water heater Archives - Bert Norman's Plumbing

5 Reasons You Need A Plumber | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on January 21, 2023January 23, 2023 by Bert Norman

There are some house tasks that you can take care of on your own and some tasks that are better left to the professionals. When it comes to any plumbing issues, it is almost always better to consult first with a plumber. Plumbing tasks come with the added stress of potential water damage, so they are not something that should be taken lightly. Not to mention the cost of wasting water and how quickly a simple leak or running toilet can add up and make your utility bills unexpectedly high.

As mentioned, the problem with plumbing issues in your Jacksonville, FL, home is the risk of flood damage. It doesn’t take too much water to cause dry rot or other issues with your flooring, walls, or ceiling. Even worse, you could have hidden water damage that you cannot see now but is associated with the small leak you just spotted. A plumber knows where there is one leak, there is often another, especially if pressure irregularities or aging are to blame.

That is unfortunately not the end of the story, however, because water causes more than just damage to your home. It also creates the right environment for mildew and mold to form. In fact, it only takes a few drops of water for mildew to start to grow, and if the leak is in a dark, damp environment, as most leaks are since they are under sinks or inside of walls and floors, then you can have a mold outbreak growing under your nose. Not only is mold stinky, but it is a health issue and an allergen for many people, which is just one more reason why you need to call a plumber out to your Jacksonville, FL home if you think that you have a plumbing issue.

With that in mind, the first step is figuring out when you need a plumber, which doesn’t have to be a hard task if you know what you are looking for. The following list is a quick list of the top times you need to call a plumbing company. If you see any of these things occurring in your home, go ahead and call a plumber so you can get it figured out before you end up needing an emergency plumbing service. It is always better to deal with a plumbing issue when it is just a small nuisance versus a much larger one. While it is not a complete list, it does manage to hit some of the biggest issues you will probably hit.

Water Heater Issues (No Hot Water)

The number one way that people figure out their water heater needs attention is because they lose their hot water. 9 out of 10 times, if you don’t have any hot water, it is because your water heater needs to be repaired. You don’t have to wait until your water heater dies, however, note that it could need to be repaired and other signs occur before the water stops heating. For instance, if you notice pressure issues or that the water temperature of your hot water seems to fluctuate on a regular basis, this is a sign that something is going on with your water heater. Usually, it indicates that there is sediment building up, which you will have to address at some point.

Leaks

Another obvious issue that indicates you need to call a plumber if you notice any leak anywhere in your home. You might seek leaks under a faucet, around the toilet, at the water heater, and in dozens of other areas around your home. If water runs through an area, then there is always a risk that there could be a leak there. Regardless of where you note the leak, there is nothing that should be leaking. Ignoring a faucet leak can cost you hundreds of dollars a year, and ignoring a leak under a sink can lead to floor damage. In short, if you see a leak, you always need to call for help.

Clogs in Drains

Another issue that requires immediate attention is a clog in any of your drains, and keep in mind that a toilet clog counts. There are several different reasons why you might have clogs in your drains, from tree roots that obstruct your sewage lines to improper sewage habits like using flushable wipes or dropping water-soluble things down your drain. Whatever the reason, a plumber can get to the bottom of it and get your drains flowing regularly again.

Sewage Smells

There are two reasons why you might smell sewage in your home, and neither are great situations. The first is if you have a partial blockage and the methane gas is coming back up your pipes. This is why some drains may smell like sewage when you walk by. The other is because you actually have a sewage backup in your floor drain, which can be a very unwelcome discovery. In both scenarios, you will need a plumbing company to help resolve the issue.

Appliance Installation

A lot of people don’t think about calling a plumber when they purchase a new appliance, but there are actually a fair amount of appliances that need to be hooked up to your plumbing system. Refrigerators with ice machines, garbage disposals, water heaters, and dishwashers must be hooked to the main plumbing line. Depending on where you place these items, a new plumbing outlet might even need to be established. Therefore, this is a great task to call a plumber for assistance with so you can ensure everything is done correctly and there won’t be a leak hiding behind the installed appliance.

If you are searching for a plumbing company in Jacksonville, FL, contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing and we will help you fix any issue promptly.

Photo By: brazzo at iStock

Telltale Signs That Your Water Heater Requires The Attention Of A Plumber Before The Winter | Fernandina, FL

Posted on October 14, 2021October 18, 2021 by Bert Norman

Photo By Maridav at Shutterstock

With changes in seasons, temperatures in Fernandina, FL, are becoming considerably cooler. While there’s nothing better than escaping the winter cold by enjoying a hot shower or a long warm bath, most water heater problems tend to show up during this season. Usually, water heater problems are due to the neglect of regular maintenance or ignoring warning signs. Eventually, the problem will deteriorate, and sometimes, you may need to dig deeper into your pocket to get a new water heater. To avoid this, contact your local Fernandina, FL, plumber for water heater inspection whenever you notice the following signs before the onset of winter:

Odd Noises

As your water heater is running almost constantly, some parts are likely to develop problems over time. The normal wear and tear of these parts commonly manifest through strange sounds. Although it is normal for a water heater to produce a little noise, contact your plumber immediately for an inspection if you hear unusual noises such as screeching, banging, or popping. Knocking or banging sounds are a typical water heater problem caused by sediment buildup, excess pressure, or a problem with the baffle. Other sounds that may indicate an issue with the water heater include a humming or a sizzling sound caused by leaking water making contact with the burner.

Water Takes a Long Time to Heat Up

If you have lived in your home for a while, you may notice that the water is probably taking longer to heat. Assuming your home’s hot water usage has not increased, there is definitely a problem. The most common cause of this is sediment buildup in the water heater or the pipes. This also comes with efficiency issues since more energy has to be spent due to the mineral scales. Rather than wait for this to become a serious issue, call your plumber and have troubleshooting and repairs or replacements done.

To further prepare your water heater for the oncoming winter, your plumber may recommend that you insulate it if it does not have a built-in insulation system. By adding a tank cover, the heated water remains hot for a longer duration.

Discolored Hot Water

Discolored water in your house, whether cold or hot, is a sign of a severe underlying issue. The most common causes of discolored water are rust or mineral deposits. The severe buildup will not only discolor the water running through your water heater but also block its electric element or gas burner. Discoloration may also mean that the galvanized pipes in your unit are decaying. If you notice the water is colored, it’s time to give your plumber a call to carry out inspections and repairs before the problem spirals out of control.

Strange Hot Water Smell or Taste

Water smells can vary from a rotten egg smell to a metallic odor and can result from varied reasons. First, you need to establish whether the cold water has the same problem too. If both hot and cold water has a pungent smell, the problem lies with either the source of the water supply or the corrosion of the metallic piping in your house. If the water source is the problem, you need to consider installing water filters to remove impurities. If your home’s piping is the problem, this may be a sign that you need to do some re-piping work.

When the problem is the hot water only, then you have a water heater problem. The water heater might be providing suitable conditions for bacteria multiplication, or the anode might be to blame. Get a plumber to inspect, determine the cause and flush your water heater.

Leakage

A water heater leak can be caused by multiple factors, including its age, loose pipe connections, malfunctioning valves, excess air pressure in the tank, and corrosion. Most water heaters are located in rarely visited locations, and a leaking problem can go unnoticed for a long time. If the problem is with the upper part of the heater, it may be due to anode corrosion, issues with the T&P valve, or loose inlets and outlets. If these leaks occur in the bottom part, the drain valve or tank cracks might be the culprits. Check out for puddles collecting near the water heater and leakages on the tank itself once in a while. If you notice a leak, call a plumber. If it poses the risk of flooding, turn off the power and water supplies to the water heater and immediately call a plumber. Avoid fixing the leak yourself to avoid further damage, voiding the warranty, injury, or worse, all three.

Water Is Extremely Hot

First, check the thermostat if it is set too high and adjust to the desired temperature. If this doesn’t work, the issue might be the T&P valve malfunctioning and not releasing water once the temperature and pressure get to the pre-set limits. You should call a plumber to avert potential dangers associated with scalding hot water.

Water Heater Is Old

A water heater should be serviced annually to ensure optimal efficiency. However, even with a disciplined servicing plan, a well-maintained water heater’s lifespan is estimated to be somewhere between 8-12 years for gas water heaters and 10-15 years for an electrical water heater. If yours is around this age and experiencing frequent problems, check the water heater’s warranty because it might be time for a replacement.

Unlike other home systems such as a furnace that are only used seasonally, your water heater runs all year round. Annual professional water heater service will help avert untimely breakdowns and repairs. It will also improve your unit’s efficiency, safety and also make it last longer. The best time to service your water heater is before winter sets in. If you are in Fernandina, FL, get in touch with Bert Norman’s Plumbing experts for professional inspection or repairs. Our experienced team offers a wide range of plumbing services, and we are available round the clock in case of a plumbing emergency.

4 Signs That It Is Time To Call For Plumbing Service | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on May 30, 2021June 6, 2021 by Bert Norman

Photo By carlotoffolo at istock

Many Jacksonville, FL homeowners take their plumbing system for granted. As long as clean, clear water is coming into the home and water, and waste is removed, they don’t think about their plumbing system too often. It isn’t until something goes wrong that people begin to worry.

Although plenty of projects around the house make great DIY projects, plumbing repairs aren’t one of them. The plumbing system in your home is very complex. If you attempt a DIY repair and make a mistake or skip a step, it can result in disastrous consequences.

If you are experiencing any of the issues below, it is best to schedule an appointment for plumbing service immediately.

#1 Slow Or Clogged Drains

If the water in your home is flowing down the drain slowly or isn’t draining at all, you should schedule an appointment for plumbing service. Many homeowners will take the DIY approach and try to use a liquid drain cleaner. If the drain is completely clogged, the liquid drain cleaner won’t reach the clog. If the water is draining slowly, there is no guarantee that the drain cleaning will work. Also, these products contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage to the pipes.

When you call for plumbing service, the plumber can use one of several methods to remove the clog. The method they choose would depend on the size and location of the clog. When you hire a professional, you can be sure that the entire clog will be removed without causing damage to the pipes.

#2 Rusty Water

If you turn on the water in your home and it comes out rusty, it is a serious issue. It is not safe to bathe, drink, or cook with rusty water; therefore, you should immediately schedule an appointment with a plumber.

If just the hot water is coming out rusty, the issue likely lies within your water heater. If sediment is built up in the water tank, it can come out in the water, making it rusty.

If the hot and cold water are coming out rusty, the problem is likely due to old, corroded pipes.

When you call for plumbing service, a licensed plumber will inspect the plumbing system to determine the source of the problem so it can be repaired.

#3 Water Heater Issues

The water heater in your Jacksonville, FL home is essential to your everyday life. If your water heater is not functioning properly, it can make daily household tasks impossible.

If you are experiencing any of the issues listed below, you should call for a plumber immediately.

No hot water: The issue could be with the thermostat or the heating element.

The water isn’t getting hot enough: If the water coming from the faucet is lukewarm, one of the heating elements could be faulty, and the water in the tank won’t be able to reach the desired temperature. The issue could also be that the thermostat is not set correctly or it is broken.

You are running out of hot water too quickly: If your water tank isn’t large enough to meet your family’s hot water demand, you will run out of hot water quickly. If sediment is built up at the bottom of the water tank, there will be less space for hot water storage, causing you to run out quickly.

Poor hot water pressure: If sediment builds up in the waterline in the water tank, poor hot water pressure can occur.

Rusty hot water: If just the hot water is coming out rusty, there could be sediment buildup in the water tank or the waterline, adding rust to the water.

Strange sounds: Strange sounds coming from the water heater is a major cause for concern. When sediment builds up inside the water tank, it can hit the sides, causing a banging or clanging sound. If this issue is ignored, the sediment can crack the water tank, causing a major flood.

Moisture or water pooling around the water tank: Because this issue can promote mold growth, this is a serious issue. There could be a loose or broken hose or a crack in the water tank.

If you are having any issues with your water heater, schedule an appointment with a plumber immediately. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will be.

#4 Broken Toilet Or Faucet

If the toilet or faucet in your Jacksonville, FL home isn’t functioning properly, schedule an appointment for a plumber to come.

A leaky faucet is a sign that there is something wrong inside the faucet. This issue can also waste a great deal of water, causing a significant increase in your water bill. If you ignore the problem, it will get worse. Over time, the drip will turn into a flow that cannot be stopped.

A broken toilet can be a major inconvenience, especially if you only have one bathroom. If the toilet doesn’t flush or flushes on its own, you should call for plumbing service. The same is true if your toilet runs constantly. A constantly running toilet can waste so much water that it can cause your water bill to increase up to $60 per day.

A broken toilet or faucet should not be a DIY project because the issue could be more complex than you think. It is best to call for professional service and leave the job to a licensed plumber.

Why Choose Bert Norman’s Plumbing?

If you need to schedule an appointment for plumbing service, don’t waste your time on a Google search. Instead, schedule an appointment with Bert Norman’s Plumbing.

We are a family-owned, state-certified company that has been in business since 1985. Over the last 35+ years, we have earned an excellent reputation in the community and the industry.

We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and a 5-star rating on Google. This should give you peace of mind that you will be satisfied with our plumbing service.

We understand that plumbing emergencies can arise at any time. This is why we offer 24/7 emergency service. If you call for plumbing service during the night or on a holiday, we will get a plumber to your home as quickly as we would if you had called during regular business hours.

To schedule an appointment for plumbing service, give us at Bert Norman’s Plumbing a call today.

Need A Plumber? Common Water Heater Problems In Homes | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on May 21, 2021May 29, 2021 by Bert Norman

Photo By Galina Sandalova at istock

Water heaters are essential to every home. They provide us with hot water when we need it. To extend the lifespan of your water heater, you need to be able to fix common problems and properly maintain them. In this article, we’ll talk about common water heater problems, why maintenance is important, and why you need to switch to tankless water heaters.

For other water heater problems, call a plumber in Jacksonville, FL.

Common Problems:

No Hot Water

If you’re using an electric heater, the first thing you need to check is if the water heater is receiving power. Check the circuit breaker as it may have been tripped. You can also turn it off and then turn it back on. The heating elements may also be faulty or the fuse may have blown and you will need to replace that first. If you’re still not having hot water after doing the steps we’ve mentioned, consider calling a plumber for assistance.

For gas heaters, check if the gas valve is open. There might be issues with the burner too. Call a professional if you don’t know how to fix it.

Not Enough Water

This would depend on the type of heater you have. For a tank-type heater, it’s possible that it may not be enough especially if you have a big family. Consider getting a new water heater and make sure you only work with a plumber during installation.

If the water isn’t hot enough or too hot, the problem could be your thermostat. Check if it’s set to your preferred temperature.

You may also check the pressure valve when it gets too hot. If it’s damaged, it’s not going to shut off when it reaches your preferred temperature. Call a professional to help you resolve the problem.

Water Leaks

This may be caused by loose connections or from your valves. In that case, you will have to replace the valves and tighten the connection. For tank-type heaters, your tank may be corroded. Call a plumber in Jacksonville, FL to get your tank replaced.

Consider getting tankless water heaters so you won’t have to think about mineral buildup in your tank or having not enough water. For installation, work only with a licensed professional.

Unpleasant Smell

This is a common problem if your water source comes from a well. Bacteria could also be one of the causes of smelly water. Consider flushing your tank or clean it out with chlorine bleach. If you smell rotten eggs, it could be due to a failing anode rod. Contact a plumber to help you replace that.

Dirty Water

When you get dirty water in your heater, it could be due to corrosion or a failing anode rod. Make sure that you drain the water in the tank before replacing your anode rod. Homeowners are advised to clean their tanks once or twice a year to get rid of the mineral buildup or corrosion in the tank. Maintenance is important to avoid water heater problems in the future. If you still have dirty water after flushing the tank, call a plumber. It may be time to replace your water heater.

Noises

How old is your water heater? If you’ve been using it for several years, it’s likely that it will make noise. However, the most common cause of tank noises is the buildup of minerals in the tank. You will have this problem if you don’t maintain your water heater. It’s important to do preventive maintenance to avoid costly repairs or replacements. Make sure that you only work with a licensed plumber when doing repairs or for water heater installation.

Switch to Tankless Water Heaters

How long have you been using a conventional water heater for your home? If you keep having to call a professional for water heater repair, consider getting a tankless water heater for your home.

With a tankless water heater, you get an unlimited supply of hot water. You won’t have to keep filling the tank to have a constant supply. You get hot water almost instantly with a tankless heater.

If you’re concerned about saving more energy, then having a tankless water heater for your home is the best solution. With a conventional heater, you’ll need to keep heating the water which means more energy usage. Tankless water heaters work by heating the water as needed which means you get to save more energy. Also, you won’t have to think of a space to store your heater. It can easily be mounted on your wall as opposed to conventional heaters.

Conventional heaters last from 10-15 years while tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years. Also, there’s no need to worry about flooding when you have a tankless heater. Most importantly, you get to increase the value of your home if you decide to install tankless water heaters. Consider getting energy-efficient heaters to save more energy. Speak with a plumber in your area if you can’t decide what water heater to purchase or when you’re ready to install one.

Importance of Water Heater Maintenance

You can save money and extend the lifespan of your water heater with regular maintenance. Periodically check your water heater for leaks or other signs of problems. Drain the water heater tank every few months or so to remove the mineral buildup. During winter, make sure that you insulate the pipes so the water inside doesn’t freeze. It’s important to also insulate the water heater so you don’t lose energy.

While you can do preventive maintenance on your own, it’s best to also schedule professional maintenance to ensure a thorough inspection.

Get Help from Bert Norman’s Plumbing

Bert Norman’s Plumbing is committed to providing top-notch plumbing services in Jacksonville, FL. Our plumbers are highly experienced and competent to complete any plumbing issues. Whether you have problems with the water heater, dishwasher, toilet, or garbage disposal, we can help. Call us today for an appointment and let us know how we can help. Our professional team is always ready to assist!

Plumbing Service: When You Should Let The Professionals Handle It | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on August 28, 2020 by bertnorman

Too many homeowners are in need of emergency plumbers. This Is because plumbing maintenance is usually neglected until a disaster plumbing malfunction has occurred, resulting in a need for an emergency plumber. Emergency plumbing service can be costly but it’s completely necessary. By utilizing preventive plumbing maintenance, you can save much more by preventing accidents, malfunctions, and ensuring your plumbing systems are working more efficiently. Efficient plumbing systems will cost you less due to reduced water waste, less emergency cost, and more efficient plumbing. Contact Bert Norman Plumbing in Jacksonville, FL, for all of your plumbing service needs.

You might need an emergency plumber for a variety of things. The most common reason for an emergency plumber is flooding. Flooding can be occurring in your homes for a variety of reasons. The main reason for flooding is broken or leaking pipes.

Flooding

Broken pipes are nothing to play with. A singular pipe leak can lead to significant flooding in the home. A broken pipe can release gallons upon gallons of water into your home in just a couple of minutes. Plumbing service providers are necessary if you notice any leaks in your pipe system.

If your pipes do break you should call a plumber immediately. You should also turn the water off in your home by shutting off the main water valve. It’s important to know where your main water valve is in instances like these. The main water valve should be located on the first floor or basement near your water heater or boiler. If this is not the case consult with your home owner’s manual to find out exactly where yours is.

Other common reasons for flooding is due to clogged or slow draining drains. Poor drainage is a huge problem. Flooding can easily be caused by this very common and easily solved problem. Solve poor drainage by contacting a trusted and local company to clean your drains and remove any obstructions that can be causing these issues for you.

The flooding caused by clogs can lead to significant damage to your property by allowing water to soak into floorboards and walls, and can also be a breeding ground for mold. Clogged sinks can also lead to health problems by fostering bacteria, mold, and microorganisms in the pipelines and releasing it into the flooding waters. To relieve your home of these issues’ contacts Bert Normans Plumbing in Jacksonville, FL.

Your rain gutters are another common culprit for flooding in the home. Gutters that aren’t working properly will allow water to pool on the roof of your home. The flooding on the top of your home will damage the integrity of your roof, causing leaks, leading to mold and other damages that could be avoided by hiring a service to clean out your clogged gutters.

In areas that experience heavy rain, it is important that you pay attention to the maintenance of your gutters. By hiring a plumbing service to perform preventive maintenance service on your home you can rest easy knowing that your gutters are one less chore you have to take care of and costly damages due to clogged gutters is a thing of the past. Hiring a proactive plumbing team such as Bert Norman’s plumbing is good for your peace of mind. It will help protect your property from damage and help save you money in damage repairs.

Water Heater Issues

You might need to contact an emergency plumber for a malfunctioning dishwasher or washing machine. Your water heater could also start malfunctioning prompting you to hire emergency plumbing services. If your water heater malfunctions you have a serious problem on you and should call for emergency plumbing services immediately.

One of the most common issues that may prompt you to contact plumbing service is sediment build-up. Sediment build up in the tank is usually harmless. However, if the problem is not dealt with correctly it can lead to bigger issues.

Sediment build up in the water heater can be defined as mineral build up. This is something that naturally occurs. This is because water naturally carries minerals. The minerals will begin to settle at the bottom over time and begin to gather together and cause build up. Neglecting to have the minerals flush can lead to unsettling rumbling noise coming from the tank as well as a leak. Water tank leaks are expensive to fix and can lead to significant damage to your floors and walls. If your water heater begins to leak, call a professional emergency plumbing service to

Corroded Anode Rod

Water heaters often corroded. This could be due to the constant heating and reheating of water in metal tanks. Water heaters are lined with glass. The water can break through this gas lining and cause a leak. A water tank ink Is expensive to fix and cause damage to other areas of the property. This is why the anode rod was created.

The rod works by attracting corrosive elements and needs to be replaced every 5 years or so. The only functional the anode rod is to prevent water tank leaks and to protect it. The anode rod is sometimes referred to as the sacrificial anode rod. This is because it takes most of the damage in the case of a broken water heater. Your plumbing service provider will ensure your water heater is working properly and efficiently.

Your water heater can also malfunction due to excessive amounts of pressure. Water heaters are fragile appliances. Small leaks in the tank can cause serious damage to the tank but nothing compares to the possible damage that can occur if the water heater builds up too much pressure. Your water heaters only reach this point when the temperatures are set at or above 140 degrees.

If you notice any leak at all call contact Bert Normans Plumbing today!

Photo By Kuchina at Shutterstock

Plumbing Service Is Never In Short Supply | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on August 14, 2020 by bertnorman

Plumbing service in Jacksonville, FL is never in short supply, and every homeowner who resides in that area and beyond understands that when the going gets tough, it’s time to make that critical phone call. Plumbing is like any other mechanical system in that anything can go wrong at any time in spite of how new your fixtures may be. So when the drains are clogged, or you experience a leak or a hot water outage, then it’s best you call for professional plumbing service from Bert Norman’s Plumbing.

Hot water outages are certainly no fun, and can result in cold morning showers and a pile of unwashed dishes. Plus, if you’re the type of person who washes most of their clothing in hot water, then you may have to adjust the temperature and do a wash in cold water.

The lack of hot water is typically traced to a water heater that’s broken. Most homeowners know that the average lifespan of a hot water heater can last for a period of 8-12 years, and that most tanks come with a six-year basic warranty upon the initial installation. And with that warranty comes only bare coverage: it only compensates for the tank and its parts, and will not cover the installation process itself.

Water heaters require basic maintenance once every two to three months. Calling a plumber should include asking that person if they could inspect the water heater’s tank and look for excess water. Many times, the plumber may be able to drain the water heater to prevent flooding which can occur around the base of the tank.

But when the overall temperature of your water suddenly rises then drops sharply, this could mean only one thing. This means that your tank is on the edge of a breakdown and will most likely need to be replaced. Good plumbing service should be able to cover this at a cost that’s affordable to you.

Water heaters that are in good working order can provide years of relative comfort. This is due to the fact that a nice hot shower makes the perfect end to a long working day and that you will have the satisfaction of knowing that your dishes are cleaned and sanitized properly.

Drain clogs often have their origins within your pipes. Solid food, hair, and bath tissue all get trapped well within the system and can wreak serious havoc that causes your drains to back up. Gurgling noises, sudden unexplained odors, and stubborn water that simply refuses to go down are all the symptoms you need to know about drain clogs.

Keep in mind that drain clogs can also be the direct result of hardened grease, oils, and fats that solidify once the cool air hits them. Those who wash with a bar of soap as opposed to using a liquid version should know that soap which is in bar form is often composed of fats that can harden down in the pipes over time. Fortunately, good plumbing service can solve the above issues with the use of hydro-jetting, which is water that is applied to de-clog your drains of stubborn substances. This special technique can also be applied to bust out tree branches that poke right through your outdoor drains, as well as clear away leaves, solid food, and coffee grinds that align the walls of your pipes.

Other types of drain clogs involve hair, which typically result in the bathtub or shower areas where you’re most likely to wash your hair. Sometimes, a toilet can get stopped up due to the collection of excessive bath tissue or cleansing wipes that residents flush. Good plumbing service can resolve either of these problems by the use of a mechanical snake where a plumber can simply pull out the excess debris in a matter of minutes.

Garbage disposals have become so intertwined with our home lives that they can easily slide under the radar unnoticed. So when they start to break down, it should come as no surprise that some degree of stress could result. Fortunately, the team at Bert Norman’s Plumbing knows that good, quality plumbing service should include fixing your disposal so that it can grind up solid food before it reaches your pipes and drains. Thankfully, the experts at Bert Norman’s Plumbing have just enough expertise to fix and replace garbage disposals at a cost that’s affordable to you.

Anything from foul odors to the gathering of fruit flies around your kitchen sink can signify a broken garbage disposal. Food waste that comes up out of your drain or water that won’t go down can be the result of this nasty and stressful issue.

Slab leaks are annoying, and are also a major headache for every homeowner in Jacksonville, FL and beyond. When you feel a hot spot on a certain area of your floor, or hear water running long after you’ve ceased using it, then you know that there is a problem in need of your attention. Water that leaks through the concrete slab of your floor can cause mold and mildew to suddenly appear, which can lead to funny, musty odors and possibly cause allergies. Thankfully, plumbing service at Bert Norman’s has professionals who are trained in the techniques of good slab leak repair, so all you have to do is make that call.

The inner workings of your faucets can wear out after so many years of heavy use, and that can lead to a break that results in a leak. Expensive water damage can result from water that erupts out of the faucet handle or the tap, which can bring forth mold and mildew and raise the fee on your monthly bill. Bad installation can be another potential culprit. If the fixture is poorly installed, this may result in water seeping out. Fortunately, good plumbing service can either fix or replace your entire faucet set, which should bring about considerable relief in the long run.

These services and more are all a part of what Bert Norman’s Plumbing can do. There are so many items that go into good, affordable plumbing repair, and the website explains it all. Simply visit them online or give them a call today for an estimate. Good plumbing service is worth what you invest.

Photo By Minerva Studio at Shutterstock

How Your Plumber Can Upgrade Your Home | Callahan, FL

Posted on July 14, 2020 by bertnorman

When you think about making your house better, a great place to start is your plumbing system. With a few changes to your bathrooms and kitchens, you and your family can enjoy better performance from your plumbing. And, even better, most plumbing upgrades actually add value to your home.

In Callahan, FL, Bert Norman’s Plumbing offers experienced, licensed, professional plumbers and a full array of installation, repair, and replacement services for your home or office. Talk to our team of specialists today about what changes would add the most convenience and value to your property.

It can be difficult to single out just one upgrade, so be sure to talk to your i before you make any decisions. Your professional plumber can make sure your remodel goes quickly and gives you the beautiful results you expect and deserve. To get you started, here are a few bathroom upgrades that your plumber can add to your home.

Add Another Bathroom

No matter how big or small your family is, there always seems to be someone in the bathroom when you need it. The best way to get around this is to have your plumber in Callahan, FL add an extra bathroom to your house. The only problem you will have is deciding where to put it.

You could give your kids a bathroom of their own or add one to your master bedroom. This can not only keep the bathroom free more often, it adds an element of privacy that can keep the guest bathroom clear and looking good.

Or you could decide to treat your guests to their own bathroom. Add a half or whole bathroom to your guest room for a touch of elegance and convenience that will make your home worth more.

With the popularity of outdoor buildings on the rise, you could give your playroom, office, or man cave a half bathroom for the ultimate convenience. No more running back and forth into the house to use the bathroom.

Switch to Low Flow Shower Heads and Faucets

New low flow faucets and shower heads are an inexpensive way to lower your water usage and save money on your water bills. By just switching to a low flow shower head, you can save a substantial amount of both.

A regular shower head used 2.5 gallons of water per minute. When you make the switch to a low flow model, you will only need 2.0 gallons of water per minute or less. If you have more than one shower, your savings can add up quickly.

Add to that the savings from your bathroom and kitchen faucets when you change to low flow models. You will be doing your part to conserve our natural resources while saving big on your annual water bill.

Even better, you will not have to sacrifice your enjoyable shower when you change to low flow shower heads. You will still get the same pleasant shower experience, even though you won’t need nearly as much water.

Update Your Pipes

If you live in an older home, the first upgrade you should consider is modernizing your plumbing system. Your plumber can help you identify which areas are in the most need of change, so you can start there.

The most dangerous areas of your plumbing system are the old pipes that are no longer in use. Materials like galvanized steel are no longer approved for use because of their corrosive tendency. Not only do they break down more often, they can be adding rust and metal debris to your water supply.

Your plumber can make sure that your entire plumbing system is composed of copper and PVC piping, which is non-corrosive and a much healthier choice for your family members. Even though no one will be able to see this remodel, they will all enjoy the benefits of the new pipes.

Install Dual Flush Toilets

Your old toilets are the biggest water wasters in your house. And the older they are, the more water and money they are wasting.

If you have toilets in your house that were made before 1982, you should replace these immediately. These old models use between five and seven gallons of water with every flush.

Toilets made after 1982 are required to use just 1.6 gallons of water per flush, in an effort to conserve water. Just by updating your toilets, you could save a bundle.

One option you have now is a dual flush toilet. In these models, you have two choices of flush strength to get rid of the waste. There is a low force option for liquid waste only and a stronger option for solid waste. Most flushes are for expelling liquid waste, so the saving in water will add up quickly.

Install a Tankless Water Heater

For many decades, water heaters have looked pretty much the same. They all had a big metal tank to hold the water, which is only the start of the design problems. Eventually, these tanks can corrode with rust and develop a leak. But there is a new water heater on the market that is taking the plumbing world by storm.

Tankless water heaters are just what they sound like. There is no tank to corrode and run out of hot water. That means there will be fewer repair problems and no shortage of hot water when you need it.

Tankless water heaters provide hot water just when you need it by super-heating the water in a looping pipe system. You will never run out of hot water, no matter how many showers have been taken. And, you won’t have to wait for the water in the tank to heat up after it has been emptied.

Contact the licensed professional plumbers at Bert Norman’s Plumbing today for more information about how we can help you improve your home. Our qualified team is waiting to serve you. Let our plumbers make your house the dream home you’ve always wanted!

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Why You Should Hire a Plumbing Service for Water Heater Repair and Maintenance | Nassau County, FL

Posted on October 14, 2019 by bertnorman

At some point, you will have to hire the services of a plumber to fix your drainage system. Handling problems such as leaking faucets, drain clogs and blocked sewers and faulty showerheads on your own may end up being costly. You may think that seeking the services of a friendly neighbor could help you save money, but these inexperienced people end up worsening the situation.

Some of the benefits of working with a licensed plumber include expert advice on what can be done to solve a plumbing problem permanently. They also have the latest equipment and use them to finish the work in less time. In a field such as plumbing, the experience is what makes one good at his or her job. Plumbers who have spent many years in the business can tackle the hardest challenges that you can give to them. Experience also allows the plumbers to complete their services without any errors.

Bert Norman’s Plumbing is based in the Nassau County, FL area. We provide a wide range of plumbing services, including drain cleaning, re-piping, toilet repair, water heater and faucet repair, among many others. Our plumbers are certified by the relevant plumbing organizations both at the local and national level. We act respectfully, ensuring that your house is as clean as we found it when we leave.

We are also time conscious. Thanks to our high level of experience and sophisticated tools, we can detect the problems and solve them fast. We value our clients’ time and that is why we have a high completion rate within the stipulated time. Bert Plumbing Company also offers emergency plumbing services to homeowners. If you have encountered a problem at any time of the day that requires urgent attention, do not hesitate to call us!

Our Plumbing Services

Water Heater Services

Bert Norman’s Plumbing Company provides services such as installation, maintenance and repair of water heaters. Whether it is a conventional storage-tank water heater or the tankless water heaters, we will help you with any issues.

Installation of Conventional Water Heaters

If you are looking to install a conventional storage water tank, then you can hire our plumbing services today! We will help you make the right choice based on your location, the type of fuel you can get, energy efficiency as well as the size of your family.

Maintenance of Water Heaters

Conventional water heaters can have a lifespan as long as 15 years. But if an expert does not regularly maintain them or not taken care of by its consumers, then it may be replaced much early. Water heater maintenance is part of our comprehensive plumbing services. Our plumbers will check your water heaters consistently to detect any potential problems and solve them before they get worse.

Repair of Water Heaters

If your water heater is no longer functioning optimally, then you can seek our plumbing services. We will assess the extent of damage and determine if the heater should be replaced or just repaired. The age of the water heater is usually a factor to consider in such a scenario.

Call us today for more information about both the conventional and tankless water heaters.

Drainage Cleaning

Drain clogs are one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners experience. If you are having a consistent drain clogging problem, then you should hire our plumbing services. We use modern tools to identify the location of the clog and remove them to leave your drains clear.

Whether it is the kitchen sink drains, the bathtub drains or the shower drains, we will tackle the clogs head-on. We also conduct a free camera inspection of the drainage and sewer lines for any person living in Nassau County, FL. Call us today to get your drains cleaned by experts.

Faucet Repair

A leaky faucet is annoying and costly if not repair in time. The dripping faucets eventually stain the sink bowls and rust your fixtures. Faucet repair is part of our plumbing services. We will come in to replace the leaking faucets with new ones. If you are interested in water filtration systems, then we can also install a faucet filter to remove the contaminants and make your drinking water safe. Call us today to get the best faucets available in the market!

Toilet Repair

A clogged toilet is a plumbing problem that nobody would like to have, but it happens once in a while. If your toilet overflows, then it is most likely clogged by a material that was not designed to disintegrate like a tissue paper. In case your toilet clogs, don not hesitate to call us!

Re-piping

When you find yourself in a situation where you need to replace your old pipes with new ones, then you should consult a plumbing specialist like Bert Norman’s Plumbing. Whether it is a copper or PVC type of pipe that you intend to install, we will provide our expertise.

Replacing old pipes with new ones has benefits such as clean drinking water, more efficient appliances and stronger showers due to improved water pressure. Re-piping also increases your home’s value and if you are considering selling your home in the near future, re-piping could be a great idea.

Why You Should Hire Us for Your Plumbing Services

Secure Pricing Model

At Bert Norman’s Plumbing,we are aware of how significant your investment is and that is why we have a straightforward pricing model. We do not have hourly prices and instead have unique prices for every project that you give us.

We Provide At-Home Manufacturers’ Warranties

We give our clients both At Home and Manufacturer’s warranties to assure them of the high standards we operate within. If your plumbing products become faulty within the warranty period, then we will provide repair services for free.

Bert Norman’s Plumbing offers a wide range of plumbing services within the Nassau County, FL. Our plumbers are certified and have over five years’ experience in this field. We have been in operation for over 15 years. Call us today to get the best plumbing services in Nassau County, FL.

5 Signs That Indicate Your Water Heater Needs Repair | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on September 14, 2019 by bertnorman

Although a typical water heater usually tends to last for around eight to ten years, it only stays in a good running condition if it’s kept well maintained. Just like every other appliance, you need to hire a professional to provide regular water heater repair services in the Jacksonville, FL area.

If you notice any of these signs, this means that you need to call a plumbing company in the Jacksonville, FL area, to help you out of the situation.

5 Signs You Need Water Heater Repair:

Water Heater Runs Out of Hot Water Quickly

All typical electric water heaters comprise of two heating elements which help to keep the water hot all the time and ready to go. One of the elements heats up the water in the lower part of the water tank, whereas the other part heats the water in the upper part of the tank. Usually, water heaters are capable of storing several gallons of hot water. So that each time you need to use hot water from the tap in the cold weather, you can use it easily without the fear of freezing with cold water. However, if you tend to run out of hot water on a regular basis very quickly, the reason might be that you have an element out. This mean that you need to hire a water heater repair service.

Water Heater is Giving Lukewarm Water

It’s possible that the water running down from your tap is warm but not hot. One possibility is the cold weather outside. The water that reaches the water heater passing through cold pipes might take some more time to heat up to the right temperature. Its also possible that if the water heater is installed in a cold area of your home and isn’t kept well-insulated, it might lose heat during the chilly weather. If you feel that the weather conditions are responsible for the water temperature issue, confirm this by taking a look at the temperature settings on the water heater. If the temperature is set high enough; around 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit is the typical temperature range for most households, but the water flowing out of the tap is still at a lower temperature than usual, this points towards a faulty component in your electric water heater. If you have a gas water heater, it might be an indication of a malfunctioning burner. In both cases, you should contact a water heater repair company.

Pools of Water Near the Water Heater

If you notice signs of leakage in the water heater, you should contact a plumberright away to get water heater repair services. Its better that you resolve even the smallest leaks at the earliest, as minor leaks might become worse and result in water damage, or even cause a mold infestation. But at times it could be difficult to tell if you have a leaking water heater or not. Run an inspection by yourself near the area around the water heater. In case you spot any traces of water, pay close attention to the pipes and fixtures connected to the water heater to confirm where the source of water is coming from. If you’re unable to detect the water flowing from any of the nearby pipes or fixtures, wipe up the water you found and closely observe the area again. Check periodically after a few hours to see if the water has pooled up again. If you see water again, it might be your water heater leaking. Hire a professional water heater repair company to help detect and resolve the issue.

Water Heater Gives Rusty Hot Water

The water that runs down the faucet should be crystal clear. However, if you find that the water coming out from the hot water tap has a rusty tinge to it, it might be a red flag for you.When the water heater is degrading from the inside, it would result in making the hot water seem rusty. An aged or rusted water heater is bound to fail, or even burst and flood your entire place. If you notice rust colored water coming out from the water heater, you should hire a professional. They would help to diagnose the problem and provide water heater repair services.

Water Heater Makes Rumbling Noises

If you’re hearing weird sounds coming from your water heater, such as rumbling or clanging, it might be an indication of sediment build-up in the bottom of the water tank. The sediment deposited over time in the bottom of the tank hardens due to exposure to high temperatures. The hard sediment at the bottom might result in damaging the water heater. So, when you notice any unusual rumbling or banging noises coming from the water heater, get in touch with a water heater repairservice on immediate basis.

Conclusion

We’ve listed out five warning signs that indicate that your water heater needs repair. So, if you notice any of these signs contact a reliable plumber inthe Jacksonville, FL area to help you detect the problem and fix the issue so you can have a comfortable winter season.

If you’re looking for a professional water heater repair service in the Jacksonville, FL area, feel contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing. We have certified and well experienced plumbersthat are available round the clock. Just give us a call when you need our services and we’ll send you a qualified and professional plumber right away.