Tag: Brookhaven

Water Heater Experts Share How To Avoid Plumbing Nightmares

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild | 1 Comment on Water Heater Experts Share How To Avoid Plumbing Nightmares
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Brookhaven water heater experts from the Plumbers Guild share ways for you to avoid plumbing nightmares.

You Can Prevent A Water Heater Flood

Upgrading to a tankless water heater not only conserves energy but also saves you from a catastrophic water heater flood. Unlike traditional reservoir tank water heaters, a tankless water heater does not store water. So, it can not flood your home with 50 to 80 gallons of water. For a Brookhaven water heater replacement

Avoid Kitchen Clogs

NEVER dump grease or oil down your kitchen sink! Both fatty grease and oil congeal when cold forming a solid clogging your drain. Rather than clog your sink, pour oil and grease into a container, allow it to cool, and throw it out with the trash.

Elude Bathroom Plumbing Nightmares

Teach everyone in your household how to shut off the toilet water supply. Kids are notorious for flushing large wads of toilet paper and baby wipes down the toilet. Which inevitably leads to an overflowing toilet.

Always keep a trash bin in the bathroom to dispose of cotton swabs, cotton pads, tissue, and hair. Do not flush materials like this. Over time even the smallest items can result in a toilet clog.

Use a hair trap on your bathroom drain to make sure it does not end up clogging your tub. A simple grate placed over the drain catches hair each time you use the bathtub.

Cleaning the mineral deposits can improve the functionality of your shower head. Unscrew your shower head to remove it. Place the entire head into an overnight vinegar soak. In the morning, the mineral deposits should be easy to remove. Brush the showerhead clean with a toothbrush.

Watch out for decreased water flow in your bathroom. An obstructed flow can be a sign of calcium or mineral deposits that will shorten the lifespan of your plumbing system.

If you have a crack in your toilet tank lid, you can sometimes fix this with an epoxy resin. However, it is not easy to keep up with this type of repair. Contact Brookhaven water heater repair experts, The Plumbers Guild, help install a new toilet in your bathroom.

If your toilet clogs when the water in your commode is low and a plunger does nothing, try dumping warm water from a bucket waist-high into the bowl. Repeat dumping buckets of warm water in the toilet to clear the clog and anytime the water gets low again.

How to Stop Home Plumbing Leak Disasters

It is imperative to know how to turn off the water in your home in case the worst happens. For example, if your bathroom sink started leaking, would you know how to stop it? Find all the shut-off valves, and be sure you know how to use them.

Do you have plumbing leaks going on undetected? Find out for sure by checking your water meter when you are not running any water. After 10 minutes, recheck it. If the is a change in the meter readings, no matter how slight, this indicates an undetected water leak, which can be a severe problem.

Check for leaks behind the wall tile in your bathroom, especially any tile surrounding your bathtub, by gently pressing each tile and feeling for some give. If you find any mushy or soft spots, you will need to find the source of the leak and repair it to prevent further damage. Brookhaven water heater repair experts, The Plumbers Guild, can detect and fix your leak.

Call Brookhaven Water Heater Experts

We do more than water heater repair and replacement!  Call (404) 694-5128 for The Plumbers Guild, recently featured in USA Today. We offer sewer line repair, water line repair, leak detection, and more.

Tankless Water Heater Installation Pros Tell The Truth About On-Demand Hot Water

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild | 1 Comment on Tankless Water Heater Installation Pros Tell The Truth About On-Demand Hot Water
A white tankless water heater hanging in tiles wall.

Brookhaven tankless water heater installation pros reveal the truth about on-demand hot water. Whether you want to cut energy costs or use less energy, you are in luck. A tankless water heater can help you do both.

How does a tankless water heater work?

Tankless water heaters, also called on-demand water heaters, pass water through a heat exchanger inside the unit for rapid heating. Powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane, they heat water only when you need it. Thus, eliminating standby energy losses you get with a storage tank unit.

How does a storage-tank water heater work?

For comparison, storage tank water heaters are mostly made up of a 30 to 60-gallon sized tank. The size of which depends on the hot water needs of the household. Powered by natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, or propane, storage water heaters continuously heat a full tank of water so that hot water is always waiting for you.

How can I get a tankless replacement installed?

For most homeowners, a water heater emergency is not a proper time to research the pros and cons of switching to a Brookhaven tankless water heater. Even if a tankless water heater is best for your situation, the urgency of the emergency puts tankless water heaters at a disadvantage. If you are waiting for your storage tank unit to die before you go tankless read on.

Is Brookhaven Tankless Water Heater installation best left to expert professional plumbers?

Just like it is easier to get a job when you have one, the time to weigh out water heater options is when yours is working well. As far as installing a tankless variety to replace a storage-tank water heater, it can require a plumbing retrofit or an electric or gas service capacity upgrade. Upgrades for electrically powered tankless types may include increasing the electrical service capacity to 200 amps plus. Gas tankless models may have different venting and gas-supply requirements, facilitating the need to increase the pipe diameter from the water heater to the gas meter. Manufacturers recommend that certified electricians or plumbers install tankless water heaters. More importantly, manufacturers require installation by factory-trained professionals to maintain the warranty.

Why would I replace a storage-tank water heater with a tankless model?

One of the most popular reasons to switch to tankless is to save space. In limited-space situations, tankless is the preferred choice. The average tankless water heater is the size of only 6% of a large storage-tank water heater. As far as size, tankless models would easily fit inside an airline-approved carry-on bag. Whereas, a storage-tank water heater demands at least a 5-feet by 2-feet by 2-feet space. Large capacity tanks need significantly more room. All tank water heaters installed after the recent federal energy regulations requiring better insulation will hog even more space.

If I switch from a storage-tank to a tankless, what differences will I notice?

A household accustomed to a storage-tank water heater will notice differences when they switch to an on-demand system. To be specific, switchers will see that the colder the outside groundwater, the longer they wait for hot water. Waiting for water to get hot is an unfamiliar experience for homeowners who usually have hot water on standby inside their tank. This slow heating issue is more prevalent with electric tankless water heaters than the natural gas variety. To minimize this problem, in the United States, the use of an electric tankless water heater is best limited to the southern states.

Why do people love Brookhaven Tankless Water Heaters?

  • Certain EnergyStar certified gas tankless water heaters are eligible for Equipment Tax Credits for Primary Residences for Water Heaters (non-solar). Apply for the $300 federal tax credit if the new unit has a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) >= 0.82 or a thermal efficiency of at least 90%.
  • They never run out of hot water.
  • Unlike a tank water heater, tankless types stop standby heat loss becoming more energy efficient.
  • Tankless water heaters are petite. Install them on interior walls and even outdoors with an anti-freeze kit. The smallest tankless models install easily under cabinets and in closets close to the point of use.
  • This type of water heater consumes precisely enough power to heat the amount of water you demand at a point in time. That is why you can strip as much as 20 percent off your energy costs.
  • Electric tankless models operate greenhouse gas-free.
  • Most units are remote control operated with as many as four settings available.
  • A tankless water heater will never rupture its tank and flood your home.

Will a tankless water heater save me money?

When considering energy efficiency, tankless water heaters are the clear winners. However, when you pair tankless energy cost savings with the added expense of necessary installation upgrades, replacing a storage-tank water heart with a tankless loses its appeal. But, in new builds without retrofitting costs, tankless can be a financially favorable choice. Valid also for renovation projects where saving space is a priority. Factor in the 10-year lifespan of a storage tank heater and double it for tankless. They last about 15 to 20 years.

After you make the switch to tankless, future tankless replacement installation labor costs will be lower. In part because the initial system upgrades are complete. Also, removing and replacing a small tankless unit takes less time and requires less work than removing and disposing of a sizeable storage-tank water heater.

An ENERGY STAR certified tankless water heater can save a family of four more than $1,500 over its lifetime on gas bills compared to a standard gas storage model by heating water only when you need it.

Are tankless water heaters maintenance free?

Preventative maintenance and an annual flush of the heat exchanger come recommended by the top tankless manufacturers. Like a storage-tank water heater, tankless water heaters are adversely affected by the accumulation of hard-water mineral deposits. Locations with hard water will require more frequent heat exchanger flushes and sediment filter cleaning. You can hire a plumber to take care of these services for you.

How can I reduce my hot water usage?

According to energy.gov, water heating accounts for around 18% of your power bill. Heating and cooling. Systems use the most energy with water heating the second most. You can cut your water heating costs when you use less hot water. The average daily hot water usage for a typical household is 64 –Gallons total. Washing clothes uses 25-Gallons while washing dishes takes 6-Gallons in the dishwasher. One shower will dump 10-Gallons down the drain and faucets can expend 2-Gallons every minute.  As far as using less hot water, you have plumbing leaks repaired. Change bathroom fixtures to low-flow fixtures. Invest in energy-efficient appliances such as a dishwasher and washing machine to significantly reduce your energy usage and lower your energy costs.

Trust The Plumbers Guild

Brookhaven Tankless Water Heater Installation Services by The Plumbers Guild is available. We make sure your new water heater is operating safely and correctly. Contact the team of experts at The Plumbers Guild today with any questions or concerns or for Brookhaven tankless water heater repair you can count on.

Toilet Replacement: The 5 Most Common Reasons You Might Need It

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild
Toilet in front of white wall.

Is Brookhaven Toilet Replacement In Your Future? These Are Some Common Reasons It Might Be. 

We all know that toilets are among life’s necessities, but have you ever considered toilet replacement? Unless you’ve upgraded to a new model or have swapped out toilets during a bathroom remodel, you’ve probably never given much thought to replacing your toilet. But just like anything else in your home, your toilet can have issues that lead to needing a new one. If you have any of the following five most common toilet issues, you could be headed for a Brookhaven toilet replacement. Take a look. 

#1: Cracks In The Bowl

One of the primary reasons for a Brookhaven toilet replacement is cracks in the bowl or base of the toilet. When this happens, it can develop leaks, which can lead to major damage to the floor in your bathroom. As the cracks worsen, the potential for greater damage increases. Cracks can also loosen the footing of your toilet, making it unstable. If your commode feels a little wobbly or you notice any water around the bottom, it could be an indication that it’s time to replace it. 

#2: Frequent Clogs

As toilets age, they become less and less effective and efficient. If you find yourself using the plunger more and more as time passes, it could be the pipes leading from your bathroom, but it could be the toilet itself. A professional plumber can assess the situation and advise you. A repair could get you back in business, but a Brookhaven toilet replacement might be necessary to avoid future clogs. 

#3: Inefficient Water Use

Most older model toilets use about 3.5 gallons of water per flush. Multiply that times the number of people living in your house and using the loo multiple times a day, and it can add up. Not only is this much water use counterproductive to water conservation efforts, but it can also really add up on your monthly water bill. Replacing your old, inefficient commode with a newer, water-efficient version can save significant amounts of water. Low-flush models use as little as 1.2 to 1.6 gallons per flush. This can cut down on your water use by hundreds of gallons per year. If your toilet is using a ton of water, a replacement could be the right choice. 

#4: Mineral Deposits

In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can build up inside your toilet. They can cause issues with flushing and water flow. Once they start to build up, it can be extremely difficult to remove them. It requires chipping away at the minerals, and even that doesn’t always work to clear them. If this is the case in your bathroom, it’s time to consider a replacement. 

#5: Too Many Repairs In Too Short A Time

Is your plumber in your recent calls list? If you’ve been spending far too much time calling on a professional for clogs and issues with your toilet, your time and money could be better spent on a new one instead of repeatedly spending money on an old one. Constant repairs from a plumber, lots of plunging on your part, some unsuccessful DIY fixes, and a toilet that still doesn’t work the way it should are all great reasons for an upgrade. 

Everyone uses the bathroom, and everyone knows how essential toilets are to our daily lives. Though this is true, most people don’t give a lot of thought to them until they aren’t functioning properly. Broken tanks, cracks in the base, issues with the flush, or even just an ugly model are all good reasons to consider getting a new one. 

If you’re considering a remodel, we can help you find the right Brookhaven toilet for the new look and feel of your bathroom. If you’re just sick of using too much water, you’re tired of plunging over and over, or you’ve paid for one too many repairs recently, talk to the team at The Plumbers Guild today.

Our team of professionals can evaluate your current Brookhaven toilet and make recommendations for a new version that can serve you and your family better. Contact us online today for everything you need to know about toilet replacement. 

When Does Faucet Replacement Beat Faucet Repair?

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild
Running water in open faucet.

Do You Need Brookhaven Faucet Replacement or Repair? Here’s How To Tell When Replacing a Fixture Is The Better Option.

Faucet repair or Brookhaven faucet replacement? That is the question many homeowners have asked over the years. We use our faucets all the time, and because of the wear and tear of continuous use, they can give out over time. If you’re having issues with your tap, you could be asking yourself if you should fix it or upgrade it. How can you tell when replacement is a better option than repair? It can seem vague, but there are some key things to look for and consider if you’re trying to decide between fixing and going for brand new. Let’s take a look at how faucets work and what to consider when making a decision. 

How Does A Brookhaven Faucet Work?

The basic concept behind the awesome fixture that is the faucet is pressure release. Water circulates through your home plumbing system all the time. There is always water in the pipes that lead to your faucets, taps, appliances, and spigots. What makes this work is the high pressure that comes from the source – your public water line that comes into your home or your water line from a well. 

When you open a tap by turning on a faucet, you release that pressure. The pressure relief causes the water to move out of the pipes and out the spout. How? There is a stopper inside your faucet that prevents water pressure from pushing water out when the tap is off. As you turn the handle further toward the on position, the stopper opens wider. The wider the stopper opening, the faster the water comes out. The stopper mechanism differs depending on the type of faucet. Some twist open, like with a two-handled faucet, and some lift, like with a single-handle that you find on a kitchen sink. 

Faucet Repair Vs. Faucet Replacement

A dripping faucet can be very annoying. It can also waste a lot of water. If the cause of the drip is something simple like a worn-out O-ring or a loose faucet handle, a quick fix might be the way to go. You might even be able to DIY it. Anything more complicated might require the expertise of a licensed plumber. 

When Replacement Is The Best Option

Faucets can take a beating. We use them so often that parts are bound to wear out. But before you jump into replacing some expensive parts and sticking with your old model, take a look at some pretty good reasons to consider a Brookhaven faucet replacement instead: 

The Age Of Your Faucet:

Faucets can wear out in about ten years. If yours is older than that, not only could it be difficult to repair with long-term results, it could be expensive. 

The Cost Of Repairs:

If the estimate to repair your faucet is high, you might want to consider buying a new fixture instead of repairing an old one. 

Multiple Issues:

If one O-ring needs replacing, a fix is a great option. If there are multiple issues, it can get costly to repair. This is when replacing the faucet becomes a better option. 

Aesthetic Reasons:

If an old, outdated, or unattractive fixture is sitting on your kitchen sink, bathroom counter, or bathtub, it’s time for an update. Replacing an old, ugly faucet with a new one is a foolproof way to spruce up your space.

Turn To The Pros For Faucet Replacement

If your faucet is less than inspiring, whether in function or style, it could be time for a new one. Faucets are part of our daily lives, and they take a lot of use and abuse. Over time, they can break down and start to leak or have issues with water flow. If this happens, you can spend money repairing an old fixture, or you can spend money on a brand new one. 

There are a few tried and true ways to tell which decision is the right one, and the team at The Plumbers Guild can help. Contact us today with all of your questions about Brookhaven faucet replacement or any of your plumbing needs. 

The 4 Most Common Reasons For Faucet Repair Revealed

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild
A close up shot of water drop in the faucet.

Do You Need Brookhaven Faucet Repair? And If So, Why? We’re Unraveling The Mystery Hidden Inside Your Household Faucet.

Brookhaven faucet repair is one of those mysteries that most homeowners can’t quite unravel. They seem simple enough, and yet, what causes them to leak? And how do you fix them? We’ve got the answers you’ve been looking for. Keep reading for four of the most common reasons for faucet repair:

Reason #1: It Could Be Your O-Ring

What’s an O-ring, you ask? It’s a ring that fits connections on pipes and tubes. Generally made of rubber or pliable material, this gasket forms a seal to keep water from leaking where the pipes connect to each other or a faucet. If your faucet is leaking, one of the most common causes is a worn-out O-ring. Because they’re rubber, they can tear, causing leaks, or they can dry out and crack, also causing leaks. Another cause is when one of these gaskets becomes loose, allowing water to seep over or under the seal.

How can you tell if you have a bad O-ring? You might see water leaking from under the handle of your faucet. Another place on your faucet that houses O-rings is under the spout. There are usually two O-rings that help prevent leaks from the faucet spout. In either case, it’s necessary to remove either the handle or the spout to replace the broken or damaged seals.

Sometimes, due to hard water and long-term use, the inside of the spout gets pitted. When this happens, any new gaskets won’t be able to prevent leaking. In these cases, it’s better to replace the whole faucet. A professional plumber from The Plumbers Guild can handle any O-ring replacement or Brookhaven faucet repair the right way to prevent future water leaks.

Reason #2: Valve Seat Corrosion Leads To Brookhaven Faucet Repair

Now you know what an O-ring is, but what about a valve seat? This is the part that connects the faucet and the spout. It’s housed in something called the compression mechanism. It’s what makes the water turn on when you turn the tap handle. And just like an O-ring, it can be the place where leaks occur. The main reason for a leak in a valve seat is corrosion. Over time, sediment builds up inside the housing. This is often from hard water deposits. The sediment then causes corrosion, compromising the connection and allowing water to seep through. When this happens you will need a Brookhaven faucet repair.

Another potential cause of a leaking valve seat is improperly installed washers. If they aren’t installed correctly, there is grinding where the seat meets the faucet stem. This damages the seal and can lead to leaks.

Reason #3: Water Pressure Changes

You only have so much control over the water pressure to your taps. You turn it on and off, but otherwise, your water pressure can fluctuate based on the time of day, if other water is in use in your house, or if there is another underlying plumbing issue. If the water pressure in your pipes is too high, it can force too much pressure against your tap, causing your faucet to leak. A professional plumber can evaluate the leak and inspect your pipes, water pressure, and plumbing to find the root cause of the leak and perform repairs if water pressure changes are the cause.

Reason #4: The Age Of Your Plumbing

Sometimes leaks can simply be due to old age. If you live in an older home and your fixtures and plumbing are older, it might be time for an update. Older plumbing components do break down due to constant use, corrosion, and sediment buildup. This can affect not only your pipes but also your faucets. Everything from the seals to the washers, the valves to the tap handles become weaker the more use they get. If this is the case, our expert plumbers can take a look at your entire plumbing system and make recommendations. Plumbing upgrades can improve your water conservation efforts and reduce the chance of future Brookhaven faucet repairs for leaks.

The Right Plumbers For The Job

The team of expert plumbers at The Plumbers Guild can help fix your Brookhaven faucet leaks and save you money and frustration. Our leak detection process helps us identify leaks no matter where they are. Whether they’re isolated to a single faucet or are the symptom of a bigger plumbing issue, we can find it so we can repair it. Not only will it prevent wasted water, but it can also prevent further damage to your pipes and fixtures.

Contact us today for any of your plumbing needs, including faucet repair for those pesky leaks. The Plumbers Guild has got you covered for all of your plumbing needs, big or small.

How Can I Tell if I Need Water Heater Replacement Sooner or Later?

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild | 2 Comments on How Can I Tell if I Need Water Heater Replacement Sooner or Later?
A confused girl beside a big question mark in a black wall.

In Brookhaven, Water Heater Replacement Is Top Of Mind. But Is It At The Top Or The Bottom Of Your To-Do List?

Water heater replacement is one of those necessary tasks most people don’t look forward to as homeowners. But when the time comes, you have to bite the bullet and get it done. Why? Try to imagine living without hot water, even for one day. It would not be fun, comfortable, or even safe. You can’t have proper hygiene for yourself or your home without hot water. And imagine cold showers all the time or plunging your hands into a sink full of ice-cold water to do your dishes. Doesn’t sound very appealing, does it? This is why you need some guidelines so you can spot if and when your water heater needs replacing. Take a look.

The Age Of Your Water Heater

The age of your water heater can have a big impact on whether or not it’s time to consider a Brookhaven water heater replacement. On average, electric water heaters last around 8-10 years and gas models slightly less. While yours might still be kicking, there are drawbacks to keeping an old water heater, even if it seems to work just fine.

The Risks Include:

  • Greater potential for the sudden breakdown
  • Increased risk of water leaking from the tank
  • Higher energy bills due to decreased efficiency
  • Unexpected repair costs

It’s worth taking a look at the expiration date on the tank of your water heating system. You can figure out the expiration date by locating the serial number and manufacturer of the heater. Check online for manufacture date and calculate the age based on that. If it’s more than ten years old, it’s worth your while to talk to a reliable plumber about replacement options. They can also share the benefits of upgrading to a new, more energy-efficient model.

Some Of These Benefits Include:

  • Increased efficiency, reduced energy use, and lower energy bills
  • Reduced water use resulting in cost savings on your monthly water bill
  • More consistent water temperature
  • The faster hot water recovery rate

A Noisy Tank Says Brookhaven Water Heater Replacement

Your water heater should run without much noise. It’s a relatively quiet system. If you are beginning to hear rumblings in your tank, however, it could be a sign that replacement is near. It seems odd that heating water could cause a lot of noise, doesn’t it? But it’s not the hot water making the noise; it’s often due to sediment inside the tank. The sediment builds up over time as more and more water cycles through the system over the years. It hardens around the inside of the tank, making it difficult for the water heater to function effectively.

When Sediment Builds Up, Two Things Can Happen:

  1. The water heater can no longer heat the water, leaving you with nothing but cold water coming out of your taps
  2. An increased likelihood of damage – as the water heater works harder to heat the water, the tank takes on excess wear and tear causing it to break down

Can you prevent this type of issue? There are some measures you can take to help keep sediment from building up inside the tank. Regular maintenance is one way. Having a licensed plumber service your water heater annually to check for issues can prevent larger problems in the future. They can also flush the water heater annually to help remove some of the sediment before it can build up and get thick inside the water tank.

Water Leaks Around The Water Heater

As your water heater gets older, it’s more likely it will start to leak. This is especially true in homes that use a lot of hot water. Each time the water heater does its job, the tank expands, the valves have to hold, and the fittings have to stay secure. The more cycles of heating it goes through in its lifetime, the more likely it is to breakdown. The inner body of the tank can fracture, leaving a gap in the metal housing. Even a tiny crack is enough to let water seep out and into your home. The fittings and connections can loosen, creating enough space for leaks. This can happen at the pressure relief valve, the overflow pipe, or anyplace water flows into or out of the water heating equipment.

What happens if you have a leak? Water damage in your home can be a nightmare. Not only can it cause extensive damage, but it can also be incredibly time-consuming and costly to fix. Even a water heater located in a basement, where water can’t do damage to floors below, can wreak havoc on your home. It can damage any belongings you have stored, can damage your HVAC system if the tank is in the basement, and can damage the flooring and foundation of your home. If you find water anywhere near your water heater, it’s time to call in the pros to evaluate the problem and potentially replace the equipment.

How Can The Plumbers Guild Help?

If you notice any of these issues with your water heater, don’t panic. The team at The Plumbers Guild is here to help. Our professional plumbers can assess your current system and recommend a Brookhaven water heater replacement. Once you choose your new system, we can install it and have you back in hot water in no time. Contact us today if you need a Brookhaven water heater replacement.

4 Most Common Reasons For Garbage Disposal Replacement

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild | 2 Comments on 4 Most Common Reasons For Garbage Disposal Replacement
Wearing orange glove cleaning the sink.

Discover The Top Problems That Put Brookhaven Garbage Disposal Replacement On The Radar.

Is garbage disposal replacement a must, or can you just fix the problem? The disposal is a quirky little gadget. You use and abuse it almost daily in the kitchen, thinking it will last forever. When you least expect, however, it fails. Instead of repairing the issue, the plumber recommends you install a new one. Why is that? Here are the top reasons why you should invest in a new garbage disposal.

It Keeps Making Strange Sounds

Yes, garbage disposals are noisy when in use. But, they shouldn’t sound like the rhythmic section of a heavy metal band. In most instances, a loud sound means there is something stuck in the blades. If it’s close enough to the surface, you may be able to pull it out with your fingers. Caution! Before you stick your hand into the drain, make sure you unplug your disposal—after all, you probably want to keep all of your fingers.

Sometimes, the foreign object isn’t retrievable. Besides, the object may have caused significant damage to the blades. Even if you do manage to get your disposal unjammed, it may not work the same again. In cases like this, it’s often better to replace the unit.

It Smells Like Rotten Eggs

It shouldn’t surprise you to learn that garbage disposals sometimes stink—and we don’t mean metaphorically. Think about all the leftover food that you shove down the drain every day. Whatever doesn’t rinse away will eventually rot, much to the dismay of your nostrils. Running fresh water for an additional 30 seconds after chopping up food will help prevent this from happening.

Closeup of a plumber using a wrench to tighten a fitting beneath a kitchen sink. Only the man’s hand and arm are visible. Horizontal format.

If you notice a foul odor emitting from your kitchen sink, you should try to clean out the disposal. Put a few pieces of orange or lemon peel down the drain and turn on the unit. Not only will it cover up the scent immediately, but citrus also has some antibacterial powers. Putting a few ice cubes into the disposal will both clean and sharpen the blades. But, if the smell is stubborn, you may decide it’s time to replace the disposal instead.

It Keeps Leaking Under The Sink

As your garbage disposal ages, the connections and seals may wear out. When this happens, you’ll notice small puddles of water at the base of the unit. It’s official—you have a leak. You can try to tighten any loose connections, but in the majority of instances, you just have an old appliance that is past its prime.

Replacing the unit makes a lot more sense than fixing a leak that will probably reappear in the near future. Most plumbers won’t even mention that repairing the seal is an option because they know it won’t hold for long. Even though it will cost more upfront, installing a new garbage disposal now will save you money down the road.

It’s Not Big Enough For Your Family

Did you know that disposals come in a variety of sizes? Many homeowners just use whichever model came with their house without giving it a second thought. However, if you don’t think your disposal has enough power to keep up with your growing family, you may be right. You should select the size depending on how many people live in your household:

  • If only 1-2 people live in your home, a 1/3 or 1/2 HP motor is plenty.
  • Households with 3-6 people should consider upgrading to a motor that is 1/2 or 3/4 HP.
  • Those with large families of 5-8 people need at least 3/4 HP, but a 1 HP motor is even better.
  • If more than eight people live in your home, look for a disposal with a 1 or 2 HP motor.

Of course, those are only recommendations. If you do a lot of cooking at home, you may prefer a larger motor, even if only two people live there. And, if the space under your kitchen sink is tight or cramped, you may not have enough room to upgrade to a larger garbage disposal.

Let A Trusted Plumber Install Your Next Brookhaven Garbage Disposal

While it may tempt you to install new disposal as a DIY project, you may find yourself in over your head. There are a lot of things that could go wrong, and if you don’t install it the right way, you may end up needing a plumber anyway. Besides, the process involves water and electricity—one wrong move could send you to the hospital.

The Plumbers Guild has over a decade of experience dealing with all types of plumbing concerns. With our expertise and know-how, your kitchen sink is in good hands. Our friendly team of skilled plumbers will go above and beyond to make sure you get the right disposal for your home. Connect with us online to schedule a Brookhaven garbage disposal replacement with the best plumbers in Brookhaven.

Brookhaven Sewer Line Repair Warning Signs | Sewer Line Replacement

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild
A man in a black hoodie wearing gas mask.

Know The Warning Signs That Brookhaven Sewer Line Repair Is Imminent Before You Find Yourself Knee-Deep In Sewage.

Sewer line repair is a dirty job and one that many people overlook until disaster strikes. Unfortunately, many homeowners assume the city will keep the sewer in working condition. What you may not realize, however, is that the line leading up to your house is your responsibility.

That’s why it’s crucial to make any repairs before the situation becomes dire and even more expensive. Before you flush your toilet again, make sure you don’t notice any of these problems around your house.

Our trenchless sewer line repair is a way we fix damaged sewer lines for customers. Every customer who decides to go with a repair trenchless sewer service or an installation trenchless sewer loves it. These sewer repair services do not mean digging up your yard. And because we do not disturb your landscaping there is less cleaning to do afterwards.

If Your Toilet Sounds Like It’s Still Hungry, You May Need A Sewer Repair or Replacement

You know that growling sound your stomach makes when it’s time to eat? Your toilet can make the same sound. But unlike your stomach, “feeding” your toilet won’t resolve the situation. Bubbling and gurgling sounds are not normal, and you should address them right away.

What causes these abnormal noises? Gurgling is often the only precursor to a sewage backup. A clog in the sewer system forces water back into the toilet. If you don’t take immediate action, you may find yourself mopping up wastewater in your bathroom. As soon as you hear your toilet talking back to you, call a plumber for Brookhaven sewer line repair service.

The Drains In Your Home Do Not Drain and Need Service

When you turn on the sink, you expect the water to flow quickly down the drain. The same holds true whenever you shower, use the washing machine, or turn on the dishwasher. A sluggish drain is indicative of a pipe clog. If only one drain seems to have trouble working, you may have a simple clog on your hands. But, if multiple drains back up at the same time, the sewer line is the likely culprit.

No, liquid drain cleaner won’t solve the problem. It may mask the situation for now, but it’s only a matter of time before sewage comes out of the drains—and you don’t want to clean up that mess! A plumber can address the situation right away and come up with a plan of action to repair your sewer line.

Is Someone Cooking Eggs Outside Or Does My Plumbing Stink?

What does sewage smell like? Some people think it smells like rotten eggs. Others say it reminds them of mildew. No matter what you think the odor resembles, you can’t deny that it stinks.

The smell comes from a gas called hydrogen sulfide—known in layman’s terms as sulfur. And to entice your nostrils a bit more, it’s the same gas produced whenever you break wind. Not only does it stink, but hydrogen sulfide is also hazardous to your health.

Under normal circumstances, the only place you should smell sewage is after you go number two. A single flush is all it takes to make the odor disappear. But, if you notice this unpleasant scent outside your home—especially near the drains—you should hire a plumber to inspect the sewer lines.

Clogged storm drain in an open Field

A Wet Lawn During A Drought Points to A Pipe Leak

Unless it rained recently, you expect your lawn to remain dry. Even if you water the grass, any excess moisture should evaporate within a few hours. You shouldn’t need rain boots to walk from one end of your lawn to the other. If you notice random puddle or soft spots, you may have a burst sewer pipe below.

While you can’t see them, your plumbing system features a complex maze of pipes under the grass and foundation of your home. As long as the pipes are in good condition, you don’t have to worry about anything. But tree roots, changes in temperature, or just old age can cause these pipes to burst without warning. Let a plumber know about your unusually wet lawn so they can inspect the sewer line for damage.

Do You Have The Greenest Lawn On The Block?

Have your neighbors started complimenting your lush, green lawn? Do you have to mow more frequently than usual? Unless you started reading books on gardening, patches of thriving grass might be the sign of something more malicious—a sewer leak.

Believe it or not, sewage is a natural fertilizer. If there is a leak in the pipes, the rising waste may begin feeding your grass. Sure, you’ll end up with a gorgeous lawn, but you may also find yourself with a pool of gross sewage. Only a plumber can let you know for sure.

Call 404.738.9395 For Help At The First Sign Of Brookhaven Sewer Line Damage

Sewer line problems are a true plumbing emergency. The sooner you call for help, the sooner a plumber will resolve the issue. Leak detection and repair is just another day on the job for our team at The Plumbers Guild. We have over ten years of experience, and there’s no plumbing fiasco too big for us to handle. 

When you suspect your sewer is clogged or you notice a new water leak, call us  for an appointment for a sewer camera video inspection. Customers love our plumbing services, but camera inspection sewer services are their favorite.

Contact us for plumbing repair for any problem drain. Along with sewer repair pipe lining we offer water heater repair. Also, we are the best sewer line and pipe repair, maintenance, and replacement professionals in Brookhaven. We can replace sewer line pipes for very affordable rates. So, for sewer line replacement and sewer line repair Brookhaven households call The Plumbers Guild.

When you turn to our team of experts, you can trust your pipes are in the best hands possible. We always guarantee our work, and we offer emergency services when you need us the most. Get in touch with The Plumbers Guild 404.738.9395 to request an estimate for Brookhaven sewer line repair.

How to Tell If You Need to Ditch the Plunger and Call for Toilet Repair

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild | 1 Comment on How to Tell If You Need to Ditch the Plunger and Call for Toilet Repair
Toilet in front of white wall.

How To Tell When Brookhaven Toilet Repair Is More Than A Quick DIY Job. 

No one wants to deal with toilet repair, but when you have an issue with one of the most frequently used seats in your home, it’s time to talk about it. Most homeowners have had to deal with a clogged toilet or two (or three, or four…), and most have a plunger they keep on standby for just such occasions. But there are times when a plunger can’t solve the problem, and you’ll need to call for backup. Here’s how to tell when you should ditch the plunger and call a plumber:

The Water Keeps Running And Running

A continuously running toilet is not just annoying – it’s a massive waste of water and can show up as a significant increase on your water bill. The most common reason for a running toilet is flapper issues. The flapper seals the hole in the bottom of the tank. There is a chain that hooks to the flapper. If the chain gets caught or is too short, the flapper won’t close all the way so the toilet will keep running. 

Another potential cause of running water in the tank is the ball cock. The ball floats as the tank fills which lets the valve close to stop the running water when the flush is complete. If the seal breaks between the float mount arm and the ball, the water will keep running. When this happens, it usually means the rubber diaphragm seal needs replacing. A plumber can easily fix either of these issues. 

The Tank Refills Ever So Slowly

Do you ever feel like you have to wait around to make sure the toilet stops running? And it seems like it takes forever and a day? A slow tank refill could be a sign of a broken flush valve, or there’s a leak where your flapper meets the tank. Occasionally the flapper itself will leak. Over time the rubber flapper can wear out and crack, allowing water to seep through. This can slow the filling of the tank. If you have a leak, you’ll need a new seal and potentially a new flapper. This is definitely a necessary repair, so you don’t flush your money down the toilet every month with your rising water bill. 

Water Near The Toilet Base

Water in the toilet is good, but water outside the toilet is very bad. You never want to see a leak in your house. Water can do extensive damage to your floor, sub-floor, and the ceiling below the leak, including damage to the flooring, the studs, and the drywall. It can even create a situation where mold growth occurs. 

If you see water around the base of your toilet, take action immediately. You can tell if it’s residual water from a spill or an actual leak by cleaning it up and leaving paper towels on the floor around the toilet. If the paper towels stay dry, it’s probably not a leak. If the towels are wet, there are a few things that could be the cause of the leak:

In these cases, a plumber can repair the issue. Sometimes, if the leak is severe enough, your plumber might recommend a toilet replacement. 

The Plumbers Guild For Brookhaven Toilet Repair

You can’t go without a toilet, and if your toilet is broken, you want it fixed as quickly as possible. Clogs happen, and most can be cleared with a plunger and some elbow grease, but if your toilet has other issues, you might need to call in a professional. An experienced plumber can assess the problem and complete the repair so you can rest easy knowing you aren’t wasting water, that your water bill isn’t going to be sky-high, and that you and your family aren’t going to have to live without one of your most important pieces of household equipment. 

Whether you have a clog you can’t clear, issues with the tank filling, or a leak anywhere in or around your toilet, you can count on experts at The Plumbers Guild to get your toilet back in business. Contact our friendly team of professional plumbers for all Brookhaven toilet repair jobs today. 

5 Most Common Types Of Residential Plumbing Problems

Posted on | by The Plumbers Guild | 1 Comment on 5 Most Common Types Of Residential Plumbing Problems
Girl in a yellow gloves talking to the phone beside a damaged sink pipe.

Brookhaven Residential Plumbing Problems Can Strike At Any Time. Be On The Lookout For These Warning Signs.

Some Brookhaven residential plumbing problems are more common than others. On average, homeowners hire a plumber once every three years, for either a minor fix or a major repair. Others may schedule annual maintenance to ensure their pipes flow freely. No matter how often you seek help, it’s important to recognize these potential warning signs of plumbing issues before they get out of hand. Here are the most common reasons for a service call:

Toilet Runs Nonstop

Think about the last time you flushed a toilet. How long did it take for it to stop running? Typically, this process should only last for about 45-60 seconds, depending on the model and efficiency level of the commode. But, if your toilet continues to run long after you’ve pulled the handle, you may have a bigger Brookhaven residential plumbing problem brewing.

A leak in the tank may cause a toilet to run around the clock. You may even hear your commode flush on its own during the middle of the night. In many instances, a plumber can resolve this problem by replacing the components inside the tank—like the flapper, chain, or float. Lucky for you, these repairs are relatively inexpensive, and once the plumber leaves, your toilet will run—or stop running—like new.

No Hot Water

A cold shower is one of the worst ways to wake up in the morning. While cold water can feel invigorating after a hot workout, it’s not pleasant during the fall or winter. Unfortunately, if the water heater goes out, you won’t be able to enjoy a steaming shower until you fix the Brookhaven residential plumbing problem.

Water heaters are expensive, and they only last for a limited amount of time. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it’s time to start saving up for a replacement. Even if your system is new, however, you can still experience problems. 

Hard water, for example, leaves behind sediment when it travels through the water heater. Sediment accumulation may reduce the amount of hot water your tank can hold, and it may even damage the heating element. Make sure you have a plumber flush the tank once a year to prevent this from happening.

A wrench and a broken faucet in the ground.

A Dripping Faucet

While a dripping faucet may seem like a simple nuisance, it can cost you a fortune in the long run. A leaking bathroom or kitchen sink is one of the top reasons for a high water bill. If your tap drips once every second, you’ll end up wasting about 8-9 gallons of water every single day. Do the math, and you’ll realize that equates to over 3,000 gallons per year!

In most instances, repairing a faucet is a simple task for a skilled plumber. They’ll first inspect the fixture to make sure the parts are in good condition. If the plumber notices a worn-out washer or warped O-ring, they will replace the part. But if the faucet is older, you may want to upgrade it to avoid more leaks down the road.

Clogged Drain

Does water pool around your feet in the shower? If so, you may have a clogged drain. Under perfect conditions, water should go down the drain in a matter of seconds. When it doesn’t, you need to locate and remove the blockage. A slow drain may not seem like a plumbing emergency, but if you don’t resolve the Brookhaven residential plumbing problem, it will only get worse.

The leading culprits of clogged drains are hair, soap scum, personal products, and foreign objects. Even if you try your best to keep these items out of the drain, you may not be able to stop them all. Avoid pouring commercial drain cleaner down your sink—it may eat away at your pipes. Instead, call out a plumber who can clear the pipes without damaging your plumbing system.

Jammed Garbage Disposal

Did you know that plumbers also handle broken garbage disposals? It makes sense when you think about it. After all, the garbage disposal chops up food particles before you rinse them down your kitchen sink. Thanks to this modern appliance, clogged drains are a thing of the past!

If you put too much food down the disposal, however, you may find yourself with a jammed unit. Never try to fix it by yourself, unless you want to lose a finger! It’s best to hire a plumber who can safely unclog your disposal. They can even install a new unit if you decide to upgrade to one with more power.

Got Brookhaven Residential Plumbing Problems? We Can Help.

Even if you try hard to keep miscellaneous items out of your drains, you may still experience plumbing woes at some point. With more than a decade of hands-on experience, the plumbing pros at The Plumbers Guild can handle any Brookhaven residential plumbing problem that may arise—no matter how big or small! As a fully licensed and insured company, you know your pipes are in good hands with us. We’ll get your drains cleared in no time at all! Get in touch with us to schedule your next residential plumbing repair.