The Importance Of Having An Emergency Plumber On Speed Dial

4/19/2023

When an unexpected plumbing crisis strikes, it often leaves homeowners scrambling to find a quick solution. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a blocked drain, or a faulty water heater, these emergencies require immediate attention from a skilled plumber. Having an emergency plumber on speed dial can be a lifesaver in such situations.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of keeping a reliable plumber’s contact details at your fingertips. But before we dive into the details, let’s look at some common plumbing emergencies that may require the help of a professional.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

As a homeowner, being aware of common plumbing emergencies can save you time and money and prevent unnecessary damage to your property. To help you to understand better the types of plumbing problems that may require emergency service, here are a few common scenarios that can arise:

Burst Pipes: Extremely high pressure or freezing temperatures can cause your pipes to burst, leading to significant water damage and potential flooding. If you have a burst pipe, immediately turn off your water supply and contact your plumber.

Blocked Drains: Accumulated debris, grease, and hair are common culprits behind blocked drains that can cause slow draining, foul odors, and even water backups. Without timely intervention, blocked drains can permanently damage your plumbing system.

Overflowing Toilets: Nobody wants to deal with an overflowing toilet. Apart from creating a messy and unhygienic situation, it can also damage floors and walls if not addressed promptly. Turn off your toilet’s water supply and call an emergency plumber to locate and fix the issue.

Water Heater Issues: When your water heater malfunctions, you could face potentially dangerous situations due to flooding and scalding hot water. To avoid such scenarios, contact an experienced plumber as soon as you notice any irregularities in your hot water supply. They have the expertise to diagnose and fix any issue with your water heater, ensuring maximum efficiency and safety.

Leaky Faucets: A dripping faucet may seem small, but the constant water loss can significantly increase the water bill. The culprit is often a worn-out washer, cartridge, or valve. Attempting DIY repairs on a leaky faucet can sometimes cause more damage, making it best to enlist the help of a professional.

Broken Sump Pumps: Sump pumps prevent basement flooding during heavy rains or storms. A broken or malfunctioning sump pump can lead to significant water damage and mold growth. Professional plumbers can diagnose the issue and provide necessary repairs or replacements.

Gas Leaks: Though not explicitly related to your plumbing, gas leaks are a dangerous and potentially life-threatening issue that plumbers can address. Gas leaks can cause fire hazards, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the premises and call a plumber immediately.

Sewer Backup: A sewer backup can cause raw sewage to back up into sinks, toilets, and showers, creating unsanitary and potentially hazardous conditions. Call a skilled plumber who can properly address the issue.

The Benefits of an Emergency Plumbing Technician

An emergency plumber comes in handy when there is an urgent need for plumbing repair. Plumbing emergencies can be disruptive. They can also cause massive damage to a home or building if not promptly addressed. Here are some of the benefits of having an emergency plumbing pro on call:

Swift Response Time

Emergency plumbing technicians prioritize urgent cases and offer quick solutions. A plumbing emergency can lead to significant water damage, electrical hazards, and other complications. A quick call to a reliable plumber ensures you get someone experienced to assess the problem and arrive on site quickly. This immediate response time prevents further damage to your property and provides you with peace of mind, knowing that help is readily available.

Expertise and Experience

Professionals who specialize in emergency plumbing services have the expertise and experience required to handle various plumbing problems that may arise. They have most likely encountered scenarios similar to yours on numerous occasions, ensuring they know how to tackle your specific issue precisely. That eliminates any guesswork or potential damage from DIY attempts, saving you valuable time and money.

Preventive Measures

Besides solving the immediate issue, an emergency plumbing pro can provide expert advice and preventive measures to avoid future plumbing emergencies. Some proactive measures include regular maintenance of your plumbing system, installation of quality fixtures, and other steps that can reduce the likelihood of needing emergency repairs. Some plumbing services also include follow-up visits to ensure the issue has been fixed correctly. That helps to avoid any additional repair or maintenance costs in the future.

Safety Matters

Plumbing emergencies can pose severe risks, including flooding, mold growth, and harmful gases. Handling these issues yourself can be hazardous and may even lead to injury or death in extreme cases. Skilled plumbers understand the potential hazards of various plumbing problems and are equipped to address them safely and professionally.

Round-the-Clock Availability

Plumbing emergencies don’t always occur during regular working hours. An emergency plumbing technician is available 24/7. That ensures assistance is accessible whenever needed – on weekends, holidays, or at night.

Cost-Efficiency

While the initial cost of hiring an emergency plumbing pro may seem high, this investment is ultimately cost-effective. Prompt intervention can minimize damage, and reduce repair and replacement costs, saving you money. Additionally, having a reliable emergency plumber ready to assist in emergencies helps prevent repeat issues or identify underlying problems that go unnoticed.

You Can Trust bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas

If you need help with an emergency plumbing situation, contact our team of experienced plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas today! We provide round-the-clock assistance and are ready to handle all your plumbing needs. Let us help you resolve your plumbing emergency quickly and effectively.

Call us now at 469-573-2535 for a free quote and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your plumbing system is in good hands. We look forward to helping you!

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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How Homeowners Can Benefit By Investing In Rheem Tankless Water Heaters

The water heater is a vital component of your plumbing system. This is because the water coming into your house could be too cold, meaning that it could be quite uncomfortable and ineffective when used for bathing, cleaning, or washing. The water heater ensures that you have access to hot water on demand. It is important to note that there are several types of water heaters. Traditional water heaters have a storage tank that holds hot water to ensure a constant supply of hot water in homes. On the other hand, Rheem tankless water heaters are a revolutionary alternative to traditional water heaters in the sense that they do not come with a storage tank. Instead, these water heaters heat water on demand. If you have an old tanked water heater that needs to be replaced or need a new water heater for your new house, you can consider going for a tankless water heater. But why exactly do we advise people to choose tankless water heaters? Here is a rundown of the benefits you can expect by investing in a tankless water heater.

Tankless Water Heaters Are Energy Efficient

Considering the amount of work your water heater needs to do to ensure that you always have access to hot water, it is not surprising that it is one of the most significant consumers of energy in your house. Therefore, when it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency, the water heater has to be one of the most important things to think of. The traditional heater heats water (whether you need hot water or not) and stores it in the storage tank. If the water in the storage tank becomes cold before getting used, it has to be heated again. Therefore, a traditional water heater can be quite inefficient. On the other hand, Rheem tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed. Therefore, when you don’t need hot water, the appliance will not run. This explains why these appliances are more energy efficient. Indeed, by investing in a tankless water heater, you can keep your energy bills low and consequently save a lot of money in the long run.

A Tankless Water Heater Will Save Your Space

If your house is relatively small, managing space can be quite difficult. Indeed, it can be hard to find space for things that are very important to you. Unfortunately, if you have a traditional water heater, it could be occupying too much space. The good news is that this is a problem that homeowners can resolve by simply investing in Rheem tankless water heaters. These appliances are compact, and therefore, they don’t need a lot of space. In fact, the appliance might be mounted on a wall or even installed under your kitchen sink. Therefore, by investing in a tankless water heater, you can minimize the amount of space you need for the water heater and consequently have more space for an extra piece of furniture or even a houseplant.

A Tankless Water Heater Will Give You a Reliable Supply of Hot Water

When you are standing in the shower or cleaning the dishes in the kitchen, a sudden blast of ice-cold water is something you do not want to experience. However, if you use a traditional tanked water heater, you may be familiar with this situation. Indeed, your water heater’s tank can only hold so much hot water at any given time, and therefore, if there is a decreased demand for hot water in your house, you may start running out of hot water on a more frequent basis. Unfortunately, once you run out of hot water, you may be forced to wait for up to thirty minutes for the water heater to heat more water. The good news is that homeowners can avoid such an eventuality by simply investing in Rheem tankless water heaters. A tankless water heater will heat water on demand, and therefore, when you need hot water for whatever reason, it will give you a constant supply. Therefore, although a tankless water heater may have some limitations, it can give you an endless supply of hot water as long as you don’t open more hot water outlets than it is designed to handle.

Tankless Water Heaters Last Longer

Water heaters are not designed to last forever. Therefore, whether you have a traditional water heater or a tankless water heater, you will need to replace it at some point. However, considering the amount of money a water heater replacement costs, you definitely want a water heater that will serve you longer. On average, traditional tanked water heaters last about 8 to 12 years. Therefore, if you choose to invest in a traditional water heater, you will have to replace it in a decade or so. On the other hand, tankless water heaters are known for their durability. Indeed, these appliances have a life expectancy of about 20 years. Therefore, a tankless water heater might last a decade longer than a traditional water heater. This will minimize the frequency with which you need to replace your water heater and consequently save you a lot of money in the long run.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that there are many benefits you can expect by choosing to invest in a Rheem tankless water heater as opposed to a traditional tanked water heater. For instance, these appliances are more durable and energy efficient, meaning that they are good for your pockets. Besides, a tankless water heater is compact and does not require a lot of space. If you are looking for a professional plumbing contractor to help you choose and install the best tankless water heater for your house, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas is an excellent choice. Feel free to get in touch with us today for more information about our products and services.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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What Are The Benefits Of Hiring A Water Heater Installation Expert?

The water heater is a vital component of almost every residential plumbing system around here. Its job is to ensure that there is a constant supply of hot water in a home. It is the reason you can walk into your bathroom at any time confident that you will find hot water. As such, if you do not have a water heater yet or the one you have is too old and dilapidated, you may have to consider investing in a new piece. However, no matter how much you enjoy trying DIY plumbing solutions, a water heater installation is not a job you should consider doing on your own. This is because a water heater is quite a complex appliance and getting the installation wrong could compromise its performance or even put your family in danger. Therefore, if you want a new water heater installed in your house, you should hire a professional plumbing service. But why is it important to rely on professional services when it comes to installing a water heater? Below is a rundown of the benefits you can expect by hiring a professional plumbing contractor to help you install a water heater in your house.

Get the Right Water Heater

A successful water heater installation starts with choosing the right water heater for a particular home. There are several types, sizes, and brands of water heaters. Unless you are a professional plumbing contractor, choosing the right water heater to invest in can be quite a daunting task. There are many factors that need to be considered. For instance, you will need to consider your current and future demand for hot water, the amount of space you have for a water heater, and the type of fuel you have access to, among other factors. The plumbing contractor will look at all the relevant parameters, and help you pick the best water heater for your house. These professionals deal with water heaters every day, and they will be willing to listen to you, understand your needs and budget, and help you settle for the most appropriate appliance available in the market. On the other hand, if you decide to do it on your own, you may end up making the wrong choice, which could prove costly in the long run.

Stay Safe

Installing a water heater can be quite a dangerous job. Without the right tools, skills, and safety gear, deciding to do it on your own could leave you with serious injuries and even expose your house to the risk of getting damaged. For instance, installing a water heater will involve handling electrical components, and therefore, the risk of electrical injuries can be quite high. Besides, improper gas connections can lead to gas leaks, which might cause an explosion that could leave your house seriously damaged. The good news is that by hiring a professional water heater installation expert, you can prevent such problems. Professionals have adequate training and appropriate equipment to handle water heaters of all kinds without hurting themselves and other people. In any case, professional plumbing contractors are adequately insured, and therefore, even if they get injured while installing a water heater in your house, you will not have to worry about the possibility of getting held financially liable for their injuries since their insurance company will take care of them. Therefore, for your safety and that of your home and family, it is imperative for you to avoid installing your water heater yourself and instead seek the services of a licensed plumbing contractor.

Protect the Warranty

Water heaters are quite pricey appliances. Therefore, when buying a water heater, you expect a quality guarantee. With the warranty, you will be in a great position to hold your water heater’s manufacturer accountable if the water heater develops a serious problem within a given time. However, it is important to note that warranties do not come without conditions. For instance, a water heater warranty might require that the water heater installation and repairs be done by a licensed plumbing service provider. If this is the case with your water heater’s warranty, you might void it if you decide to install your water heater on your own. This means you might lose all the privileges your warranty affords you. On the other hand, you can effectively protect your water heater’s warranty and keep it valid throughout its life by simply getting an expert to help you install your water heater.

Save Money

Some people decide to try to install their water heaters without the help of professionals expecting to save some money in the end. However, in reality, installing your water heater on your own could end up costing you more money than expected. This can be explained in several ways. For instance, without the necessary training and experience, you could end up damaging the appliance. This means that you might end up spending money on needless repairs. Besides, there is no guarantee that you will do the job properly. Therefore, even after spending your time and money on the DIY project, you might end up having to call a professional water heater repair service. On the other hand, by hiring a professional plumbing contractor, you can get the job done in the most efficient way possible.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, when you want to install a new water heater in your house, there are many benefits that can come with hiring a professional plumbing contractor to assist you. Therefore, you need to resist any temptation to do it on your own. If you are looking for a reliable plumbing contractor to help you install a water heater in your house, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas is an excellent choice. We have been installing water heaters for many years, and we are a household name in our community. Feel free to contact us for more information about our company and services.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Staying Put As You Age: 15 Suggestions From Your Plumber To Ensure A Safer Bathroom Experience

Mobility and eyesight tend to decrease with age which can increase the risk of slips and falls. The CDC states that falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults. Many of these accidents occur in the bathroom and could be prevented with proper planning.

Aging in place bathrooms have design elements and features that make them safer and easier to navigate. You can easily incorporate many of these design ideas into your bathroom remodel. Because only 10 percent of U.S. homes are aging-ready, having an accessible bathroom can increase your home’s value. Following are a few tips on how to improve your bathroom’s safety.

Toilets

1. Elevate the Seat
   Standard toilets are often low, making it harder for people with knee problems to sit down and get up. Raising the seat a few inches can make a huge difference. Your plumber can replace the toilet with a taller one. Or you can get an adjustable or raised seat that is slightly wider. Another option is to install a smart toilet seat. These often have inbuilt bidets for easy cleanup and other features to increase comfort.

2. Add Grab Bars
   Safety rails make using the toilet easier and can help prevent slips and falls. Install them on one or both sides and at the back of the toilet.
3. Check the Flush Handle
   Also, ensure that the flush is easy to operate. For example, choose levers instead of buttons or knobs.

Vanity

4. Rethink the Sink
   Raising the sink will make it easier for people with back problems to use while lowering the sink is necessary for those in wheelchairs. Also, install a broader sink to avoid spills. As you adjust the sink, remember to adjust the mirror, too. Ensure you can see it whether you are standing or seated.
5. Improve Access to the Sink
   To ensure wheelchair users can access the sink, opt for a pedestal or wall-mounted sink. If you can, make the sink slab larger for placing essential items within reach.
6. Replace the Faucet
   Choose a faucet that operates using a lever instead of knobs, which can be hard to grasp for aging hands. You could also install motion-sensing faucets with a thermostatic valve. This way, you never have to worry about the faucet being left open. Nor will anyone risk getting scalded by hot water.

Showers and Tubs

7. Install Shower Seats
   Standing for extended periods becomes more difficult with age. Shower seats and transfer benches allow a user to sit comfortably in the shower. Depending on your circumstances, you may want an in-built or movable chair. Some in-built options are foldable. You will also need a handheld showerhead within reach of the seat.

8. Install Grab Bars
   Grab bars are essential to bathroom safety. Install them at standing and sitting heights and near the controls. Ensure you secure them to studs in the wall wherever possible.
9. Remove the Curb
   The ledge of a shower or bathtub can be a tripping hazard and make it impossible to use with walkers and wheelchairs. A curbless shower sits flush with the bathroom floor, allowing wheelchairs to roll in. A plumber will ensure the floor has a slope or install a trench drain to prevent water from spilling all over the bathroom. If you prefer to have a bathtub, consider a walk-in tub.

Floor

10. Install Anti-Slip Flooring
    You may have to replace those glossy tiles with something more textured to prevent slips and falls. Or you could stick textured strips to the floor or apply a non-slip coating.
11. Replace Mats and Rugs
    Rugs make a bathroom feel cozy and can add a pop of color and style. But the soft backing makes them a tripping hazard. They also tend to get caught in walkers or wheelchairs. Instead, opt for rubber mats or don’t use rugs at all. The only place where a mat is essential is the shower and tub. Ensure it attaches tightly and won’t obstruct a wheelchair or walker.

Storage

12. Incorporate Open Shelves
    Opening drawers or cabinet doors can be difficult where bathroom space is limited. Open shelving not only makes accessing everyday items easier but can also give your bathroom a modern feel.

Doors

13. Enlarge the Entryway
    Ensure doors are large enough to fit a wheelchair and the entryway has no threshold. The door swing should open wide for easy turning and not take up a lot of bathroom space. You could also install a sliding door if space is limited.
14. Replace the Door Knob
    Again, choose door levers or handles that are easy to operate instead of knobs. Ensure they are wide enough for an easy grasp.

Light

15. Make It Bright
    Eyesight decreases with age, and more light is needed to perform everyday tasks. Bathrooms tend to be dim because the one overhead light is often insufficient. Wherever possible, increase the amount of natural light in the bathroom by removing blinds or enlarging the windows. Install LED strips or wall sconces on the sides of the mirror. Additionally, you can get motion-sensing lights that make nightly bathroom trips much safer. Remember to put the light switches in easily accessible locations. Opt for large switches instead of small buttons or toggles.

Considering Your Next Remodel? Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas!

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas is your trusted expert for all residential plumbing needs. We provide our services round the clock and at affordable prices.

Our trained and licensed plumbers do general repairs, appliance installations, drain cleaning, leak detection, and water heater service. Give bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas a call today.

Safety First

Preparing for an independent and fulfilled future can start now. Many of the above ideas don’t require a big remodel. An old bathroom can be functional and modern if you plan it well.

For more ideas, consult your local plumber or check the ADA guidelines. The guide gives exact measurements for the placement of fixtures and details the layout of a truly accessible bathroom.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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Exploring The Varied Varieties Of Rheem Tankless Water Heaters: A Comprehensive Analysis

According to the Department of Energy, water heating accounts for up to 18 percent of a home’s utility costs. Many storage water heaters still in use have exceeded their useful lifespan and are more likely to break down. Homeowners should replace their water heaters when the time comes to prevent a disaster.

Unfortunately, finding the right appliance is not that easy. The debate for the perfect water heater is quite intense. However, many homeowners would agree that tankless water heaters can be cost-efficient. Tankless heaters are 8 to 34 percent more energy efficient than storage water heaters and can last more than 20 years.

Why Rheem?

Of the hundreds of water heaters available, Rheem tankless water heaters have been a favorite among many. These units have continuously made it to the best water heater lists of sites, such as Forbes.

Rheem is known for its energy-efficient, sustainable, and innovative products and continues to raise the bar for modern water heater standards.

This blog post closely examines Rheem’s tankless water heaters and what makes them so special.

Electric Water Heater

Rheem has two types of tankless electric water heaters: point-of-use and whole-home. Point-of-use heaters provide hot water to one appliance or fixture. They are usually small and compact and sit close to the water point. They work best for homes with limited space and even mobile homes. Whole-home water heaters can serve the kitchen faucet, dishwasher, shower, sink, washing machine, and bathtub all at the same time.

Rheem electric water heaters have a digital temperature display and a knob to adjust the heat. Some models can adjust their power consumption to meet hot water needs. These water heaters are easy to install and do not require venting. They cost less than gas-powered heaters, but operating costs can be higher.

Mid-Efficiency Water Heater

These whole-home water heaters run on natural gas or propane. You can choose between indoor and outdoor models depending on how much space you have and the climate in your area. Indoor models use a direct vent system.

This venting system has two separate pipes, one for the exhaust and another for the air intake. Because the water heater draws combustion air from the outside, you can install it in spaces with limited airflow and not experience back-drafting.

Outdoor mid-efficiency water heaters do not require venting and have freeze protection of up to -30F. Both indoor and outdoor water heaters have low emission rates and carry certifications from the NSF, AHRI, and other independent bodies.

Mid-efficiency tankless water heaters also include features that make them more convenient and energy-saving. Some have a Water Savings Setting, Low Flow Activation, and Maintenance Notice Setting. You can also link several heaters together if you need more hot water.

Though most mid-efficiency heaters do not have a digital display, they come with a remote control and thermostat. All models are compatible with the EcoNet app that lets you monitor the water heater from your smartphone.

High-Efficiency Water Heater

These tankless water heaters contain the latest features making them safer and more efficient. The high-efficiency tankless water heaters that carry Rheem’s special sustainability seal can help reduce energy costs and save water. You can choose between electric or gas fuelled types and indoor or outdoor models. Outdoor units have integrated freeze protection, and indoor units have an overheat film wrap.

These Rheem tankless water heaters come in different configurations. The condensing water heater models use excess heat to preheat incoming water. When you open a hot water tap, the water will take less time to heat, saving you energy.

Do you know how much water is wasted each time you open the faucet and wait for it to get hot? According to the NRDC, 10% of the water used for showers goes to waste this way. A recirculation pump keeps the water in constant motion to ensure it doesn’t cool down. Some of Rheem’s high-efficiency water heaters have an inbuilt recirculation pump. You can also get a recirculation pump kit for those heaters without one.

High-efficiency units have all the features mid-efficiency ones have. But they go a step further. A hot start program avoids cold water bursts in back-to-back use. In addition to the EcoNet app, they also have a self-diagnostic system to make servicing easier. They can be used at high altitudes and linked together for higher demand. The Super high-efficiency tankless water heaters are ENERGY STAR certified and qualify for tax credits and rebates.

Contact Us for More Water Heater and Plumbing Tips

Homeowners trust bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas to deliver excellent services. We take great care to always be on time and provide 100 percent customer satisfaction. We know how quickly a seemingly small plumbing issue can become a terrifying nightmare. That’s why we ensure all our plumbers adhere to our high standards.

Our services include drain cleaning, leak detection, fixture installations, and sewer line repair. We install and service water heaters, including Rheem water heaters. Also, our best plumbers will come to you any time, every day of the week. Don’t wait for an emergency to throw you off guard. Give us a call today.

Which Water Heater Is Best for You?

Among the many Rheem tankless water heaters, there is one for you. When choosing a water heater, you need to consider a few things. First, you need to know what fuel it will run on. Then you must decide whether to use a point-of-use or whole-house system. Where you live will also affect your choice, as outdoor water heaters work better in milder climates.

Also, consider the gallons per minute (GPM) your household consumes to avoid buying a unit that’s too small. Rheem tankless water heaters range from 0.9 GPM to 10 GPM. Models with higher GPM use more energy and cost more but can serve more appliances simultaneously. If you are still unsure, you can enlist the help of a professional plumber at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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