This comprehensive guide walks homeowners through the different types of shut-off valves—main, fixture-specific, and outdoor irrigation—and how to use them during a plumbing emergency. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared to act quickly in case of leaks or burst pipes to avoid costly damage. For homeowners unsure about valve locations or facing complications, the blog recommends calling trusted professionals like Williams Plumbing.
This article highlights the crucial but often-overlooked step of performing a sewer line camera inspection before purchasing a home. It outlines common problems such as tree root intrusion, pipe collapses, blockages, and DIY plumbing errors that traditional inspections might miss. For a fraction of the cost of major repairs, a camera inspection offers peace of mind and potential negotiation power.
Each year, millions of Americans purchase a home. Whether out of necessity or for the sake of fulfillment, buying a home is a major undertaking—one that can have a significant impact on your long-term stress levels and financial well-being. Knowledge is Power When searching for a home, it’s important to remember that behind-the-scenes operations (such as the plumbing system) contribute just as much to a home’s practicality and comfort as features such as size or location. And while it might be tempting to leave analysis of these systems entirely up to the home inspector, it’s never a bad idea to have a few questions prepared. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an empty-nester looking to downsize, it’s important to be as informed as possible before closing the deal. That’s why we at Williams Plumbing have compiled a list of 10 questions you should ask your realtor or inspector, so you can be confident in your purchase and comfortable in your new home. 10 Plumbing Questions to Ask Your Realtor or Inspector Does the home have high water pressure? High water pressure can be indicative of other issues, and if the water pressure has been over the optimal limit for an extended period of time, it is likely to have caused damage to the plumbing system as a whole. What material are the water lines made of? If you’re considering an older home, there’s a good chance the water lines are made of cast iron or galvanized pipe. These materials are not only more susceptible to damage than PVC or PEX pipe, they are also prone to rust and corrosion, which, aside from causing more hiccups in your plumbing system, can also mean that heavy metals are leaching into your water supply. How old is the water heater? With proper care and maintenance, the lifespan of a tank-style water heater is typically 10 to 15 years, and the lifespan of a tankless water heater is typically 15 to 20 years. Inquiring about the type of water heater in a home and its age and condition can help provide a clear expectation of post-sale expenses. Does the home have a water softener? Water softeners remove minerals such as calcium and magnesium from your water, thus helping to prevent build up in your pipes and appliances, and improving overall water quality in your home. The absence of a water softener could indicate a shorter lifespan for your appliances, and more wear and tear on your plumbing system in general. Does the home have a separate meter for irrigation? If curb appeal is high on your priority list, a separate meter for irrigation (or lack thereof) is definitely something worth considering when buying a home. A separate irrigation meter means more accurate measurements of water usage and a separate shutoff, meaning lower water bills and the ability to turn off the water supply to your irrigation system without affecting that of your home’s. Is the home on septic or sewer? Most of us don’t give much thought as to whether a home is on septic or sewer, but this information is crucial when deciding whether or not to buy a home. Both systems have their pros and cons, and it’s important to know what to expect. If the home is on septic, when was the tank last pumped? Generally speaking, septic tanks need to be pumped every 3 to 5 years. This may vary depending on the size of the tank and amount of water usage. Pumping a septic tank can cost hundreds of dollars, and it’s the last thing you want to be worrying about while settling into your new home. If the home is on sewer, what material is the sewer pipe made of? Though often more convenient than a septic system, sewer systems still need maintenance from time to time. Many homes may have sewer lines made of cast iron or clay pipe, which are more brittle and susceptible to damage than PVC pipe. Has the sewer pipe ever had a camera inspection? Camera inspections can expose potential issues with sewer pipes. Leaks, tree roots, blockages, and just normal wear and tear can all be exposed with a camera inspection. Is the basement or crawl space prone to flooding? No one wants a soggy basement or crawl space. Aside from the increased potential for mold, mildew, and bad smells, a flood-prone property can indicate plumbing issues to come, such as slow drains and an increased risk for backups. Wherever you live, plumbing problems are inevitable, but knowing the right questions to ask can help you make informed decisions that can help you save a lot of time, money and hassle in the long-run. Call Before You Close Buying a home is a big step—hardly a decision to make lightly! If you need clarification or a second opinion on a home inspection, Williams Plumbing Services will be happy to help any way we can. Call: 423-883-1490 Areas We Serve Tennessee: Chattanooga, East Ridge, Lookout Mountain, South Pittsburg, Whitwell, Signal Mountain, Soddy-Daisy, Birchwood, Cleveland, Ooltewah, Apison Georgia: Ringgold, Tunnel Hill, Lafayette, Rock Spring, Chickamauga, Trenton
Of all the amenities in the average home, plumbing fixtures are often some of the least appreciated. Few people notice them at all—that is, until something goes wrong. We’ve all been there. The irritation of listening to a running toilet or a dripping faucet; the frustration of discovering that a leaky hose bibb has caused damage to your home’s foundation; the inconvenience—and potential for serious damage—caused by slow drains. For some, plumbing fixtures are not only essential features of a modern home but also crucial in creating and maintaining a home’s aesthetic. Williams Plumbing Services: Local, Trusted As a locally-owned business with a growing reputation for excellence in the greater Chattanooga community, Williams Plumbing Services is your trusted partner in taking care of all your plumbing needs, big or small. Whether you’re investing in the safety and functionality of your home or simply giving it a facelift, Williams Plumbing is here to ensure a seamless process and provide quality plumbing solutions that are right for you. Williams Plumbing Services: Local, Trusted Plumbing fixtures may require attention for various reasons. Wear and tear, corrosion, mineral buildup, temperature extremes, debris, faulty parts, and DIY plumbing solutions gone wrong are all major contributors to issues that may arise with faucets, toilets, showerheads, and outdoor hose bibs. If you’re noticing any of the following signs in your home, it may be time to call in a professional. Dripping faucets Running toilets Leaky hose bibs Slow drains or frequent clogs Low water pressure While some of these problems may seem harmless enough, it’s essential to remember that they will only worsen over time and may lead to more serious and costly issues if left unaddressed. Your plumbing system should work for you, not the other way around. Don’t wait until you’re forced to take the day off, just so you can use a friend’s shower and washing machine. If you’re unsure what the problem is or are not comfortable making a plumbing repair yourself, contact Williams Plumbing or any plumbing professional to ensure that an inconvenience doesn’t become a disaster. How Williams Plumbing Can Help From minor repairs to major installations, Williams Plumbing has the skills and expertise to tackle any job. If you’re noticing a fixture that doesn’t seem to be working quite right, call 423-883-1490 to schedule a visit with one of our technicians. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and proven techniques, we are committed to providing reliable, efficient, and high-quality plumbing solutions to all our customers. If you’re building a home or tackling a remodeling project and are interested in seeing how Williams Plumbing can help the process go smoothly while adding a professional touch, visit “Get Your Quote” at www.williamsplumbingchatt.com to get your free quote or schedule a visit. Conclusion Sustainability and good stewardship are important to us, and we aim to integrate these values into our work: We pledge to provide service that’s reliable, transparent, and, most importantly, right for you . Your satisfaction is our priority, and we won’t rest until the job is done right. Contact Williams Plumbing Services TODAY to see how we can help keep your home safe or help you knock out that springtime to-do list. We look forward to serving you! Call: 423-883-1490
With the arrival of spring fast approaching, many Chattanooga-area residents are looking forward to sunshine, pleasant temperatures, and budding trees. For many, spring is a season of renewal and productivity—a time to revamp New Year’s resolutions, finish strong in school, or dive into a list of home improvements. It may not be the most exciting thing on your to-do list, but plumbing maintenance before and during springtime is crucial for the well-being of your home. While plumbing issues can arise at any time, the drastic temperature fluctuations and increased precipitation that often accompany the spring season are notorious for causing or worsening plumbing problems. That’s where Williams Plumbing Services comes in. At Williams Plumbing, we have the tools and expertise to not only detect and solve problems before they become serious, but also to find solutions to problems that have gone unaddressed or seem to arise unexpectedly. Whether you’re just concerned about a high water bill or have woken up to a plumbing disaster, Williams Plumbing Services is committed to restoring optimal functionality to your home. Continue reading to learn more about how you can safeguard your home throughout the spring season and identify potential issues before they escalate into catastrophic problems. Keep tabs on leaky pipes. It’s no secret that freezing temperatures can lead to frozen water, which can cause pipes to expand and crack. While pipes made of any material are prone to cracking, materials such as cast iron and galvanized pipe—commonly used in older homes—are especially susceptible, due to their tendency to rust and corrode over time. When ice thaws, leaks may become apparent. Contact a plumbing professional immediately if you notice discolored water, fluctuations in your water pressure or temperature, soggy areas in your yard or crawl space, stains on your walls or ceiling, or mold and mildew in your home or crawl space. In addition to watching for signs of leaks, make sure you take proper precautions to avoid frozen pipes in the event of a cold snap. If you don’t have faucet covers readily available, purchase some at your local hardware store, or ask Williams Plumbing about getting complimentary faucet covers when you schedule a visit. Make sure your sump pump is properly maintained. Sump pumps play a crucial role in protecting your home from backups and flooding. In springtime, the earth can become saturated with rainfall and melting groundwater, which can overwhelm a poorly-maintained sump pump and lead to costly water damage. Before you anticipate warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, make sure your sump pump is draining properly and that the water discharge is at least 20 feet away from your house. You can test the pump’s drainage by slowly pouring a bucket of water into the pump to make sure the water is discharged when it reaches a certain level. If you notice debris in or around your pump or water discharge area, be sure to remove it and inspect the areas regularly to avoid future build-up. If you suspect a problem with your sump pump, contact Williams Plumbing Services before it’s too late—our qualified technicians will be happy to analyze the issue and provide an appropriate solution to keep your home safe and your plumbing running smoothly. It may be time for a water heater check-up. Though it’s not something we often think about, water heaters typically work overtime during the winter. The increased usage can lead to quicker sediment build-up and more wear and tear. Like any appliance, water heaters require regular maintenance and periodic inspection. You can refer to your water heater’s owner’s manual for information on how to flush and inspect your water heater, or contact Williams Plumbing to schedule a visit with one of our technicians. If you’re noticing temperature fluctuations, insufficient amounts of hot water, crackling or knocking sounds coming from the tank, discolored water, a rotten egg smell, or water around the base of the unit, you may want to consider contacting a plumbing professional as these signs may indicate an issue beyond the need for routine maintenance. Conclusion While springtime plumbing maintenance may be about as fun buying a weather radio or stocking up on allergy medication (if you know, you know), it’s a necessary part of home-ownership that can save you lots of time and hassle in the long-run. As a locally-owned plumbing company, Williams Plumbing Services understands the needs of the Chattanooga- and North Georgia-area communities. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service and top-notch plumbing solutions to all customers. To request a quote or schedule a visit, call us TODAY at 423-883-1490. We look forward to serving you!
Does your home experience slow drainage and frequent plumbing backups? Do you notice discoloration in your water or an unpleasant smell in your yard? Have you written off fluctuating water pressure and temperature, strange sounds in your pipes, or inexplicably high water bills as things that are just part of life? If you can relate to any of the above, it may be time to have your drains and water lines checked. While some symptoms may be attributed to isolated issues that are easily resolved, they may also indicate a broader problem with your plumbing system. That’s why it’s crucial to have anything suboptimal analyzed and diagnosed by a professional, such as Williams Plumbing Services. Common Culprits Cast iron and galvanized pipes are common culprits when it comes to problems with your entire plumbing system. These outdated materials can lead to numerous issues, including corrosion, leaks, and compromised water quality. Williams Plumbing Services in Chattanooga, TN, specializes in upgrading these systems by replacing old pipes with modern PVC drains and PEX water lines, ensuring clean water and efficient plumbing for your home. The Problem with Cast Iron and Galvanized Pipes Cast iron pipes, which were commonly used in older homes, are durable but prone to rust over time, which can lead to leaks and contamination. Similarly, galvanized steel pipes are susceptible to corrosion, which can result in reduced water pressure and potential lead exposure. Replacing these aging systems is essential to maintain a safe and reliable plumbing infrastructure. Why Choose PVC and PEX Materials? PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) are modern plumbing materials offering several advantages over traditional options: Durability : Both PVC and PEX are resistant to corrosion and scale buildup, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. Flexibility : PEX tubing is highly flexible, allowing for easier installation with fewer joints, which reduces the potential for leaks. Cost-Effectiveness : The materials and installation costs for PVC and PEX are generally lower than those for metal pipes, making them an economical choice for homeowners. Improved Water Quality : Unlike galvanized pipes, PVC and PEX do not leach metals into the water, ensuring cleaner and safer water for your household. Williams Plumbing Services: Your Trusted Plumber At Williams Plumbing Services, we are committed to providing top-notch plumbing solutions to the Chattanooga and North Georgia communities. Our team of highly trained and experienced plumbers specializes in pipe repair and replacement, including upgrading outdated cast iron and galvanized systems to modern PVC and PEX configurations. We prioritize customer satisfaction, ensuring that each project is completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to your daily routine. Our Comprehensive Services Include : Leak Detection and Repair : Identifying and fixing leaks promptly to prevent further damage. Pipe Repair and Replacement : Upgrading old pipes to modern materials for improved performance. Fixture Installation and Repair : Ensuring all your plumbing fixtures are functioning optimally. Plumbing Inspections and Maintenance : Regular check-ups to keep your system in top condition. By choosing Williams Plumbing Services, you’re investing in the health and efficiency of your home’s plumbing system. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward a safer, more reliable plumbing infrastructure. Call: 423-883-1490
