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The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that an average family could save over 12000 gallons of water annually, accounting for about $130 if it replaces all the dilapidated and malfunctioning toilets with a modern bathroom at home. Each year over 10,000 gallons of water can be wasted by the same family from household leakages. This is equivalent to about 299 laundry loads. That is the amount of water necessary to have about 200 showers within an ideal home.

The household leaks can be exorbitant to the households of Jacksonville, FL, whether from bathrooms, taps, or toilets. The effects of water leaks because of poor plumbing services include lowering the aesthetics and the resale value of your home. Additionally, there’s a danger of fungal and mold growth, resulting in allergic reactions and problems in the respiratory system if inhaled.

Water leakages resulting from poor plumbing could also lead to structural damages on floors and walls and cause holes, warps, dents, and cracks. Hence, you must know the potential plumbing issues and how your plumber can help you avoid them as a homeowner. Below are some of the plumbing disasters and tips from Bert Norman’s Plumbing, your reliable plumber.

Running Toilets

A running toilet may be caused by leakage between the bowl and the tank. It can be hard to notice a running toilet, but after learning what symptoms to watch out for, you easily identify any toilet leak. The obvious sign is the trickling of water on both sides of your toilet bowl after you’ve flushed the toilet.

The plumbing service technician will inform you if they notice your toilet is running during routine plumbing maintenance. Give them a chance to inspect the toilet further whether the flapper isn’t appropriately closing onto the toilet’s flush valve. The plumber may replace the damaged flush valves and flapper seals.

If your toilet handles are corroded, the plumbing technician will also replace them. The plumber can also replace your toilet’s tubing system if damaged. Your Jacksonville, FL plumbing service company can rectify these problems if the handle is stuck or the float is pretty high. The plumber might also recommend installing low-flow toilets to conserve water and hand-free ones to ensure hygiene.

Low Water Pressure

You might have forgotten that whenever a member of your household uses water, be it from the faucet, toilet, or shower, the water pressure reduces, which might cause a headache. Fortunately, low water pressure usually is a minor problem that a professional plumber can resolve quickly.

The extremely low water pressure problems might result from the corrosion of the galvanized steel or copper pipes. A damaged shut-off valve system may also cause low water pressure. It may also be an issue at your municipal water supplier that causes the water to be delivered at low pressure to your home.

Enlisting a plumbing service provider can get the issue resolved in no time. The technicians from these companies use their extensive knowledge and modern tools to diagnose the cause of the low water pressure and repair it promptly. Knowing the effects of low water pressure on your energy bills, the plumber might advise you to place the water tanks at your home’s highest point. They will also inspect the plumbing system at your home, including the shut-off valves, to ensure they are properly functioning and correctly placed and there are no leaks, another notorious culprit of low water pressure.

If the cause is a leak, the plumber will patch the part affected. If the aerator is blocked because of the accumulation of calcium deposits, your plumber might opt to replace the aerator. The technician can also replace any corroded iron or copper pipe part or unclog your water lines.

Leaking Faucets

Most taps feature sink cartridges or compression valves that close and open to regulate water flow. Your faucets might start seeping or spring overflows due to a broken fitting or pipes. Many outflows and seepages might result from run-down stems, assembly washers or deteriorating cartridges. Worn-out seals and washers or loose screws, nails, rivets, bolts, and nuts may also make the faucets spring leaks. The other serious culprit of a leaking faucet may also be corroded O-rings that seal the cartridge or rusty valve seats.

With dripping faucets, your plumbing service providers will assemble their working tools, including flathead screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, replacement washers, O-rings, and penetrating oil. The plumber will begin by shutting off the water supply at the mains and removing any damaged parts to fix the leakage issues.

The plumbing service technician also will inspect the washers and O-rings. If any has a defect, like damage or it is broken, the plumbing technician will replace it with another perfectly fitting washer or O-ring. After the plumber has repaired the faucet and installed an aerator, they’ll check whether the seepage or drips have stopped.

Clogged Drains

Imagine if the water settles at the bottom of the sink when cleaning your dishes and does not flow into the drains because they are clogged. Or, when showering, the water doesn’t flow into the drains, resulting in flooding in your bathroom. This can be pretty stressful and frustrating. Fatty oils, debris, soapy scum, toilet paper, dirt, and minerals often result in clogged drains. If your home has multiple blocked drains, that is a sign of trouble within your sewer lines.

Your plumber can clean or unclog the blocked drains. They use modern tools like hydro-jetters to remove clogs from your drainage system and an inspection camera to pinpoint the location of the clog. These modern tools ensure your drains are clean and intact without compromising them. Trying to unclog the drains with some rudimentary tools might damage them, resulting in expensive replacements.

Enlist the help of a reputable plumbing service for regular drain cleaning to prevent future blockages. Install a mesh or a sink strainer on your taps or sinks to trap the grease, scum, or debris that might block the drainage.

Reliable Plumbing in Jacksonville

Your plumbing system needs to remain optimally functional to ensure that your home is comfortable. Therefore, enlist the help of a reputable plumbing service to regularly inspect the plumbing system, clean the drains, and perform occasional repairs to ensure the above disasters don’t arise in your home.

If you are looking for reliable plumbing services in Jacksonville, FL, Bert Norman’s Plumbing is a great option. We have been in business for long and are dedicated to providing top-quality plumbing services to our customers. We have a team of experienced and certified plumbers who are always on standby to attend to your needs. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs, and we will be more than happy to help.

Call us now to schedule a free consultation!

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Leaks waste almost one trillion gallons of water in the US every year. Identifying and fixing leakages promptly is vital to saving money and water. Plumbing water lines supplying water to your toilets, faucets, laundry, and showers are usually prone to bursting and cracking, resulting in water leakages that may need immediate attention from an emergency plumber.

Concrete slab leaks are not common in many Fernandina, FL homes. They arise whenever the water pipes that run below or through the foundation begin leaking. This issue might take some homeowners a while to notice, resulting in high water bills and significant and additional water damages. What are the causes of slab leaks? Read on to find the reasons why your slab might be leaking.

1. Pipe Materials

Do you know how robust your home’s water line is? There is a high chance you do not know about your pipe’s conditions, especially if you are the kind of homeowner that doesn’t care much about maintenance. Plumbing piping highly susceptible to corrosion includes those made from cast iron, copper, brass, and galvanized steel. However, if not exposed to hard or acidic water, metal pipes can last longer.

The water components that pass through the plumbing system like magnesium and calcium can make the water lines corrode over time. Corrosion can also arise in the case of low-quality water. The rusting leads to cracks that may burst the plumbing pipes, resulting in severe or mild water leakages.

Upon noticing minor slab leaks, you’d better call a plumbing service professional to perform prompt repairs and ensure the problem is fixed. This helps you avoid the issue of escalating indoor flooding that may cause significant water damage.

2. Poor Installation

Poor craftsmanship during pipe installation and other fixtures below or in your home’s slab or foundation is among the leading causes of leakages within your slab. Suppose you enlist the services of an inexperienced and unqualified plumber to install your plumbing water lines at your home. This is one of the worst blunders you can ever make as a property owner.

The inexperienced and unqualified plumbing expert may fix the pipes poorly, making them bend or develop dents just after installation. These bends and hollows may result in sizable dimples in your water lines, making them start leaking. The slab leakages caused by dented and bent pipes may be hard to notice for most homeowners because they are mild until clear signs of water damage like mold growth start showing on the walls or floors.

Upon realizing the growth of the molds, ensure you immediately contact a plumbing service to inspect the plumbing system and identify the plumbing problem resulting in the leakage and fix it. They will also check other parts to ensure your plumbing system operates at optimal conditions.

3. Pipe Electrolysis

The other reason behind the concrete slab leakages at your home is the electrolysis of pipes, especially those made from copper. This happens when the electrical current causes the copper pipes to break down or disintegrate. It primarily results from the direct current flowing through the grounding wires to the copper water pipes under your slab foundation.

Electrolysis of copper water lines results in decomposition, making the water gush off the pipes. This is a catastrophic issue that requires the attention of a professional electrician and an emergency plumber to fix it as soon as you notice it to ensure the ground faults that might cause electrocution or electric shocks don’t happen. While at it, the plumber will inspect the plumbing system for other problems like clogs and blockages. They’ll also advise you on the best repair plan if any issue is detected.

4. Old Piping

The other cause of under-the-slab leakages is old piping. If homeowners don’t invest in repiping their plumbing system, the water lines will likely experience slab leakages. Therefore, if a home is ancient (40 years plus), contact a professional plumbing expert to inspect the make and status of your pipes. It probably has copper or galvanized steel pipes that are prone to rust. The corrosion might result in wear and tear and the development of cracks on the water pipes, resulting in-slab leaks.

A professional plumber can help if you contact them on time to replace or repair the cracked pipes. They will inspect the plumbing and fix the leaks to ensure your home is free from danger. Hence, to remain safe, ensure you call a plumbing technician to perform a repipe to your entire plumbing system if you live in an old home with pipes susceptible to corrosion.

5. Abrasion From Concrete

Scratching of the pipes can also result in slab leaks. Water lines that pass through the concrete slabs improperly sleeved by an unqualified and inexperienced plumber may get scratches. Over time, this scrapping might erode the pipes, especially copper ones, resulting in leakages.

The abrasion of water pipes is a common occurrence in hot water pipes since they tend to contract and expand when hot and cold water flows through them. This constant scraping, expansion, and contraction of the plumbing pipes develop cracks and holes in the pipes over time, resulting in slab leaks that require the attention of a plumbing service.

6. Shifting Foundation

Slab leaks may arise because of a shift in the foundation in Fernandina, FL. When the ground starts to shift because of hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, or earthquakes, the concrete slab can begin shifting too. Expansive soils, which contain minerals that absorb water to expand, can also make the soil start moving. The amount of water that percolates into the soil determines how much the ground expands, and it retreats when there is low water content.

If you notice some wet spots on the floor, call an emergency plumber to avoid the soils under your construction slab expanding or contracting. With such ground movements beneath your foundation, the plumbing pipes & connections weaken and bend. The water pipes begin to leak when the pipe connections degrade. Leaks beneath the slabs can cause considerable changes in soil volume, prompting expensive repairs by a highly qualified and experienced plumber.

Professional Plumbers in Fernandina, FL

Slab leaks are bad news for your home’s foundation. Therefore, it is vital to ensure they always operate at an optimum condition. To do this, you need the services of a licensed and professional plumber to inspect and perform repairs and replacements to the damaged or cracked parts. Fortunately, Bert Norman’s Plumbing has got you covered. Contact us today for any plumbing repair, replacement, or maintenance, including patching the slab leaks.

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You may be under the impression that only major plumbing tasks such as fixing a broken pipe or repairing a water leak require the help of a professional plumber. However, there are many things that you probably didn’t know needed a professional touch when it comes to plumbing. From fixing a clogged sink to unclogging a toilet, there are plenty of tasks that you may think you can handle on your own – but trust us, it’s always best to leave these things to the professionals. Check out our list of 10 surprising minor plumbing tasks that need a pro!

Minor Plumbing Tasks That Require Professional Help

1. Clearing a Clogged Sink

If you’ve ever tried to clear a clogged sink on your own, then you know how frustrating it can be. No matter how much elbow grease you use, there are some clogs that won’t budge. Most home plumbing is not designed to handle the type of debris that can cause a major clog. A professional plumber has the tools and experience necessary to quickly and effectively clear even the most stubborn clogs. Save yourself the headache and call a pro the next time your sink is clogged!

2. Unclogging a Toilet

We’ve all been there – you flush the toilet, and the water starts to rise, threatening to overflow. Before you know it, you’re dealing with a major clog. While it may seem like an easy fix, unclogging a toilet is quite tricky and can be very messy. It’s not a job for the faint of heart. Leave it to a professional to unclog your toilet and avoid making a big mess.

3. Repairing a Water Leak

A small water leak may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause a lot of damage to your home if left unchecked. Water leaks can quickly lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be very dangerous for your family. When it comes to repairing a water leak, it’s always best to call in a professional plumber. They will be able to quickly and efficiently repair the leak before it causes any further damage.

4. Unclog a Shower Drain

If you’ve ever tried to unclog a shower drain, you know how difficult it can be. Shower drains tend to get clogged more easily than other types of drains because they’re constantly being used. Over time, all of that hair and soap buildup can lead to a major clog. If your shower drain is starting to slow down, it’s time to hire a professional. Plumbers have the tools and experience necessary to unclog even the most stubborn shower drains quickly.

5. Replacing a Showerhead

You may think that replacing a showerhead is a simple DIY project. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s quite challenging to replace a showerhead. If you don’t install the new showerhead properly, it could start leaking or even break. Professional assistance in Callahan, FL is always recommended to avoid any issues. They’ll be able to quickly and easily replace your old showerhead with a new one.

6. Tightening the Connections on Your Appliances

If your dishwasher or washing machine isn’t draining properly, it could be because the connections are loose. These types of appliances use a lot of water, so even a small leak can cause big problems. You may believe you can tighten the connections yourself, but it’s quite tough. When it comes to tightening the connections on your appliances, it’s always best to contact a professional plumber. They have the tools and experience necessary to properly tighten the connections without causing any damage.

7. Flush Out Your Water Heater

Over time, sediment can build up in your water heater, causing it to work less efficiently. If you don’t flush out your water heater regularly, it could eventually break down completely. While flushing out your water heater may seem like a simple task, it’s quite difficult to do. You need to have the right tools and knowledge to do it properly. To avoid any potential problems, it’s always best to call in a professional plumber.

8. Fix a Running Toilet

If your toilet is constantly running, it’s not only annoying, but it’s also a waste of water. A running toilet can be caused by various things, so it’s essential to have it fixed as soon as possible. While you may believe that a running toilet is simple to repair, this isn’t the case. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could make the problem worse. It’s always a good idea to hire a plumber if you don’t know what to do or avoid any potential problems.

9. Replace a Faucet

Faucets are one of the most commonly used fixtures in your home, so it’s essential to make sure they’re in good working condition. Over time, faucets can become loose and start to leak. If you don’t replace a leaking faucet, it could cause damage to your sink or countertop. Replacing a faucet may appear to be a simple process, but it is not. When it comes to replacing a faucet, it’s always best to hire a professional plumber in Callahan, FL to avoid causing more damage.

10. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal is one of the most essential fixtures in your kitchen. It’s responsible for disposing of all of your food waste. However, it can become clogged with food and other debris over time. If you don’t clean your garbage disposal regularly, it could eventually break down completely. Cleaning your garbage disposal may seem like a simple task, but it’s really difficult to accomplish. It can lead to severe injuries if you’re not careful. It’s always a good idea to get help from an expert.

These are just some of the surprising minor plumbing tasks that need a professional touch. Don’t take chances when it comes to your plumbing – trust a professional plumber to handle all of your minor plumbing tasks! From fixing a clogged sink to unclogging a toilet, they have the experience and tools necessary to get the job done right.

Your Trusted Plumbing Expert in Callahan, FL

Do you have a minor plumbing problem that needs to be fixed? Call our team of experienced professional plumbers at Bert Norman’s Plumbing today! We’ll be happy to help you with any of your plumbing needs, big or small. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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Plumbers are valuable resources to have at your disposal. When you hire a professional to work inside your home, you’re trusting their ability to do the job right. That takes a lot of effort, especially when you’ve never worked with a company before. Still, the sooner you take the time to locate a plumbing company to get to know better, the easier it is to get the help you need before a plumbing issue worsens.

Considering the amount of money you’ll spend cleaning up a burst pipe or other water-related issue, it only makes sense to have a plumber on speed dial that you can call when things don’t go right. You can ask them to assist you day or night without fear that it will cost you a fortune. Instead, you know what they’ll charge you for an emergency call because you took the time to ask before you actually needed the service.

How to Tell If a Plumber Is the Right Choice for Your Home

There is a distinct difference between good and exceptional plumbers. You’ll find some are far better to work with than others. When you locate that one plumbing service that you know you want to hire, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment. When the service provider proves that they’re capable of assisting you with your needs, you’ll feel even happier that you have a company you can work with long-term.

Here are some signs you’ve chosen the right plumber to work with in Jacksonville, FL:

  • You can reach the professional by phone, email, and social media. There are numerous ways to contact the service provider. Each garners a quick reply, too. You’re not without the help that you need for long. The company lets you know if it’s available to assist you so you can find another plumbing service if it isn’t able to help you soon. Knowing that plumbers are upfront and honest with you makes calling and scheduling their services for the first time easier. You don’t feel as self-conscious asking them questions about a plumbing issue you know little about today.

 

  • You have a firm start and end time for the plumbing project. You’re well aware of what it takes to complete the job because the plumbing professional explains their processes to you. With a full understanding of the scope of the plumbing project, you sit back, relax, and make the repairs in stride. You’re no longer fearing the worst because the plumbing professional makes you feel better about the cost and effort involved in completing the job.

 

  • You know the professional will arrive when they said they would. There are no empty promises with the right company. It does what it says it would because it has integrity. The plumbing service lets you know when to expect them, so you’re not surprised at their appearance at your door. You have time to prepare your household, children, and pets for the arrival of the professional.

 

  • You have a cleaner home than you began with because of the professional’s attention to detail. Attention to detail is one of the many traits offered to you by a plumber. When you hire the right professional to do the job for you, you’ll notice things about how they work that impress you. One is how you don’t even notice they’ve been there because of how clean they leave things for you. It’s one less stressor for you and another thing that sells you on the company as your preferred plumbing service of choice.

 

  • The plumbing company makes you feel valued as a customer. You know that the company cares about you and your needs by how it treats you throughout the inquiry process and service call. When you learn just how ideal it can be to work with one plumber long-term, you’ll feel convinced to do so. It makes your life easier because you know you’ll consistently receive the same high level of service.

 

  • You receive thanks for giving your business to the plumbing company. A plumbing service provider in Jacksonville, FL that cares about you is one that will be sure that you feel valued. By thanking you for your business, you feel seen and appreciated. You’re more likely to continue using the plumbing service for years because of how it makes you feel. You’ll also tell the people you know best who to call when they need assistance with an issue. It helps the plumbing company out and gives your family, friends, and co-workers a reliable source of assistance.

The plumbing service you choose to hire is one that you’ve taken the time to get to know better through research. You’ve either used the internet to scope out the professional’s website or ask family and friends for a personal recommendation. Either way, you now know who to hire based on what you learned. You won’t sweat a plumbing emergency because you know who can help you with a middle-of-the-night burst pipe, flooded basement, or overflowing toilet.

Having access to a reliable plumber in Jacksonville, FL helps you long into the future. It gives you the benefit of fast service when you need it most. When you’ve finished getting to know the various companies in the area more intimately, you’ll be sure that you chose the right provider based on what you learned. When a plumbing problem occurs, you make haste and get an appointment booked right away.

Give Us a Call with Your Non-Emergency and Emergency Plumbing Issues

Bert Norman Plumbing checks all the boxes. We’re the type of plumbing company that cares about its customers. It doesn’t matter if you’re having a midnight emergency or a persistent drip. We’re here to resolve your issue in the best way possible so that you feel good about the experience from start to finish.

If you want to learn more about us and our services, let us know. Give us a call at 904-225-5888. We’re here to make things easier on you and your household. We’re committed to making you feel right at home once again.

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