Did you know that homeowners spent up to $6,000 on average on repairs and maintenance last year? A significant portion of these expenses is attributed to plumbing services. That’s why choosing a plumber you can trust is crucial for maintaining your home’s plumbing system and managing your maintenance costs.

In this guide, we’ve provided you with comprehensive information to help you make an informed decision when selecting a plumber.

Understanding Your Plumbing Needs

One of the first steps to finding the right plumber is to understand your plumbing needs. As a homeowner, you might face various issues with your residential plumbing system.

These can range from simple repairs like fixing a leaky faucet to more complex tasks like installing a new water heater. It’s important to identify the type of plumbing service you need.

There are three main types of plumbing services: installation, repair, and maintenance. Installation involves setting up new plumbing fixtures or pipes. Repair deals with fixing any issues that may have developed over time.

Maintenance, on the other hand, involves regular checkups to keep your plumbing system in top condition. Assess the urgency of your situation so that you can communicate your needs clearly to potential plumbers.

Finding a Plumber

Once you know what you need, it’s time to search for the right plumber. There are several ways to find options for plumbers in your area.

You can start by checking local directories and online platforms like Google, Yelp, or Angie’s List. These resources often provide information on plumbers nearby and can include reviews and ratings from other customers.

Another great way to find a plumber is by asking for referrals from friends, family, and neighbors. People in your network who have had plumbing work done can share their experiences and recommendations. This can give you a better idea of which plumbers are reliable and trustworthy.

Finally, you can also look for plumbers who are members of professional associations or hold certifications in their field. These credentials can indicate that the plumber has the necessary skills and plumbing installation experience to handle your project.

Evaluating Potential Plumbers

After you have a list of potential plumbers, it’s time to evaluate them based on their credentials and experience. Firstly, ensure that the plumber you’re considering is licensed and insured.

A license is proof that they have met the required standards and regulations in your area. Insurance, on the other hand, protects you from any liability in case of accidents or damages during the project.

Next, consider the plumber’s experience. Find out how long they have been in business and what types of projects they have handled in the past.

A plumber with several years of experience is more likely to have encountered and resolved various plumbing issues. This can be a strong indicator of their expertise and reliability.

Reputation and reviews are also crucial factors to consider when choosing a plumber. Check online reviews and ratings to see what previous customers have to say about their work. Look for patterns in the feedback, such as consistently positive comments about:

• The plumber’s punctuality
• Quality of work
• Communication skills

You can also ask the plumber for testimonials or case studies to learn more about their past projects.

Finally, assess the plumber’s communication and customer service. You want a plumber who is responsive, listens to your concerns, and addresses your questions in a clear and simple manner.

A good plumber should be able to explain complex topics in a way that is easy to understand, even for those who are not familiar with plumbing systems. This will make it easier for you to make informed decisions about your plumbing needs.

Comparing Quotes and Pricing

When you have narrowed down your list of potential plumbers, it’s time to compare their quotes and pricing. Start by requesting written estimates from each plumber. This will help you understand the costs involved in the plumbing system repair or installation you need.

A written estimate should provide a breakdown of costs, including:

• Labor costs
• Material costs
• Any additional fees or expenses

Labor costs refer to the amount the plumber charges for their work. Material costs cover the price of any parts or equipment needed for the job. Additional fees might include charges for travel, permits, or emergency services.

When comparing plumbing service costs, it’s essential to focus on the value provided by each plumber, not just the price. A lower-priced quote may not always be the best option if it sacrifices quality or results in future problems. Consider the plumber’s experience, reputation, and the quality of materials they use when making your decision.

Making the Final Decision

Before choosing the right plumber for your needs, take some time to assess their availability and response time. You want a plumber who can complete your project promptly and efficiently, especially in urgent situations. Find out how quickly they can begin work and what their estimated timeline for completion is.

Evaluate the warranty and guarantees offered by the plumber. A good plumber will stand behind their work and offer a warranty for their services. This ensures that if any issues arise after the job is done, the plumber will address them without additional costs to you.

When you have made your decision, make sure to sign a contract or service agreement with the plumber. This document should outline:

• The scope of work
• Materials
• Costs
• The expected completion date

It serves as a legal record of your agreement and protects both you and the plumber in case of disputes.

Tips for Maintaining a Good Relationship with Your Plumber

Once you have chosen a plumber, it’s important to maintain a good relationship with them to ensure a smooth and successful project. Start by communicating your needs clearly and concisely. Make sure the plumber understands what you expect from them and any specific concerns you have about the job.

Being proactive with plumbing maintenance can also help you maintain a positive relationship with your plumber. Schedule regular checkups to keep your plumbing system in good shape and prevent issues from becoming more severe.

Finally, provide feedback and reviews to your plumber after the project is complete. This can help them improve their services and also assist other homeowners in finding a reliable plumber. Sharing your experience and recommendations with others can contribute to a better overall experience for everyone involved.

Choosing a Plumber Made Easy

Investing time and effort into choosing a plumber is essential for ensuring the proper maintenance and repair of your home’s plumbing. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently select the best professional to handle your plumbing needs.

Don’t hesitate to contact Pathmaker Plumbing for a reliable and experienced plumbing expert, committed to providing top-quality service.

Learn more about Pathmaker Plumbing:

April 7, 2023

Don’t go down the wrong pipe! A 2022 survey found that 12% of Americans needed a plumber during the previous year.

Plumbing problems are becoming an all-American occurrence. But they don’t have to lead to high bills and headaches. The key is that you familiarize yourself with common issues and think of a few steps to deal with each situation.

What are the most common plumbing problems in America? What products can you buy to resolve the problem? When should you call a plumber, and when should you avoid making repairs?

Answer these questions and you can have a spotless plumbing system in no time. Here are five common problems and solutions.

1. Leaky Pipes

Leaking pipes can occur due to a number of plumbing issues. Your pipes may be corroded, or they may have damaged joints and seals.

You should take a look at your pipes with a magnifying glass as soon as you notice they are leaking. You can create a temporary seal with putty and pieces of metal, but you will need to call a plumber for a permanent solution.

2. Dripping Faucets

Washers and O-rings in your faucet can wear down, causing water to drip through them. You may be able to replace the washer by dissembling your sink and installing a new one.

If your washer and O-ring seem fine, parts of your faucet further into your sink may have corrosion. You should ask your plumber to inspect your faucet and install a new one if the installation was improper.

3. Clogged Drains

If water is not draining from your sink, your drain may have a clog in it. You can unclog any drain by pouring vinegar and baking soda down it. You can also try using a sink snake to break the clog down.

Never pour grease or insert objects like tissue paper and clay into your drain. If the clog is too hard or big, you can replace that part of your pipe.

4. Weak Water Pressure

Many problems can contribute to or create low water pressure. Leaking pipes and clogged drains are two common causes, but corrosion and blocked sewer lines can also block your water. You should perform an inspection of your home to see if your pipes are in order and try flushing your pipes.

5. Cold Water

If your water heater is not providing hot water, the heating element may be broken or electricity may be traveling to your heater. Run your water heater and see if it is connected to your home’s electrical system and pipes. You may need to call an electrician and a plumber in order to have the appliance repaired.

Do not attempt DIY water heater repairs. You risk electrocuting yourself or damaging your heater. Even if you have DIY experience, you should call a water heater technician for support.

Fixing Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems do not have to wear you and your home down. Keep your eye on your pipes and monitor them for leaks, corrosion, and damaged joints. When your pipes are leaking or dripping, you can make repairs by sealing holes and replacing parts.

You can also unclog drains with vinegar and baking soda. But professionals should handle problems with your water pressure and water temperature. They should also fix any burst pipes or damaged appliances.

When you’re in doubt, call expert plumbers. Pathmaker Plumbing serves homeowners in Charlotte, North Carolina. Contact us today.

January 11, 2023

Replacing a plumbing system can cost over $4,000, but you can avoid this by calling the best plumber.

Plumbing is essential to businesses and homeowners as many appliances rely on it. However, many problems can arise, forcing you to spend more money than you’d like to fix them.

By knowing about the signs to call a plumber, you can save money. Pathmaker Plumbing provides all the info you need in this guide.

Here are 5 signs you need to hire a plumber.

1. Low Water Pressure

One of the main signs to call a plumbing company is low water pressure.

Various things can cause low water pressure, such as debris buildup, leaks, corrosion, and faulty regulators. If you notice low pressure at your faucet, try removing the aerator and cleaning it.

If there’s still a problem, you’ll need a local plumber to examine your system.

2. Frozen Pipes

Another sign is frozen pipes, which are caused by cold temperatures. As water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes. This can then cause the pipes to burst, leading to leaks.

When your pipes are frozen, it’s best to shut off the water. You can use a portable heater and heating cables to slowly raise the temperature of the pipes.

To avoid damaging your pipes, a plumbing company can handle the entire process for you.

3. Bad Odor

When pipes emit bad odor, it’s often due to a buildup of debris and food in the plumbing system. Because of this, you must equip your drains with strainers to prevent foreign objects from entering them.

You can try to use a plumbing snake to remove things from the pipes, but if debris is lodged deep into them, you’ll need to hire plumbing services.

4. Sounds of Running Water

Another major sign to call a plumber is the sound of running water when you’re not using anything. This means there’s a leak somewhere, and if you hear water near the restroom, it may be a slab leak.

Should you have a slab leak, consider hiring a plumber instead of trying to resolve the issue. Slab leaks occur beneath the concrete foundation and require a ton of work to fix. Turn off your water until a plumber can help you.

5. Poor Drainage

Like many other problems, corrosion and foreign objects can cause poor drainage. Even when using strainers, grease and oil can clog pipes, and if you let things build up for too long, you may see a complete blockage.

As soon as you notice a drainage issue, clean your pipes and look for corrosion. The longer the problem goes on, the harder it’ll be to repair your plumbing system.

Call a Plumber Today

After reading this article, you now know about the main signs to call a plumber.

Here at Pathmaker Plumbing, we want to ensure your plumbing system runs as efficiently as possible. No matter what issue you have, we’ll help you resolve it.

Contact us to learn more about our quick and reliable plumbing services.

December 26, 2022

You could save yourself from many expensive plumbing issues just by sticking to certain basics. Unfortunately, most homeowners fail to pay heed to these basics and end up running into huge plumbing bills. Here are five important plumbing mistakes that you should avoid.

1. Ignoring Minor Plumbing Issues

Whenever there should be a minor plumbing issue, give it the attention that it requires. At times, you will be able to fix the issue yourself in just few minutes but at other times, you may have to call a professional plumbing company. Delaying your call to the plumber will only aggravate things leading to unnecessary expenses.

2. Trying To Cut Corners While Hiring Plumbers

Whenever you should hire a plumbing company make sure that you are calling a professional service provider. Do not try to cut corners by calling unqualified plumbers. One of the reasons why people go for such service providers is because they think that they could save a few bucks. However, this could prove to be most expensive mistake that you could make. Imagine losing your insurance and getting into liability issue just because you wanted to save a few dollars. Before you summon any plumber, check their credentials and their license.

3. Failing To Take Winter Precautions

Plumbing companies get more business during and just after the winter. Why? It is simply because homeowners totally ignore the winter precautions that they are supposed to be taking. If you are not sure what are the plumbing precautions that you should be taking during winter you could talk to your local plumbing company to get tips and recommendations. It is also not a bad idea to call your plumber to inspect the entire plumbing system before every winter. If there are no issues, you will be spending only for the visit and if there were any issues, you would have attended to it in a timely fashion before the winter starts and thereby saved your plumbing system from expensive damages.

4. Excessive And Wrong Use Of Drain Cleaners

You need to keep your drains clean but at the same time, if you use excessive drain cleaners then your pipelines will be corroded as drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals to breakdown the dirt and the blockage. You need to be therefore cautious in selecting the right drain cleaners and use them correctly.

5. Choosing Wrong Fittings

In case, you are venturing into your own DIY plumbing repairs, make certain that you are choosing the right fittings. Wrong choice of fittings and size mismatches could result in leakages, which again could prove to be expensive. Rather than running into such issues, it is better that you contact your local plumber who could take care of your plumbing needs.

If you review the above listed most common plumbing mistakes, they could be categorized into two categories namely carelessness and cost cutting efforts. As far as the cost cutting efforts are concerned, you could save a great deal of money by carefully reviewing and selecting the right plumbing companies that offer their services at reasonable fee.

Contact Pathmaker Plumbing for professional plumbing services in Charlotte, NC.

September 14, 2015

Life could become complicated if something should go wrong with your water heater, especially during the winter. One of the mistakes that most homeowners make when it comes to water heater repair is that they try to postpone their call to a plumber as long as possible thinking that the problem will disappear on its own. However, this does not happen even on your luckiest day. If there is an issue with your new tankless water heaters installation or with the operations of your equipment then you need to call your plumber at the earliest possible time.

Sometimes homeowners give into the temptation and try to handle their own water heater repairs. Is it a good idea to attempt DIY water heater repairs? Before we could answer this question, first we should try to understand why people attempt DIY water heater repairs. Firstly, it could be to save some money and secondly to get the issue fixed faster without having to wait for the local plumber to visit you. Does your attempt to resolve the water heater replacement or repair issue really help the situation and help you achieve the intended goals? Unless you are a qualified technician, the odds are that your attempt is only likely to make things worse. Rather than saving money, you could end up spending more money on rectifying the issue. Added to that, you will also be delaying the whole process of getting your water heater fixed when you aggravate the issue.

Therefore, it is best to find a reliable plumber in your area, establish long-term association with the plumbing company so that whenever there should be a problem, you could get their quick service. Regardless of whether it is a minor repair, replacement or new installation, it is important to call a certified technician. When you try to repair your water heater yourself, you could break a component or you could damage the insulation or the entire water line. It is not safe to attempt a DIY repair. Moreover, you could also be ending up with liability issues and problems with the insurance companies when something goes wrong. In case of mishaps, you cannot make valid insurance claims if you do not use a licensed plumber.

You need to be mindful of all these risks before you attempt any DIY efforts on water heater repair, replacement or installation. Try to screen your local plumbers, identify the most reputed and competitively priced plumber so that you could call them up as soon as you notice that something is not alright with your water heater. Giving timely attention to water heater repairs will save you from unnecessary hassles and it will also help you keep the bills low.

Do not wait for things to go wrong to shortlist your preferred water heater installation or repair company because during such times, you will be under great pressure and you will not have time to review multiple service providers and to pick the best service provider.

Learn more about water heater repair at Pathmaker Plumbing  or call (704) 733-7507.

August 13, 2015

The best way to avoid significant plumbing issues is to attend to maintenance and small problems before they grow into something more. Pathmaker Plumbing is dedicated to serving the Charlotte, NC area with professional residential plumbing services that increase the life of your plumbing system with innovative and affordable solutions.  We take care of your plumbing problems as soon as possible to save you the expense and stress of major plumbing work.

When you notice a leak or clog, Pathmaker Plumbing will provide a full inspection and repair to ensure that damage is minimized and your water service is restored. There are several symptoms of plumbing problems that may not seem important but should be analyzed to ensure that a failure hasn’t occurred. Contact Pathmaker Plumbing if you notice:

• Slow leaking around faucets
• Leaking from your toilet tank
• Water around the base of your toilet
• Leaking under your sink
• Slow, ineffective flushing
• Slow draining
• Bad smells from drains
• Water or sewage backed up in yard

Any of these may not seem like a problem on their own, but damage to your pipes could be more severe than you realize. By locating these leaks and clogs before they become more serious, Pathmaker Plumbing can save you money and reduce the time your household spends waiting for repairs to be made. Any time something with your plumbing simply doesn’t seem to be working quite right, call Pathmaker for honest service you can count on.

Professional Plumbing Inspections

Pathmaker Plumbing can determine the source of your plumbing problems using state-of-the-art technology and tools that enable non-invasive diagnosis of your issues. Camera pipe inspections enable us to locate areas where pipes have shifted, broken, or become pierced by roots without digging or causing any collateral damage. With this ability to pinpoint problem areas, we can fix leaks and clogs quickly and minimize the time and budget required for repairs.

It is essential to use a licensed professional plumber when you need plumbing repairs. Our work is guaranteed and insured to give you peace of mind. Pathmaker Plumbing wants each of our Charlotte, NC area clients to be thrilled with our work. We understand that few home repairs are as immediate needs as when a bathroom or laundry room is out of order. We strive for quick response and complete customer satisfaction.

Professional Installations

At Pathmaker Plumbing, we don’t just repair plumbing systems, we also can install vial equipment in your home. If you are ready for a new garbage disposal, water heater, dishwasher, toilet, sink, or water softener, call us today. We can replace an old, ineffective unit with equipment that is effective and energy efficient. Even if you do not already have equipment in place, we can create the necessary connections and electric supply to install the garbage disposal that you have been dreaming of. With professional installation, you know that your fixtures will work properly, without leaks or problems that can go hand in hand with do-it-yourself installations. Save your time for more important tasks and leave installation to the professionals at Pathmaker Plumbing.

When you need help NOW

It can be scary to find your basement full of water or realize that nothing is draining. That is why Pathmaker Plumbing offers 24 hour emergency response service. The promptness of drying water damage can mean a difference of thousands of dollars when it comes to water damage. We want you comfortable in your home with as little stress and expense as possible, so we get there as fast as we can.

We have experts on staff to quickly solve your plumbing emergencies. Call us if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Burst pipe
• Clogged drain
• Leaking water heater
• Sewage backup
• Overflowing sink, toilet, or tub

We use high tech solutions to ensure your problem is resolved as soon as possible.

Tips for avoiding plumbing problems

Proper maintenance and use of your home’s plumbing system is essential to avoiding serious problems with your plumbing. Follow these tips for trouble free plumbing

1. Have repairs made promptly. Don’t let little problems become big ones.
2. Have your septic tank regularly inspected and emptied.
3. Take care of leaks and clogs as soon as you notice them.
4. Have all fixtures professionally installed.
5. Do not dispose of large waste down your drains.
6. Turn off water when you are away from home for an extended period.
7. Periodically inspect beneath sinks and around visible pipes for leaks.
8. Do not set water pressure too high.
9. Keep the entrance of drains clean.
10. Replace leaky fixtures.

Contact Pathmaker Plumbing

We are happy to assist you with plumbing system maintenance, fixture installation, pipe inspections, and repairs. Contact us to schedule your professional plumbing service today. Pathmaker Plumbing proudly serves Charlotte, Ballantyne, Pineville, Matthews, Weddington, Waxhaw and surrounding areas.

July 20, 2015

Winter is just round the corner and it could prove to be an expensive time of the year when it comes to residential plumbing. You certainly would not want to channel your holiday budget into plumbing expenses. You could save a lot of money on your plumbing repair and plumbing maintenance by taking certain precautionary measures. Here are five important winter plumbing maintenance tips that will help you prevent unnecessary plumbing expenses this winter.

#1 Find a reliable local plumbing contractor for an inspection of your plumbing system.

Many a times homeowners think that calling a plumber for pre-winter inspection as waste of money. However, those who get a plumber for such inspections regularly know how it could save the day for them. Fixing minor plumbing issues prior to winter is important. What might seem to be a minor crack or leakage could prove to be a massive disaster if not taken care in a timely fashion especially during the winter. Therefore, never underestimate the importance of pre-winter plumbing inspection.

#2 Detach the garden hoses from the outdoor faucets.

It is important to detach the garden hoses from the faucets and the connected valves should be shut off. You should also remember to drain the hoses and if you forget, the water remaining in the hosepipe will freeze and it will damage the hose.

#3 Keep your drains clean.

Regular cleaning of your drain pipes is very important. You do not want to clogged pipes and the associated nightmares during winter. If you should notice signs of water clog in your drain pipes or bathtubs do not wait for too long before you call your plumber. Identifying the clogs at the initial stages will keep the plumbing bills low.

#4 Check your insulations.

One of the areas that requires your attention is the insulation of the pipes that carry water. As long as the pipeline that carries water is buried under the ground the water in the pipe retains temperatures that are above the freezing point. However, the pipeline that is above the ground level is exposed to very low temperatures. If the insulation is not effective it will not only affect the efficiency of your heating system but it could lead to further issues such as freezing of the water in the exposed areas and cut off of water supply to the entire house.

#5 Do not postpone any minor plumbing repairs to be made.

If you need to undertake any minor plumbing repairs which you have been postponing all along then you should not postpone it any longer. Get all your plumbing issues fixed before winter however small you might think they are. You just need to make sure that you are calling a credible plumbing contractor in your area to take care of your plumbing issues. It is always best to establish long term association with your local plumber so that they have a better understanding of your home’s plumbing system, which will in turn help them in offering you with faster and effective solutions.