Preventing Corrosion: Defeating the Enemy of Water Pipes

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Defining Corrosion and Ways to Get the Upper Hand 

Corrosion is a form of chemical deterioration of metals through exposure to oxygen. Oxidation is another term for the process because the compounds formed in the corrosion process are known as oxides. One of the most commonly known oxides is iron oxide, aka rust. 

Corrosion comes in many forms, but whether it’s pitting, scraping, or thinning the metal, it can lead to catastrophic failure of a home’s water pipes. Though corrosion cannot be reversed, the process can be slowed, stopped, or prevented if the proper precautions are taken. Corroded water pipes do not have to become a source of inconvenience or frustration.

Using Coatings and Protective Linings as Frontline Protection

coatingThe pipes that make up a home's plumbing system are made of different materials depending on their function. PVC and PEX pipes are great and corrosion resistant, but there are times when a copper or steel pipe is still the best choice (for example, to connect to the hot water tank). 

Perhaps an older home still has functioning iron pipes that should be protected rather than replaced. Coatings and protective linings are useful in these cases. Several different material types are used to bond to the inside of metal pipes, but all have their place depending on the situation. Below are a few examples:

  • Aluminum: Aluminum is a corrosion-resistant metal often sprayed onto pipes to protect them. It requires high temperatures to apply.
  • Epoxy: Sometimes used alone and sometimes used with a flexible medium, epoxy is a liquid resin or adhesive that can cure quickly to provide a protective layer.
  • Zinc: Galvanization is often done for pipes during the manufacturing process. This adds a coating of zinc which is another corrosion-resistant metal.

Clearing the Water with a Water Softener

softenerAccording to experts, close to 90% of the homes in the United States have what is known as hard water. This means that there are minerals dissolved in the water. These minerals can deposit themselves in a home’s pipes in the form of salts which can act as corrosive materials. A water softener uses resin beads with positively charged ions to attract the negatively charged minerals in the hard water, removing them and allowing much cleaner, less corrosive water to pass into the pipes, which helps prevent corrosion. Here is a window into the process:

  • Water enters the water softener through the supply line.
  • The mineral salts (negatively charged) are attracted to the resin beads (positively charged) and precipitate from the water. 
  • The water (free of minerals) flows from the water softener into the home’s plumbing system.
  • The resin beads are flushed with salts with a stronger negative charge, and the salts that were in the hard water are flushed through the home’s drainage system. 

Professional Plumbing Maintenance

One of the simplest and most effective ways to verify that a home’s plumbing does not succumb to corrosion is by calling a professional to perform routine maintenance. A plumbing technician will also carefully examine a home’s pipes and provide recommendations when corrosion is present. They can catch any issues before they worsen and save a homeowner money and time.

About Falcon Plumbing

For over 25 years, family-owned and woman-owned and operated Falcon Plumbing has served the residents of Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.

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Reasons for Low Water Pressure in the Home

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Common Reasons for Poor Water Pressure

There are many reasons for poor water pressure. Some issues just require tinkering. Others require immediate professional attention. One can ensure their home's well-being by knowing the reasons behind poor water pressure. They can also prevent rising energy costs, expensive repairs, and stress.

One may experience poor water pressure if:

Leaks Cause Water to Escape the Plumbing System

leaksPlumbing systems are complex systems of pipes, valves, and connectors. A leak in any component of the system can weaken water pressure. The less water in a system, the weaker the water pressure will be. The leak can also divert water from its destination (such as a faucet) and lead it elsewhere, like inside the home’s walls. Over time, this can lead to mold growth and other complications.

Reasons for pipe leaks include:

  • Rust: Over time, rust can compromise the pipe’s material, leading to leaks and burst pipes.
  • Root intrusion: Miami is home to many plants with intricate root systems. These roots can make their way inside pipes and cause leaks. They can also cause clogs––another cause of low water pressure.
  • Loose water connectors: At first glance, a loose water connector causes a few drips here and there. Yet, this can add up over time, leading to hundreds of gallons of wasted water and, in turn, poor water pressure.

These are just some reasons for leaks. A homeowner can prevent these issues by scheduling annual maintenance visits and installing a root barrier to protect underground pipes from intruding roots.

Clogs and Waste Buildup

Clogs and waste buildup obstruct the flow of water. Consider this scenario to understand more:

  • A homeowner turns on the shower.
  • Water comes from a groundwater source through the service line.
  • The water starts through the pipes, toward the shower, and past the water meter valve.
  • However, a clog obstructs the water’s flow, allowing a smaller amount through at a time.
  • Water trickles out of the showerhead–the opposite of what the homeowner wants.

Here, the homeowner should consult a trained professional because they have the expertise to fix clogs easily. Clogs and buildup can arise from various sources, ranging from root intrusion to septic tank waste buildup.

Broken Fixtures or Closed Valves

valveFixtures refer to things like showerheads, main water valves, faucets, drains––anything that allows the flow of water. Broken fixtures can stem from issues such as leaks, clogs, and corrosion. Without prompt attention, broken fixtures can waste water and affect the plumbing system’s operations.

Closed valves are a different matter. Valves regulate the flow of water. An open valve allows water to travel through the system. Closed valves don’t let water pass at all. Now that one knows the difference between broken fixtures and closed valves, here’s what to know:

  • A partially closed valve will allow some water to travel through the system––but not all of it.
  • Broken fixtures can’t take advantage of the water’s flow.
  • As noted, these problems will not fix their own. They require an expert’s help.

These are just some reasons why there may be the low water pressure in the shower – and the home’s other plumbing fixtures.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.

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Why Should Homeowners Always Hire a Professional Plumber?

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Are Expert Repairs Needed In Your Home?

Some plumbing tasks are easy for most homeowners, like unclogging the toilet with a plunger or installing a new shower head. However, most other plumbing problems and emergencies should only be handled by licensed and experienced professionals. Because plumbing deals with water and electricity, there is very little margin for error. Inexpert installations and repairs can cost thousands of dollars in unexpected damages.

Responsible homeowners understand the value of regular maintenance. Periodically performing preventative maintenance and getting checks from an expert keeps most plumbing problems from becoming emergencies. But the unexpected can and does happen. When plumbing emergencies occur, it is always best to get help from a trained professional plumber. If necessary, shut off the water source and call for help.

Pros Prevent Costly Mistakes

diy“There are some DIY projects that are the most fun and rewarding if you simply dive in and learn as you go. And then there’s plumbing.”

~ Popular Mechanics

Saving money by performing appropriate DIY maintenance and repairs is a good thing. Paying thousands of dollars for unnecessary repairs after attempting professional-level tasks is not.

For example, given that properly installing a water heater takes a few hours and plumbers charge by the hour, some owners think they can do the job themselves and save a few hundred dollars. But if even one step in the installation process is missed or done incorrectly, any or all of the following can happen:

  • Water leaks
  • Gas leaks
  • Electrical shorts
  • Flooding
  • Water damage to walls, floors, furniture, and electronics
  • Electrical fire
  • Mold growth
  • An unusable expensive water heater with a voided warranty

None of this is an exaggeration. DIYers often overestimate their abilities and end up making costly mistakes. This example of a relatively straightforward plumbing job for a skilled professional can quickly become an expensive nightmare for an inexperienced DIY homeowner. 

Contractors Are Faster and More Efficient

time For anyone trying to do their plumbing repairs, there is nothing worse than wasting time by spending hours online half-learning how to do something, making multiple trips to the plumbing supply store, then coming home to find out that they also need specialized tools and equipment to do the job.

Trying to learn DIY plumbing requires a huge investment of time and energy. However, plumbers already carry the parts to handle most home plumbing tasks and repairs. They already have the specialized tools, equipment, and testing devices that are typically needed. And most importantly, licensed professional plumbers have the training and experience to fix the plumbing properly and use the supplies, tools, devices, and equipment necessary to get the job done quickly.

Professionalism Ensures Peace of Mind

In the state of Florida, certified plumbers are required by law to have:

  • A license issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
  • Proof of at least four years of experience or a combination of related training and experience
  • Insurance for public liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage
  • Proof that they have passed a State exam

A licensed plumber in Florida has far more training and experience than even the handiest homeowner. Plus, they are insured if an accident happens, which protects the homeowners from financial responsibility for injuries and damages. This gives homeowners peace of mind that their plumbing is in good hands, but they are protected if something bad happens. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned business with over 25 years of experience serving the residents of Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.

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Here's Why DIY Plumbing Is Always the Wrong Answer

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DIY Plumbing Repairs Aren’t Worth the Risk

Plumbing work requires licenses, certifications, and (arguably), most importantly, insurance. Not everyone can be a plumber, but many homeowners look at plumbing repairs as one massive DIY project. When it comes to plumbing, it’s best if homeowners stay off of YouTube. DIY plumbing almost always has setbacks, letdowns, and overcharges, and sometimes can even make a problem worse or create an entirely new issue. 

Homeowners might think they can save a little money by doing it themselves, but they almost always end up spending more in the end. It is best to call a professional to ensure the project is completed correctly and leaves the system in better shape overall. Not only will professionals fix the problem, but they will also check out the rest of the system. 

Keep reading to learn three reasons why DIY plumbing is always a bad idea.

Without Specialized Training, Homeowners Can Misdiagnose the Problem

This is perhaps the most important thing to remember, so it is first. Professionals are professionals for a reason, and plumbing requires professionals for a reason. Plumbers go through specialized training to learn how the plumbing system works. Not only that, but they are trained, certified, licensed, and insured to use specialized tools and to work in the plumbing environment safely. 

When homeowners aren’t specially trained or certified and they try to DIY a plumbing project, they could end up sick, hurt, or in a world of expensive damage repairs when it’s all said and done. There aren’t enough YouTube videos in the world to certify a homeowner in plumbing. Many plumbing issues have the same signs, so no matter how much research a homeowner does, they could misdiagnose the problem and make the existing problem worse or create an entirely new issue. 

It Always Takes Longer To DIY a Project clock

As mentioned above, plumbers are trained professionals. That means they can get the job done faster and more efficiently than any DIY homeowner plumber. Not only that, but most plumbers have years and even decades of experience doing some of the most common plumbing jobs every single day. Homeowners might think they are saving themselves time by doing it themselves, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. 

DIY homeowner plumbers end up: 

  • Making multiple trips to the store for parts
  • Renting and re-renting often unnecessary equipment that the store clerk talked them into renting
  • Wasting gas money
  • It takes them longer to find the root cause of the problem (if they find it at all)
  • It takes them longer to fix the problem
  • It takes them longer to clean up when they’ve supposedly fixed the problem

All in all, the entire process takes longer from start to finish. 

cost

Renting the Specialized Tools Costs More Too! 

It not only takes longer for DIY homeowner plumbers to get the job done, but it also ends up costing them a lot more to do it themselves. All those trips to the hardware store add up in gas, renting tools, buying other products they think they might need (but may not need), etc. 

There is also a great chance that the homeowner will cause more damage while trying to fix the current problem, leading to even more wasted money and them having to call a professional to fix the mess anyway. It is best to call the professional first and leave all the DIY stuff for in-home activities. 

Professionals also want to note how dangerous plumbing is. All professional plumbers are insured by their employer. Therefore, everything is covered if something goes wrong or someone gets hurt on the job. Homeowners who DIY plumbing do not have this luxury. 

Falcon Plumbing Won’t Disappoint!

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned and female-owned and operated company with over 30 years of experience serving its community in Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing, same-day or next-day service, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.

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The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Drains

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The Most Common Methods of Drain Cleaning 

Staying on top of drain cleaning is one of the most beneficial ways to keep drain and sewer systems tip-top shape. There are a lot of different ways to clean out drains. Of course, hiring a professional is the most prominent and influential way, but some DIY solutions are also. 

While some homeowners prefer to hire a professional drain cleaning service either because of a lack of knowledge in the drain cleaning process or lack of time, other homeowners jump at the chance to save some money by attempting to clean out their drains themselves. 

It’s not a challenging task if a person knows what they’re doing, and this guide will help to highlight some of the methods one can use to clean out their drains. 

Drain Cleaning the DIY Waymethods

While it’s common for people to purchase chemical drain cleaners from their local hardware store, homeowners should skip the drive and make their own, safer cleaning solution from scratch with household products they already have lying around. 

There are several ways to make a DIY drain cleaning solution. These include: 

  • Baking Soda and Vinegar (or lemon juice): Add ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar (or lemon juice) down the drain. Plug the chute up and leave it to sit for one hour. After an hour of waiting, pour boiling water down the drain. If necessary, repeat these steps until the drain is flowing as needed.
  • Baking Soda and Salt: Another baking soda hack is mixing ½ cup of baking soda with ½ cup of table salt. Pour the mixture down the drain and let sit for 30 minutes. Then pour in boiling water. The mixture may need to sit in the sink if the drain is severely clogged.

Still, for those who want to purchase a cleaning solution from the store, avoid liquid drain cleaners. These cleaners often have harsh and toxic chemicals that do more harm than good. 

snaking

Snaking Drains

A drain snake, or plumber’s snake, is one of the most popular methods to clean out clogged drains among DIY enthusiasts and professional plumbers alike.

The process is simple enough. Line up the end of the snake with the drain and push it inside, turning the hand crank to make sure the snake slides down the pipe. The hand crank should be turned until an obstruction is reached. Once it has found the block, rotate the snake so that it then hooks onto the clog. Continue to rotate the snake, allowing the clog to break apart. If the obstruction feels too hard and refuses to break apart, turn the crank and pull the snake up – the clog will most likely come with it. 

At this point, flush some water down the drain to see if the drain is working properly. If not, the steps above should be repeated until the clog is gone. 

Like most things in life, drain snaking comes with advantages and disadvantages. A drain snake is easier to use on older pipes and can quickly terminate easier clogs. However, drain snakes are not as proficient at handling tough clogs, debris, and build-up. Alternatively, if a person wants to unclog their toilet or shower drain, it is recommended to use a drain auger instead. 

Hydro jetting 

Another popular method of cleaning out drains is hydro jetting. This non-invasive method uses a high-pressure water jet that will work to thoroughly clean the drains from all blockages made up of clogs, debris, and buildup. 

Like snaking, hydro jetting comes with its pros and cons. Hydro jetting does a better job at clearing out the drains than snaking does and can even break up smaller tree roots that have invaded the pipes. Hydro jetting is also non-invasive, safe, and environmentally friendly. On the downside, hydro jetting can cause damage to older pipes and often uses a lot of water to clean out drains. Hydro jetting is less DIY-friendly and should only be done by a professional company with experience in hydro jetting. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has provided the residents of Miami, FL, with trusted plumbing services since 1986. They offer flat-rate pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Miami, FL.

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How to Deal with Underground Pipe Clogs

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Beware of Outdoor Plumbing Clogs

Even as early as April, people start looking forward to summer. As the weather warms up and the rains come in, most people are aching to relax next to the pool and enjoy some time off. Unfortunately, too many people this summer will have their relaxation interrupted by a plumbing emergency related to their outdoor plumbing. 

Instead of leaving things to chance, take some advice from local plumbers who understand what homeowners have to deal with as the seasons change. In this blog post, experts discuss outdoor plumbing clogs, their causes, and how they are fixed. 

Outdoor Plumbing Features That Commonly Clog

sprinklerOutdoor plumbing has about as big a footprint as indoor plumbing but generally isn’t used as much. Examples of outdoor plumbing are:
  • Above-ground or in-ground pools and their associated pumps and piping
  • Fountains that are a part of landscaping
  • Irrigation systems that water grass and other plants
  • Landscape drains that shunt water away from a home or structure
  • Drain piping that serves the home like sewers
  • Outdoor kitchens or showers

Outdoor plumbing is exposed to harsher conditions than indoor plumbing, so it is fairly common to have problems with it. A common problem that can ruin summer plans is clogs in any of these locations. 

What Causes Clogs?

Clogs are more likely to form because of the conditions that outdoor plumbing fixtures find themselves in. Infrequent usage of these fixtures, such as the seasonal use of outdoor kitchens or rainy seasons where sprinklers aren’t needed, can cause problems of neglect like clogs. In normal plumbing fixtures, water is consistently pumped through the plumbing, which prevents solids and debris from settling in the bottom of the pipe. Clogs become very likely when fixtures sit for a season with no activity. 

Once normal use resumes, the water flow can push debris into itself, forming a tough clog that disrupts the flow in the plumbing fixture. The only answer in this situation is to call for professional help so that homeowners can get back to their plans. 

clogs

How Do Plumbers Remove Tough Clogs?

Outdoor plumbing clogs always catch people by surprise because of their unpredictability. Generally, when a clog is discovered, homeowners are motivated to take care of it as soon as possible, and calling for professional clog removal from a licensed plumber is the quickest way to get things back to normal. 

Clearing outdoor and underground plumbing clogs are easy for a professional with the right equipment. In many cases, plumbers will turn to an auger to remove a clog in a landscape drain or sewer line. An auger is a powerful tool fed into the offending pipe that grinds up clogs to remove them. 

For a more modern solution to outdoor plumbing clogs, plumbers may use a hydro jet. A hydro jet is a powerful stream of water that cuts through clogs and cleans the inside of pipes. Hydro jetting is a great method for clog removal, and it can also be used as part of a spring cleaning checklist to make sure outdoor plumbing clogs don’t disrupt summer plans. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned business that has served Miami-Dade and Broward County for over 25 years. They offer upfront, flat-rate pricing and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.

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Meet These Historic Women Plumbers!

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These Women Transformed the Plumbing Industry as People Know It Today 

It’s no surprise to many that plumbing is a male-dominated field. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 97 percent of plumbers and pipefitters are men. Less than three percent of plumbers are women, but that number’s slowly rising. 

Many historical figures paved the way for today’s women to enter the workforce––women like Madam C.J. Walker, the first female self-made millionaire in the US. This Women’s History Month, one may be interested in learning about some of the women who changed the plumbing industry. Continue reading to learn more. 

Fast Facts About Women in the Plumbing Industry 

plumbing Emerging Infectious Diseases notes that while women have not always held official plumbing jobs, women have played a massive role in homes’ water consumption for centuries. Throughout history, women have been tasked with bathing small children, cooking, and laundry––all of which involve water consumption. Along the way, many homemakers learned a thing or two about plumbing systems yet never earned a single paycheck for their efforts. 

Here are some other things to know about women and the plumbing industry: 

  • Contrary to the information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America notes that even more women are entering the home improvement industry than previously thought. About nine percent of newcomers to the field are women in the HVAC industry alone. This could mean more women are becoming plumbers than initially expected. 
  • Wolfram Alpha notes that over 417,000 people are employed as plumbers in the United States. In 2019, the number was much higher. 
  • Studies show that despite the number of vacancies in the plumbing industry, women are hesitant to enter the field because of harassment and discrimination. 

Yet, that has not stopped the women on this list from making their marks in the plumbing industry. 

Meet the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers 

At the turn of the 20th century, more and more men were finding work as plumbers. However, while they performed their duties, they were concerned about what their wives would do in the meantime. This led to the birth of the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers, which eventually grew to include tens of members. 

Surprisingly, men were first in charge of the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers. They organized social events, such as luncheons to keep their wives occupied. Eventually, women took charge of the organization and changed the focus from socializing to advocating for various causes, including: 

  • Women’s right to vote: Many members of the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers believed that women should have the right to vote, just as men did. 
  • Sanitation: When the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers was in full swing, many public restrooms (especially those at Texaco gas stations) were not regularly cleaned. The organization launched a campaign urging businesses to clean their bathrooms, which would limit the spread of disease. 

Today, the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers still exists but under a new name. True to the organization’s original purpose, it continues to combine social activism with socializing as part of its activities. 

Meet Lillian Ann Baumbach (also known as the “Pretty Plumber”)

lillian

Lillian Ann Baumbach knew she wanted to be a plumber from a very young age. Her passion started when she was just 12 years old and went out on service calls with her father, a plumber by trade. When she graduated from high school in 1947, she knew she wanted to be a master plumber. 

Yet managing her father’s plumbing business and going out on calls was only one part of Baumbach’s life. In the 1950s, she became a pin-up girl, a favorite of those serving in the Korean War. At one point, she was penpals with over 250 men, some of which proposed marriage. 

She continued leaving her mark on the plumbing industry and retired peacefully in 1987. At the time of her passing, she was survived by her two daughters. 

About Falcon Plumbing 

Falcon Plumbing provides homeowners peace of mind with 24/7 emergency services, no overtime charges, and comprehensive plumbing services in Miami, FL. Call them today to hire a trusted and experienced plumber.

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Self Care Tips for a Relaxing Night In This Valentine's Day

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Using the Bathroom As a Spa 

Homeowners do not need to leave the house to get the whole spa experience this Valentine’s Day. Home improvements can transform the bathroom into an oasis of relaxation right at home. This blog post looks at a few ways that a bathroom can be changed for a romantic and relaxing spa night. 

Home remodeling is the best way to transform a bathroom, but small changes go long. Adding in some mood lighting or aromatherapy candles can completely change the bathroom's vibe. Keep reading for more ideas on how to upgrade the bathroom into a relaxing spa oasis for Valentine’s Day. 

Why Baths Are Healthy for You 

benefitsBaths are great for promoting overall good health because warm water helps to improve circulation. Circulation is essential to the body’s function. Improved circulation can even help weight loss because it aids in workout recovery. There are proven benefits of taking baths, including better sleep, pain relief, and improved circulation. 

Stress is one of the number one causes of illness, and baths are a great stress reliever. Relaxing in a shower or bath is the perfect way to unwind after a long day and let go of stress. For both the body and the mind, bathing is therapeutic. 

Adding bath salts and aromatherapy will further enhance the experience for total mind and body relaxation. Lavender and other calming scents can help people to relax. 

LED Lights In the Shower or Bath 

Luxury shower installation or luxury bath installation often comes with built-in LED lights. LED lights use very little energy and come in various colors that can be used for mood lighting to make the vibe romantic or relaxing. LED lights to make it easy to customize the look and feel of the room with ease. 

The body and mind react differently to different colors; chromatherapy. Homeowners who do not have built-in lighting on their shower or tub can pick up some LED lights from a local home store and put them around the mirror, the bathtub, or the ceiling. Chromatherapy can help to improve moods. 

shower

New Rain Shower Installation 

Rain showers have a more oversized showerhead than traditional showers and they “rain” down droplets of water. Installing one of these luxurious showers will take the idea of a bathroom oasis to the next level. 

Homeowners considering home remodeling their bathroom should think about installing a new rain shower. Rain showers are incredibly relaxing and usually come with speakers and LED lights built-in. 

For the whole spa experience, there is nothing that beats having a rain shower at home. Investing in a high-quality shower replacement is a decision that homeowners will be glad they made no matter what time of year.  

 

 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has a lot to offer its community. Their team of experienced plumbing contractors is available 24/7 for service appointments in Miami, FL, and the surrounding communities. Call them today to schedule an appointment with a reputable local plumber!

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3 Plumbing FAQs to Read at the Start of 2022

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Check Out the Answers to These FAQs About Plumbing 

Most homeowners want to know what the most common plumbing problems are and how to avoid them. Reading the answers to plumbing's most frequently asked questions can help get homeowners started off on the right foot in 2022. 

What Are The Most Common Plumbing Problems Homeowners Should Avoid?

drainsClogged drain repair, toilet repair, burst pipe repair, and backed-up sewer line repair are just a few of the common problems plumbers get calls about every day. Clogged drains are usually a result of the wrong thing being flushed down the drain. 

Whether it’s a clump of hair, baby wipes, or a child's toy, something has to become lodged in the pipe preventing the drain from clearing. Tree roots can also grow into the pipes and cause clogs, sometimes even resulting in burst pipes. Burst pipes are more common in the winter when pipes freeze over, but they can happen all year round. 

Toilets are also notorious for needing constant repairs. This is because most toilets use a valve system to flush, and valves are known to wear out easily and need replacement every once in a while. Tightening loose components and replacing worn-out valves can help to prevent the toilet from running water constantly. 

How to Know When It's Time To Call a Plumber?

callClogged drains, resulting from flushing too much toilet paper, can be fixed with a plunger, but for more severe clogs and back-ups, a professional plumber should be called. Drain cleaning services from a professional plumber are often necessary to fix recurring clogged drains. 

Any sort of leak should be fixed by a plumber right away. Water line leaks can cause serious water damage to the home, leading to structural damage and mold growth. Leaking fixtures should not be left running. If possible, the water should be shut off to keep the leak from spreading until the plumber arrives. 

Gas leaks are another problem that plumbing companies deal with frequently. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous, and if there is ever a gas leak detection in the home, a professional should be called right away. It is recommended to leave the residence until a qualified professional arrives for gas line repair. 

How Does Plumbing Maintenance Prevent Plumbing Problems?

Trusting a professional plumber with system maintenance and repairs can go a long way in improving the longevity of the plumbing system. As soon as a problem is noticed, it should be repaired to prevent it from becoming a larger issue. 

During regularly scheduled maintenance, the plumber will have a chance to evaluate the plumbing system for leaks or broken parts to prevent a problem before it starts. 

To prevent clogged drains and sewer lines, homeowners should be mindful of what goes down the drain. Garbage disposals in kitchen sinks and hair traps in the bathroom drains can help to prevent a buildup of debris leading to blockage. 

Drain cleaning services from a local plumbing company can be scheduled annually or bi-annually as a preventative measure against clogs and backups. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a local family-owned plumbing service company that offers comprehensive services at fair prices from professional plumbers. They have been proud to serve Miami, Fl, and the surrounding communities with the high-quality plumbing services they deserve for over 25 years. 

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Why Is Finding a Reliable Plumber During the Holiday Season Important?

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3 Things You Should Ask and Inquire About in a Plumbing Company

When looking for a plumbing company, it is important to ask all the right questions. While there is some information online, there is no way of knowing if a company is worth it without digging deeper. Homeowners need to ask their local plumbers questions to ensure that they find a reliable plumber.

This is especially important during the holiday season. As plumbers are booked with preventative care and repairs, homeowners may need to call and inquire about many different plumber service companies at once. Homeowners need options to consider before making a decision based on their services, reviews, licenses and insurance, and maintenance plans.

Do They Have Positive Reviews?

hand pointing to 5 starsThe most important thing any homeowner can do is look at the reviews! If they have spotted a company that looks reliable, affordable, and honest, they should also review the reviews. This can start with a quick keyword search of “plumber near me” or “Miami plumber”. After choosing a website like Google reviews, Yelp, or Yahoo, homeowners need to look at the numbers and words.

For example, the majority of the ratings of the reviews should be between 4 and 5 stars. If it is lower, there is room to question the company’s services and quality. There are also words that homeowners need to spot as green flags that the company is a fitting choice. These words include “fair”, “friendly”, “professional”, and “responsible. If the opposite words are highlighted, homeowners may want to stay away from them.

What Licenses and Insurance do they have?

Homeowners should never feel scared or embarrassed to ask about the licenses and insurances that each company has. Licenses and insurance keep both parties protected from accidents and mishaps. There are still some things that can go wrong with the plumbing, and insurance can make sure that liability is in store along with solutions like compensation.

The more important part of licenses and insurance for plumbing maintenance companies is that they should be up to date and recent! There is no point in having insurance if it is no longer active or current.

What Maintenance Plan is Available?

plumber gesturing to under sinkPipes are easier to maintain than repair. This is also true about pricing. Instead of paying a lot of money for future repairs, it is better to look for a company that offers different maintenance plans to choose from. Within these plans are services that maintain and prevent damage to important plumbing in a home.

Maintenance plans are affordable. They are designed to lure new customers in to create regulars and to offer discounted prices for services that are necessary. Maintenance plans can be paid once a year, twice a year, or each month. The time varies depending on how the company runs its plans.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has been serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding communities for over 25 years. This family-owned local plumbing company is trusted in its community for its outstanding service, expert plumbers, and fair, up-front pricing. Call them today for professional plumbing services in South Florida!

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