Millions of Texans have recently had to deal with power outages and frozen and burst water pipes due to the extreme weather experienced in February. No doubt we all shared some inconvenience as we faced this bout of unusually icy weather. But why were pipes freezing? One of the main reasons for the frozen and burst pipes is that we don’t typically get freezing temperatures in this part of the country. Because of this, our homes and the placement of our water pipes don’t take extreme cold into account. In other parts of the country, walls are built thicker, homes have more insulation, and pipes may be several feet underground or run up through a basement. In Texas, our pipes are fitted to exterior walls or in attics; because of this, they are not insulated and can therefore freeze quickly.

owing this, we thought we would explain the different home plumbing pipe types and which ones are best for your home. Because if it’s time to replace your pipes or install new ones, you will have a choice between several types of plumbing pipes, which can be confusing. Not sure if your pipes need replacing? Read our recent article on ‘The right time for a pipe replacement.’

The types of home plumbing pipe types range from PEX and PVC to galvanized and brass. How do you know which type to use for water supply and drainage, which is best for your home’s sewer and exterior? Don’t worry; the Accurate Leak team wants to make things straightforward for you. This article explores the best types of pipes and applications for these plumbing pipes in your home. We’ve got you covered.

Our top tip when DIYing your house plumbing system: Always check your pipe is well supported, the fittings appropriately installed, and pipes tested. You want to ensure everything, especially if set behind a wall, is working correctly and there are no leaks insight.

The Most Common Home Plumbing Pipe Types:

PEX Pipe

Are you looking for the latest and greatest in piping? One of the newest pipes in plumbing is PEX pipe, or cross-linked polyethylene, and it is gaining popularity quickly. But it is used only to supply water. Rigid enough to withstand water supply pressure and flexible enough to weave through walls, ceiling, basements, this piping is a top choice for water-supply plumbing.

Pros

• Easy to understand color-codes: red for hot water, blue for cold
• Super flexible; even 90-degree curves are possible
• Push-fit plumbing fittings will work to attach, among others
• Inexpensive
• Will join with copper piping
• Easy to cut

Cons

• Since its new, long-term capabilities are untested
• May leak with push-fit plumbing fittings
• Not recyclable

PVC Pipe

For drain or vent line plumbing pipe, PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is your go-to pipe. PVC has been around for a while now as an alternative to traditional galvanized steel pipes. It became popular because it is light and easy to work with and install. So easy; in fact, you will only need a hacksaw and a miter box to cut. Another bonus, PVC glues together with solvents.

Pros

• It comes with clearly marked diameters on the surface of the pipe
• Inexpensive and a good choice for long runs like irrigation
• Easier to work with than steel or copper

Cons

• It cannot be unjoined and must be cut
• If not installed properly, glued pipes can be prone to leaking
• Degrades in sunlight

Rigid Copper Pipe

Most often used for water supply lines within the home, rigid copper is easily cut with a hacksaw or a special copper tube cutter. And, these pipes are great for the water supply because they do not come with any health risks. There are many options for connections for rigid copper piping, the best being the solder-type connection. But note that this requires experience and safety protocols.

Pros

• Can handle heat and intense pressure well
• Easy to recycle and has a monetary value

Cons

• You need experience to work copper piping due to soldered connections
• It is expensive

ABS Pipe

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) pipe is mainly used as a vent and drain line. Although it looks very similar to PVC piping, it is black and slightly softer. It is also made with BPA, which is a chemical commonly used to harden plastic. Although BPA has recently received a bad reputation, its current assessment from the Food and Drug Administration states that it is safe. ABS piping has a one-step process for connecting pipes; they can be bonded instantly with a block of special cement, and there is no need for a primer as with PVC piping.

Pros

• Stronger than PVC pipes
• Suitable for underground exterior use
• Works well in cold temperatures

Cons

• Often not permitted by building code
• Warps and deforms at certain temperatures

Flexible

Choosing the correct water pipe fittings and connectors is critical in any building or renovation job. The material, size, and quality of your pipes considerably impact the efficiency, longevity, and cost-effectiveness of your plumbing system that is why It’s critical to grasp the numerous elements in plumbing pipe selection to make an informed decision.

In this post, we will look at the tips and factors you should consider when selecting your plumbing pipes. Read on to learn more.

Understand the Material

Choosing the right plumbing pipe involves understanding the various materials available. For instance, copper, PVC, PEX, galvanized steel, and cast iron are commonly used options, each with its own characteristics and benefits.

Copper Pipes

Copper is a popular choice for plumbing pipes due to its exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. These properties make it ideal for hot and cold water lines. They also have a long lifespan and can withstand high water pressure without the risk of bursting or leaking.

PVC Pipes

PVC pipes are commonly used for cold water lines and drainage systems in residential and commercial buildings. They also offer excellent resistance to chemicals and corrosion, ensuring long-term durability, and their lightweight nature makes them easy to handle and install, reducing time and labor costs.

PEX Pipes

PEX pipes can be easily bent and curved without additional fittings, allowing for flexible installation in tight spaces. They are commonly used for potable water systems as they resist corrosion and scale buildup, ensuring clean and safe drinking water.

Galvanized Steel Pipes

These steel pipes are known for their strength and durability, making them a widely used choice in various plumbing applications. The galvanization process involves coating the steel pipes with a protective layer of zinc, enhancing their resistance to external factors such as physical damage and harsh weather conditions.

Cast Iron Pipes

Cast iron pipes are highly valued for their exceptional strength and durability, making them popular in sewage and drainage systems. Their robust nature allows them to withstand the continuous flow of wastewater and the heavy loads encountered in such systems.

Consider the Plumbing System

When selecting a plumbing pipe, evaluating your project requirements and the current plumbing setup is essential. Several factors should be considered, like determining if the project is for a residential or commercial property, as this can impact the necessary pipe size and material.

Consider the material’s ability to withstand the corrosive elements present in wastewater when choosing pipes for drainage and sewer systems. It is also important to ensure that the chosen pipe material is compatible with the rest of your plumbing system to maintain functionality and prevent any complications.

Match the Size of the Pipe

Choosing the correct pipe size ensures optimal water flow and pressure in your plumbing system. To do this effectively, you first need to familiarize yourself with the pipe sizing standards in your region to help you navigate the selection process.

After that, you must calculate your application’s required flow rate and pressure. This will depend on factors like the number of fixtures or appliances simultaneously using water.

Choosing a diameter that matches your specific flow rate and pressure requirements is essential for maintaining efficient water flow. By carefully considering the right size material for your pipe, you can ensure optimal water flow, pressure, and overall performance in your plumbing system.

Look for Quality and Durability

Choose plumbing pipes that are corrosion-resistant, longer lifespan, and cost-effective. Concentrating on these factors can reduce the likelihood of leaks, cracks, and other problems, resulting in a more dependable plumbing system. This provides peace of mind knowing your plumbing is working effectively.

Seek Advice from Professionals

Consult a licensed plumber who can provide expert guidance and recommendations tailored to your project. Also, consider seeking insights from construction experts who can share their practical knowledge.

Having all of these considered, the next important thing you should do is select a trusted partner and supplier, like Supreme Pipe. Our extensive experience and commitment to compliance ensure that your plumbing work meets or exceeds local regulations, facilitating a seamless and hassle-free project execution.

Key Takeaway

Selecting the right water pipe fittings and connectors is a critical decision that requires careful consideration. Making an informed decision now will save you time and money in the long run while providing peace of mind in knowing that your plumbing is in capable hands.

Choose Supreme Steel Pipe Corporation for your plumbing needs today. Our expert guidance and high-quality water pipe fittings and connectors will ensure your project’s success. Save time, save money, and enjoy peace of mind with SSPC by your side. Contact us now!

Plumbing is a noble profession with lucrative opportunities for people who enjoy working with their hands. Pursuing a plumbing career allows you to learn new skills and specialize in various niches. However, you need to learn more about the different types of plumbers and plumbing services to gain insight into opportunities for a successful career.

Gone are the days when plumbers were only called during the installation and repairs of a plumbing system. Today, there are experts in this field focusing on services such as water heater installation, HVAC repair and maintenance, and gas plumbing. Despite the varying areas of specialization, these professionals go through the same basic training to attain their licenses.

TYPES OF PLUMBERS AND THEIR SERVICES

At a point in your career, you will be required to offer your services as a plumber. This could be for installation, repair, maintenance, or servicing. No matter the service, you need to understand the various categories to deliver on your mandate effectively. Below is a classification of plumbing services to guide you:

RESIDENTIAL PLUMBERS

Residential plumbers are among the most popular plumbers recognized for their versatility and availability when it comes to residential plumbing systems. These professionals offer a wide range of services, ranging from water supply connection, leak repairs, bathroom renovations, piping, maintenance, and servicing of residential plumbing systems.

A residential plumber’s experience handling multiple projects makes them an ideal choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Homeowners who work with these professionals get after-sale services such as repairs and servicing at discounted prices. Training as a residential plumber means you have to learn how to install different piping for water and gas, service and maintain the plumbing system of multiple residential structures, and troubleshoot and fix plumbing issues in a residential home.

COMMERCIAL PLUMBERS

These are the second most popular professionals handling jobs related to large commercial properties. Despite having the same basic training as their residential colleagues, commercial plumbers undergo more training in readiness for the complexities of a commercial project. To succeed as a commercial plumber, you need to cultivate strong problem-solving skills and accumulate vast experience handling multiple projects.

Due to the demanding nature of large commercial projects, you need to learn how to install, clean, and service plumbing systems, provide emergency plumbing services, and deal with water pressure. Some of the projects you are likely to handle include schools, hospitals, hotels, and office buildings. This means you will have to be on-call to respond to plumbing emergencies 24/7. Commercial plumbers also work with complex equipment, requiring additional training. The nature of commercial projects and the level of expertise required make this one of the most lucrative services in the industry.

WATER SUPPLY PLUMBER

Water supply plumbers specialize in water connections. These professionals are responsible for the flow of water into a building. Do you need water in your new home, school, restaurant, or office building? These are the experts to call.

While they operate under the umbrella of residential or commercial plumbers, this group majors mostly in the water supply. Here, you will be required to install, maintain, and repair kitchen sinks, storage tanks, hot water tanks, and install water pipes. Water supply plumbers are slo responsible for connecting a customer’s water line to the local water supply, boreholes, and wells.

SANITARY PLUMBER

According to some studies, a good number of people spend time in the bathroom not only to shower or relieve themselves but to get personal time. This is one of the reasons for the increased remodeling projects. Commercial and residential properties have been investing in sanitation to make them more comfortable and relaxing. As a sanitary plumber, you will likely work on these remodeling projects.

You will also be responsible for servicing, maintaining, and cleaning sanitary plumbing systems, including pipes and tanks. Sanitary plumbers work to maintain the water supply to bathrooms and toilets, with homeowners relying on them to set up the connection between the bathroom and the water heating system.

Other services under this category included unclogging toilets and bathroom drains and installing and maintaining bathtubs/jacuzzies.

SERVICE AND REPAIR PLUMBERS

When dealing with a leaking pipe or damaged water heater, customers rely on service and repair plumbers to run a diagnosis to find the cause and provide a solution. These professionals offer their services to commercial and residential clients, with others operating on-call in industrial buildings. To succeed as a service and repair plumber, you need to have a deep understanding of plumbing systems and common problems; this way, you can troubleshoot issues in the shortest time possible.

Like commercial plumbers, you need to develop problem-solving skills and the technical know-how for dealing with plumbing issues. Service and repair plumbers mostly provide emergency service, meaning they can respond to a customer’s call any day or week. You will …

Eddie, From Mayer Plumbing Contributes:

What do customers want from a plumbing business? You can get a call from two different people, both who need the same kind of leak fixed, and provide both the same level of service but satisfy only one of them. Why? Customers want different things.

A homeowner from a nice area wants something different than a residential landlord, who wants something different from a small business owner. They all have different pain points or problems they need you to solve. By determining which pain point they have and solving it, you give the customer what they want—and get a stellar business reputation as a result.

So here is a quick guide on learning, beyond just plumbing services, what your customer wants.

1. Fast Response and Work

These customers are worried about the damage that a plumbing problem will cause to their property or about the disruption that a plumbing issue is having on their business. You’ll hear them say things like, “how soon can you get here?” and “how long will this work take?” Even when it isn’t technically an emergency, they may want you to respond as if it is an emergency.

You can satisfy these customers first by responding to their call and scheduling work right away. If you’re always in your truck, having a digital receptionist do this for you is going to help you stand out to these customers.

2. Better Payment Terms

Especially when working in commercial properties, although not exclusively, you will find customers who need work done but still worry about the cost. This is especially true of those on fixed incomes or those who run businesses with small margins. You’ll hear them say things like, “how much do I need to pay upfront?” or “do you offer financing?”

You can satisfy these customers by working out payment terms that are better for them (so long as they also cushion you from the risk of non-payment.) Offering financing, monthly payment plans, or simply a slightly lower deposit, can work for you both.

3. Clarity on Plumbing Issues

These customers have a plumbing issue, and they are concerned that it will happen again. Or, they need to make a long-term decision and don’t know what would be best. You’ll hear them ask the same question twice, especially “why does this problem keep happening?” or “which brand did you say you prefer?”

You can satisfy these customers by taking a bit of extra time to address their concerns or offer them professional guidance. Try to give them the reason behind your opinion, and not just your opinion.

4. Long-term Relationships

Some people know that they will need a plumber on a regular basis. This is especially true of homeowners who have renos or additions planned, or those in businesses with frequent plumbing work, like real estate or hotel management. You’ll hear them ask probing questions about your long-term work like “can you always be this available?” or “do you also do this kind of work?”

For these customers, your reliability and consistency are everything. Take the time to explain concepts, have accurate timelines for work, and send your friendliest technicians and you can win their business long-term.

What is a plumber?

Plumbers are skilled professionals who specialize in the installation, repair and maintenance of water systems. It is their duty to ensure all plumbing fixtures, pipes and appliances function optimally – from installing new taps to unclogging drains; plumbers offer services tailored specifically for commercial properties as well as homes.

Plumber duties depend on the project type they are undertaking; typically these include inspecting existing pipe work; testing pressure levels; locating blockages or leaks; fitting replacement parts such as valves or taps; installing new pipes or appliances such as toilets or showers; connecting waste disposal units to drainage systems; carrying out repairs on drain lines, sewers, gas lines and other forms of piping materials; replacing broken sealants around baths and sinks and power flushing central heating systems.

Plumbers may also be called upon to advise customers on matters related to water conservation or best practices when it comes to maintaining their plumbing system.

Different types of plumbers

Master Plumbers

Master Plumbers are experienced professionals with the highest certification level in plumbing. Typically, they possess five years or more of residential and commercial plumbing experience and must pass both a written and practical exam to earn their license. As master plumbers, you can trust them with any job, from installing new pipes to inspecting existing systems.

Journeyman Plumbers

Journeyman plumbers have either completed an apprenticeship program or possess a valid journeyman’s certificate. These professionals are capable of carrying out minor repairs and installations in homes and businesses, such as replacing fixtures or fixing leaks. To become certified by the state, journeymen plumbers must pass an exam testing their knowledge of the trade.

Tradesman Plumbers

Tradesman Plumbers are experienced professionals specializing in the installation and repair of plumbing systems. Generally, they have either completed an apprenticeship program or hold a valid tradesman’s certificate, making them knowledgeable and well-equipped to carry out repairs and installations in homes or businesses with ease.

Tradesman plumbers must pass a state-approved exam that tests their knowledge of the trade, including proper installation of pipes, fitting replacement parts like valves or taps and power flushing central heating systems. Furthermore, they need to be aware of water conservation practices as well as best practices for maintaining plumbing systems.

Licensed Apprentices

Licensed Apprentices are students who are studying for a qualification through an approved apprenticeship program. Much like journeyman plumbers, these professionals are familiar with basic installation and repair tasks but do not yet have formal qualifications from a recognized institution. Licensed apprentices normally work under the supervision of a Master Plumber and can expect to receive further training over time so that they may eventually gain their own qualification as a Master Plumber themselves. A high school diploma is also required.

Typical Services Plumbers Do:

Plumbing Systems

Plumbing systems are essential for the smooth running of any home or business. This system takes away waste water, provides hot and cold water, regulates indoor climate through pipes, valves, fixtures, and other components – all without human intervention! Plumbers can assist in installing new plumbing systems as well as repairing existing ones when necessary.

Plumbing Fixtures

Plumbing fixtures are the elements of a plumbing system that provide direct utility to users. This includes items like taps, toilets, showers, and sinks. Plumbers work with these fixtures to install, repair and maintain them.

Drainage Systems

Drainage systems are an integral component of any plumbing system, as they offer a safe way to dispose of waste water and other liquids. Plumbers must work with features like septic tanks, sump pumps, and stormwater runoff systems to guarantee these processes function optimally and securely.

Do you have the training and skills needed to be a plumber?

Becoming a professional plumber requires having the appropriate training and skills. This may involve attending an apprenticeship program or taking a journeyman’s certificate course to gain the qualifications needed to practice as such. Courses usually cover topics like installing pipes, understanding drainage systems, repairing/replacing fixtures, as well as working with other plumbing components.

On top of the formal education, potential residential or commercial service plumbers should also demonstrate proficiency in areas such as mathematics and problem solving in order to be successful in their trade. Many plumbers will also need to complete additional training after obtaining their certification depending on the specific area of the industry they are interested in working in. For instance, those who specialize in commercial plumbing may need additional certifications related to fire sprinkler systems or other areas related to commercial plumbing.

Finally, being able to work safely and effectively is essential for any professional plumber. Following building regulations and safety protocols is paramount when it comes to executing plumbing repairs and installations correctly; thus having a thorough understanding of these standards is key for success as a professional plumber.

Typical Service Plumber

1. Fewer Pests

One of the benefits of plumbing is that it can help to keep pests out of your home. Pests like rodents and cockroaches are attracted to moisture, and if there are leaks in your plumbing, they will be drawn to your home in search of water. By fixing leaks and keeping your plumbing in good repair, you can help to deter pests from taking up residence in your home.

2. Healthier Indoor Air Quality

Another benefit of plumbing maintenance is improving the air quality inside your home. If your plumbing is in good repair, there will be less chance for mold and mildew to grow, and the air inside your home will be cleaner and healthier to breathe.

3. Healthier Drinking Water

One of the benefits of regular plumbing maintenance is that it ensures that your drinking water is safe and healthy. Many contaminants can enter your water through old or damaged pipes. You can ensure that your drinking water is free from pollutants by fixing these issues. Additionally, regular maintenance helps ensure that your water heater is functioning optimally so that your drinking water is hot enough to kill any harmful bacteria.

4. Cleaner Bathrooms and Kitchens

Another benefit of regular plumbing maintenance is that it helps keep your bathrooms and kitchens clean. It is because many harmful bacteria thrive in damp environments. By fixing leaks and ensuring proper drainage, you can help prevent the growth of bacteria in your bathroom and kitchen. Additionally, regular cleaning helps remove any grime & grease that may have accumulated in your drains.

5. Safer Home Environment

By keeping your plumbing in good repair, you can help to prevent accidents like flooding or burst pipes, which can cause severe damage to your home. Also, adequately maintained plumbing will help keep harmful chemicals and pollutants out of your drinking water supply.

6. Peace of Mind

Finally, regular plumbing maintenance provides peace of mind. When you know that your plumbing system is in good working order, you won’t have to worry about it going out of service unexpectedly. Additionally, by taking care of minor plumbing issues before they become big ones, you can avoid the stress and expense of emergency repairs.

Additional Benefits of Regular Plumbing & Maintenance

1. Lower Water Bills

Leaky faucets and pipes can waste substantial water, leading to higher water bills. You can save money on your monthly water expenses by fixing leaks and keeping your plumbing in good repair.

2. Better Water Pressure

If you have low water pressure, it may be due to a build-up of sediment in your pipes. Sediment can build up over time and restrict water flow through your pipes. By having your pipes cleaned regularly, you can help to maintain good water pressure throughout your home.

3. Fewer Emergency Plumbing Calls

Regular maintenance can help prevent major problems requiring emergency plumbing service calls. These calls can be expensive and disruptive, so avoid them if possible.

4. Improved Resale Value

If you’re considering selling your home in the future, proper plumbing maintenance can help increase its resale value. It is because potential buyers will see that the house has been well-cared for and that they won’t have to deal with any major plumbing problems.

Also, read our blog to find out the six plumbing upgrades that will boost the value of your home.

5. Reduced Risk of Flooding

If your area is susceptible to flooding, regular plumbing maintenance can help to reduce your risk of flooding. Poor drainage and leaks can cause water to accumulate in your home, leading to flooding if there is a heavy rainstorm. By fixing these issues, you can help to prevent flood damage to your home.

6. Extended Lifespan for Plumbing Fixtures

Regular plumbing maintenance can also help extend your plumbing fixtures’ lifespan. It is because well-maintained fixtures are less likely to develop problems requiring replacement or repairs. You can help them last for many years by taking care of your fixtures.

7. Fewer Emergency Repairs

Another benefit of regular plumbing is that it can help to reduce the need for emergency repairs. It is because many plumbing problems develop over time and worsen if they are not fixed promptly. Taking care of minor issues before they become big can save you the hassle and expense of emergency repairs.

1. The Supply Line System

The first type of plumbing system is the water supply line. The supply line system is made up of pipes, fittings, and valves that carry potable (or drinking) water throughout the house. Water enters your property from a reservoir, municipal water system, or, in rural areas, from a private well.

How Does Water Get to You?

Typically, the water passes through a curb valve near the street. This portion of the supply system is owned by the city. It then enters into a water meter and main shutoff valve usually located on the street-side of your house in a basement or crawl space.

If your house is built on a slab (no basement or crawl space), the water meter and shutoff valve should be found in a utility room or closet.

Potable Water Travels by Water Pressure

Water pressure is what pushes water to where it needs to go. But the pressure needs to be just right for it not to cause leaks or burst pipes.

Water pressure in the supply lines ranges in normal conditions ranges from 35-75 pounds per square inch (PSI). Ideally, it is between 40 and 60 PSI (50 PSI is perfect for most households). Pressure that is less than ideal can cause insufficient water flow from your fixtures. Higher water pressure can cause water hammer or burst pipes, leading to severe water damage.

Cold & Hot Water Runs

From the cold water main line one supply pipe branches off to the water heater to begin a second, parallel run of pipe called the hot water main.

From there, secondary branches of hot and cold water, usually spaced about 6 inches apart, snake through the walls and ceilings to your fixtures.

In a well-designed system, each branch contains its own shutoff valve near the point where it leaves the main line. This allows you to turn off the water to a fixture (like your kitchen faucet or toilet) without cutting off water from the rest of the house.

2. The Plumbing Fixtures System

Fixtures are the second of three types of plumbing systems in your home. It includes sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, sprinkler systems, and water-using appliances like dishwashers and clothes washers.

These fixtures connect either temporarily or permanently to the supply line and drainage systems. Not all fixtures need both. For example, a toilet tank has a cold water line only while a dishwasher uses only the hot water line.]

What are Air Chambers?

Behind the wall at most fixtures are air chambers. These are capped vertical pipes that trap a column of air to cushion onrushing water when the faucet is turned off.

Without an air chamber, an abrupt turn-off might create several hundred pounds of pressure within the water supply system. This could result in water hammer, a problem that can burst open pipes and fittings.

3. The Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) System

The drain system is the third basic type of plumbing system. It is often called the DWV (drain-waste-vent) system, and it is the least visible part of the entire home plumbing system. For good reason, it’s also the most strictly regulated by housing and plumbing codes.

Wastewater Travels by Gravity

Unlike the water supply system, the drain system is not under pressure. It relies on gravity to carry wastewater out of the house.

P-Traps Are Your Friend

Each fixture is connected to a drainpipe by a P- or S-trap (while you can still find S-traps in older homes, they are now considered illegal according to the U.S. Uniform Plumbing Code).

Each trap is filled with water to prevent sewer gas from entering your home. Wastewater can go out, but due to the “water trap,” small animals and sewer gas can’t get in. Every time a toilet is flushed, or a sink is emptied, the water in the trap is replaced.

Stacks & Venting

Branch drains lead to a larger vertical pipe called a stack. This is possibly the most important piece of plumbing in your home.

The bottom of the vertical stack is at the same level as the outgoing sewer line. The stack goes …

Even those who have hired a plumber before could use a few more smart questions to ask before they hire another for their next plumbing task. Whether it is a simple clog in a sink or a complex second water heater installation, you’re letting your plumber into your home. You want to be able to trust them and also get some solid plumbing work done too. Here are the questions you need to ask to find out if this is the plumber you should hire.

1. Who Will Be Doing the Work?

You might be talking to a salesperson, an owner, or a receptionist. If you’re not talking to the specific technician who will be doing your work, then you should put your perception of the company’s professionalism on hold. Plus, when you find out who is doing the work, feel free to ask about this person’s credentials and overall skill set. They may not be as skilled as the person you’re talking to—or they might be better.

Also, find out if that person is a subcontractor or not. Subcontractors aren’t necessarily worse, but you do have a different relationship with them than an employee of the plumbing company. You might prefer to work with plumbers that only use employees.

2. Do You Charge for Travel?

Some plumbers add in charges for the time that it takes them to travel to your location. This is more common in remote areas. But, if you’re working with a plumber who charges for travel, it is better if they are local. Find out their charges ahead of time and try to locate someone closer if it looks like it’ll add significant cost to your plumbing work.

3. What If I Have an Emergency?

You might not have a plumbing emergency yet. But it is good to have a strong relationship with a plumber who offers emergency services. That way, if you do get into a time-sensitive situation, you know you’re calling up a plumber that you trust.

4. Are You Insured, and Can I See Proof?

There’s a lot of risk in letting an uninsured plumber work in your home. You may actually be held liable for certain kinds of accidents if any uninsured home contractor does work in your home. So, you should make sure that your plumber has general liability insurance. They should also have workers’ compensation insurance, but that is more for their employees than for you.

5. When Is Payment Due?

Be wary of any plumber that makes you pay all of the cost of your plumbing work upfront. Typical down payments on plumbing work are 10% and if the project is very large, even less than that. Otherwise, you should not pay a great percentage of the cost than the percentage of work that is completed. Always refuse to pay in full until the work is done in full.

6. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Typically, companies that cut corners and make large mistakes don’t stick around for multiple years. If you want the most reliable plumber, find out if they have been in business for at least a few years.

Are you in need of a burst geyser repair or installation? Do you need a company that can identify water or gas leaks in your home? If so, then you need to contact a plumber right away.

However, It’s not enough to simply find the first number for a plumber in your area and call them. You need to make sure that you find a trustworthy service before you invest money into it. That way, you can build a business relationship with them over time.

See below for several questions to ask a plumber to find the right fit for your needs both now and in the future.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business?

It might be the most standard of all questions to ask any business, but it bears worth repeating.

If you want to find a plumber with experience and know-how (which you do), then you need to hire a service that’s been around for a while. They’ve been in your community for years, they know the trials of many local properties, including yours.

No matter what problems you’re having with your plumbing system, an experienced local plumber has seen it all. They know exactly how to approach each situation as well as diagnose an issue and repair it quickly.

However, be sure that your repair is overseen by an individual plumber with a high level of experience. After all, it won’t do you much good to hire a trustworthy plumbing service with over 25 years of experience, but get a plumber with only 1 to 2 years of experience.

2. What Will Your Service Cost?

To be fair, this question can’t always be answered on the initial call. You might think that one thing is causing the problem, but if there are multiple issues, then your repair will cost more than they originally quoted you over the phone.

This question is best saved for when the plumber comes out to perform a check-up. Once they’ve seen the damage, you can ask them about the cost of their service.

Make sure to have it all listed out for you. Ask if there are any additional fees that you should expect that might not be listed on the quote.

Whenever the plumber quotes you a price, be sure to get it in writing. That way, you can keep a record of the price point you should expect.

Also, be sure to ask questions about how the plumbing company prefers payment, when they’d like payment, and whether they’re hourly or a flat rate. An accomodating service will be happy to work with you on building a payment plan that fits your budget.

3. Do You Have Insurance?

No matter how many years of experience your plumbing company has or how many great reviews they received online, there’s always a risk potential.

As long as you hire a plumbing company that’s properly insured for such risk, you have nothing to worry about. Make sure to clarify that the plumber you hired does have insurance and ask them to specify what kind of insurance they have.

You want to make sure they have a type of insurance that can cover any damage done during, or as a result of, the repair they performed. It can help with things like water damage, moulding, and so on.

This not only protects their company but you as well. If you hire a plumbing company without insurance, then you’ll be forced to pay for the damage yourself.

Do you due diligence beforehand to find a reputable plumber with insurance. That way, if there are surprises, they can be handled accordingly.

4. Do You Have References That I Can Call?

If you’ve never used a specific plumbing service before, it’s completely understandable that you’d want to hire a plumber after talking to their previous clientele.

The simplest way to do that is by asking them if they have any references that you could reach out to. Be sure to get the contact’s name, number, email, and place of business. That way, you can ensure it’s a legitimate client, not their cousin on the other line.

Ask the previous/current client about their experience with the plumber. How long have they used them? What do they like about that company specifically? What services have they had performed? Ask any question that can paint a broader picture for you.

5. Do You Offer a Warranty?

Plain and simple: you should never hire a plumbing service that doesn’t offer its clients a warranty. Those that offer them are confident enough in their service to correct any rare mistakes that they and their workers perform on the job.

It’s how reputable plumbers ensure that their customers are cared for, not left out to dry if certain issues continue or …