January 2021 - Tioga Construction

Month: January 2021

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Sometimes we take many things in our lives for granted. Indoor toilets and safe, accessible drinking water seem like a given for many of us in Hurst, TX, and the United States in general. Approximately 2.6 billion people around the world don’t have access to safe, clean water or indoor plumbing. That is nearly 1/3 of the entire human population. Indoor plumbing and clean water are essential for a healthy modern lifestyle, and we certainly need plumbers to help us maintain this precious resource.

Plumbing Origins

The earliest known plumbing pipes were discovered in Egypt. Egyptian plumbers, or an equivalent profession, made pipes with baked clay and straw. Egyptians also had the first copper pipes and invented water wheels. Wells dating back to the days of Ancient Egypt are up to 400-feet deep, and bathrooms and plumbing features were discovered in several pyramids.

Greece and Rome had plumbers in their empires too. Greek bath houses contained hot and cold running water. Rome built the extraordinary aqueducts across massive distances, and used underground lead pipes to transport water in some places. Scattered segments of the aqueducts remain intact to this day.

Poor Sanitation and Disease

Plumbing, and concern for clean water and waste management in general, declined drastically after the ancient empires fell. Unfortunately, humanity lost a great deal of knowledge between the ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian empires and the Middle Ages. The link between contaminated water and disease was completely forgotten. Occasionally, individual physicians and people of other professions made a tentative connection, but it did not become a recognized fact again until the 1800s.

The black plague is the most famous illness of the Middle Ages, but heavily populated areas experienced almost constant outbreaks of various diseases. City dwellers often threw chamber pot waste right into the streets, and an almost complete lack of sanitation meant most people in cities and large towns lived in filth.

Cholera, diphtheria, and dysentery were rampant. Some large cities, such as London and Paris, devised sewers of a sort. Channels were cut into streets to give wastewater a path to natural water sources. These channels were eventually covered to lessen the terrible odor, but that was not the biggest problem.

Bodies of freshwater were sources of drinking water and waste disposal. Sewer channels guided human and animal waste into the same rivers and streams that provided drinking water. Most cities and towns didn’t even have sewer channels. Waste accumulated in the streets until rain washed it away. Stepping stones were often used so people could walk through streets without slogging through filth.

Several nations in Europe and Asia set up sewage farms around cities. Human and animal waste could be gathered off the streets and transported to soil beds to create richer soil with more nitrates. A similar practice collected wastewater and used it to irrigate fields. Human waste is not used for fertilizer now because we know it can be a source of illness.

Early Clean Water Measures

London’s water was so contaminated that it caused waves of cholera epidemics. The National Public Health Act of 1848 was passed to improve sanitation in London and other cities in the United Kingdom. It eventually became the framework for plumbing codes around the world.

The industrial revolution triggered construction of plumbing infrastructure on a massive scale across Europe and the United States. Cities filled with additional workers and streets became so polluted that the problem could not be ignored or put off.

The first integrated sewer system in the United States was built in Chicago in 1856. It was necessary to stop the flow of sewage into Lake Michigan, which also provided drinking water throughout the city. Construction of Chicago’s sewer system began after an epidemic of water-borne illnesses killed almost 75,000 people.

New York’s first water main was built in 1830, although the first sewers in New York were built in the 1660s. The city’s population grew by leaps and bounds from the early 1800s onward. New York’s water was infamous for its foul, tepid taste until construction of water and sewer mains caught up with demand.

Sewer systems, and eventually water and sewage treatment plants, were rapidly built in cities across the United States. Many rural areas relied on well water and septic tanks until the mid-1900s. Some people in Hurst, TX, still use well water and septic systems, although they must adhere to strict regulations. Installing or upgrading a septic system is a job for professional plumbers.

Plumbers installed pipes and fixtures made from copper, iron and steel until the US entered World War 2. Both ferrous and nonferrous metals were needed for the war effort, so plumbers switched to newer materials, such as plastics and glazed clay.

Plumbers and Human Civilization

Civilization is dependent on relatively large numbers of people living in close proximity. A close-knit population center is necessary for working together and exchanging information regularly. Humanity has made a great deal of progress in modern times. Communication between nations on opposite sides of the world is instantaneous, and information travels vast distances in seconds.

There are still many aspects of modern infrastructure that depend on people living and working together. It is very difficult to create new technology and achieve scientific breakthroughs while worrying about basic needs. Modern life in developed nations solved that problem. People have access to essential resources without spending daily labor hours fulfilling basic needs.

No resource is more essential than water. We absolutely must have water to survive. Plumbers manage public and private infrastructure that delivers clean water to our homes and commercial buildings. In fact, plumbing has such a vital role in health, safety and daily life that it is not an exaggeration to say plumbers are essential to advanced civilization. Call Tioga Contractors for any of your plumbing issues or questions.

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There is a plumbing system in every single home, which means that at some point in your life you will probably need to call a plumber. However, a lot of homeowners think that they can put off calling a professional until an emergency occurs. While you can certainly do this, it is not the most cost-effective or beneficial way to approach your home plumbing system. Like most major systems in your home, continual maintenance that is performed proactively is the best way to ensure your plumbing system reaches its full lifespan.

From time to time there may be minor plumbing issues that you can handle on your own, but a lot of the small repairs that homeowners think is handling a situation is really only a temporary fix. Tightening a loose faucet may fix a leaky faucet, but if the faucet is just going to continue to loosen again then it’s time to think about fixing the entire fixture. Likewise, replacing a part may help keep the water flowing in your home, but if the rest of the line needs replacing that one part is only going to help for so long.

A professional can come in and fix the issue in one go- and one service call, which is why you should always consider calling for help from a professional plumber. Wondering if it is worth it to call your local plumbing service to just come to inspect your plumbing lines? While this may seem odd, it is actually a great idea and one that is recommended by most plumbing organizations. You would be amazed by how many leaks we find in homes where homeowners are almost positive that there is nothing wrong with their plumbing. If you still need convincing, here are just a few reasons to schedule a proactive plumbing maintenance visit.

Prevent Future Damage

Remember earlier when we were talking about calling the plumber as a last resort? That is a really bad idea because at this point you are probably dealing with an extensive amount of damage. Calling for help as soon as you think you have a plumbing issue can save you a lot of money. For instance, if you notice a small leak coming from your water heater you may place a bucket under it and try to avoid the issue for a few more weeks. At the time it may seem like a bright idea, but when you come home and find your basement flooded that quick fix will end up costing you.

At this point, you are likely looking at property damage, flood damage, water remediation services, and a brand new water heater. Had you called about the leak and talked to someone they could have seen if it could have been fixed, or proactively installed a new water heater if not. This is just one example of the many hundreds of ways that you can save a lot of time and hassle by just calling for help in the first place.

Plumbing Guarantees

If a plumber in Bedford, TX is worth his name, then they will likely offer you guaranteed work. This means that they will stand by any work completed by the company for a certain amount of time. If something else occurs or it turns out the fix wasn’t right and more damage occurs the plumber will fix the problem for free. Professionals that know their stuff are happy to offer a guarantee because they know the issue was resolved while they were there the first time.

However, if you tackle a plumbing problem on your own and make it worse you will be out of the money you spent on parts and have no recourse. At this point, you will still end up needing to call for help which means you will end up spending money on parts and the service call. It’s better to stay ahead of the game and just get a professional to fix it the first time around.

The Power of Experience

There is a reason why most people refer to plumbers as experienced. The truth is that plumbing is like any other system in your home, it can be cranky and have small issues that are only detectable by a trained professional. A professional knows what to look for- because they have already seen it dozens of times at other homes before they enter yours. While a plumbing issue may be new to you, chances are it is not new to them. This makes them uniquely qualified to troubleshoot issues and diagnose problems before they become major issues.

Plumbers also own a host of specialty tools that allow them to complete jobs efficiently and quickly. What may take you hours of frustration will take a qualified and equipped professional less than 15 minutes to do oftentimes. This alone makes it worth it to pay for their service call. There is a good chance that without the proper tools you are also not truly solving the problem or tightening something the way it was meant to be done. This means that down the road you may still need to call for help.

If it hasn’t become obvious yet, the main reason to call a plumber is to actually save yourself a lot of headache and trouble. The same way you know that not everyone can do your job, not anyone can be a plumber. When in doubt, it is always a better idea to trust your home plumbing system to an experienced and fully licensed technician who knows what he or she is doing. If you are experiencing issues with plumbing in your home or want to have your plumbing system inspected, give Tioga Contractors of Bedford, TX a call to set up an appointment.

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Here’s a new way to look at your drain cleaning service: pest control for the microscopic ones. As long as your drains are flowing, and you probably have more than you realize, nothing gets a chance to stick around and cause harm. Once your drains back up, you’ve got who-knows-what in your sink, overflowing onto your floors and beyond, and even filling up your basement. Tioga Contractors plumbing technicians help homeowners avoid these nasty images and keep their homes healthy and clean.

Different Drains Have Different Problems

Each of your drains has different characteristics, from the pipes and joints that carry waste to the types of waste that pass through. Aging, corroded pipes and tight joints can provide places for material to accumulate. Kitchen waste can be bulky, greasy, and often needs a lot of water to keep it moving down the pipes. If it doesn’t get this push, clogs build. Bathroom sinks get hair, grease, soap, and often objects that speed the formation of clogs. Toilets, much of the same. Showers and tubs backup from hair and thick soap residue. Your drain cleaning service has experience keeping each of these drains, and others in your home, clear and clean so they not only keep flowing, but avoid future build-up.

The Difference Between Maintenance Drain Cleaning Service and Emergencies

When you call for a slow or backed-up sink or toilet, you’re getting one fixture flowing again. It may be an acute case of things falling down the drain, or the accumulation of material in the pipes may have finally narrowed to the point where it needs a thorough cleaning. It’s an urgent, disruptive situation. You may have standing water in the sink, or an overflow from sinks and toilets that’s spreading bacteria and contamination and seeping into your floors and walls. Our people will auger, plunge, hydrojet and use other techniques to make sure you’re all set. You may need remediation services to ensure that the contamination is cleaned and mold or mildew doesn’t grow. Meanwhile, your other sinks, toilets, and other fixtures may be building up to the point where another emergency arises.

Maintenance cleaning helps prevent the damage and health dangers of drain emergencies. It also ensures that your home’s drain system gets a thorough treatment, including drains you don’t think of, like your laundry drain, utility sink, and even the drain in your basement floor. We make sure that your pipes have been cleaned to prevent build-up, getting you ahead of the game. We also make sure that your main drain pipes are in good shape, ensuring that a clog between floors doesn’t result in backups in all your upstairs drains. We’ll also check for sewer line issues, using video inspection if appropriate, helping avoid one of the biggest homeowner challenges you can face. After all, knowledge is power, and scheduling a routine sewer line cleaning or repair beats the alternative.

It All Flows Downhill — Except When It Doesn’t

Your home’s waste plumbing is a system, with smaller pipes from sinks and toilets joining larger pipes to carry your wastewater to your sewer and out to the street or septic tank. Clogs in the larger pipes do happen, and they are often harder to locate and clean. We have the inspection and cleaning technologies to do the job, and to make sure that you don’t have to deal with multiple backups because of a clog in a common line. When you find that you’re getting slow draining in several places, or your basement drain is suddenly backing up and making a mess, chances are there’s a traffic jam on the pipes leading your waste on its way. Our drain cleaning service can make quite a difference when we clear out one of these lines.

Drains You Don’t Think Of

Frequent use helps keep drains clear and allows material to flow on its way. Some of your drains may not see as much action, and if you suddenly start using them you could be surprised by a clog or backup. Your utility sink is one example, and what you pour down could make quite a mess if it overflows instead. Your basement drain is also critical, and needs to be ready to handle emergencies such as water heater leaks or large spills even when it’s been unused for years. You may also have guest bathrooms, basement restrooms, or other plumbing that doesn’t see much activity that could use an inspection and a visit from our drain cleaning service to ensure that the plumbing is in good shape.

The Big Pipe Has Problems, Too — Sewer Drain Cleaning Service

Our drain cleaning service personnel can provide you with critical information that can help you plan and budget for major repairs, if they might be necessary. One of the most significant is your Irving, TX sewer or septic pipe. With video inspection, we can help you avoid the mess and cleanup that sewer backup can involve, and we can let you know about the condition of the line and what might be needed now or in the future. In many cases, we can actually help you relax about major expenses, because there are so many ways that sewer lines can be maintained and repaired these days without doing a total pipe replacement.

When Maintenance Isn’t Enough, We’re Ready

People often get to know us first when they’re reacting to an emergency plumbing situation. Our people are knowledgeable, experienced, and helpful in turning a tough situation into a quick recovery and peaceful repair.

Trust Your Drain Cleaning Service Needs to Tioga Contractors

It makes a big difference when you can turn to people you trust no matter what your home repair and maintenance needs. Tioga Contractors serving Irving, TX provides drain cleaning service, general plumbing, and contractor services, letting you relax and enjoy your home. Give us a call and get to know us.

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The plumbing system in your home is very complex, and it is made up of three parts. First is the water supply system, which allows fresh, clean water to enter the home. The second part is the fixtures and appliance set of lines, which is where the main water supply enters the house and is delivered to faucets, showerheads, and water-based appliances. Finally, there is a drain system. This part of the plumbing system is designed to remove water and waste from the home through the drains and toilets.

If any part of the plumbing system isn’t functioning properly, it can make life in the home difficult and needs to be repaired by a licensed plumber. A damaged water line can cause serious issues in the home; therefore, you should be able to recognize the signs that you need to call for water line repair. The sooner you suspect there is a problem, the sooner you can call a professional.

#1 Drastic Decrease In Water Pressure

If you typically had strong water pressure in your home, and suddenly, it is poor, your water line could be to blame. If there is a leak somewhere in the water line, the water that leaks won’t make it to the faucet or showerhead, which will cause the water pressure to be poor. Because there are other issues that could be causing your water pressure problem, you should call a licensed plumber to determine if you need a water line repair.

#2 A Significant Increase In Your Water Bill

If you notice that your water bills are higher than usual, there are a few things that you should consider. First, if someone new enters your household, your water usage will increase, which will cause your water bill to increase. The same is true if you recently purchased a water-based appliance or used your water to fill a pool or a hot tub.

If none of these apply to you, there is a good chance that you have a water line leak and you require water line repair. In most cases, you won’t be able to see the leak, but it will cause water to pour out behind the walls. If your water bills have increased, you should call a plumber who specializes in repairs.

#3 Puddles In the Yard

If there have been no significant rainstorms in Euless, TX, recently, and there are puddles of water in the yard, there is a good chance that you have a leak in the water line that would require a water line repair. If the problem is ignored, it can cause serious issues with the foundation of your home and property. It is essential that you call a plumber specializing in repairs to confirm a leak in the water line and then make the necessary repair.

#4 Dirty Water

If you turn on the water in your home and it is rust-colored or brown, there is a good chance that you have a water line leak. When underground water lines break, the water can become contaminated by the dirt and debris underground. This is considered an emergency situation because it isn’t safe to bathe in dirty water, drink it, or cook with it. If you suspect that your water is contaminated, you should call a professional in water line repair as soon as possible.

#5 Water Stains Inside the House

If you have a water line leak somewhere in the home, it is possible to see evidence of the leak inside the house. Damp floors and bubbling walls and ceilings are signs that you need to call a plumber specializing in repair. If you ignore the problem, the leak will cause significant water damage to your house. The best way to protect the structure of your home and everything inside is to call for repair as soon as you notice the water damage.

#6 You Hear Running Water

If you are sitting in your home while it is quiet and hearing running water, you should check your faucets and shower to make sure that the water was not left running. You should also check your toilet to make sure that it didn’t continue running once the tank filled. If everything checks out and you still hear running water, there is a good chance that you need to call a plumber who specializes in water line repair.

There could be a water line leak behind the wall that you can’t see. This is a serious problem. If you don’t call a plumber specializing in repairs of your water line immediately, you risk significant structural damage to your home and the potential of mold growth. These are both very expensive issues and require immediate assistance from a plumber specializing in these repairs.

#7 Warm Spots On Your Basement Floor

If you have an unfinished basement, your floor is going to be cold. If you notice that there are spots on the basement floor that are warm, there is a good chance that you have a leaking hot water line underneath the foundation. If the water line has been leaking for a while, you might also notice cracks on the basement floor and standing water. It is essential that you call a plumber who specializes in water line repair immediately to prevent further damage to your basement floor and your home’s foundation.

If you suspect that you have a leak in a water line in your Euless, TX home, contact Tioga Contractors for water line repair. Our highly-skilled, highly-trained licensed plumbers can use leak detection equipment to figure out if you have a leak and where it is located.

We have been serving residential and business customers in the area for many years and can handle any job that you have, big or small.

We at Tioga Contractors understand that plumbing issues can arise at any time of the day or night. Because of this, we offer emergency service 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

To schedule an appointment for water line repair or any other plumbing issue, give us at Tioga Contractors a call today.

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Most people don’t give their water heater a second thought until they are faced with taking an ice-cold shower. Indeed the water heater in most homes goes unnoticed until it breaks down. During the summer months, it’s easy to shrug off a lukewarm shower but in the winter months, you want no part of a cold shower if you’re like most people. If you’re facing lukewarm or cold water showers, chances are something is wrong with your water heater. Water heater repair is important for any homeowner to take into account. Again this is more true in the winter months than in the summer months.

Did you know that water heaters are only designed to last 8 to 12 years? If you want your water heater to last longer you’re going to need to do regular maintenance on it. You can always opt for a water heater tune-up. What goes into a water heater tune-up? Your water heater repair expert will check for water leaks, drain and flush your tank, test the temperature-pressure relief valve, clean your burner, and test your gas valve. They will also check for the proper venting of combustion gasses.

Recognizing the early warning signs that your water heater is failing or needs repairs is crucial to avoid more costly repairs, as almost every water heater that needs replacing could have been repaired if caught sooner. Considering the amount of wear and tear it has to endure, it’s no surprise that it is bound to fail at some point. The key is knowing when to call in a professional for water heater repair. Most homeowners don’t know anything is wrong with their water heater until it breaks down completely. Is your water heater not working as you would expect it to? Here are some of the top signs that you need water heater repair.

1. Fluctuating Water Heat

While having no hot water at all is clearly a sign that your water heater has broken down, so is fluctuating water heat. If you notice sometimes hot water comes out as needed, but other times the water comes out lukewarm or even cold, and you have not drained your hot water tank with use, something is wrong. Often it is mineral deposits built up around your water heater’s heating element. Mineral deposits build up over time over your heating element causing your water to not heat up to its full potential. It is easy to clean these deposits or simply replace the heating element if too many minerals have developed over time to clean.

If your water is lukewarm or cold, it could also mean that your heating parts need to be repaired or at worst case scenario replaced. Is your water heater very old? If so you might want to have it replaced versus repairing it. This can save you time, money, and stress from having to make multiple repairs to your water heater. If your water heater is relatively new you might want to consider water heater repair from Tioga contractors, your local trusted plumbers.

2. Low Hot Water Pressure

The mineral deposits we mentioned above can do more than affect the heat of your water. Mineral deposits can also build up to block pipes, including the pipes leading to and from your water heater. This will of course reduce your water pressure as the full force of the water can’t get past the mineral deposits. The water pressure from your water heater can suffer from mineral deposits. While there are a few other issues besides mineral deposits that can cause reduced water pressure, namely kinked distribution lines and poor design, chances are if you’re having this issue it’s mineral deposits. Luckily for homeowners, this is an easy fix for any water heater repair professional. At Tioga Contractors of Irving, TX, we can diagnose the exact cause of your low water pressure and easily fix the issue, giving you a comfortable shower once again.

3. It Leaks

This one should seem like a no brainer, but most homeowners we find who have this problem never inspect their water heater until there’s a problem. We recommend homeowners do a visual inspection of their water heater once a month as part of regular home maintenance. Leaking water is dangerous for your home. Water damage to your home can occur. Mold growth is also a real possibility. Mold is toxic and not meant to be in your home and can cause illness. The water can be corrosive as well which is dangerous to small pets and children. If you have a leaking water heater, it is time to call the professionals for water heater repair. You should repair this issue before it causes even more issues.

4. Signs of Corrosion

Most often any signs of corrosion to your water heater mean it is time to get a new water heater installed. How can you tell if your water heater has corroded? If your water heater has rust or corrosion on the outside, it is corroded on the inside and likely shot or close to being a shot water heater. If your hot water is discolored and brown chances are you’re dealing with corrosion as well. If the issue is only partial corrosion, and only a professional water heater repair expert can tell for sure, you may be able to simply replace the rusty parts. This is only a temporary fix, however, giving you time to save for a new water heater.

If you’re having any of these issues call the experts at Tioga Contractors today! We can fix your water heater and even perform a tune-up on your water heater. We are Irving, TX trusted water heater repair experts. Do not delay in having any of these issues repaired as it could lead to further damage. We follow all covid 19 guidelines to keep you safe during these unprecedented hard times. Call us today for all of your water heater and plumbing needs!

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All of the appliances in your home are essential in handling everyday tasks and making your life more convenient. While you need each of your appliances, your water heater is one of the most essential. If your water heater isn’t functioning properly, you won’t have hot water to shower and wash dishes. Also, your water-based appliances won’t function properly. Also, a poorly functioning water heater can affect the quality of your hot water.

The best way to prevent a complete water heater breakdown and be sure that your hot water is safe for use is to recognize the signs that you need to call for water heater repair. The sooner you realize that your water heater needs to be repaired, the better. Fortunately, there are signs that you can look for that will tell you that it is time to call a professional in repairs.

#1 No Hot Water

The most obvious sign that it is time to call for water heater repair is if your hot water comes out cold. When this happens, the heating elements could be malfunctioning. Traditional water heaters have two heating elements, one on the top and one on the bottom. If the heating elements aren’t working properly, the water in the tank won’t get hot, and the water will come out cold.

The problem could also be with the thermostat. The thermostat tells your water heater how much to heat the water. If the thermostat isn’t working, the water won’t get hot.

If you turn on the hot water and it comes out cold, you should call a professional in water heater repair right away.

#2 The Water Isn’t Getting Hot Enough

If you turn on your hot water and it comes out lukewarm, you should first check the thermostat. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, you should set your thermostat no higher than 120 degrees. If the thermostat is much lower than that, try turning it up. There is a good chance that this will solve your problem.

If the thermostat is set properly, there could be an issue with one of the heating elements. If only one is functioning properly, it will be impossible for the water to get hot, and you would need to call a professional in repair. The sooner you call a professional, the sooner you will have hot water again.

#3 You Are Running Out Of Hot Water Quickly

If you find that you are running out of hot water in the middle of a shower often, you should first consider your family size. If a new person has recently moved into your home, your hot water demand will increase, and your existing water heater may not be able to meet your family’s hot water needs. If this is the case, you should consider installing a larger water heater or a tankless water heater that provides hot water on demand.

If your family size has remained the same and you are still running out of hot water, one of the water heater’s heating elements could have failed, and only half of the tank will be heated. IF there is a large amount of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, it will reduce the space that you have to store hot water, reducing the amount of hot water in the tank.

It would take a professional in water heater repair to find out why you are running out of water so quickly so they can make the necessary repair.

#4 Rusty Hot Water

If you turn on your water and it comes out rusty, you have a problem. If the hot and cold water is coming out rusty, your pipes have likely corroded and need to be replaced. If just the hot water is coming out rusty, the issue likely lies with your water heater. When sediment builds up in the bottom of the tank, it can cause the hot water to come out rusty.

Because rusty water is dangerous for bathing, cooking, and drinking, it is essential that you call a professional in repair as soon as you notice that there is a problem.

#5 Poor Hot Water Pressure

Poor water pressure can be incredibly annoying. If the water pressure is poor, it can be difficult to rinse the shampoo and conditioner out of your hair. Poor water pressure can also make it difficult to wash your dishes, and your water-based appliances might not work properly.

If the hot and cold water pressure is poor, the aerator on the faucet or showerhead could be clogged. You could also have a leak in the waterline, which can cause water damage and promote mold growth and should be repaired immediately.

If just the hot water pressure is poor, the problem is likely with your water heater. If sediment and mineral deposits have built up in the water tank, it can clog the pipes, causing poor hot water pressure. As soon as you notice a problem, you should call for water heater repair immediately.

#6 Moisture Around the Water Heater

There should never be moisture or water pooling around your water heater. If there is, you need to call for water heater repair immediately.

The problem could be something simple like a clogged, broken, or poorly connected hose. It could also be something more serious like a crack in the water heater tank, resulting in a major flood.

Any standing water or moisture can cause damage to the structure of your home and promote mold growth; therefore, you should call for water heater repair immediately.

#7 Strange Sounds Coming From the Water Heater

When the water heater in your Arlington, TX home runs, you shouldn’t hear anything more than a low-level humming. If you hear a banging or clanging sound, you should call a water heater repair professional immediately.

When large pieces of sediment and mineral deposits build up in the water tank, they can move around and clang against the sides. This can put the integrity of your water tank at risk and can result in a flood.

As soon as you start hearing strange sounds, you should call a professional in repair.

If you have any issues with the water heater in your Arlington, TX home, contact Tioga Contractors. We are a full-service plumbing and electrical service company that has been serving residential and business customers in the area since 1953.

We understand that water heaters and all other plumbing and electrical emergencies can occur at any time, which is why we offer emergency service 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, 365 days a year.

To schedule an appointment for water heater repair or any other service, give us at Tioga Contractors a call today.

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If you understand the way your electrical system should work, you will be able to tell when it isn’t working properly. If your electrical system has become faulty or has begun malfunctioning it is important you properly care for your system with the help of a professional electrician. Electrical systems are delicate intricate systems that need maintenance to work properly and efficiently. Electrical systems contain large quantities of electrical power. There are many signs that accompany electrical malfunctions. If you pay attention and act quickly, you can avoid electrical accidents such as shock, electrocution, and electrical fire. If you live in the area, contact Tioga Contractors, if you notice any system malfunctions or errors.

If you have no background in electrical work, it is important you contact a professional electrician for all of your electrical service needs. Electricity is powerful and dangerous. Even if you have worked with electricity before, you should still have a professional and licensed professional work on your home’s electrical system. Working with electrical systems and working with electricity is different. Electrical systems, such as the ones found in homes are intricate and complicated. One faulty wire can cause a chain reaction of malfunctions, faults, and damages in your electrical system. Working with an electrical system is dangerous. It is dangerous for those who work with it and those who use it. To make things safer, you need to hire someone who knows what they are doing and is licensed to do so. This is important because a licensed electrician will be up to code on how electrical systems need to work and will also have an in-depth knowledge of the way an electrical system should work to ensure the safety of its users.

How Are Electrical Systems Supposed to Work?

The electricity in your home flows all over the house. This is why remodeling is such a hassle, and requires the help of a professional electrician, especially in cases, where removal or changing of the location of your electrical system is needed. This is because your electrical wiring and system are all over your home, hidden within the walls. Your electrical system is huge, extensive, and complex. It is used to power the lights in your home, the outlets you use to plug in all of your major appliances, and everything else that requires an electrical outlet to work.

Your Energy Provider

Your electrical systems start with the power company. Your power company provides your home with electricity through means of cables and wires in the ground that is directly connected to your sources of electrical power. Bringing electricity to your home is a complex task.

Your electrical system has safety features in play that will help in emergencies and that is usually first put in place by your energy provider. It has been discovered that uncontrollable variables can affect the voltage of your system. This can be seen as an issue because controlling the amount of voltage that goes through these cables and wires is a safety measure that prevents power surges, overloaded circuits, electrical damage, shock, and fires. If the voltage becomes too great for an electrical system, disasters may occur. This is why your energy provider has put in safety measures that will stop the electrical flow at a moment’s notice to make up for unusual influxes of voltage to your home. If anything goes wrong with the flow of electricity to your home, your energy provider will send out their own electrician. They will need to send someone who is familiar with their electrical systems in order to fix the issue properly.

If the power were to completely shut down in your home or around the neighborhood, it would most likely mean something is wrong with the electrical connection from the energy company. This is something your power provider will need to reconcile. If you notice any electrical problems within the home, you should contact Tioga Contractors, in Irving, TX, for professional electrical repair.

The Main Electrical Panel

The electrical panel is an important feature in your home. You should make yourself familiar with this panel. This panel is there to help with the safety and manual maintenance of your electrical system. This panel or fuse box is a direct connection between the electrical system inside and outside of your home. The electrical panel has complete control over the different circuits in the home and cuts off the flow of electricity to any circuit in the home. This is a helpful tool for electricians who need to complete electrical work in the home.

What’s A Circuit?

A circuit is an electrical current pathway. It allows an electrical current to flow to or from an electrical source with a series of wires and cables. The electrical panel is able to cut off this flow of electricity with the flip of a switch.

A circuit within the home is confined by the walls of your property. The circuits In your homes start with your fuse box and flow throughout the entire home. There are a series of these circuits or pathways in the home that need to be inspected and repaired by a professional electrician from time to time. The circuits deal with loads of electrical energy. Electrical energy can be dangerous if it is not well contained. The wires located in electrical systems can become frayed and damaged over time, and periodic electrical repair will be needed.

Electrical Amps

An electrical amp or ampere is a unit of measure, used to measure the amount of electrical power in a home. The electrical amp is dictated by your home’s system capability and electricity provider. Older homes have an electrical amp of 60, whereas, modern homes have upgraded to 100 or 200 amps of power. The amount of electrical load your home is capable of is directly connected to your home’s electrical system and size. If you would like to increase the amount of electrical power your home is able to take, contact a professional electrician to help you increase your home’s capabilities for more of an electrical load. If you are in need of a professional and licensed electrician in the Irving, TX, area, contact Tioga Contractors, for all of your electrical needs.

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At Tioga Contractors of Bedford, TX, we do water heater repair, but not just your typical 40-gallon tank in the basement warmed by electrical or gas connections. There are lots of ways to get hot water these days, and our team has versatile skills to handle the equipment, connections, pumps, and controls for many of them. In particular, we’ve been working with Rinnai tankless water heaters for quite some time. Whatever supplies your hot water in your home, we’re the company to call when you have problems, or just need repair, maintenance, and upgrade services. Let’s talk about the many types of water heater repair we can do for you.

Standard Tank Water Heaters

Our typical water heater repair job is on a 40-gallon tank that supplies a home’s hot water. Most of the water heater repairs are on these units. They supply the hot water for many of the area families, and are the original equipment in most homes. They can require flushing of sediment, renewal of the anode rod, and adjustment of the thermostat. The heating system, electric or gas, can need repair. Overflow valves can malfunction, resulting in water discharge or pressure buildup.

A regular water heater inspection can catch these water heater repair items early, and also can help avoid the homeowner’s nightmare of a water heater leak which floods the surrounding area and leaves the family without hot water until a replacement unit is installed. Typical symptoms of water heater problems include water that’s not clear, that smells, or that is no longer as plentiful as it once was, even never reaching the right temperature.

Adding Standard Tank-Based Water Heater Capacity

Did you know that one solution for an insufficient hot water supply is simply the installation of a supplementary water heater? Most homes do pretty well with a standard model, but in a busy, large family with lots of loads of wash to run, dishes to wash, and showers or baths to take, there can be problems with running out of hot water at inconvenient times. It’s important to check for any water heater repair problems that could provide a quick solution including simple temperature adjustment on the unit, but we can also install another unit and provide additional capacity.

Tankless and Furnace-Connected Water Heater Systems

We’re one of the leading providers of new Rinnai tankless systems, and provide certified water heater repair for these popular units. Tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water for as long as you need it, eliminating the tank capacity problem with standard tank-based systems. These units also address many of the water heater repair problems that come with traditional units, including accumulation of sediment and bacteria growth. Tankless systems can also provide energy savings since they work only as hard as you need them to, but they do need to warm up every time you call for hot water which can make frequent demands for small amounts of hot water less efficient. Having the hot water you need for nice, hot showers, clean clothes and dishes, and good hygiene at your sinks can make a tankless system an attractive option.

Localized Under-Sink Water Heaters Allow Improved Hygiene and Safety

Another solution for the need for hot water on-demand is localized hot water heaters. Our team can install them under your kitchen or bathroom sink for faucet use and in other locations as needed. They are basically simpler versions of the tankless system, and allow you to not only have access to quick hot water without drawing all the way from your main system, but let you pick the temperature you want. You can then set the tank temperature at the lower end of the range for energy savings, and keep your kids from having to deal with extra-hot water from their tub and sink faucets. You’ll have plenty of water at the right temperature for best hygiene results in your adult sink and kitchen faucet. It’s a desirable convenience for many homeowners.

Renewable Energy Hot Water Sources

Renewable hot water systems can provide big cost savings, especially if you have a large family. Consisting of an energy collection and storage system, they work much like a standard tank-based water heater, keeping hot water available for your use in a storage tank. Much of the equipment is specialized for the purpose, and it’s important to understand the flow, capacity, and pressure components of the system to provide effective maintenance and repairs. In many cases your system provider will follow up with maintenance and repair, but our team has extensive experience with residential and commercial technologies including those used in renewable energy-based systems. Since we’re your top choice for residential plumbing, it makes sense to turn to us.

If you’ve decided to invest in renewable energy sources of hot water such as solar hot water panels, our team can often provide the repair and maintenance assistance you need, even if your original provider is no longer available. Our plumbers can help with piping, pumps, valves, and other components of your system as well as storage tanks and any interconnections with standard tank and tankless water heating systems. If you decide to retire or replace your renewable system, we can provide the plumbing expertise to keep your home’s access to hot water consistent while your renewable system is being worked on.

Your Expert Water Heater Repair Team, On-Call and Ready to Respond

Tioga Contractors of Bedford, TX is a team of experienced professionals that respond to your emergencies and help design and install systems, all to enhance your quality of life. We want you to get the most out of your budget, and we’ll provide advice from our experience that could give you new ideas for your home. Give us a call when you need us quickly, and let’s talk about your plans for the future of your home and family, too.

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Home electric fires in the US account for about 51,000 reported fire incidents annually, which lead to about 500 deaths, $1.3 billion in property damage, and 1400 injuries each year. One of the causes of these fires includes inappropriate or worn-out wiring systems. Homeowners living around the area should ensure their electrical wiring connections are updated and running smoothly by seeking help from a legitimate electrical service contractor. That will go a long way in preventing these frightening statistics from recurring and increasing. Discussed below are various wiring issues that homeowners can familiarize themselves with and prevent future damages by seeking immediate solutions from an electrical company.

Aluminum wiring

Some homes in Hurst, TX, especially the old ones, have wiring systems of aluminum material. With advanced technology, electrical specialists have identified copper as a better wiring material. That is because copper has a lower specific electrical resistivity, and it lasts longer than aluminum. Although aluminum is cheaper, homeowners might have to pay for rewiring services in the future to replace the worn-out wires. Therefore, it would be wise to invest in copper wiring and avoid the need for frequent replacement services.

If your electrical system has aluminum wires, both copper and aluminum, or you are oblivious to that knowledge, talk to an electrical service expert to gain insight and replacement services when needed. You would not want to have a situation whereby aluminum comes in contact with copper in the presence of an electric current and causes arcing and electric fires!

Receptacle defects

Some homeowners have probably experienced electrocutions from outlets, or their electrical appliances have burnt out due to damaged receptacles. These issues could arise from ungrounded outlets, meaning that the wiring system cannot conduct stray currents from the wires. Home occupants may get electrocuted, or their appliances might sustain damage if they use adapters to fit three-prong plugs into two-prong receptacles. If you have experienced such problems, an electrical service technician can help you resolve them by replacing existing ungrounded three-prong and two-prong receptacles with grounded three-prong ones.

Also, plugs may fall out of receptacles by themselves, and this may imply that the devices have worn out or lose contacts that may initiate arcing inside the outlet box and cause fires. Falling out plugs mean your outlets are damaged or old and need replacements. To get a new durable receptacle, look for a credible electrical contractor to perform the job.

Backstabbed wires

Backstabbing means wires are pushed into the connectors of switches and receptacles. That causes the wires to become loose, making the receptacles and switches stop working. Worse, the backstabbed wires can come into contact and start up a fire. If your switch or outlet has become defective, then it may imply that the wires were backstabbed. You would not want to get electrocuted trying to remedy the wiring problem and later on have to incur either fire damage restoration or medical expenses.

The wise thing to do is talk to a skilled electrical provider in Hurst, TX, who will examine the devices’ condition and release the backstabbed wires. They can also connect the wires to the proper screw terminals on switches and receptacles.

Flickering lights

Have you ever experienced flickering lights during a storm or when it is windy outside? If you have owned a property for a long period, you probably have. The most common reason why flickering happens is that frayed wires cause shorts when strong winds move them. The frayed wires are located in the outdoor fittings where overhead cables from the main supply line enter your home.

If you are ever dealing with flickering lights, raise complaints with your power supply company to have their experts insulate the frayed wires. However, if the issue persists, the next step to take is to consult an electrical service technician to evaluate the wiring system and later identify the exact defect and fix it.

Over-wired panels

An electric panel can have more circuits than the number it is designed to handle due to tandem breakers in one slot. These tandem breakers are not made like high-amp double-pole breakers, which can accommodate two slots with one circuit, making the panel overloaded with the wiring. That can be a cause of mistakes, especially when installed by an uncertified electrical provider.

Some complications that can arise include an under or oversupply of power in various electrical systems. If you experience these issues, talk to an expert electrical service technician to assess your panel and replace it with a bigger one that can handle your current and future electrical needs.

Over-lamping

Overlamping is whereby a light fixture has a bulb with higher wattage than the upper limit of wattage it is supposed to handle. That could cause electric fires since the heat produced by the bulb can melt down the insulation on the fixture wires and increase the incidence rate of arcing, a major source of electrical fires.

Even after removing the bulb, the damage will still be evident on the sockets and wires. At this point, get an electrical service professional to conduct the necessary repairs and gain advice on the best bulbs that suit your light fixtures.

Need electrical services? Settle for the expert providers

Electrical problems are a common occurrence in homes, and getting wind of the warning signs is just the first step towards solving the troubles. Seeking electrical services from top-notch contractors is paramount to get quality services and protect your investment while at it. That’s why our company exists. We are Tioga Contractors, a company that provides multiple underground and overhead electrical services.

Our technicians work on wiring, installation of lighting fixtures and fans, electrical remodeling, and replacing electrical switches and outlets. If you live in the area and your home has an electrical issue, all you need to do is reach out to us via our contacts, and one of our emergency electrical experts will help you resolve the mess.

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Owning your own home is one of the greatest accomplishments in one’s life. Things will go wrong with your home however from time to time, and one of those things is your plumbing. Without plumbing in your home, you would not have clean drinkable water. Without plumbing, wastewater would have nowhere to go. Yet few homeowners give their plumbing any thought until something goes wrong. You want to keep your plumbing in good repair, as it works hard for you every day.

Every plumbing system has a shelf life. Plumbing systems were not designed to last forever. At some point, you may have to replace your aging plumbing system through a plumbing company. Plumbing pipes will not replace themselves. Yet how do you know when it is time to replace your home’s pipes with a plumbing company? Here are the top signs that will let you know that it’s time to replace old plumbing pipes through a plumbing professional:

1. Leaky Pipes

This is the number one sign that you need to replace your pipes. A leaky pipe is a problem that can be costly if not taken care of promptly. Leaky pipes can affect your entire home. For one thing, the water damage that leaky pipes pose can destroy your home rather quickly. Another issue with leaky pipes to consider is mold growth. Mold is toxic and only grows where there is moisture. Not only is mold toxic, but it also destroys wood and other building materials. Mold grows easily. Do not ignore even a minor leakage, as even a minor leak can weaken the structure of your home and cause immense damage. If you have leaky pipes call your local plumbing company today for an estimate on pipe replacement.

2. Dangerous Materials

While just about everyone knows that lead is dangerous, few people are aware that roughly 10 million homes have lead service lines, and some have lead plumbing pipes. This is true even locally. Exposure to lead pipes can cause stunted growth and learning disabilities in children. For adults lead poisoning can lead to kidney damage and reproductive problems. You should find out if your home contains any lead service lines or pipes. If you find that you have lead pipes or service lines, you should consider installing either PVC or copper pipes through a professional company.

3. Old Age

If you have PVC pipes this will not apply to you as these pipes can last a lifetime. Some PVC pipes are designed to last indefinitely. All other pipes have a shelf life. Galvanized steel pipes can last between 20 to 50 years. Brass pipes have a lifespan of 40 to 45 years, while copper pipes can last over 50 years. At the end of the spectrum are cast iron pipes which can last between 75 to 100 years! If your pipes are old in your home it is time to call a plumbing company to see about pipe replacement.

4. Discolored Water

You want your home to deliver crystal clear water when you turn on the taps. The last thing you expect to see is gross brown or yellowish brackish water coming from the taps. Oftentimes when water comes out brown or yellow it has some sediment in it. It could just be a temporary problem with your local Bedford, TX water supply, but it could also be that your pipes are corroding or rusting from the inside. Your local plumbing company can tell you for sure which cause is to blame for the discolored water. Avoid drinking any discolored water or brushing your teeth with it. Instead, call your plumbing professional and inquire about pipe replacement.

5. Low Water Pressure

If your home has older cast iron pipes it could contribute to low water pressure. Iron pipes can be affected by both corrosion and mineral deposits in pipes. Corrosion and mineral deposits both can lead to a lack of space for water to flow to its proper destination. If you have cast iron pipes you may want to consider replacing them with either PVC piping or copper piping. PVC is the recommended choice from your local plumbing company.

6. Cracks

If your pipes have cracks in them it is time to replace them. Cracked pipes are easy to spot on your visible plumbing, but some of your plumbing may lat behind walls and under flooring. Cracked pipes will leak water and damage your home. When there’s a crack in a pipe it’ll only be a matter of time before water damage and mold growth occur. This water can soak into the walls and floors of your home so it should be taken seriously. If you have cracked pipes it’s time to call the plumbing company.

7. Corrosion

Are the pipes in your home clogging up often? You may be dealing with corroded pipes. While you may want to check your drains as well as drains can become clogged, if the water from your faucet comes out slowly and your aerator is clean, you may be dealing with corrosion of your pipes. Galvanized steel pipes are highly prone to corrosion. Once corrosion sets in your piping system, it’s only a matter of time before you will need to replace your pipes with a licensed plumbing company.

8. Decreased Water Pressure

Decreased water pressure could be due to a problem in your area, such as a water main being out, which could result in lower water pressure. If this is not the case and you still have low water pressure, you might be dealing with pipes that simply cannot deliver the water pressure you need. This could be due to aging pipes or even corrosion. If you have lowered water pressure it’s time to call the plumbing company.

If you have any of the signs above that your pipes need replacement, call the professionals at Tioga Contractors today. We are a BBB accredited business with decades of experience behind us. We have installed new piping systems in homes across Bedford, TX, and are one of the most trusted plumbing companies in town. If you have any questions regarding your home’s pipes call us today!