As a new homeowner, I can tell you that things aren't always as simple as they appear. I started thinking about it a few years ago, and I realized that there were some serious problems with our plumbing system. We had issues with drains working correctly and toilets flushing like they should, so I started focusing more heavily on understanding the basics of our plumbing system. Within a few short months the entire system was operating more fluidly because of a few changes that I made, so I wanted to create a blog all about my journey. Check out these articles to learn more about the plumbing basics.
Understanding Plumbing Basics
3 Things To Inquire About When Hiring A Plumber For Yearly Inspections
Jorge Alexander
Most professionals agree that homeowners should have their plumbing systems inspected once a year to ensure optimal performance and to keep wear and tear to a minimum. Everything from the indoor faucets and drains to the exterior hose nozzles and pipes need some attention every year. Without a yearly inspection, you run the risk of having to face the need for expensive repairs and replacements as time goes on.
You'll need an experienced plumber to rely on for proper inspections, so take the time to compare a few options in your area before committing to a working relationship with any one service provider. Here are a few things to inquire about when consulting with potential plumbers:
Inspection Access
It is also important to consider the need for access to certain parts of your home during plumbing inspections, because you don't know if you or another family member can commit to being there and personally granting access when the time comes. After all, you may happen to plan a family vacation or only be able to book day appointments while at work when the time comes to schedule your plumbing maintenance in the future.
When speaking with potential plumbers during your initial consultation meetings, find out what parts of your home they'll need access to so they can thoroughly inspect each aspect of your plumbing system. The need for access to different areas of your home will depend on the type of equipment each plumber has, the specific services that are included in their inspection plans, and the precise locations of things like the water heater and pipes.
Once you find out what's included in each prospective plumber's inspection checklist and what parts of your home they'll need access to, you can compare the information, determine which one is likely to be the least intrusive and most reliable in the long-run, and decide how you'll provide the access they need during appointments.
Performance Guarantees
You'll be relying on your plumber to keep your system in optimal working condition throughout the years, and you deserve some type of guarantee for the work that they do during each inspection appointment. If a faulty piece of equipment such as a pipe fitting or a water pump is installed during an appointment, it should be replaced at no charge.
If a water line bursts during an inspection due to neglect, you shouldn't have to pay for the repairs. If a faucet wasn't installed correctly and it creates a flood in the kitchen, your service provider should come clean up the mess and make repairs as soon as possible. Get a list of guarantees from each plumber you consider hiring in writing, so you have a clear understanding of what to expect from each of them before making a hiring decision.
Service Discount Options
Many plumbers offer discounts for certain services they provide if those services are ordered at the same time, which means that you may be able to save some money later down the road if you need a new furnace installed or require pipe insulating for winter. Ask each prospective plumber you talk with about any discounts they're able to offer for any extra services you order to be done during your inspection appointments.
For instance, your service provider may offer you a small percentage off of the repair of your sump pump during an inspection, or they might provide you with a free inspection altogether as a thank you for investing in a new tankless water heater. Take the time to inquire about both seasonal and ongoing specials as well as long-term customer discounts before deciding which plumber to hire.
These are just a few of the considerations you can make to help determine which plumber you consult with is the best pick for your household's needs and your own expectations. For more information, contact a company like ANDERSEN PLUMBING.
Share