones who have both the expertise and the experience when it comes to plumbing systems, meaning that they are the ones best-suited to handle plumbing issues. Generally speaking, a plumber should be able to help interested individuals by figuring out what is coming out of their pipes, figuring out what is causing the unknown substance to come out of their pipes, and coming up with a solution for said issue. On top of this, plumbers should even have the confidence to stand by their work, meaning that reliable and reputable plumbing professionals will offer guarantees of good results to their clients. Thanks to this, even if interested individuals continue experiencing issues after the first session, they can still enjoy peace of mind from knowing that there is someone with the right capabilities who will step in to take care of it rather than them having to trouble themselves.

Contact Us

With that said, there is still the issue of choosing the right plumber for the right job. Under most circumstances, interested individuals are encouraged to contact a potential plumber to learn more about what they can do, what they will expect to be paid in exchange for their plumbing services, and what proof they can offer that they can actually handle the plumbing jobs offered to them. At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, we understand this process very well, which is why we are fully-prepared to answer all of their questions so that they can be absolutely sure that we are the ones to call in for all of their plumbing issues.

5 Events That Require a Plumbing Service | Tomball, TX

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

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The occupation of plumbing is as old as civilization. According to historical records of ancient Rome, Greece, India, China and Persia, the need for the specialized skills of a plumber first arose with the advent of public baths. Romans built a system of aqueducts and lead pipes to distribute water (using gravity instead of pressure) to city latrines and baths, as well as private homes. Sewage was diverted to nearby rivers, and eventually moved via underground channels.

As domestic households and community hygiene infrastructure developed and standardized over the centuries, the role of the professional plumbing service has only increased. These days, they are an important component of any design or construction team, and a trade that is in constant demand for the proper maintenance of a modern household.

How do you know you need a plumber or professional plumbing service ? Well, if any of the following scenarios crop up for you and your family, calling the pros at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, TX should be the very first thing you do.

Events That Require a Plumbing Service

1. Clogged or backed up drains – Most drain clogs in the bathroom or kitchen are the result of physical blockages. Over time, things like hair, grease and food debris can collect into a physical mass that blocks water drainage. This can result in backed up sinks, sluggish or no drainage and, if left untreated, damaging overflow. A professional plumber from the bluefrog Plumbing + Drain team will arrive equipped with diagnostic equipment and tools to manually clear the problem. Don't resort to toxic or corrosive drain clearing substances – they don't always work and they are often hazardous to your family's health.

2. Bad smells – foul odors can be a sign that something is seriously wrong with drains or pipes. Smelling gas around a water heating unit or other appliance is cause for alarm. Bad smells indicate that expert assistance is required, so resist the urge to go DIY and give the team at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain a call. Chances are they can assess and fix the problem safely and quickly.

3. Burst or frozen pipes – given the uncertainty and extremes of the climate lately, municipal plumbing infrastructure is coming under extra pressure. And that can have a trickle-down effect to private homes. When temperatures plunge below freezing water carrying pipes are vulnerable to freezing. Water flow ceases and pipes may expand and burst, potentially causing floods and damage. The extreme sudden extra flow caused by torrential downpours or rising water tables can have a similar effect.

4. Clogged toilet – this is an annoying problem that can result from flushed materials creating a physical clog, or from blockages further down the sewage pipeline. Either way, you need a professional to deal with this kind of problem. A technician from the bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, TX team can determine what's causing the problem and deal with it quickly. Anyone who's had to make due without a functioning bathroom knows how inconvenient it is. Rather than fumble around with DIY solutions that could make things worse, just get professional plumbing service and get it over with.

5. Flooding in the basement or elsewhere – this catastrophe is becoming more and more prevalent with extreme weather patterns and aging infrastructure. The Tomball, TX area are not immune to this phenomenon. If you've got or need a sump pump, the technicians at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain can help. If flooding is due to a backup or burst pipe, they can repair that too – and point out potential future problems as well.

Advantages to Hiring a Pro

1. Safety First – anything that involves plumbing infrastructure has the potential to be hazardous. Why take a chance with your family's health? Professional plumbing service s are trained to handle anything from a floor to a gas leak safely and effectively.

2. The Right Tools – drain snakes, diagnostic video equipment, solder and fire-retardant protective gear: these are all staples of the plumber's toolkit. And professional plumbers know how to use their tools to fix problems fast and safely.

3. Customer Service Protection – don't underestimate the power of customer service. They cover everything from front line assessment in an emergency to timely scheduling of appointments and guarantees if something doesn't go smoothly that homeowners aren't on the hook for extra costs. That kind of assurance, along with knowing that plumbers are certified and insured to do the job, is golden.

4. Cheaper in the Long Run – we've already tried the DIY approach to fixing what we understand to be a simple problem. But it's not always so simple. And you can actually make things worse by wading into unfamiliar waters (literally!). Professional plumbers work fast and well so you don't get any nasty surprises. And once fixed, the problem is unlikely to reoccur if the job's been done right.

5. The Knowledge – plumbing is a specialized trade. As such, professional plumbing services like the team working for bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, TX have years of training and experience under their toolbelt. Not only can they perform informed diagnostics and fix problems, they can advise homeowners how to avoid future issues, and even spot a potential problem in the making before it's even a problem.

If you're a residential home owner and live in the Tomball, TX area, give the pros at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, TX a call any time you get that dreaded feeling that all is not right with your home's plumbing. Their expert team of professional plumbers, offering a range of plumbing services and skills, will find and fix the problem, just in time, the first time, in no time.

What Is Seasonal Plumbing Maintenance? | Tips from Your Spring, TX Plumbing Repair Service Provider

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By kurhan at Shutterstock

The best way to save money on home repairs is to keep up with regular maintenance, and that includes everything from landscaping to plumbing. This is why professional plumbers recommend that you have seasonal maintenance done at least twice a year to minimize your need for plumbing repair services. Seasonal plumbing maintenance helps prepare your plumbing system for the season ahead and prevent any major problems from developing without your knowledge. If you want to make sure the plumbing in your Spring, TX , home is good to go no matter what time of year it is, here's what you need to know about seasonal maintenance.

Why Is Maintenance So Important?

Whether you're talking about a car, a computer or your home, maintenance is an important part of making things last longer and work better. However, there are a few things that make routine plumbing maintenance even more important.

The fact of the matter is, the plumbing system in your home gets worse over time. Pipes don't stay perfect forever and fixtures and appliances are susceptible to various problems. If you want to avoid paying for costly plumbing repair , a little bit of maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your plumbing in better shape.

One of the biggest reasons to invest in plumbing maintenance is to prevent plumbing emergencies that can occur as a result of poor maintenance. Many of the leaks in your plumbing system start out as small pinhole leaks, but those leaks will only get worse over time. In terms of repair calls, major leaks are one of the most costly problems we deal with.

Summer

According to most plumbing professionals, there are two times when you should have seasonal maintenance done on your plumbing system: before summer and before winter. Since these two seasons are so different from each other in terms of weather and general conditions, it's crucial that you make sure your plumbing is ready for each season. Summer maintenance should be done during the spring to prepare your system for summer.

During summer plumbing maintenance, your plumber will do a variety of things to reduce the odds of you needing plumbing repair services during the summer. Checking your washing machine is one important step because most people tend to wash a lot more clothes when they're spending more time outside in the summer. If it's been a while since your washer has been serviced, it may need new hoses.

In addition to checking your washing machine, a plumber will also inspect your water heater to make sure it's at the right temperature. While it may be tempting to crank your water heater up to get the fastest, hottest water you can, you can also waste a lot of money on your utility bill by doing that. Plus, overworking your water heater could lead to a plumbing repair call in the near future.

There are a lot of little summer plumbing maintenance tasks you can handle yourself. For starters, you should work harder to conserve water in your home during the summer. You should also make sure you're doing everything you can to keep your drains from getting clogged since chances are people will be spending more time at home using the drains.

If you have a sprinkler system you plan on running this summer, make sure you have a plumbing repair expert take a look at it to make sure it's in good shape before you need it.

Winter

While summer plumbing maintenance is all pretty general and focuses on keeping your plumbing as a whole in good shape, winter maintenance is a little more specific. The biggest thing you have to contend with when it comes to winter plumbing problems is the cold weather. This is why you should have a plumbing repair professional take a look at your plumbing each fall and help you prepare it for winter.

The first thing a plumber will do in terms of helping you prepare your plumbing for winter is disconnect your hose and make sure any outdoor fixtures or exposed pipes are properly insulated. Burst pipes are one of the most common plumbing repair calls during the winter, so the biggest focus on winter plumbing maintenance is preventing your pipes from freezing and bursting.

Winter is also a good time to look for leaks, since a leak during the winter can be so costly. Make sure you have a plumber test your Spring, TX , home for leaks while they're doing seasonal maintenance. You should also have your pipes inspected to make sure they aren't nearing the end of their life as winter approaches.

There are some things you can do yourself to prevent plumbing emergencies and get your home ready for winter. One of the biggest things you can do is make sure your home stays warm enough. The pipes that freeze are the ones that are in poorly insulated areas or exposed to outside walls, so keeping your home a little warmer can help keep those pipes from freezing and save you tons of repair costs.

Get Some Help

You have a lot to keep up with when it comes to getting your Spring, TX , home ready for the various seasons, but understanding seasonal plumbing maintenance makes things a little easier. Plus, hiring a good plumbing repair expert to take a look at your home and make sure it's ready for the summer and winter simplifies things.

The good news is, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston has you covered when it comes to taking care of the plumbing in your home. Whether you need plumbing repair or seasonal plumbing maintenance services, we can help. Give bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston a call at (832) 225-4328 today to get your plumbing system back in shape.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service | Katy, TX

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By graalz

Over time, the drains in your home become built-up with hair, beauty products, grease, food, and waste. Often, because it happens so slowly, a major clog can occur in your drain pipes. If the drains are not cleared, it can put pressure on your plumbing system. This added pressure can cause your pipes to burst and your plumbing system to break down.

When it comes to drain cleaning, the average homeowner does not have the necessary tools, training, or skills to do the job right. Amateur home repairs, especially on something as vital as plumbing, often end up costing more money than simply calling a drain cleaning service for assistance. A licensed, insured professional drain cleaning service is the only way to ensure the safety and durability of the job.

Having your drains professionally cleaned can have many noticeable benefits for your home.

It Gets Rid of Foul Odors

Have you ever noticed a nasty smell coming from your drains? Think for a moment about what goes into your drains. Kitchen drains see a lot of grease, chemicals, and food scraps on a daily basis. As those materials sit in the pipes, they begin to build up from the inside of the pipe wall. Bacteria will form inside the pipes and on the waste material in it. If given enough time, the small clog will become a total blockage. The stench of the rotten food and rancid grease will come back up through your drains and fill the rooms of your home.

Your bathroom sink, bathtub, and shower drains collect with hair and soap scum. This quickly forms a solid mass in your drains that adheres to the inner wall of the pipe. The smell here can be coming from that disgusting mix, the bacteria that is dining on it, or even from an obstruction of the sewer line.

It Protects Your Home's Floors & Walls

When your sink, toilet, shower overflow, the water quickly seeps into your flooring and walls. It can get under the linoleum or tile of the floor and destroy your carpet and hardwood, and ruin the plaster and wallpaper on your walls.

As the water gathers inside your walls and flooring, mold can grow. You can replace the damaged portions, but it is an expensive project. Besides, if you don't take care of what is causing the overflow of water, it will just continue to happen. The wise choice to protect your home and assets is to hire a drain cleaning service in Katy, TX to get to the root of the problem.

It Cuts Down the Chance of Clogs

Plumbing blockages don't just happen one day. They are typically the result of months, or even years, of consistent build-up inside your pipes. Any pipe can become clogged, and trying to track down a blocked pipe can be a chore.

To avoid letting build-up inside your pipes become a clog, your best choice is to have your drains professionally cleaned on a regular maintenance schedule. This will make sure the pipes stay nice and clear, so they work better.

It Speeds the Rate of Drainage

A slow drain is the first step to a full-blown clog. Since clogs form from the inside of the pipe wall in, the clog takes some time to form. When you notice that your sink or tub is draining slowly, you should take action to keep a blockage from forming. With regular cleaning, your drains will not have a chance to build an obstruction, keeping your water draining quickly.

It Keeps Your Plumbing System in Good Shape

Built-up gunk inside your pipes can cause corrosion, which can lead to leaky pipes. A good thorough cleaning from a professional drain cleaning service on a routine basis will ensure that your pipes are kept in their best condition longer.

It Saves You Money in the Long Run

Many homeowners assume that professional drain cleaning is just too expensive. The truth is, you will spend much more over the same amount of time in plumbing parts and labor to fix your plumbing system if it breaks down.

It Can Improve Your Family's Health

Possibly the most important side effect of having a professional drain cleaning service is the positive effect it can have on the health of your family. Slow and clogged drains are a perfect home for bacteria and mold. Especially hazardous to those with respiratory problems, the bacteria and mold to grow and flourish with no water flow to push them down.

Professional drain cleaning will destroy the habitat that promotes harmful fungi and bacteria formation. Removing their home improves the air quality of your home greatly, which promotes a much healthier environment for you and your family.

What Makes Professional Drain Cleaning So Great?

If you have a clog, your first move is usually to plunge the drain. The problem is, while it gets rid of the main portion of the blockage, it leaves a lot of build-up behind.

Snaking the drain is another option. It will force more of a blockage out of your pipes, but still leaves the foundation of the problem in your pipes.

Professional hydro jetting is the best way to return your plumbing system to a like-new state. For this process, plumbers use a high-pressure hose to force everything out of the drain, leaving the inside of your pipes clearer than with any other process.

When you need a drain cleaning service you can trust, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston in the Katy, TX area is ready to help. Our plumbing experts have the experience and skill to take care of your toughest plumbing problem. From drain cleaning and pipe repair to gas and sewer line service, the professional team at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Katy, TX can take care of all your plumbing needs. We offer commercial and residential plumbing installation, repair, and replacement services for Katy, TX , and there is never an extra charge for night and weekend work.

When Is a Plumbing Problem an Emergency? | Tips from Your Cypress, TX Emergency Plumber

Sat, 09 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By Ole_CNX at Shutterstock

Chances are you've dealt with a plumbing problem or two in your home, but that doesn't mean you've seen the full spectrum of potential problems. One of the best things you can do as a homeowner is know which plumbing problems are emergencies and keep an eye out for them. If you do have an emergency plumbing problem in your Cypress, TX , home, the first thing you should do is call an emergency plumber to get it fixed. Fortunately, we've got a few quick tips to help you determine whether a plumbing problem is an emergency or whether you can wait for a regular plumber to fix it.

Water Damage

One of the biggest things you need to consider when it comes to whether or not a plumbing problem is an emergency is the potential for water damage. This is mostly a problem when you've got a leak in your home.

Some leaks are very small and only let out a small amount of water; these are called pinhole leaks. If left untreated, these pinhole leaks will get worse to the point where you'll need to call an emergency plumber . Leaks only get worse with time, so it's important to get them taken care of as soon as you notice a leak in your home.

Another thing to consider when it comes to water damage is the location of a leak in your home. If you have a leak underneath your kitchen sink, you can simply put down a bucket to catch the water and prevent massive water damage. However, that's not the case when you're dealing with a slab leak underneath the foundation of your home. Since these leaks are hard to spot and nearly impossible for a homeowner to deal with, they're definitely a problem that warrants an emergency plumber .

Standing Water

As far as major plumbing problems in your home go, standing water is one of the biggest indicators that you need an emergency plumber . There are a lot of things that can cause enough flooding to leave standing water in your home, but the bottom line is you should never deal with that water yourself.

The first dangerous part about standing water is that you never know what's in it. Depending on where this water came from and what it picked up along the way, it could have contaminants that make it dangerous for you to deal with. However, electricity is the bigger worry when it comes to standing water. If you've got enough standing water in a room in your home that it could be touching electrical outlets, wires or plugs, don't touch the water. An emergency plumber can come to your home and safely shut off power before dealing with standing water. Plus, plumbers are trained to deal with the potential dangers of contaminants in standing water.

Sewage

There are a lot of potential plumbing emergencies that can occur in your Cypress, TX , home, but plumbing problems involving sewage are some of the worst. We already mentioned how dangerous it can be to deal with standing water because of the potential for contaminants, but you're guaranteed to expose yourself to those contaminants if you try dealing with a sewage backup yourself.

Sewage is a hazard to human health, which is why emergency plumbers have equipment that's specially designed to allow them to deal with sewage. They can get rid of the sewage in your home and stop the problem at its source so you won't deal with another sewage backup due to the same cause.

Aside from the fact that sewage is dangerous to deal with, leaving raw sewage in or around your home exposes you to a lot of contaminants. This is why you should have an emergency plumber remove any sewage backup from your home and figure out the source of the problem as soon as possible.

Sump Pump Problems

In terms of making sure there aren't any flooding problems in or around your Cypress, TX , home, there's nothing more important than your sump pump. Sump pumps are designed to pump water out of a space to keep it from flooding, so a failing sump pump means you're at a higher risk of flooding.

This is a particularly big problem if you've got drainage problems in your yard. If your sump pump fails and you have a ton of standing water in your yard, it can cause the ground to shift and make trudging through your yard a brutal process.

Water Heater Failure

The fact of the matter is, most homeowners can't go very long with no hot water. This is why a lot of calls to emergency plumbers end up being related to water heater failure.

Water heaters are only made to last so long, so you should replace yours every 8 to 12 years. While some water heaters may last longer than that, you're putting yourself at risk for an emergency water heater problem if you go much longer than that.

Even if it hasn't been a decade since you bought your water heater, there can still be problems that require an emergency plumber. If you've never had your water heater flushed or you have especially hard water in your area, it can cause corrosion in your water heater that warrants early replacement.

A Simple Fix

There's nothing worse than having a major plumbing problem that leaves you feeling dazed and confused, but an emergency plumber can help you take care of those emergencies quickly. The key is knowing which problems are and aren't emergencies.

You need an emergency plumber you can count on when you're dealing with major problems, and bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston has you covered. If you're looking for a plumber you can count on in the Cypress, TX , area, give us a call today at (832) 225-4328.

Has Your Water Bill Gone Up? | Tips from Your Plumber in The Heights, TX

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By WAYHOME studio at Shutterstock

A change in the water bill might not seem like a lot of money. However, it is important to remember that even small sums can build up over time, thus resulting in big expenses with big consequences. As such, if people living in The Heights, TX have noticed that their water bill has gone up, they should look into the cause of the change either on their own or with the help of a professional plumber .

What Are Some of the Most Common Causes of a Higher Water Bill?

For those in The Heights, TX who are curious about this particular issue, here are some of the most common causes of a higher water bill:

Dripping Faucets

Dripping faucets are one of the most common causes of higher water consumption. Sometimes, this is because someone has forgotten to fully turn them off. Other times, this is because the faucets are continuing to drip even when they have been fully turned off.

Fortunately, if there is an upside to dripping faucets, it is that interested individuals should have no problems checking for this particular plumbing problem even without having a professional plumber on hand. After all, checking for dripping faucets is as simple as turning off a faucet before looking to see if it is still dripping water in spite of this.

Running Toilets

Toilets use up a huge volume of water even when they are running properly. Never mind when they have some kind of problem that is causing them to run on a continuous basis. There are a number of potential problems that can cause a running toilet. However, one of the most common is some kind of issue with the flapper of the toilet. For those in The Heights, TX who are unfamiliar, the flapper is the device used to create a seal on the water holding tank of the toilet. When someone pushes the handle, the flapper is raised so that the toilet will flush. After which, when the flapper is restored to its previous position by the incoming water, the seal is restored. As such, issues with the flapper is a very common cause for running toilets.

In some cases, interested individuals will be able to detect the issue of a running toilet by just listening for the telltale sound of flowing water. However, that isn't foolproof, which is why they might want to look into some of the other potential options as well. One excellent example involves food coloring. Simply put a few drops of food coloring into the water holding tank before waiting a while. Afterwards, check the toilet bowl to see if any of the food coloring has managed to make it in even without someone flushing the toilet. If that is the case, it is clear that the flapper hasn't produced a watertight seal for whatever reason.

Leak

Leaks can happen in a wide range of locations for a wide range of reasons. For example, the improper installation of a water heater can cause water to come out in places where it shouldn't be coming out. Likewise, it is possible for tree roots to break into underground pipes because while they are slow, they are much more powerful than what a lot of people would expect.

With that said, while leaks are so varied in nature, there is a simple way to check for the presence of a leak somewhere in the plumbing system. First, turn off the faucets. Second, turn off the main valve. Third, wait for about five minutes. Fourth, check the water meter dial to see if it is still moving. If the water meter dial is still moving, that is a good reason to believe that there is some kind of leak somewhere in the plumbing system. At which point, what remains for interested individuals is to find it before fixing it.

How Can You Check for a Problem with Your Plumbing System?

Theoretically, people in The Heights, TX can find problems with their plumbing system even without the help of a plumber . In practice, this is much easier said than done. In part, this is because interested individuals don't have the same expertise, experience, and equipment as a plumber , meaning that they are going to use up a great deal more time, effort, and other resources even if they prove to be successful with their search. However, it should also be mentioned that it is perfectly possible for leaks to appear in places such as, say, the underground, which interested individuals can't access under normal circumstances. As such, if they conduct a search but can't find the source of their plumbing problem because it is out-of-sight, they are going to find it to be a very frustrating experience.

Under these circumstances, when someone in The Heights, TX doesn't have a clear idea where the problem in their plumbing system is located, they should call for a professional plumber. Not only will this save them a lot of time and effort by enabling them to focus on their normal activities, this will also provide them with the best chances of seeing a fast resolution because skill and training matter a lot when it comes to the ultimate outcome of plumbing. This is particularly true because a plumber isn't just someone who finds plumbing problems but also someone who solves them. As a result, once the plumber has found the plumbing problem, they can proceed to the follow-up steps without the need for any further complications.

Contact Us

Need a plumber but remain unsure about how to choose the right plumber for the right case? contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of NW Houston to speak with one of our representatives, who are ready to help interested individuals get a clear idea of what they need as well as why they should choose us for their plumbing needs. In this way, we strive to ensure that our clients are properly informed so that they can protect their interests in the best way possible under the circumstances.

The Importance of Drain Inspection and Drain Cleaning Service | The Woodlands, TX

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Photo By riopatuca at Shutterstock

Although it's easy to think "out of sight, out of mind" when it comes to drains and sewer pipes, they are in fact an important part of your Houston, TX home's infrastructure. The system transports your household's waste products regional treatment facilities and literally keeps everything running smoothly.

Over time, with daily use and regular wear and tear, the drains and pipes can become clogged and back up. Clogged drains are the number one cause of water damage in homes and if not maintained proactively, those clogs can lead to fractured or burst pipes, resulting in a plumbing disaster. Here, we take a closer look at why drain inspections and professional drain cleaning services are important.

What Exactly is a Drain Inspection:

Modern technology has allowed plumbers in The Woodlands, TX to conduct camera or video inspections of sewer lines and drains. Sewers and drains are generally underground and not accessible to be inspected by the naked eye, so this technology has been revolutionary both to the plumbing industry and to homeowners.

The cameras themselves are typically inside very long, thin hoses that can be inserted into open drains. As the camera descends down the pipe, the plumbing technician is able to see what's inside via a handheld screen. This internal view allows the plumber to see if there are any blockages, leaks, or damage inside the plumbing system, which tells him exactly how to proceed with repairing the issue and if any further equipment is needed.

It is important to note that while camera and video drain inspections are incredibly valuable tools, in very old buildings with cast iron pipes, they may not be appropriate and other diagnostic resources may need to be used.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston recommends getting a camera or video drain inspection annually, especially if your home was built more than 10 years ago. Plumbing issues will happen regardless of a home's age, but the risk does increase as a building gets older and experiences more wear and tear. Regular drain inspections are one of the best ways to proactively protect your home's plumbing system and can save homeowners thousands of dollars in emergency repairs or restoration costs.

Fixing the Problem:

Once your plumbing technician is able to diagnose the problem with a camera or video inspection, he will be able to recommend the appropriate drain cleaning service or another remedy. It may be as simple as clearing an obstruction using a snake tool or it may require ultra high-pressure hydro jetting or replacing the pipe or system entirely. Even in the worst-case scenarios where parts of the system need to be replaced, the good news is that most modern plumbing system parts are made of more durable and affordable PVC . In many cases, replacements in the system make it better than it was to begin with.

If you're scheduling camera drain inspections regularly, the fix should be as simple as a drain cleaning service . These services can range from routine to clean out the interior of the pipes, to more advanced when there is a blockage that needs to be cleared.

What to Expect with a Drain Cleaning Service:

Once your plumber from The Woodlands , TX has determined a drain cleaning service is necessary, he will likely start by snaking the drain with a special tool called a plumber's auger. This tool is pushed down the drain and spiraled around in order to break up any debris or blockages and disperse them through the pipes. While this method is typically highly effective on average clogs or obstructions, in some cases heavier-duty hydro jetting may be necessary.

Hydro jetting involves shooting super-strong streams of water through the pipes to thoroughly clean their inside surfaces. Over time, hair, sand particles, and soap scum can build up inside the pipes and narrow the opening, so a hydro jetting drain cleaning service works very well to open that path.

Once the suspected blockage has been cleared, the plumbing technician will run several faucets and other water sources at once to test water flow. Typically, a final camera or video inspection will be performed to visually confirm if the issue has indeed been resolved.

Problem Signs to Watch for:

While scheduling annual drain inspections and cleanings is a good idea, it's also smart to know what to avoid doing and what red flags to watch for in your home's plumbing system. Some plumbing don'ts include:

Never flush or rinse any hair down drains
Do not flush feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, or paper towels
Avoid putting any greasy or starchy food in garbage disposals

You should call a professional plumbing service like bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston in The Woodlands to perform a drain cleaning service if you observe any of the following:

Seeing or hearing a toilet bubbling, especially when not in use
Water appears to be coming out or leaking from a toilet or a sink fixed to the floor
A foul order comes out of any drains
Water drains slowly from sinks, shower, bathtub, or toilet
Water backs up and/or stands in sinks, shower, bathtub, or toilets

If you're not convinced that you should schedule a camera drain inspection or a professional drain cleaning service, remember that most plumbing issues gradually build up and get worse over time until the pipes are at a literal breaking (or exploding!) point. In the morning the drains could be functioning properly and by that evening, you could be facing a serious backup or even flooding.

Having a professional plumber such as bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston perform a camera or video drain inspection or a drain cleaning service before you need it can prevent a worst-case scenario emergency down the road.

How Appliance Leaks Can Cause Hidden Water Damage

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 04:10:18 GMT

Your home relies on a few key appliances to operate smoothly. Without a washing machine, you wouldn’t have clean clothes for work. Without a refrigerator, your food would be limited to canned goods. At the same time, these appliances, and more like them, pose a hazard to your home. Most require a water connection to operate. That same connection could falter when you least expect it to, leading to immense water damage. It’s the type of concern that too few homeowners really consider.

If you have an appliance leak, don’t expect the situation to be isolated. A refrigerator leak could be isolated to the area just underneath the unit. A washing machine, however, is more likely to deposit many gallons of water that spread fast.

Prevent Water Damage From Your Appliances

As a homeowner, you should know where your main water supply valve is located. It will be a lifesaver in the event of water damage anywhere in the home. If an appliance is leaking, you won’t have time for a plumber to arrive. You need to deal with the situation then and there. For that, you must shut off the water supply quickly.

There are two valves to consider when shutting off the water supply: the main valve and the supply valve. The main valve is designed to shut off water to the entire home. The supply valve will shut off the water directly to the appliance in question. In a rush, just go for the supply valve. It will be easier to manage and turn off.

With an appliance, you’ll notice the valve has a rounded handle. Turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water. If the valve is a lever, though, turn it perpendicular to the water line to shut off the water.

Learn where the valves are located and how to turn them off now before things turn serious.

Hidden Damage from Appliances

The biggest problem you have from a water-based appliance is, of course, the water damage. With a washing machine, water heater, or refrigerator, the ensuing damage is often isolated to a single area for a time. Before long, however, as is common with water damage, the mess will seep into the drywall and floorboards. Then, the damage will worsen. You’ll end up with weakened supports, warped floorboards, and mold growth hidden in the walls.

You’ll need to schedule local restoration services to deal with the water damage and mold. A professional plumber can help with the appliance leak. You need to deal with the source, which would be the washing machine or water heater, before dealing with the water damage.

In the event of an appliance leak, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston for top-tier fixture replacement and plumbing leak detection. Please call 346-222-5262 .

Will a Low-Flow Toilet Conserve Water and Reduce Costs?

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Many homeowners these days are investing in water-conserving plumbing fixtures in their bathrooms. They’re swapping out old showerheads for high-efficiency models or changing the toilet for the low-flow variety. Will a low-flow toilet conserve water and reduce your monthly water bill, though? It’s the question on everyone’s mind. Every homeowner wants to save a buck on their utility bills. A low-flow fixture could be the answer.

You see, your home’s toilet is one of the worst offenders when it comes to water waste. Depending on the size and type of the toilet, each flush may be using many gallons of water. That’s money down the drain. The development of the low-flow toilet, on the other hand, has been a benefit for many. It conserves water, saves money, and is less of a hassle overall.

Water Conservation with a Low-Flow Toilet

Of course, you want to know exactly how much a new low-flow toilet could save you each month. On average, a 3.5 gallon-per-flush toilet will use about 27,300 gallons of water each year. In comparison, a 1.6 gallon-per-flush toilet, or a low-flow toilet, will use about half of that — just 12,500 gallons per year.

The average toilet accounts for around 30% of your daily water flow in the home. Cutting that usage in half is a wonderful way to save money on your utility bills and even help save the environment along the way. It’s a win-win.

Types of Low-Flow Toilets

There are two primary types of low-flow toilets on the market today. Both are designed to use less water and can even reduce the number and severity of clogs you deal with each year. The reason for this is because the drainage passage is typically larger on a low-flow toilet.

Gravity-Fed Low-Flow Toilet – This type of low-flow toilet utilizes the weight of water, like a traditional toilet model, to force the water and waste down the bowl. As such, gravity-fed is generally cheaper and quieter than a pressure-assisted low-flow toilet.
Pressure-Assisted Low-Flow Toilet – A pressure-assisted low-flow toilet is often louder than a conventional toilet but reduces water consumption by nearly half in comparison to a gravity-fed toilet. The system utilizes built-up air pressure inside of the tank to help force water down the drainage passage.

If you want to save even more money, consider a few minor renovations around your bathroom besides a low-flow toilet. There are high-efficiency showerheads and faucets available from top retailers, too. If you pair these items with a new toilet, you’ll save quite a bit on your monthly water bill. It’s well worth the cost now. Consider it as an investment.

For top-rated plumbing fixture replacement, including low-flow toilets and other options, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . You can reach us at 346-222-5262 !

Water Leaks – Protecting Your Home from Property Damage

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 05:46:46 GMT

Perhaps one of the most common causes of water damage in Northwest Houston is not the weather, but from plumbing leaks within your home. A burst pipe can release countless gallons of water in a short period of time. All of the water has nowhere to go. It soaks into the walls, carpet, furniture, and flooring. What an absolute mess! It’s important to keep your home’s plumbing system in tip-top shape year-round. Unfortunately, most homeowners are clueless about their plumbing system. Well, it’s easy to schedule prompt plumbing repairs and maintenance from a trusted source. Doing so regularly throughout the year can alleviate some serious damage and concerns.

Prevent Household Plumbing Leaks in Northwest Houston

First, let’s get this out of the way. It’s impossible to prevent every single plumbing leak or cause of a leak in your home. Despite your best efforts, mistakes happen. Your plumbing, even just a single pipe under the house, could be old and corroded. You might miss that one pipe during a visual inspection. The best you can do, however, is prepare wherever possible.

Insulation – During the winter, even here in Houston, it’s best to insulate your exterior pipes to ensure they do not freeze or burst during the night. Wrapping any exposed pipes will put a stop to a serious leak.
Inspections – You should regularly schedule professional plumbing inspections to determine the condition of your home’s plumbing system.
Check Fixtures – Your home’s fixtures take a lot of abuse – some daily. A leaky faucet or showerhead is an incredibly common cause of property damage that is easily avoidable with a quick check.
Water Heater Service – Like the rest of your plumbing system, occasionally schedule water heater service to put a stop to leaks or sediment buildup – both of which cause damage.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Plumbing Leaks?

When it comes to water damage, insurance companies can be fickle. For instance, their coverage for water damage varies and it’s quite specific. For water damage caused by a plumbing leak, the only coverage you’ll see is if the leak was sudden and accidental. Exactly what constitutes a sudden and accidental leak is up for debate, but it typically includes a burst pipe or ruptured water heater.

For a pipe leak or fixture leak, you’re out of luck. The insurance agents will argue that you should have caught the situation early, provided plumbing maintenance, or replaced the fixture.

You’ll find 24-hour plumbing leak detection and repair from bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . Give us a call at 346-222-5262 !

The Cost-Saving Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 07:06:14 GMT

A new water heater is sure to save you a bit of money if your old one is on its last legs. However, it all depends on the brand and style of water heater you choose. Sure, you could install the same conventional water heater – an upgraded version from the same manufacturer. Or, you could opt for something new and efficient. Today’s tankless water heaters are making waves. These systems are more efficient and cost-effective than conventional models, but have a hefty upfront price. That price is what turns off so many homeowners. It’s the long-term benefits that make a difference, though.

The Cost of Installation

It’s important that we discuss the total cost of tankless water heater installation before diving into the many benefits such a system offers. We would be remiss to ignore the initial investment. After all, as a homeowner, you probably have a firm budget in place for household renovations, new appliances, and repairs.

For a new tankless water heater, you’re looking at an upfront cost of around $1,500 to $2,000. Why such a high cost? Well, it’s because of the increased monthly savings and overall higher efficiency of the system. Month-to-month, you’ll save more money on your water bill. Before long, you’ll make back your investment in savings.

Cost-Saving Benefits of Going Tankless

According to the Chicago Tribune , the average annual savings of switching to a tankless water heater from a traditional storage tank system is around $116 per year. Now, that does not seem like much. However, look at your monthly water bill – chances are you’re not spending over $100 on water each month as it is. Even a little bit, just a few dollars per month, can make a huge difference in your budget.

Furthermore, when you switch to a tankless water heater, the government looks kindly upon your considerate approach to energy efficiency and the environment. Depending on your city, there are rebates and financing opportunities when selecting a high-efficiency water heater. So, not only will you save money on your monthly water bill, but you can even receive some money back and cut your costs during the process.

While most people focus on the dollar amounts of cost-savings, it’s important to also look at the lifespan of your system. Why? Because the longer a water heater lasts, the more savings you’ll enjoy overall and the less you’ll spend on costly repairs or replacements. On average, a tankless water heater is designed to last more than 20 years with the proper maintenance and care. Maintenance is easy when you’re protecting your investment.

Make the switch to a tankless water heater with bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston. You can reach us at 246-222-5262 !

Do You Need Your Whole House Repiped? Here’s What You Need to Know About Repiping

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 05:06:50 GMT

Like other systems throughout your home, your plumbing is bound to wear out over time. Eventually, you’ll need to replace the pipes, which is known as repiping . To ensure your plumbing continues to deliver hot and cold water and drain water and sewage appropriately, the right pipes matter. Today’s materials are capable of lasting anywhere from 24 years to 80 years. Most often, older homes undergo repiping, but occasionally a severe plumbing issue will make repiping necessary in newer homes as well.

Signs You Need Repiping

Low Water Pressure – If your home’s water supply is great for a time and then trickles out, you may need repiping services. Often, low water pressure occurs because of rust or mineral build up within the old pipes. The only answer is to put in fresh pipes.
Outdated Pipes – A sure sign that you could benefit from whole house repiping is if your home was built before 1970. Back then, pipes were galvanized, which was thought to be rust resistant, but that’s not the case. These pipes rust quickly and lead to restricted water flow.
Leaks – A leak can occur at any given time in your home. However, some leaks are caused by outdated pipes that sag or are corroded.
Recurring Clogs – A recurring clogged drain can put a halt to your entire plumbing system. If the problem persists or you endure regular clogs, something has to give. A new pipe may be the only solution.

What You Need to Know About Repiping

Your plumbing has a limited lifespan. Sure, most are up to 80 years. However, as pipes near the end of their lifespan, you’ll start to notice a number of common issues. Repiping brings about countless benefits, from increasing the value of your home to reduced monthly water bills, increased water pressure, and better quality drinking water.

Overall, the piping process is simple.

Water lines within the home are turned off and drained.
Furniture and flooring is covered to protect them during the new pipe installation.
Fine cuts are made in the drywall where the plumbing is located.
The old pipes are cut and removed, while new pipes are installed and connected.
The water is turned back on to test the new lines for leaks.
If leaks are detected, they are resolved.
When all is done, the drywall is resealed, painted, and the job is finished.

For whole house repiping to resolve your plumbing woes, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . You can reach us at an hour by calling 246-222-5262 !

The Hidden Costs of That Leaking Faucet – More Than Your Sanity Is at Stake

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 06:24:06 GMT

The constant drip of a leaky faucet can be more than a mild annoyance to most. Sure, it’s on your to-do list, but that list is growing with more urgent tasks. It’s easy to put off fixing a leaking faucet when your air conditioning system is acting up in the summer. You may even tell yourself the leak isn’t that bad. Unfortunately, that’s where most homeowners are wrong. Even a minor leak can lead to water damage and is costing you money every second.

Hidden Costs of a Leaking Faucet

The truth of the matter is, even a slow leaking faucet can have long-lasting, devastating consequences around the home. Even worse, these consequences are not always monetary. When we talk about the “costs” of a leaking faucet, we mean financial, health, and property – everything is affected.

Financial Costs

Financially, a plumbing leak of any kind can be costly. On average, a leaking faucet or showerhead will add around $20 to your monthly bill. Now, $20 doesn’t sound like a lot, but it adds up over the year. Even worse, if the leak goes unnoticed for too long, it can lead to expensive water damage that costs hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair.

Health Costs

Next, there’s also the concern of mold. A lot of people are sensitive to mold, experiencing nasal congestion, throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, skin rashes, and even asthma attacks.

The primary cause of mold in the home is generally water damage. The longer a leaking faucet goes on, the more water damage. Therefore, the more likely the chance of mold growing under your cabinets, between tiles, or behind walls.

Property Costs

As we said, an unnoticed leak can cause hidden water damage and mold growth. Both of these will negatively affect your home. Certain building materials around the house, including drywall and flooring, will warp, rot, and crumble from the damage.

The repairs for such property damage can be extensive. In fact, most homeowners will need to file a property damage claim with their insurance company to handle the costs. These costs can rise as high as tens of thousands of dollars from a single leaking faucet. It’s not worth the trouble.

Water Drip Calculations

A water drip is never a simple problem. Let’s break down the mathematics behind water drips from a single faucet.

According to the United States Geological Survey’s water drip calculator , around 15,140 drips equate to 1 gallon of water. 4,000 drips are 1 liter of water. On average, a leaking faucet is about 10 drips per minute. That’s 3 liters of water wasted each day and 347 gallons per year.

If you have a faucet leak, even a minor one, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . You can reach us at 346-222-5262 !

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection & When Would I Need One?

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 11:25:12 GMT

At one point in time, the only way a plumber could assess the problem with your sewer line was by digging up your landscape. It caused a lot of irreversible damage and was incredibly expensive. Today, expert plumbers have access to far more innovative tools. One such tool is a sewer camera – designed for inspections and maintenance. Let’s go over exactly what a sewer camera inspection is, how it helps, and when you need to schedule one with a professional.

What is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

When you schedule a professional sewer camera inspection, you’ll be greeted with a simple appointment. The technician will arrive with a fully stocked truck, ready to handle any mess. The equipment is lightweight and portable, and generally never comes inside of your home. Instead, the plumber will enter the main sewer line from the clean-out near your home. The clean-out is a small, four-inch piece of pipe that rises up from the ground. This pipe will allow the plumber to insert the camera and check out the line for signs of leaks or clogs.

When You Need a Sewer Camera Inspection

Here are a few situations in which you need to schedule a sewer camera inspection.

Moving into a New Home – When you are moving into a home you just purchased, it’s best to conduct a sewer camera inspection. After all, you never know what the previous owner left behind.
Slow Drainage – If your drains are notoriously slow or are backing up regularly, it’s likely a sewer line clog. The team won’t be able to tell if the line is actually clogged, leaking, or something else altogether.
Foundation Leak – If you discover a foundation leak, which is tricky to diagnose on its own, chances are the water stems from a backed-up sewer line.

Benefits of a Sewer Camera Inspection

By opting for professional service over DIY plumbing repairs, you’ll enjoy a number of key benefits. These benefits include:

Accurate Diagnostics – There is no guesswork involved when your plumber uses a sewer line camera. Even better, you’ll be shown a real-time feed of the line so you can see the problem for yourself.
Zero Digging – Today’s trenchless technology means there is no digging involved whatsoever. Without the need for heavy machinery, your lawn will be saved, costs are cut, and the overall job is more efficient.
Efficiency – Finally, the overall efficiency of the entire process is far better than ever before. Without the need to dig, the job is over and done within a matter of hours, not days or weeks like before.

For top-rated sewer line inspection services, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . You can schedule an expert plumbing technician by calling 246-222-5262 !

Detecting a Gas Leak: 5 Signs It’s Time to Call a Pro

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

You probably know that gas companies put in an additive to make natural gas, which has no odor, smell more like sulfur or rotten eggs. So, if you ever smell that noxious odor, chances are you have a gas leak somewhere in the home. It’s one of the most common signs. If you suspect a gas leak, do not hesitate to evacuate the premises and call emergency services. You’ll likely want to notify the fire department, utility companies, and a trusted plumber who can provide repairs. An expert plumber can offer you gas leak detection and repair at a moment’s notice.

Five Signs of a Gas Leak

Whether your gas leak is above ground or underground, there are telltale signs that indicate a severe problem around your property. Eventually, the gas line will deteriorate and corrode. When that happens, gas will escape and you’ll soon discover:

1. Dead Plants

If the gas leak is underground and outdoors, you’ll eventually notice patches of dead vegetation and dead or dying plants around the area. This is a sure sign of gas escaping up through the ground.

2. Hissing Noises

If you stand near your gas line, or pass by a weakened point, you may notice a hissing sound. It could be faint. If you notice the telltale hissing, it’s usually a substantial gas leak. You’ll need to immediately shut off the gas to the house.

3. Egg Odor

The smell of rotten eggs is not something you would soon forget. If you’re not cleaning out your refrigerator and you get a strong whiff of rotten eggs, it’s usually because of a gas leak somewhere nearby.

4. Bubbles

One of the easiest ways to tell if you have a gas leak is known as the bubble test. Essentially, you want to mix a little bit of dish soap into a container of water. Then, ensure the gas is turned on and use a spray bottle, cloth, or sponge to wet the suspected area. If you notice bubbles forming on the line, it is because of a gas leak.

5. Physical Symptoms

With a gas leak, depending on the timeframe, you may start to feel physically ill. If left unattended, a gas leak can cause fatigue, nausea, headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and even death in rare cases.

Is a Gas Leak Dangerous?

Absolutely – a gas leak within your home poses a serious safety risk to your entire household. Thankfully, a natural gas leak can be quickly detected and repaired by a professional plumber. If you suspect a gas leak, do not mess around. Immediately open the windows to the home, evacuate everyone, and call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston .

We proudly offer emergency gas leak detection and repair. Just call 346-222-5262 !

How Do I Know When It’s Time to Replace My Sump Pump?

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Your sump pump is essential to the safety and security of your home. The unit is designed to prevent standing water and flood damage at the lowest point. For most, this means the foundation of your home. Over time, your sump pump, which is a tough unit, can break down due to debris or misuse. Once this happens, you’ll need to schedule repairs. What happens when repairs are not enough? In that case, you’ll need to schedule sump pump replacement. A whole new unit will be more efficient and easier to use overall. It’s a sound investment in your home’s longevity.

Signs You Need Sump Pump Replacement

Here are a few signs that your sump pump is at the end of its lifespan and requires a replacement.

Age

Your sump pump is not designed to last forever. On average, a modern sump pump will last for around 10 years. There are a few factors that will affect how long your sump pump lasts, including the frequency of use, electrical source, and quality of the unit.

No Water

If your sump pump is clearly working as intended but there is no water in the pit, the unit was likely installed incorrectly or not hooked up to the drainage system as it should have been. Your drainage system should be built in tandem with the pump to help divert water. Otherwise, you need a new pump and drainage.

Clogged Pump

Most often, a clogged pump is not a serious problem. A good, thorough cleaning can help keep the unit running. However, if the situation is dire enough, with dirt and debris, rusted mechanical parts, and a jammed float switch, then you’ll need a new pump before long.

Odd Noises

No plumbing system in your home should produce strange noises, though many do at the end of their lifespan. If your sump pump is producing odd noises, including thumping or grinding, it’s likely a problem with the motor itself. Thankfully, the motor can be replaced without having to replace the entire system.

Constant Running

Your sump pump should only run when there is water to remove from the pit. If the system is constantly running, it’s likely a stuck pump switch, incorrectly sized pump, a missing or broken check valve, or your home is continuously flooding.

Replacing the Sump Pump

When it does come time to schedule sump pump replacement, you’ll likely find yourself overwhelmed with the choices. There are pumps available for every type of power, every capacity need, and then there are the unique styles of sump pump. For instance, you have pedestal pumps and submersible pumps. These offer unique benefits and drawbacks, which you must consider.

Your best bet is to hire a professional plumber. Any work done on a sump pump should be performed by an expert.

For top-rated sump pump replacement, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston at 246-222-5262 today!

Get the Facts About DIY Drain Cleaning – Can It Be Hazardous to Your Pipes

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 07:05:54 GMT

We all want to save a few dollars. As a homeowner, you likely have a to-do list as long as your arm. If you add up the expenses of all those repairs, you’re looking at quite the hefty sum. However, DIY repairs are not the answer. Yes, you’ll save some money today, but what about down the line? What happens if your faucet leaks or the line bursts? You’ll be paying even more for plumbing repairs. It’s best to eliminate that hassle altogether and opt for professional drain cleaning services. It’s an investment in your home’s plumbing system.

The Fallacy of DIY Methods

If you search online for DIY drain cleaning methods, you’ll find countless amateur blogs touting the benefits of baking soda and vinegar. Now, that’s not to say that baking soda and vinegar, when combined, are a completely ineffective concoction. In fact, the mixture has proven extremely effective at handling minor clogs and as a preventative measure around the home.

For a recurring clog or significant clog in the drain, don’t pull out the baking soda and vinegar solution. You’ll be wasting your own time and money. It simply won’t cut through the debris.

Again, use it as a preventative measure. For anything else, you’re just wasting your time.

Another popular DIY drain cleaning method is using a plumbing snake, which can be purchased at any home improvement or plumbing supply store. Are you trained to use a plumbing snake, though? If you’re simply reading the directions off the box, chances are your method won’t be perfect and you may spring a leak before long.

Benefits of Expert Drain Cleaning Services

Your best option, and perhaps your only option, is to hire professional drain cleaning services promptly. Here are the benefits of doing so:

The experts never use chemical drain cleaning solutions, which are terrible for your drains. You’ll find that professional plumbers only use proper equipment, such as plumbing snakes or Hydro-Jetting techniques.
Professional drain cleaning service is designed to eliminate your problematic drainage clog today and prevent recurring blockages. A thorough cleaning will reduce the chance that your drain accumulates debris for the foreseeable future.
Using innovative products and techniques, your chosen plumber can even reduce odors. The smell of sewage is an overpowering and disgusting matter altogether. With a clog, that smell is allowed back into your home through the same pipe.
Professional service is guaranteed to reduce your future expenses. First off, the job is done right. And second, maintenance now is a less expensive option than repairs down the road.

For exceptional drain cleaning services, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . You can speak with a skilled plumber today by calling 346-222-5262 !

Do I Need a Plumber to Repair a Leaking Pipe?

Tue, 28 May 2019 08:55:31 GMT

A plumbing leak is a common occurrence. It’s one of the top calls expert plumbers receive while on the job. Despite their prevalence, a plumbing leak can wreak absolute havoc on your home and possessions. Even a small leak can produce excess moisture, rotting the wooden studs and floor joists throughout your home. A large leak can even cause flooding. On occasion, a plumbing leak is a simple fix, but more often than not, you’ll want to schedule professional plumbing leak repair and detection services. The results speak for themselves!

Signs of a Plumbing Leak

First and foremost, before you decide to call a professional plumber, you must recognize the signs of a plumbing leak. You’ll save yourself time and money. In the off chance the water you spot is just condensation, you can prevent unnecessary service.

The visual signs of a plumbing leak often depend on the source of the leak and location. The easiest water leaks to spot are typically in the ceiling, as the water drips down onto the drywall. Over time, the drywall will discolor and you’ll notice the rings of water damage spreading outward.

If the pipe is in the wall, you’ll spot softening, discoloration, and bubbling drywall. You may also notice a severe dampness or mold growth on carpet near the wall.

Plumbing Leak Location

The biggest issue when you have a plumbing leak is finding the source. Often, the spot where you notice the water damage is not the source of the leak. The water travels down the pipe, from the source to the point in which you first spot the bubbling wallpaper or ruined drywall.

It’s typically best to hire a professional plumber to track the source of a leak. They are better equipped with the proper tools and techniques to find the source more efficiently.

Fixing a Leaking Pipe

If the leak is relatively small, a simple patch job can stop the leak. You can use a piece of thick rubber with clamps or epoxy putty to seal the small leak. But for a larger leak, you don’t want to take any chances. Call in an experienced plumber to replace the broken section of pipe. Sure, it will cost you more than DIY plumbing repairs, but the job will get done right and usually in less time, too.

From the very moment you spot a plumbing leak in your home, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston . Schedule top-rated leak repair and detection services by calling 346-222-5262 today!

Most Common Plumbing Issues in Northwest Houston

Tue, 21 May 2019 08:19:11 GMT

Whether you’ve just moved into your home or have been living there for a decade, the need for a plumber is synonymous with being a homeowner. There are some repairs and maintenance work you cannot complete yourself. That’s ok; you’re not expected to know every home improvement or home repair task under the sun. That’s why professionals are available just around the corner.

But first, you should know the most common plumbing issues in Northwest Houston. These plumbing problems plague homes and lead to costly bills and water damage year-round. If you notice any sort of issue, call a professional plumber .

Common Plumbing Issues in Northwest Houston

You’re bound to come across a loose plumbing fixture or slow drip from the faucet eventually. The important thing to remember is to schedule prompt plumbing repairs. With a modern plumbing system, a minor repair is usually an early warning sign for something worse. Do not give your plumbing repairs the chance to escalate.

Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet is incredibly common. It’s rare to find a homeowner who has yet to deal with a slow drip from their kitchen or bathroom faucet. Despite being so prevalent, a dripping faucet is more than a nuisance. It can waste gallons of water per year, costing you a boatload of money each month.

Typically, a dripping faucet is caused by a worn internal washer. It’s a simple fix but requires the right tools for the job.

Drainage Clog

A drainage clog is all too common in the kitchen and bathroom. In the kitchen, food residue and grease accumulate in the pipe and restrict water flow. In the bathroom, soap scum and hair may clog the sink or bathtub over time. The issue typically worsens the longer it goes unresolved.

To solve a drainage clog, you’ll likely want to avoid DIY plumbing repairs. Instead, call for professional drain cleaning services for guaranteed results.

Clogged Toilet

A clogged toilet, unlike a sink clog, is more than a simple nuisance. If the toilet overflows because of a clog, it can deposit contaminated water and human waste onto the floor. The resulting contamination can lead to illness and infection in both pets and humans who come in contact with the water.

Generally speaking, a clogged toilet is caused by toilet paper and human waste. You can usually solve the problem with a plunger. If that fails, call a plumber, who will bring in a sewer snake or drain auger to rectify the situation.

No matter what type of plumbing issue you’re dealing with, know that bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston is here to help. We offer around-the-clock plumbing repairs for when life throws you a curveball.

Give us a call today at 346-222-5262 !

Can a Plumber Repair a Pool in Northwest Houston?

Tue, 14 May 2019 04:09:18 GMT

Here in Northwest Houston, we experience average temperatures of high 80s and low 90s for the most part. Fewer than 100 days out of the year reach 90 degrees or higher, but it’s humid. Spending any time outdoors can lead to anyone being drenched in sweat. Thankfully, as a homeowner, you have a fantastic pool in the backyard for just such an occasion. As temperatures rise and the sun shines down, your swimming pool is ready for the kids and family. But, if your swimming pool has been ignored until this point, there could be something wrong.

Typically, you would hire a swimming pool technician to handle a pool leak, for example. If you don’t know a good pool company, or have a trusted plumber on speed dial, then you’re in luck. Many of today’s plumbing experts are happy to address a swimming pool leak. You’ll want to ask before scheduling professional leak detection and repair , though.

Swimming Pool Leaks

Dealing with a swimming pool leak is a part of regular pool maintenance. Over the years, the foundation and material of the swimming pool may start to falter. Then, a leak will form. Of course, there’s also the PVC plumbing attached to the pool for drainage. Here is where a plumbing expert comes in handy.

A swimming pool leak, like a plumbing leak in your home, comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. You might have a small drip or a full-blown cascade of water. For a small drip, you’re likely in no serious rush. A small drip won’t drain the pool or cause any problems – unless that drip is directly onto the pool motor.

But a large leak is a problem. The water leak must be addressed promptly by replacing joints or cracked fittings. In some cases, the old PVC pipe and fittings must be cut out and replaced.

Underground Pool Leaks

If your swimming pool is underground, the PVC pipe is often not the cause of the leak. However, that’s not to say the pipes can’t leak whatsoever. The pipe can break from tree roots, settling or shifting soil, and freezing temperatures.

If you’re sure the leak is underground, a plumber can test the suspected line for pressure changes. But if the pipe is damaged, the ground will need to be excavated in certain areas to pull out the old, broken pipe and replace it with a new one. It’s a tricky job.

Typically, an underground pipe leak is most common on an old pool – 30 years or more.

For top-rated plumbing leak repair around the home, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston at 346-222-5262 !

Types of Plumbing Repairs Usually Needed in a Houston Home

Tue, 07 May 2019 05:32:18 GMT

Modern plumbing has come a long, long way. The majority of households enjoy relatively uneventful plumbing systems year-round. But there’s always that one instance, just a single plumbing leak or clogged drain that causes a hassle. Today’s plumbing problems come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from minor and inexpensive to major and costly. Hopefully, you only deal with the former.

Here in Northwest Houston, when your plumbing system is on the fritz, you can always schedule professional plumbing repairs in a single afternoon.

Types of Plumbing Repairs in Houston Homes

First, you need to understand the most common types of plumbing repairs. Then, with a better understanding, you know exactly what type of service to schedule.

Plumbing Leaks

A plumbing leak is one of the worst types of plumbing disasters. If you happen to catch the leak early, you can reduce your risk of water damage, mold, and an expensive water bill that month. But, if you do not recognize the signs, a single plumbing leak can weaken the structural integrity of your home.

You can temporarily repair a plumbing leak use plumber’s tape or compound, but that’s just a band-aid over the problem. You need to schedule plumbing leak repair immediately.

Slow Drainage/Clogs

For many, slow drainage can be ignored, at least for a time. Typically, slow drainage is caused by a drainage clog. There is a blockage, usually made of grease or hair, restricting water flow. These clogs tend to occur in the kitchen sink most often, due to congealed fat or food remnants. In the bathroom, hair and soap scum cause your pesky clog.

You do not want to ignore a drainage clog for very long. If the problem worsens, and it will, you may find yourself dealing with a plumbing leak before long. It’s best to schedule drain cleaning services before something worse happens.

Clogged Toilet

As the toilet bowl fills, you expect the water to immediately drain away. But if the toilet bowl fills and remains full, you’ve got a clog. The blockage is often caused by paper products and human waste. Typically, you can resolve the clog yourself with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need an experienced plumber to bring in a sewer snake or drain auger to loosen the blockage.

With a toilet, it’s important to perform regular maintenance and drain cleaning to avoid a terrible clog. If a toilet overflows, the water may be highly contaminated and cause infection or illness. As such, it’s best to act promptly.

For 24/7 plumbing repairs in Northwest Houston, you want guaranteed results for the right price. Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston at 346-222-5262 !

Why Is My Water Heater Leaking?

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

You might not know what’s causing the leak, but as soon as you spot that excess water, you know something bad is happening. Even a small leak can quickly lead to serious mold problems and structural damage. Therefore, you must act as soon as you notice the problem.

The first thing to do is to locate the source of the leak. If the source isn’t readily apparent, here are some things that might be causing the damage.

Sediment Buildup at the Bottom of the Water Tank

When sediment builds up at the bottom of your tank over the years, eventually it can corrode the bottom of the tank and cause a leak. This is usually the case behind a bad water tank leak. If your hot water heater is several years old, start by examining the bottom of the tank for corrosion and holes. It may be time to replace the water tank completely.

The Drain Valve Isn’t Closed

If you call a plumber, this is one of the first places they’ll examine for leaks. A malfunctioning drain valve is a fairly standard issue to repair, but if it continues to leak after being tightened, you may need to replace the valve entirely.

The Hot and Cold Water Connections Are Loose

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to solve. The inlet and outlet pipe connections sometimes loosen, causing excess water to leak outside the tank. Simply tighten the connections with a wrench to see if that fixes the issue. If not, you may need to replace a faulty pipeline. Call your plumber to find out what they suggest doing.

Let bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston Help With Your Leak Recovery

No matter what’s causing your leak, we’re happy to help address the issue. Our highly trained, certified plumbers know exactly how to handle plumbing leaks of all kinds. Learn more about our services or call for help any time (day or night) at 346-222-5262 .

What's the Average Cost of a New Water Heater in Northwest Houston?

Sun, 21 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Because of their expected lifespan of 15 years or more, water heaters generally aren’t appliances you think about replacing often. But, their reliability largely depends on their upkeep, which is where homeowners tend to fall short. When it does come time to replace your water heater, having an idea of what you’ll pay will help you plan and budget accordingly. Here is the average cost of a new water heater in Northwest Houston, and surefire signs it’s time to purchase a new one.

Factors That Affect the Cost of a New Water Heater

There are several factors that impact the cost of a new water heater. For starters, there are price discrepancies between different brands, and there is a difference in total savings between a natural gas or electric heater. But, both of those factors come secondary to your first major decision: a standard tank water heater or a tankless water heater . We’ve talked about the benefits of tankless water heaters at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston , and ultimately the decision will be up to you. According to HomeAdvisor, a tank water heater will cost you around $889 for a 40 to 50 gallon tank, including installation. A tankless water heater will cost around $3,000 with installation. We encourage you to read more about the pros and cons of each before you make a decision.

Research Affordable New Water Heaters When:

Finding the right water heater in your price range will require research. But, you’ll know it’s time to consider replacing your unit when:

There are odd temperature fluctuations; the water doesn’t get hot enough or it’s cold. If the pilot light is intact and the circuit breaker didn’t trip, that means it’s a malfunctioning water heater.
The water is rusty or not clear.
The water tastes metallic or smells irregular.
The water heater is leaking in any way, which is a major indicator that the system is failing.
The water heater is making odd noises, like popping or cracking.

Water Heater Installation at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, our technicians are knowledgeable on both tank and tankless water heaters. With your budget in mind, we are happy to advise you on the right water heater for your home. When you make a decision, our water heater installation, maintenance, and repair services are always affordable. You never have to worry about price gouging; we will never charge you for overtime, and we’re available 24/7 for emergency plumbing services. Contact us today at 346-222-5262 !

Can a Water Heater Cause Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Any home systems that rely on natural gas open the door to a carbon monoxide leak, including our water heaters . The machines we rely on every day are fallible, and it’s important to have all of the facts to detect a leak before it endangers you or a family member. Here is how a water heater can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, and what signs you should look for to determine a leak.

How a Water Heater Causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

There are three main, preventable reasons that a water heater can cause carbon monoxide poisoning : the appliance wasn’t installed properly in the first place, the homeowner neglects it and doesn’t perform proper maintenance, and the surrounding area isn’t properly ventilated, leaving the gas with nowhere to escape should it leak. At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston , we can attest that all of these issues can be resolved with a professional look.

Signs That Your Water Heater Is Leaking Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is not only deadly, it’s also undetectable without proper equipment. The gas is colorless and odorless, and most of the time, household residents learn they have a leak by the resulting health effects. The scariest part about carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms is that they seem commonplace until they progress. Irreversible brain damage, cardiac conditions, and fatality are realities of carbon monoxide leaks. All the same, members of your household that experience symptoms like headaches, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, confusion, blurry vision, loss of consciousness, or vomiting without any explanation should seek medical attention right away. These inexplicable symptoms also warrant an inspection of your gas appliances, and a carbon monoxide detector if your property does not have a functioning one. Address the ventilation problem, too, as it may save your household further problems should a carbon monoxide leak ever occur again.

Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston For Water Heater Services

When you call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston for water heater services, you can trust in the quality of our workmanship and know that we will help maintain the safety of your home. Contact our team 24/7 by calling 346-222-5262 .

Safety Tips to Handle Your Water Heater

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve talked about common fixes when it comes to water heater maintenance , and why you need to take certain steps to keep the appliance both functional and long lasting. Well, proper water heater upkeep also means taking safety into account! These appliances continuously run on high temperatures and pressure, and they rely on measures from homeowners to maintain their safe condition. From the team at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston , here are tips on how to safely handle your water heater .

Test Your Water Heater’s Pressure Relief Valve

The water heater’s pressure relief valve (sometimes called their temperature valve) needs to be tested annually to make sure it’s in working order. These valves are put in place as a mechanism to prevent the tank from exploding, which would be catastrophic. Fortunately, testing these valves is easy. The proper way to test the pressure relief valve involves two steps. First, notice if the water is able to start and stop when you pull up on the handle. If nothing drips when you let go, your pressure relief valve is in good shape. If it drips, you should call for water heater maintenance to have it replaced. The second way to make sure the pressure relief valve is safe is to flush it out with hot water. This will remove any sediment that has gathered at the bottom of your tank. Just be careful while you’re near the drain valve. A drain line connected to the valve will help prevent a burn if it opens up unexpectedly near you.

Maintain a Safe Water Heater Temperature and Ventilate

For both safety and energy costs, never raise the temperature of your water heater above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s the perfect temperature to be comfortable and kill germs without causing burns to children, whose skin is thinner and more susceptible to burning than adults. If you leave town for a period of time, turn your water heater to the lowest setting so it doesn’t waste energy or endanger the home while you’re not there. If your water heater runs on gas, you need to make sure there is a reliable means of ventilation from where it’s stored. In the event of a carbon monoxide leak, the gas won’t become trapped inside of the property and will simply dissipate outside.

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston Can Handle Your Water Heater Needs

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, our team’s top priority is you and your family. Water heater safety is important, and we hope you take these measures seriously. Our team is available 24/7 for expert water heater installation, maintenance, and repair. Give us a call at 346-222-5262 !

What Is the Average Life Expectancy of a Tankless Water Heater?

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 07:23:03 GMT

You likely rely on your water heater every day. With its frequency of use and upfront expense, you want to trust that the appliance is well made and will last you for years to come. But just how many years should a water heater last? The lifespan of a tankless water heater can reach 20 years! Before installing a tankless water heater in your home, learn more about how they operate and how you can increase the life expectancy of your system.

How Tankless Water Heaters Function

Tankless water heaters come in electric and gas models, which you can select depending on your property’s needs. Within the water heater, water is heated while it moves through the pipe to where it’s needed; its quantity isn’t limited to a tank’s capacity as it is in a traditional water heater. A typical tankless water heater can heat between 2 to 5 gallons of water per minute with no wait time. One thing to keep in mind is the flow rate. If you live in a large property with the potential for multiple people to use the system simultaneously, a single tankless water heater may not be able to produce the amount of hot water you need at that moment on demand. The last thing you want to do is overwork the appliance and hinder its longevity. Consider installing more than one tankless water heater based on your needs.

Ways to Increase a Tankless Water Heater's Life Expectancy

Like all appliances, increasing the life expectancy of your tankless water heater comes down to how much effort you put into it. The installation process is technical, and because of the machine’s upfront cost, professional installation is always recommended. A mistake early on can create ongoing problems and more frequent repairs down the road. Furthermore, should you run into any issues, only trust professionals familiar with tankless water heaters to inspect and repair your system. Lastly, keep in mind that annual maintenance can help catch potential issues before they grow into an unexpected disaster.

Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston for Tankless Water Heater Installation

We can’t recommend tankless water heaters enough to homeowners in the Northwest Houston area. They have the capability to save water, energy, and money, making them an efficient and beneficial addition to homes throughout the region! Contact us today at 346-222-5262 for more information on this worthwhile investment. For a limited time, you can try one before you buy one! *Offer is on approved credit, and some restrictions may apply.

Common Problems With Your Water Heater and How to Fix Them

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 04:36:39 GMT

Your water heater is a durable machine, but in order to get the longevity that it’s built for, you must consider its upkeep. Annual maintenance is the best way to stay ahead of potential issues with any appliance, and your water heater is no different. But when something goes wrong or doesn’t sound right, you don’t always have to call a professional to tackle the problem! Here are some of the common problems affecting water heaters , and how to tackle them yourself.

Sediment in Your Water Heater

While you have clean water flowing through your house, there are natural minerals in your tap water that can build up over time in your tank. This can quickly become a problem, as the calcified minerals can create an odor and take up space in the heater. This will decrease the amount of hot water you have access to. Fortunately washing away the sediment is a fairly simple task. First, you’ll need to drain your tank. Then, simply fill it halfway with cold water from the intake valve and let it sit. Flush this water through the drain valve, and repeat the process until no sediment remains at the base of your tank.

Inconsistent Water Temperature in Your Water Heater

If you’re experiencing cold showers more often than you’d like, there’s a problem with your hot water heater. Fortunately, issues like this are usually “do-it-yourself” projects, so you aren’t left in the lurch for too long. Your first step is to check your water heater’s thermometer. Someone may have changed the temperature without knowing it, and adjusting it is an easy fix. If there’s a problem with the heating element, you can usually replace it on your own. But, if you’d feel more comfortable, we’re always available to diagnose the problem at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston .

Odd Noises Coming From Your Water Heater

Odd noises coming from anything are a bad sign! When it comes to water heaters, though, strange sounds usually stem from sediment being moved around and heated within the water tank. This is why you shouldn’t wait to clean it out. The other common culprit behind water heater noises is a faulty heating element, which is a sign of it breaking down.

Contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston For Water Heater Repair

At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston, we can handle the maintenance, installation, and repairs for any kind of water heater. Whether it’s gas, electric, standard, or tankless, our team can take care of any issues! We are currently running a promotion for tankless water heaters. For a limited time, you can try one in your home before you buy it! This offer is available on approved credit only, and some restrictions may apply. If you love it, we have financing options available. Call a team member today at 346-222-5262 for more details.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The tankless water heater is a new take on the traditional model, and we love them at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston. A tankless water heater provides the hot water you need on demand while also offering numerous financial and environmental benefits. We recommend them often to Houston-area residents. In fact, to educate homeowners on tankless water heaters, we’ve created the perfect opportunity for you to try one before you commit! Learn more about the benefits of tankless water heaters , then call us for installation.

The Increased Longevity of a Tankless Water Heater

A water heater is a long-term appliance that should function for a decade or longer. While a standard tank water heater has the ability to last you between 10 to 15 years, a tankless water heater can extend that to 20 years or more. Like all appliances around the home, they require maintenance and care to operate at peak performance. But, based on their design and proper upkeep, you can easily have a tankless water heater for more than two decades.

The Energy Efficiency of a Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater saves energy and wastes less water, making it an environmentally conscious product. Electric or gas models are available depending on your home, and both types work to eliminate the waste of valuable resources. Not only does a tankless water heater do its part to conserve, but it can save you money while doing it. Tank water heaters are guilty of “standby heat loss,” which means that water is heated and stored in a tank, and eventually cools down when it’s not used. The energy is essentially wasted, however, this is not an issue with tankless water heaters that produce hot water only as needed. There’s no more wasting of water waiting for the shower or faucet to warm up, either.

Tankless Water Heaters Are Great for Homes of Any Size

The first question homeowners have about tankless water heaters is whether or not a unit can handle their home’s size and number of residents. The Department of Energy says that a single standard tankless water heater is perfect for households that use less than 41 gallons of hot water per day. But, homes that use over double that amount can still benefit from a tankless heater, too. Keep in mind that tankless water heaters don’t have the flow rates conducive for multiple hot water activities at once. If you’re a multitasker, consider adding another unit. These are powerful machines that can produce 2 to 5 gallons of water per minute, and are well worth the investment.

Try a Tankless Water Heater Before You Buy at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston

Are you in the market for a new water heater? If you’re impressed by all of the benefits a tankless water heater provides, try one in your home commitment-free before you buy one at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston. Interested? This offer is available on approved credit, and some restrictions may apply. Call us today for more information at 346-222-5262 .

What Is a Tankless Water Heater?

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Because of their longevity, homeowners don’t often think about their water heater. It’s only when something goes wrong that we start researching. But, these are machines that we rely on every day, and it’s important to know the available options should you need to replace your water heater. Tankless water heaters are a modern option that offer major benefits to homeowners who choose to utilize this type of system. Learn more about tankless water heaters to determine if one is a good fit for your home.

How Tankless Water Heaters Function

Tankless water heaters are also referred to as demand water heaters as they produce a steady supply of hot water on demand, either by gas or electricity, depending on the home. It’s incredible technology that’s perfect for homes that use 41 gallons of hot water or less per day. Tankless water heaters can produce between 2 to 5 gallons of hot water per minute as cold water enters the unit and immediately heats up. The units themselves are much smaller than traditional tank water heaters, so they also take up less space in your home. Keep in mind that multiple tankless water heaters may be needed if demand is high. One of the few drawbacks of tankless water heaters is their limited flow rates. But, if you know that going in and adequately prepare, you’ll be able to enjoy the extensive benefits without compromising your satisfaction with the product.

The Monetary and Environmental Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters have the potential to reduce energy and water usage. Traditional tank heaters create what is referred to as “standby loss,” or wasted energy from heating up water that isn’t used. This is a non-issue with tankless water heaters because they only heat water as needed – nothing sits in a tank to cool down. Small and large homes alike can save energy and money with the installation of a tankless unit. A tankless water heater can be 8 to 14 percent more energy efficient for homes that use up to 86 gallons of water per day, which will amount to monthly savings. Lastly, by not having to wait for water to heat up, you waste less water every time you turn on the tap with a tankless water heater.

Try a Tankless Water Heater Before You Buy at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston

If you think a tankless water heater is just what your home needs, there’s never been a better time to try one out. For a limited time, you can try one in your home before you buy at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Northwest Houston! See the benefits of these units for yourself. This offer is available to those on approved credit, and some restrictions may apply. Call us for details at 346-222-5262 .