Month: December 2021

The importance of your home’s electrical system cannot be overstated. In addition to ensuring that your house is well lit, it ensures that all your electrical appliances and devices are adequately and safely powered. Therefore, when there is an electrical fault in your house, it can lead to serious inconveniences and even put your appliances at the risk of getting damaged. Electrical faults can also put your house in danger and even lead to serious injuries. But given how dangerous handling electricity can be, it is imperative for you to avoid DIY electrical repairs. As such, you need to ensure that you call reliable electrical contractors as soon as you realize that you have an electrical problem in your Arlington, TX house. Below are some of the most common issues that should prompt you to call electrical contractors as soon as possible.

Flickering Lights

Flickering lights are some of the most obvious signs of electrical faults in homes. If the issue is affecting only one lighting fixture, fixing it will be straightforward. However, if the issue is affecting several or all lighting fixtures, then it might be more complex since the problem could be within the circuit or further behind in the breaker box. Whatever the cause might be, you definitely do not want to live with flickering lights in your house. As such, you need to call professional electrical contractors as soon as you notice that your lights are flickering. Professionals have the necessary skills and tools to carry out the necessary tests, isolate the exact cause of the issue, and ensure that it is fixed decisively.

Unexplained Power Outage

Power outages can occur due to several issues. For instance, during a storm, damages to the power lines can cause a neighborhood-wide power outage. This kind of power outage should not worry you since it will be handled by your utility company. However, if your home is the only one without power in your neighborhood, then there could be a serious electrical fault in your house, and you will have to call professional electrical contractors to help you diagnose the problem and repair it accordingly. Whatever the cause of the power outage in your house might be, you can count on professional electrical contractors to apply their skills and experience to ensure that it is isolated and repaired to restore power in your house within the shortest time possible.

Circuit Breaker Tripping Frequently

A circuit breaker is your home’s first line of defense against electrical faults. It is supposed to protect your electrical systems and electrical appliances from getting damaged when there is an electrical fault in your house. It does this by simply breaking the circuit. Therefore, when your circuit breaker trips, it is just doing its job to keep your electrical system and property safe. However, this does not mean that the circuit breaker should trip all the time. Therefore, if your circuit breaker is tripping frequently, then there could be a serious electrical fault in your house. But unless you are a professional electrician, you will need to call professional electrical contractors to help you find out what the cause of the issue is and ensure that it is addressed decisively.

Burning Smell

A burning smell in your house is one of the most worrying signs of an electrical problem in homes. In some cases, it can occur due to minor electrical issues such as a blown fuse. In other cases, the smell can occur when wires overheat and burn the insulating materials. If this is the case, failure to address the issue immediately can lead to a fire. To prevent such an eventuality, you need to call professional electrical contractors as soon as you realize that there is a burning smell in your house. A professional will easily assess the extent of the problem and advise you on what needs to be done. If the insulating material has been extensively damaged, then your house might need rewiring. If the smell is just from a blown fuse, replacing the fuse might solve the issue.

Sparks

Sometimes, you might notice some sparks coming out momentarily when plugging in an electrical appliance to a power outlet. In some cases, it is perfectly normal. For instance, blue sparks are usually caused by a process called arcing, and you should not worry about them. However, if the sparks are of a different color and they seem to be lasting longer than a fraction of a second, then you need to be worried since they might be a result of poor installation or even wear and tear. In such a situation, you will need to call professional electricians to help you diagnose the issue and fix it accordingly. Professionals deal with such issues daily, and they know what needs to be done to ensure that they are fixed in the most efficient way possible.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that there are many electrical issues that can negatively affect the efficacy of your electrical system and even put your property in danger. Given the importance and sensitivity of your electrical system, it is imperative for you to ensure that electrical problems are fixed as soon as they have been identified. Otherwise, electrical issues can end up costing you a lot of money if they are not addressed with the urgency they deserve. But no matter how quickly you want your electrical system to be fixed, you should never try DIY electrical repairs. As such you need to be in touch with professional electrical contractors you can call any time you have an electrical problem in your house. If you are looking for reliable electrical contractors in Arlington, TX, Tioga Contractors is an excellent choice. We have been offering electrical services for many years, and we are a household name in our community. Feel free to contact us today for more information about our company and the services we offer in Arlington, TX.

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As Autumn draws to a close and Christmas fever sets in, it is advisable to consider inviting an electrician to inspect your home in preparation for the winter. Most homeowners in Irving, TX, observe a significant spike in energy consumption during winter as their heating systems have to work on overdrive to keep their homes warm. Since people tend to spend more time indoors over the winter, their heating systems run for longer and consume even more energy. Your home’s electric system may not be able to handle this surge in power demand.

Having a professional electrician inspect the system may be the only way to prevent costly malfunctions in the dead of winter. But you shouldn’t let just anyone mess with your wiring; it’s a sensitive and complex job that requires a lot of knowledge, specialized tools, and experience. So before you hire an electrical service to inspect your home, make sure to ask the following questions:

1. Are You Licensed?

The last thing you want is an unlicensed electrical company messing around with your home’s wiring, especially right before winter. Most states and municipalities require electricians to be licensed for a good reason; it’s a high-risk profession where carelessness and mistakes can cost people’s lives.

There are a few types of electrical licenses:

  • Master electrician – Has at least two years of professional experience under a master electrician and holds a journeyman license. They are licensed to perform electrical system design and installation and authorized to supervise other electrical professionals.
  • Residential wireman – Licensed to perform repairs and install wires. A residential wireman has at least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training.
  • Journeyman – Has 2-6 years of apprenticeship training and is only licensed to perform installations. Some regions require that journeymen work alongside master electricians.
  • Apprentices – They assist in electrical services like wiring and installations, and they have to be supervised by either a journeyman or master electrical professional.

2. Do You Have Insurance?

Given the complex and often dangerous nature of the electrical repair, you should only contact an insured electrical company. Accidents can happen anytime, and if your electrical company isn’t insured, you may be liable for any medical fees resulting from an electrical system-related accident and additional repairs. Furthermore, an uninsured contractor can hurt your home’s value and void your insurance.

Your Irving, TX electrical company should have at least $500,000 in liability coverage to cover any accidental damage and workers’ compensation insurance to cover their contractor’s lost wages.

3. Do You Have Any References?

References and reviews are the best way to determine an electrical company’s past performance. They may rave on and on about their abilities, but if a significant portion of their previous customers isn’t happy with the results, you probably won’t be satisfied either. A professional electrical service company confident in their work would be happy to provide references. If an electrical company is reluctant to or refusing to provide references, you should probably continue your search.

4. What is Your General Area of Work?

Generally, electrical professionals will focus on a specific area of electrical repair. Some electrical contractors are much better at maintenance and repair, while others focus on replacements and installations. Asking this question will give you an idea of whether the electrical professional is better suited to handle your job, be it installation or maintenance.

5. Have You Specialized in the Specific Job I’m Asking For?

Certain electrical jobs usually require specialized knowledge and equipment. Suppose your project requires expertise in a particular area, say installing solar equipment, data cables, or a home automation system. In that case, you will want someone well trained and experienced in that specific area. They may all be installation jobs, but they are niche jobs that need someone with plenty of experience doing them.

6. Do I Need a Permit, and Who Will Pull it?

While smaller electrical jobs like installing fixtures and replacing outlets don’t need permits, larger jobs with a significant risk of electrocution usually require a permit and a visit from a city inspector. Based on the kind of work you require, your electrical professional will help you determine the needed permits and pull them. It’s better to have the electrical professionals pull the required permits as city officials will most likely have many questions about the job, and the contractor will be better able to answer them.

Generally, you will need an electrical permit if you:

  • Run additional wiring into your home
  • Convert from a fuse box to circuit breakers
  • Install or alter permanent wiring or electrical devices
  • Installing or altering low-voltage systems like security alarms
  • Installing a receptacle for a garage-door opener

7. What Work Will the Repair Involve?

Some electrical jobs may force electricians to drill through flooring, siding, or drywall. Each job has its own specific needs, and asking your electrical professionals to break down the services they will perform will allow you to plan your finances better and give you a good idea of how long the job will take. It is likely that the cost of repairing anything affected by the electrical work like drywall.

8. What Are Your Service Fees

What does the contractor charge for their professional services? Some electrical professionals will charge you extra fees for travel costs, parts. Ask for any additional fees beforehand to ensure you have a clear idea of how much the job will cost beforehand.

9. Is Your Work Under Warranty

Who will be liable if the installation or repair malfunctions in the near future? How much will it cost? If they offer a warranty for their work, does the warranty cover parts and labor?

Electrical Service in Irving TX

Your home’s electrical system should only ever be inspected, maintained, and repaired by a licensed and insured electrician. They are in a much better position to handle any electrical repairs and services you need and will be able to cover potential damages and lost wages. If you are looking for a professional electrician in Irving, TX, contact Tioga Contractors. Our electrical services tackle all types of electrical challenges, and we offer prompt emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Contact us today for more information about our services and schedule an appointment.

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The drainage system plays a critical role in your house. It helps with ensuring that the wastewater from your home is quickly drained out. As such, the drainage system is an integral component of your plumbing system. However, for your drainage system to keep working optimally throughout its life, you need to ensure that it is serviced regularly. If you make the mistake of neglecting your drains and keeping them dirty, the efficacy and efficiency of your plumbing system will severely be compromised. Dirty drains can also have an impact on the hygiene of your home and the health of your family. To prevent such issues, you need to work with a professional drain cleaning service to keep your drains working at top performance. Below are some dangers of neglecting your drains and failing to ensure that they are cleaned by a professional drain cleaning annually.

Slow Drains and Drain Clogs

Many things go down your drains: hair, soap scum, food particles, greases, and oils. With time, these materials will stick to the sides of your drain pipes and hinder the smooth flow of wastewater from your house. Initially, dirty drains will cause slow drains. In other words, wastewater will start taking longer than normal to leave your home. A lot of homeowners in Irving, TX, try to use plungers to resolve the issue. Although this DIY solution works in some cases, it does not solve the underlying cause of the problem. If nothing more is done to eliminate slow drains, you will soon have to deal with full-blown drain clogs and all the problems they can cause. To prevent such an eventuality, you need to work with a professional drain cleaning service to keep your drains clean. Getting your drains cleaned annually will ensure that any materials that could cause slow drains or drain clogs are removed before causing any serious plumbing situations.

Structural Damages

Did you know that dirty drains have the potential to compromise the structural integrity of your Irving, TX home? Indeed, neglected drains are more susceptible to leaks. If leaks are not fixed on time, they can weaken concrete and even cause wood to rot, putting your home at the risk of collapsing. If leaks occur within or below the slab foundation, they can have more devastating impacts. For instance, slab leaks can weaken the ground on which your slab foundation rests and consequently cause the foundation of your home to shift and even crack. As the foundation shifts, the wall of your home might crack and crumble. Therefore, if you neglect your drains, you might end up losing your home or incurring high repair costs. The good news is that you can avoid such problems by simply asking a professional drain cleaning service to clean your drains at least once per year.

Reduced Life Plan of Your Plumbing System

Your plumbing system is highly durable. Depending on its quality, your plumbing system should serve you for about sixty years or more. However, it is worth noting that this durability is highly dependent on how well your plumbing system is maintained. If you neglect your plumbing system, you might be forced to replace it sooner than expected. For instance, if you are not keen on seeking routine drain cleaning services, you will significantly increase your drains’ exposure to corrosive elements. In other words, dirty drains will get corroded faster than clean ones, and therefore, they will need to be replaced before their expiry date. On the other hand, working with a professional drain cleaning will keep your drains working optimally, and this will add more years to the life of your plumbing system.

Deteriorating Health

Your drains have a critical role to play in keeping your family healthy. If your drains are dirty, they can harbor pests that could carry parasites to your home and lead to serious illnesses. Examples of drains pests that thrive in dirty drains include cockroaches and drain flies. Dirty drains are also known to provide a perfect environment for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to thrive. Unfortunately, if these microorganisms find their way to your home, they might end up making your family ill. For instance, if you have Salmonella in your drains, it could cause typhoidal illness if it comes into contact with your food. Similarly, if molds are growing in your dirty drains, they will soon find their way into your house and lead to allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups, among other respiratory issues. To prevent such an eventuality, you need to work with a professional drain cleaning service to keep your drains free of pathogens.

Unpleasant Odors

As mentioned above, dirty drains can encourage the growth of bacteria in your drains. As the bacteria break down the organic matter in your wastewater, they can produce an unpleasant odor. If nothing is done to resolve the issue, the foul odor will soon fill your home. No matter how much air freshener you apply, the foul odor will not go away without addressing its source. As such, the only way to eliminate the unpleasant odor from your home would be to deny the microbes in your drains the resources they need to thrive. To this end, it is imperative for you to work with a professional drain cleaning service, such as Tioga Contractors, to keep your drains clean.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, keeping your drains dirty can have many devastating consequences. Therefore, the importance of professional drain cleaning services cannot be overstated. Getting your drains cleaned by a professional will go a long way in keeping your home healthy, protecting your plumbing system, and even removing or preventing foul odors. If you are looking for a dependable plumber providing professional drain cleaning services in Irving, TX, Tioga Contractors is the answer. We have the necessary skills and drain cleaning solutions to ensure that your drains are cleaned without damaging your plumbing system. Call us today for more information about our drain cleaning services.

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Drains form an integral section of your plumbing system. They are responsible for taking wastewater from your home. Without a properly functioning drainage system, it is hard for you to imagine how you would manage the wastewater generated from different activities in your Bedford, TX home. However, for your drains to keep performing optimally, they need to be properly maintained. For instance, you need to stay in touch with a reliable drain cleaning service to ensure that your drains are cleaned at least once per year. This is because neglecting your drains and failing to subject them to cleaning can potentially lead to serious plumbing issues and even affect your home’s structure and hygiene. Below is a rundown of some benefits you can expect by seeking professional drain cleaning regularly.

Eliminate and Avoid Foul Odors

Dirty drains provide a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Unfortunately, as these microorganisms break down the organic matter in your wastewater, they can produce a foul odor that will soon find its way into your kitchen or bathroom and quickly spread to other parts you’re your house. A lot of people respond to this issue by applying air fresheners and keeping their windows open. However, the truth is that foul odor from dirty drains will not go away without addressing its source. The good news is that by simply scheduling annual drain cleaning services, you can eliminate the foul odor and keep your home smelling fresh. Professional drain cleaning technicians have the necessary skills and drain cleaning solutions to keep your drains clean and consequently discourage the growth of bacteria in your drains.

Keep Your Family Healthy

Dirty drains can be a serious health hazard. This is because they are known to harbor a host of pests and pathogens. Examples of drain pests found in dirty drains include fruit flies, phorid flies, drain flies, and centipedes. Some of these pests can carry parasites that can potentially cause your family ill if they come into contact with your food or water. Some common microorganisms found in dirty drains include Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Campylobacter jejuni. If these microorganisms find their way into your house, they can cause dangerous diseases, such as gastrointestinal illness and typhoidal illness. Dirty drains are also known to support the growth of molds. Unfortunately, molds can quickly spread and compromise the quality of your indoor air. On the other hand, by working with a professional drain cleaning service to keep your drains clean, you can minimize the growth of disease-causing pests and microorganisms and consequently keep your family healthy.

Avoid Emergency Plumbing Calls

Given the important role your plumbing system plays, most plumbing issues have to be addressed urgently. For instance, when you have a drain clog, your sinks will overflow and cause your home to get flooded. In such a situation, you will need to call an emergency plumber to ensure that the issue is fixed as soon as it has been identified. Unfortunately, calling an emergency plumber is very expensive. The good news is that by subjecting your plumbing system to routine maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of having to deal with a plumbing emergency. For instance, by ensuring that your drains are cleaned annually by a professional drain cleaning service, you can prevent the development of drain clogs and consequently avoid the need for calling an emergency plumber over drainage issues. Since regular drain cleaning services cost less than emergency plumbing services, you will end up saving some money in the long run.

Protect Your Plumbing System

Neglecting your drains and failing to subject them to routine drain cleaning services can have many adverse effects on your plumbing system. For instance, dirty drain drains will be more susceptible to drain clogs. Unfortunately, in addition to blocking the flow of wastewater from your home, drain clogs can put your plumbing system under unnecessary pressure, which can cause your drain pipes to burst. It can also expose your drain pipes to corrosive materials in the wastewater and consequently increase the rate of corrosion. Unfortunately, this will severely reduce the lifespan of your plumbing system and force you to replace it sooner than expected. On the other hand, working with a professional drain cleaning company such as Tioga Contractor to keep your drains clean will ensure that your plumbing system is always working optimally and consequently add more years to its life.

Protect your Home

Neglected drains can damage homes. This can happen in several ways. For instance, neglected drains are more susceptible to developing leaks. If the leaking pipes are within the slab foundation, they can potentially put your home’s structural integrity at risk. This is because slab leaks can weaken the ground on which your home rests. Unfortunately, this can cause your home’s slab foundation to shift and crack. As the slab foundation shifts, it can cause your walls to crack and even crumble. To prevent such an eventuality, you need to work with a professional drain cleaning service to ensure that your drains are always working optimally. By scheduling annual drain cleaning, you can eliminate drain problems before they can lead to a disaster.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that neglecting your drains and failing to ensure that they are cleaned at least once per year can lead to many different problems. In addition to affecting the efficacy of your plumbing system, it can put your entire home at the risk of collapsing. To prevent such an eventuality, you need to ask a professional drain cleaning service to help you service your drains regularly. If you are looking for a reliable plumber providing professional drain cleaning services in Bedford, TX, Tioga Contractors is an excellent plumbing company to consider. We have been cleaning drains for many years, and we are a household name in our community. Feel free to contact Tioga Contractors for more information about our company and the services we offer in Bedford, TX.

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Not everything you read or hear about plumbing is true. You may have come across some of these things that could be myths or stereotypes that don’t reflect the real nature of the plumbing. While some of these misconceptions are peculiar and funny, others can end up destroying your pipes.

Unfortunately, some homeowners believe these myths, which can prove harmful to their plumbing system. To help homeowners in Bedford, TX, keep their plumbing systems in top-notch condition, Tioga Contractors have shed some light on these plumbing myths.

Flushable Wipes Are Flushable

Many homeowners fall for this myth. Although the name suggests that you can flush these items, flushable wipes can clog your pipes. Unlike toilet papers that break into small pieces in the sewage systems, flushable wipes don’t disintegrate.

The research found that only 2 out of 23 “flushable” wipes partially disintegrate, and none completely dissolves when flushed down in the plumbing system. These wipes are made of polyester, synthetic materials, or plastics, which don’t break down.

Individuals using flushable wipes as an alternative hygiene method may need to contact professional plumbers regularly to have their septic tanks pumped to avoid blockage. These wipes can cause a backup in the sewage system resulting in flooding in your home. Flushable wipes may also cause your sewage pump to burn up.

In addition, plumbing professionals warn homeowners from using flushable wipes because of the massive clogs that may occur when they end in sewage treatment plants. This could result in a disaster to the city’s sewer system leading to backups that may affect many households or cause water shortages.

Leaky Faucets Are Harmless

This myth has cost many homeowners in terms of water bills and damage. At some point, the faucets in your kitchen, bathroom, or any part of your house may begin dripping. Although most leaks are small, some folks ignore them, hence compromising the entire plumbing system in the long run.

Even if it’s a small leak that appears harmless, you should address it promptly. If the faucet is leaking due to a faulty cartridge or O-ring, it can be challenging to perform a precise diagnosis on your own. You can contact a plumber to inspect and fix the issue in such cases.

DIY Method Can Resolves All Plumbing Issues

Armed with essential plumbing tools and a guide from the internet or a YouTube video, some homeowners think they have what it takes to handle all the plumbing problems in their homes. This may be true for some plumbing tasks such as leaking faucets or changing showerheads that can quickly be resolved without using sophisticated tools or involving a plumbing company.

Just because you successfully fixed some self-explanatory issues that may not require complex skills, such as unhinged cabinets, does not make you an expert in fixing every damaged thing in your home. To tell the truth, most DIYers often mess up by using the wrong tools or not understanding the primary source of the plumbing problem.

For instance, when handling plumbing systems, accuracy and precision are required, and small errors may set everything off balance. For most plumbing problems, you need to fire a licensed plumber to avoid serious issues that could end up costing you more or leaving extensive damage. To give you an idea, a pipe that has not been inspected can cause flooding, and a slight error when fixing your heating system may lead to fires, which your insurance will not cover. Such problems are best left for experienced and certified plumbers.

Ice Cubes Can Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades

This is a popular plumbing myth that has been perpetuated for a long time. Some homeowners even believe this to be true. But, ice cubes do not sharpen or dull the blades; instead, they are perfect for cleaning garbage disposal blades. Therefore, if you notice that the blades are not sharp as they were before, it’s essential to contact a plumber to replace them.

Drain Cleaners Are Safe

Although liquid drain cleaners can break down some clogs, they are bad news to your plumbing system because they use strong chemicals. Some folks prefer drain cleaners because they are fast and cost-effective, but they may end up causing more damage than good.

They contain highly toxic chemicals, such as lye and hydrochloric acid, which dissolve any food, grease, or other blockages. These chemicals also eat the pipes leading to leaky pipes due to deterioration and corrosion in the long run.

Also, these drain cleaners are toxic and may irritate your throat, eyes, or nose, and may cause chemical burns or rashes when they come into contact with your skin. Most plumbers know the effects of these chemicals, hence they avoid using them during drain cleaning. Instead of using these dangerous chemicals, you can use a snake designed for the size of your pipes to clear the drain lines.

A Wire Hanger Is Effective Like A Plumbing Snake

This is one of the common tricks deployed by most DIYers when they encounter a clog. Since most homeowners lack specialized plumbing tools or drain snakes, they opt for this wire hanger to clear the blockage. Although it could work in some circumstances, these wire hangers could scratch the pipes, making it easier for a buildup to occur in the future.

To avoid scratching their pipes, some homeowners wrap a smooth material around the hanger, but if the cloth is not tied tightly, it could fall into the drain resulting in a massive blockage.

Wire hangers cannot resolve stubborn clogs, thus you may need a plumber to come with a plumbing snake to clear the blockage. Although you can rent this plumbing equipment, you still need to know how to use it. Improper usage may lead to this tool getting stuck in the pipes, and it will cost you more to retrieve it since a plumber will have to dig up and replace the pipe. If you don’t know how to use the plumbing snake, you should leave it to licensed plumbers in Bedford, TX.

Don’t Fall For These Plumbing Myths! Get Help from Tioga Contractors

Your plumbing system is vital for the proper functioning of your home. That’s why it’s essential to be educated on your home’s plumbing.

Are you looking for plumbing services in Bedford, TX? Don’t sweat it; At Tioga Contractors, we have you covered. Our professional plumbers will handle all your plumbing needs from tree root removal, toilet installation and repair, back-flow prevention, video camera inspection of drain lines, and leak detection. Schedule now for any plumbing concerns!

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Every appliance in your Arlington, TX home is designed to make your life more convenient. Although your water heater is technically an appliance, it is also an integral part of your plumbing system.

The water heater heats the water and stores it in the tank, so it’s there when you need it. Issues with your water heater can affect your daily life; therefore, it is best that you can detect problems early.

If you have any of the following issues with your hot water or the water heater itself, you should schedule an appointment for water heater repair right away.

#1 The Water Is Cold

If the water coming from the hot water taps in your home is cold, you should check the unit’s energy source. For example, if you have an electric water heater, make sure there is power going to the unit. If you have an oil-fueled or propane water heater, make sure there is fuel in the tank. Finally, if your water heater runs on natural gas, make sure you paid the gas bill, and there isn’t a widespread outage. If everything checks out on your end, it is time to call a plumber specializing in water heater repair.

The most common cause of this problem is a faulty heating element. If the heating element isn’t working, the unit won’t heat the water in the tank, and it will come out cold. The issue could also be due to the age of the water heater. If your unit is over ten years old, it will no longer work efficiently, and a water heater replacement will solve the problem.

#2 Lukewarm Water

When you turn on the hot water tap in your Arlington, TX home, you expect the water to be hot. If it doesn’t get hotter than lukewarm, regardless of how long you let it run, check the thermostat setting. If it is set below 120 degrees, adjusting the thermostat will solve the issue. If the thermostat is set correctly, you should schedule an appointment for water heater repair.

If your water heater has two heating elements, one may have failed, and the functional heating element cannot heat the water to the desired temperature. The issue could also be an issue with the thermostat, or the unit is reaching the end of its lifespan and is no longer working as efficiently as it should.

A plumber specializing in water heater repair can inspect the unit and make the necessary repair.

#3 Foul-Smelling Hot Water

The water coming from the hot water taps in your home should be clean and odorless. If the hot water smells like rotten eggs, you should call a water heater repair specialist right away.

The rotten egg smell indicates the presence of sulfate bacteria in the water tank. This often happens when the water remains in the tank for too long.

A plumber specializing in water heater repair can drain the water tank, ridding the unit of bacteria, ensuring the hot water is safe for use.

#4 Discolored Hot Water

The hot water coming from the faucets and showerheads in your Arlington, TX home should be clear. If it has a brown tint, it indicates contamination, and you should schedule an appointment for water heater repair right away.

Sediment can build up in the water tank over time, and when it breaks apart, it will contaminate the water. A plumber can flush the water tank to try to remove the sediment; however, if they can’t, you will need to replace the water heater.

If your water heater is over ten years old, the inside of the water tank could be breaking down, causing tiny pieces of metal and mineral sediment to contaminate the water. This issue cannot be repaired, and you will need to replace the water heater.

#5 Poor Hot Water Pressure

Adequate hot water pressure is essential in performing everyday tasks, such as rinsing a dish and washing your hair. Also, your washing machine and dishwasher need sufficient water pressure to do their jobs. If the hot water pressure in your home is suddenly reduced, you should hire a plumber specializing in water heater repair.

When sludge builds up at the bottom of the water tank, it can clog the waterline. A plumber can clear the waterline and flush the unit to remove the sludge. If they cannot clear all the sludge, you will need to replace the water heater to prevent the water lines from clogging again.

#6 Strange Sounds

Your water heater should be whisper quiet. If it makes a banging or popping sound, you should schedule an appointment for water heater repair.

A banging sound indicates large pieces of sediment in the water tank. Ignoring the issue can crack the water tank, which can flood your home.

A popping sound usually means there is water trapped under the sediment. When the water boils, it creates a popping sound.

A repair specialist can try to flush the sediment from the tank; however, if there is too much to flush, you will need to replace the water heater.

#7 Moisture or Leaks

There is likely a loose or broken hose if there is moisture on the walls and floor around the water heater. Ignoring the problem can result in water damage and mold growth.

Water pooling around the unit indicates a crack in the water tank. This is an emergency because the crack can cause 50+ gallons of water to flood your home.

The area around the water heater should always be dry. If it isn’t, you should immediately schedule an appointment for a repair.

Why Choose Tioga Contractors?

If your water heater isn’t working correctly, call Tioga Contractors. We are a full-service plumbing company and specialize in water heater repair. We aren’t just a plumbing company; we also provide electrical, glass, and sub-contracting services and have been serving customers in the area since 1953.

If you have a plumbing issue that can’t wait, we provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We are a member of the Plumbers-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and are an Accredited Member with the Better Business Bureau. We also have a 5-star rating on Google.

To schedule an appointment, give us a call or schedule online.

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DIY projects can be fun and exciting. However, you must never DIY plumbing projects, especially major installations and repairs. You may end up with costly repairs and replacements if you make a mistake with DIY plumbing. As much as possible, contact a plumber in Irving, TX, today if you need help with repairs and installations. We’ll talk about plumbing projects that should be left to licensed professionals only and why you need to avoid DIY plumbing in this article.

The Dangers of DIY Plumbing

You may think that DIY plumbing can save you more money. But remember, a YouTube may not always work as you might have a similar issue but one that requires a different solution. To avoid costly mistakes and accidents, we recommend that you always hire a licensed plumbing company for major installations and repairs.

If you’re buying a new appliance with a warranty, please get professional installation, or you may lose the warranty. Manufacturers do indeed provide a manual for installing and maintaining the appliance. However, it’s still recommended that you hire licensed professionals to avoid issues associated with poor installation and other problems.

Safety is also another concern. Plumbers are equipped with tools and equipment that keep them safe. You may not have access to these, or it’s going to cost you more to acquire them. To avoid other costs, it’s best to work with a licensed professional.

In addition, professionals are equipped with everything they need to get the job done. It lets them permanently resolve the issue — which is why it’s crucial that you only work with them.

What about minor repairs?

It’s perfectly fine to have essential plumbing tools such as a plunger for unclogging a toilet or a sink. However, you need to have separate plungers as it’s sanitary to use the same tool for drains and the toilet — it may also lead to cross-contamination.

You may be able to do some minor plumbing repairs such as fixing a leaky toilet, insulating the pipes, installing a pressure gauge to regulate the water pressure, or flushing the water heater. We recommend contacting a licensed professional in Irving, TX, for assistance with other issues.

Plumbing Projects That Should Be Left to the Pros

You need the services of a licensed professional for the plumbing tasks described below:

Installing a New Appliance

It’s a must to hire a licensed professional for a major plumbing installation such as installing water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, and garbage disposals. Poor installation can lead to inefficiency issues and costly repairs. Imagine when you couldn’t properly install a washing machine or a water heater, and your laundry room or basement suddenly floods. Water damage can cost you a fortune in repairs and restorations, and it may also damage your home’s foundation. You can avoid this major plumbing emergency by contacting a licensed plumber to install new appliances and even plumbing fixtures, such as a new toilet.

Replacing the Plumbing Pipes

Replacing the pipes is a complex plumbing task that should only be done by licensed plumbers only. You shouldn’t attempt to do it on your own or hire unlicensed plumbers for it to avoid problems down the road. One of the major problems you could be facing with poor installation is a plumbing leak. If you don’t want to end up with a flooded home, please make sure that you only work with licensed professionals.

Contact a professional if you need help with pipe repair or any task involving the pipes, except insulating them during the winter. You can simply buy some heating tape at your local hardware store and tape it to the plumbing pipes for insulating the pipes.

Fixing Major Clogs

As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to regularly clean your drains by pouring hot water or using vinegar and baking soda solution. If you know how to use one, you may also try to resolve a minor clog with a plunger or a drain snake (if you know how to use one.) But for major clogs, we recommend that you hire a licensed plumber for it. Don’t use chemical-based drain cleaners as they are the permanent solution to unclogging your drains. They can severely damage your pipes and also pose some health risks. It’s safer to call a professional instead and avoid costly repairs.

Sump Pump Installation

If you have a basement, you need a sump pump, as this device prevents flooding. However, it’s crucial to hire a qualified professional to help you install the unit. Otherwise, your sump pump may not be efficient and may not do what it intends to do. In addition, ensure that you test the pump first before using it for the first time. If possible, buy an extra pump if there might be power interruptions. For repairs and maintenance, please work with a licensed professional only.

Repairs

Work with a licensed plumber for major repairs. If you make a mistake, you could end up buying a complete replacement of the appliance or the plumbing fixture. Also, you’re not fully equipped to help you properly carry out the job.

When you suspect something is wrong with your plumbing system, please reach out to a professional immediately for an inspection. Our team of licensed plumbers can thoroughly inspect your plumbing, determine the root cause of the problem, and then provide you with cost-effective plumbing solutions.

Get in Touch With Tioga Contractors

Do you need the services of a plumber for your home in Irving, TX? Our team of experts can handle any plumbing problem, big or small. Our plumbing truck is also fully equipped to ensure that the issue is resolved on the same day. We have been helping out homeowners for several years and are consistent with our exceptional plumbing services. If you need any plumbing repairs, installations, or maintenance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for an appointment.

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The importance of the water heater in your Irving, TX house cannot be overstated. It is responsible for ensuring that your home has an adequate supply of hot water. Without a properly functioning water heater in your home, you and your family will be forced to take cold showers and perform other cleaning tasks with ice-cold water, which is quite uncomfortable and ineffective. If your water heater is malfunctioning, it can also produce dangerously hot water that can put you and your family in danger of sustaining burn injuries. As such, most water heater problems are emergency plumbing issues, and therefore, they need to be fixed as soon as they have been identified. You should fight any temptation to try DIY water heater repair and instead ensure that all your repairs are done by a licensed plumber. Below is a rundown of some reasons you should never try repairing water heater issues on your own.

You Could Void Your Warranty

A water heater is quite a pricey appliance, and it usually comes with a warranty. If your water heater is relatively new, its warranty could still be valid. This means that if something goes wrong, you can still hold the manufacturer accountable. For instance, the manufacturer might accept to pay for water heater repairs if your water heater develops problems during the period stipulated in the warranty. However, water heater warranties are not without conditions. For instance, for your warranty to remain valid, you might be required to ensure that all water heater maintenance and repair jobs are done by a licensed plumber. In such a case, if you try to repair a water heater on your own, you will effectively void your warranty, which will make it harder for you to hold the manufacturer accountable for future water heater problems. Therefore, no matter how minor a water heater issue might seem, you need to ensure that it is repaired by licensed professionals if you would like to keep your warranty valid for as long as the manufacturer provided.

DIY Water Heater Repair Is Dangerous

Another reason to avoid DIY water heater repair has to do with your safety and that of your family. For instance, repairing a water heater might involve dealing with hot water at extremely high pressure, which can leave you and your family with serious burns. Besides, a water heater service or repair job might involve handling electrical components, and therefore, it can expose you to the risk of electrical shocks and even electrocution. Furthermore, unless you are a professional plumber, a DIY water heater maintenance and repair job can lead to gas leaks, which might cause an explosion, which could leave you and your family with serious injuries. To prevent such eventualities, it is imperative for you to ensure that all your water heater issues are addressed by a professional plumber. Professionals deal with water heaters almost every day, and they know what they need to do in every water heater situation. Therefore, it will be much easier for them to diagnose and repair water heater issues without putting anyone at the risk of getting hurt.

You Could Cause Further Water Heater Damages

Water heaters are quite complex appliances. They have many interrelated parts that work together to ensure that your house has a constant supply of hot water. Therefore, when it is malfunctioning, it can be difficult for you to determine what the underlying cause of the issue at hand might be. Unfortunately, this means that trying to repair it on your own could lead to mistakes that could later cost you a significant amount of money to fix. On the other hand, professionals know that every successful water heater repair begins with a correct diagnosis. Therefore, they invest in advanced diagnostic tools and are skilled enough to ensure that any water heater issue is easily and accurately diagnosed. As such, calling a professional plumber will ensure that the underlying cause of your current water heater is identified and isolated to make sure that it is fixed without tampering with other components of your water heater.

You Could Breach the Terms of Your Home Insurance

If you have home insurance, then your insurance should protect you against financial losses in the event of property damages that can be too expensive for you to repair. For instance, if your house accidentally catches fire, your home insurance might compensate you. However, as the homeowner, your home insurance policy will put some responsibilities on you. For instance, you will be required to ensure that all appliances that can put your home in danger are serviced and repaired by a licensed professional. Since your water heater is most likely powered by natural gas and propane, it is in this category of risky appliances, and therefore, you need to ensure that all water heater repairs are done by a licensed plumber. If you decide to repair your water heater on your own, you will effectively breach the terms of your home insurance policy, and therefore, in the unfortunate event of future property damages associated with water heater issues, it will be very difficult for you to pursue your insurance for compensation.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that when you have a water heater problem in your Irving, TX home, you should never consider fixing it on your own. This is because DIY water heater repairs are dangerous, and they can leave you with serious injuries. Besides, repairing your water heater on your own can void your warranties and put you at loggerheads with your home insurance. Therefore, you need to ensure that all your water heater repairs are done by a professional plumber. If you are looking for a reliable plumber providing professional water heater repair services in or around Irving, TX, Tioga Contractors is an excellent choice. We have been repairing water heaters for a long time, and we are a household name in our community. Contact us today for more information about our company and services.

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The amount of water wasted in the United States because of leaky pipes, burst sewer lines, and overflowing gutters is alarming! According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, an average family wastes over 180 gallons per week or 9,399 gallons of water annually due to household leaks. That’s the amount of water needed to wash more than 299 loads of laundry and 201 showers in an ideal home in Euless, TX.

Notorious spots for leaks in the home include the kitchen, bathroom, toilet, building foundations, sewer line, septic tanks, home appliances, and water heater. Not many homeowners understand the damages that water leaks can cause and their side effects.

Sadly, delayed water line repairs can lead to flooding, harmful insects, unpleasant stenches, recurring infections, mold, high water bills, sagging walls, and contamination of drinking water.

Although over a hundred common water line problems have been trending we will highlight the most common water line problems and solutions.

Leaky Pipes

A leaky pipeline is a dripping conduit that discharges liquid or waste material from damaged joints. Improperly laid pipes by quack plumbers who have not erected backflows can cause serious water issues.

What is the root cause of a leaky pipe? Several reasons can make a pipe leak:

  • Expanded and encroaching tree stamps can dig their way into your pipes, causing seepages and leaks in your plumbing systems.
  • Rubber seals that connect fixtures and faucets can wear out over time and cause the discharge of fluids.
  • Corrosion that eats into metal pipes can weaken pipes and lead to outflows in piping tubes.
  • Untreated clogs that lead to pressure build-up in conduits cause cracks and breakages in piping systems.
  • The damaged joint of curled pipes can weaken and cause discharge in drainage channels.

If your water line repair expert does not sort out damaged seals, corroded pipes, dented pipes, weakened joints, cracked conduits, and improperly laid pipes in good time, then your leaky pipes can cause catastrophic damages. Delayed leaky pipes can lead to warped walls, mold, and flooding, which can be costly.

Your plumber can use pipe putty to seal the holes and cracks for leaky pipes. As a homeowner in Euless, TX, you can avoid such problems by investing in routine checkups to keep these fixtures working correctly for a long time.

Occasionally wipe your faucet and clean the aerator at least annually. Your repair expert can also use pipe clamps, tapes, and rubber pipe connectors to sort damaged joints and cracked tubes.

Overflowing Gutter Issues

Gutters commonly overflow for these many reasons, including too much rain, downspouts or blocked drains, or incorrectly positioned gutters. Overflowing gutters can cause roof damage, mold, warped walls, flooded floors, and cracked footpaths.

For the safety and health of your family, Your repair expert can mount gutter guards to ensure the gutters stay clear of debris, dust, and other particles.

Secondly, your plumber can unclog the downspout flow, which will provide easy movement of water. Third, your gutter fitter can correctly pitch and tilt your gutters, which will manage overflows during heavy rain showers.

Your water line repair expert can similarly install splash and mesh screens on your trenches to avert overruns and sieve debris. Scheduling two gutter cleanings per year will manage the deterioration of channels in the end.

Noisy Pipe Problems

Noisy pipes are a common source of headache and stress for homeowners. Waterlogged chamber pipes, dirty air chambers, high water pressure, and restricted water flow often cause noisy pipes. Noisy pipes can often not be a thorny concern, but addressing them early enough can prevent significant issues in the future.

Your water line repair technician can secure your piping systems with bands or cover your tubes with insulation. Alternatively, your plumbing contractor can install a pressure-reducing valve to reduce any hammering or rattling noises in your piping conduits. In case of water-sediment build-up, your repair technician can flush your water heater.

Burst Pipes

Broken water pipes can lead to flooding, warped walls, damaged ceilings, and distorted floors. If a pipe bursts in your home, shut off your water and, if possible, turn off your electricity to avoid electrocution.

Pipes burst because of high water pressure, corrosion, incorrectly positioned pressure valves, earth tremors, low water temperatures, and heavy traffic of vehicles on underground pipes. Your repair technician can turn off the main water valve.

Using a C-clamp, your repair technician can shortly stop water outbursts. Installing heat tapes to warm pipes during cold winter seasons can reduce pipe ruptures. Sealing leaks, checking temperatures, and routine maintenance of piping ducts will help end ruptured pipes.

Low Water Pressure

Clogged pipes, corroded conduits, and failed pressure regulators can cause low water pressure issues. In addition to these, unopened house shutoff valves, no water from suppliers, shared piping systems, and leaking pipes can equally contribute to low water pressure issues.

To increase the water pressure in your channels, ask your water line repair expert to clear any clogs, open your main water valves and replace your regulators. Your plumber can similarly install a pump to boost water pressure and replace any worn-out pipes.

Clogged Sinks and Toilets

Common causes of clogged sinks and toilets include debris, oil, grease, food particles, and undersized pipes. Fixing a sink strainer or mesh on your sinks and taps will help trap scum, fat, and food remains that block the drainage.

For clogged sinks and toilets, your water line repair agent can use a plunger to unblock the drainage system.

Similarly, a commercial drain cleaner can be used. Your water line repair specialist can also detach and clean the pipe, though this can create a filthy mess. To guard against future clogs, organize regular drain cleaning periods with your plumbing service provider.

Tioga Contractors: For Outstanding Water Line Repair Services

Are you looking for an established plumbing company to connect, maintain, and test all the fittings of your heating, drainage, water, and sewer lines? Search no more: Tioga Contractors – Euless, TX is glad to serve you. We have a panel of troubleshooting specialists who can sort your plumbing malfunctions as well as water line repair issues.

Our plumbers decode plumbing codes, read and decipher blueprints, and have a strong plumbing niche. Call us today for your plumbing needs. We are available 24 hours.

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No home is immune to leaking issues. In most cases, the leaks could be due to plumbing fixtures, but the appliances in your home could sometimes be responsible for the leaking. It’s common to notice that your refrigerator, freezer, or washing machine leaks because they could be connected to a water supply.

Water will pool on your floor once appliances in your home start to leak. The water damage may not be severe compared to a burst in plumbing pipes, but it would cause some inconveniences in your daily operations.

For instance, if your appliance is leaking, you’ll need a professional from a plumbing company to inspect the device and fix the issue. The damaged floor may also need to be replaced if it’s been damaged extensively.

Continue reading to find out the appliances in your home that could leak, resulting in damage to your home.

Faucet

This is the common plumbing problem experienced by most households throughout the United States. For instance, approximately one trillion gallons of water are wasted annually through household leaks. A leaking faucet not only causes high water bills but could also keep you awake the entire night with the irritating drip, drip, drip sound.

Whether it’s a leaking faucet in a laundry area, kitchen, or bathroom, it’s crucial to have a plumber in Bedford, TX, troubleshoot and repair it on time.

Ignoring this minor issue may worsen it, and you end up replacing the entire faucet, which will be costly. A professional from a plumbing company may replace the O-ring and rubber washer or perform a replacement depending on the interior condition of the leaking tap. If it’s leaking a showerhead, all that’s needed is to replace the cartridge.

Toilets

A leaking toilet can lead to unnecessary flooding when it’s not fixed immediately. Unlike other leaks that may be easily detectable, a leaky toilet may be difficult to notice until you receive high water bills. Below are some of the signs that will help you know that you have a leaking toilet:

  • Loud noises in the pipes
  • Continuous running
  • Puddles on the floor
  • Constant dripping

The above signs could indicate that you could be having a possible leaking toilet. In such circumstances, you need to contact a plumbing company to resolve the issue.

The plumbers will inspect your water line for any leaks, and if it’s in proper condition, the professional will tighten the fittings. But if it’s not in good condition, the professional may have to conduct a replacement. The toilet could be leaking due to clogging, leading to flooding in most cases. If the clog goes deeper, you may have worse problems, such as a backup in the main sewer line.

In Bedford, TX, a competent plumber will help you troubleshoot any leaking or clogged toilets. If the toilet is not repairable, the plumber will mount a new one.

Washing Machine

Imagine coming home to find a flooded laundry room? Washing machines also experience leaks, and sometimes they overflow, hence putting your home at risk of severe water damage.

After five years, most washing machines’ hoses start developing problems, such as leaking. Therefore, if the washing machine hoses have not been replaced for over five years, you can contact a reputable plumber to help you fix new ones.

Dishwashers

It would be difficult to deal with a family’s dirty dishes every day or entertain guests without your time-saving dishwasher. Some homeowners take for granted this appliance and forget to check it regularly until it starts misbehaving. Dishwater can encounter many problems, but the most common issue that most plumbers respond to is a leak.

Some leaks can go undetected for some time, especially if they happen in hidden places or behind cabinets. For instance, if your dishwasher has a malfunctioning water inlet valve, it will trickle under the dishwater and not the floor, making it difficult to notice.

It may drip for months, causing the floor underneath the dishwater to rot, leading to mold contamination. Once you notice the problem, you must contact a plumbing company to fix the problem because that issue may have been ongoing for some time. The plumber will also inspect the other parts that could cause the leaks, such as the door gasket or defective float switch.

Water Heater

Beware of leaking water heaters! If this appliance leaks for a long time, it ends up damaging your walls, floors, and other valuable possessions. A water heater can be dangerous when it leaks in certain areas and may cost you time and money if not located and fixed on time.

Shut-off, temperature and pressure, and drain valves could be the source of leaks. A competent plumbing company will have various water heater parts on-hand to respond to your call for service.

To avoid floods that could happen when the water heater malfunctions, it’s vital to have professionals from a reputable plumbing company conduct regular maintenance. Such a plan helps extend the life of your water heater.

Need To Find A Plumbing Company In Bedford, TX?

As your appliance ages, it may become less efficient. Although it may continue working as normal, sooner or later, you’ll notice something wrong with it, especially when your water bill expenses increase. In such cases, it’s advisable to replace the old appliance with a new device. If the problem is not old age, you contact a reliable plumbing company to help you fix the leaking faucet or appliance.

Tioga Contractors is a licensed plumbing company staffed with qualified plumbers to help you with any plumbing issues. Besides addressing leaking issues, our plumbers can assist you with major and plumbing problems such as backflow prevention, grease trap installation and repairs, water heater problems, video camera inspections, and drain cleaning services. Ring us up today.

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