bertnorman, Author at Bert Norman's Plumbing

Finding Your Plumber | Fernandina, FL

Posted on August 7, 2020 by bertnorman

Your home is bound to have plumbing issues at some point in your home’s life. This means you will need a plumber at some time in your span of living there. Hiring a regularly occurring plumbing service can help you cut down on maintenance needs. A regular plumber can also help you save money by ensuring all of your plumbing system pieces are operating functionally and optimally.

Small issues in your plumbing system may not be very noticeable to you or the residents in your home. Although you may not notice the small issues such as a running toilet or constantly clogging sink, these issues could be damaging then you realize. To ensure these small but fixable issues do not become out of hand contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing service to have a professionally trained plumber assist you with facilitating a properly functioning and safe environment for you to live in. Bert Norman’s Plumbing service is available to residents in and around the area.

Running Toilets

Most homeowners can fix this simple issue on their own. Running toilets aren’t a huge problem when it happens few and far in between instances. You may not even realize your toilet is running at all. The real issue occurs when the toilet is constantly in a state of running. If you notice after every flush your toilet is running this causes other issues for you in the future. You should contact a plumber as soon as you notice the problem.

A spike in the water bill will most likely be the thing that peaks your attention. Many people believe the biggest culprit for a high water bill is leaking or broken sewage pipes. This isn’t always the case, however. A big contributor to a spike in the water bill may very well be a running toilet. A running toilet can go through an entire gallon of water in just half a minute. Due to the subtleness of a running toilet, the problem often persists without the homeowner or residents ever being aware of it. The toilet accounts for about 30 percent of the home’s overall water usage on average and is one of the biggest consumers of water in a home. This added waste of water will ruin you saving plans by making you pay for wasted water that is just being sucked down your drains. Contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing to hire a plumber with an eye for detail and to ensure a running toilet does not turn into a money-eating problem for you.

Leaking Toilets

Toilets can sometimes spring a leak. The leak may manifest in the form of a constantly running toilet or other ways, depending on where the leak has taken place. If your toilet is leaking then it would be completely worth a total replacement both economically and environmentally. A leaking toilet may waste thousands of gallons of water every month depending on how large the leak is. This amount of wasted water can cost you an additional $2,000 a year or more. Once you replace an old toilet with a new one, you won’t have to replace it again for nearly 25 to 50 years. The initial investment will pay off in the long run. Consult Bert Norman’s Plumbing company in Fernandina, FL, to discuss what changes your toilets may need to run more efficiently. Having a skilled plumber assess the cause of your leaking toilet and help you make decisions on the next best steps can help you save thousands of dollars each year.

Clogged Drain

Toilets are major components of our everyday life. Maintaining your toilets is important and so is the maintenance of your other plumbing appliances. Drains are especially important and can lead to other problems if they aren’t cleaned properly. One of the biggest issues that drain causes is clogging and the backup of water.

People often use commercial chemical cleaners to unclog their drains not realizing that drains need regular maintenance and professional cleaning. Using commercial cleaners like Drano will grant you temporary relief from a clogged drain that you can be sure will soon come back. Clogged drains will also lead to other issues if left unaddressed by a professional plumber. Contact Bert Normans Plumbing so you can schedule a regular plumbing maintenance plan and drain cleaning service today.

Poor Drainage

The biggest issue with a clogged drain is slow or poor drainage. If you notice the water is beginning to back up in the shower or sinks, or sometimes even your toilet you need to contact a plumber. They will be able to assist you with the unclogging and slow drainage of those appliances by finding the root cause and removing debris from your pipes to ensure water can flow properly. By contacting a plumber for a clogged drain early in the development of the problem, you can prevent massive build-ups from accumulating, thus preventing an emergency, and helping to save money on those much-needed plumbing services.

Dirty Water and Bad Smells

A clogged pipe is usually obstructed by a mass of debris. The debris is the perfect place for bacteria and insects to thrive. Things such as food, waste, and other organic matters lodge themselves in the pipes, forming a large mass that won’t budge or move. The chemical drain cleaners used can only do so much. Oftentimes the drain cleaners can’t remove the entire clog and some will remain. Debris will get stuck in the remnants, recreating the problem once again. The water that backs up into the tub or sink is very unhealthy for consumption and topical use.

Clogged sinks also cause bad odors to permeate the home due to the bacteria and other things that may be lurking in your pipe systems. It will trap the odor of things that go down the pipes and you may notice a constant foul smell emanating from your plumbing systems. Bert Norman’s Plumbing will clean your pipes and ensure your drains are free of debris. If you live in or around the Fernandina, FL, area, contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing for emergency and non-emergency service.

Photo By cunaplus at Shutterstock

How To Find The Best Plumber | Callahan, FL

Posted on July 28, 2020 by bertnorman

When hiring professionals to service your home, you want to invest in the best in the area. That way, you know that you’ve done the job right. You’re not stuck wondering when your plumbing will back up again or when the sump pump will need replacement because a repair didn’t hold up.

To help speed along the process, we’ve written a guide that helps you locate the best plumbing professional in Callahan, FL. That way, you’re not tasked with the job. Instead, you can quickly contact them and get your service scheduled. You can then sit back and relax, knowing that you hired the best person possible to do your plumbing project for you.

Here Is How to Know That You’ve Hired the Best Plumber in the City

If you’re the type of person who likes to be sure of things, you’ll want to do your research before hiring a plumber. You don’t want to choose the first company you find online. You also don’t want to select a professional that doesn’t treat you, your home, and your family with respect. It’s entirely avoidable by looking for the following traits in the plumbing professional you choose to hire.

Here is how to find the best plumber in Callahan, FL:

Ask your family and friends in person for assistance. They are an excellent resource because you know them well. They will give you their honest opinion of a company’s services so that you know what to expect if you do choose to hire a professional to assist you with your household needs. When you meet with family or friends, take time to ask who they would recommend. You can then contact the company to see if the plumber is available.

Ask your online circle for recommendations. If you’re unable to meet in person, you can request assistance online. One very convenient way to do just that is to use the Facebook recommendation tool. It’s free and available to members of the social networking site to use. The best thing about it is how you can create a post, leave it up for any length of time, and see who has responded. More often than not, you’ll find the same response because certain companies go out of their way to ensure customer satisfaction.

Read reviews written by customers of the company. It will give you a sense of what to expect from the plumber if you haven’t had an opportunity to work with them before. It helps you get an idea of how they operate, whether or not they’re thorough and punctual, how they price things, and more. If you don’t know anyone who has worked with the company, you can save yourself problems if they aren’t as committed to serving their customers as you initially thought they would be.

Do a location search for companies in the area. You’ll narrow your options quickly based on your zip code. Input it into the search field and find plumbers in the area that can assist you with your request. You won’t call a company that is out of your city or state that way. It’s one of the easiest ways to locate a plumbing service provider in your city.

The best plumber is one that stands out in a crowd. Their reviews reflect the time and attention they put into the projects they complete for you. The professional is communicative and transparent in all that they do. When they leave your home, you feel confident that your plumbing problem is no longer an issue of concern for you and your family.

Interviewing the Plumber That You Want to Hire By Phone

You may only have a few minutes to size up a plumbing company by phone. To help you take advantage of every second, we’ve come up with a list of questions that you can ask quickly to get a feel for how the company deals with its customers. It allows you to understand the scheduling process, too, so that you’re not left waiting hours for a professional to show up.

Some questions of interest that you could ask have to do with the length of time the company has been in service, what licenses and credentials they have, how long it takes them to complete a job, the types of services they provide, and the methods of payment that they accept. It gives you a greater understanding of who you’re working with, and if the company is one that you want to give your business to regularly. When you’ve finished speaking to the rep, you have an excellent idea as to whether or not you’re going to hire them to help you with your plumbing problem.

If the rep for the company gives you a great impression, you can schedule service right away. If you still have questions that need answering but they seem pressed for time, ask for a callback when they’re less busy. That way, you can get the information that you need before you have them start a plumbing project for you.

Your Number One Choice in Plumbers

Bert Norman’s Plumbing has over 30 years of experience in the area. See for yourself what makes us the city’s choice in plumbing companies. Contact us whenever you have a plumbing issue by calling 904-686-8610 with your request for service today. We’re here to assist you in every way possible so that you no longer worry about your pipes clogging or your sump pumps failing.

Let us show you what sets us apart from other companies in the area. We are fully committed to meeting your needs and exceeding your high expectations. We go the extra mile to make sure that you’re 100 percent satisfied with the service that you receive from us. We want you to feel confident in our ability to take care of your plumbing problems fully, which is why we go above and beyond what you expect for us to do at all times.

Photo By goodluz at Shutterstock

6 Plumbing Jobs That Should Only Be Left To A Licensed Plumber | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on July 21, 2020 by bertnorman

These days, many homeowners in Jacksonville, FL, are making more and more home improvement jobs, do-it-yourself projects. There are some jobs that are great DIY projects, such as repainting a fence or installing shelves in the garage; there are other home improvement projects that should not be DIY projects. A perfect example is plumbing jobs. Even though there are plenty of videos online that can teach you to perform certain plumbing jobs, you should leave the work to a licensed plumber. By avoiding calling a licensed professional and doing the work on your own, you are putting your home and your safety at risk. You could also be fined if you fail to get the necessary permits.

If your toilet is clogged due to someone using too much toilet paper, by all means, grab a plunger and get the clog to go down the drain. However, there are plenty of other jobs that should only be handled by a professional.

Clearing a Clogged Drain

If the drains are clogged, it can make everyday tasks difficult and even impossible. To fix a clogged drain, many homeowners will turn to a liquid drain cleaner. This is a mistake. These products are pretty expensive, and they aren’t guaranteed to work. Also, frequent use of these products can be very harmful to the pipes.

When you hire a professional to handle the job, you can be sure that it will be done safely and effectively. Plumbers have the tools necessary to unclog the drain, such as a plumbing snake and hydro jetting machinery. The plumber will also have access to a snake with a camera on the end so that they can see exactly where the clog is located. If your drains are clogged, it is best to leave the job to a licensed professional.

Clearing a Clog In the Sewer Line

Clogged sewer lines can affect the entire plumbing system in your home, and you should take the problem seriously. If the sewer is backed up, it can cause a flood, which can damage the floors, walls, your electrical system, and your personal belongings. If you believe that your sewer line is clogged, you should leave the job to a licensed professional. A professional will have the necessary equipment to remove the clog. They also have the knowledge and experience to get the job done correctly, without making the problem worse. The safest and most effective way to unclog a sewer line is to hire a professional.

Repairing or Replacing the Water Heater

The water heater in your home is one of the most essential appliances. Without a properly functioning water heater, taking a shower, washing dishes, and doing laundry can be impossible. There are several issues that would require repair or replacement. These include:

No hot water
The water isn’t getting hot enough
Loud noises coming from the water heater
Rusty hot water
Foul-smelling hot water
The age of the water heater

Water heater repairs are very complicated, and should only be handled by a licensed plumber. Repairing or replacing a water heater involves electricity. If you make one small mistake, you can be electrocuted. A slight mistake can make the problem worse or cause a significant flood in the home. Finally, if your water heater is under warranty and you try to make the repair yourself, the company will void the warranty.

A licensed professional has the training and the knowledge to repair or replace your water heater safely and correctly. If you want the job done right, it is best to hire a plumber.

Underground Plumbing Repairs

If you have an issue with your underground plumbing, such as a leak or a tree root growing into the plumbing, you should hire a licensed professional. Working on the pipes underground is much different than working on pipes inside the house. To handle the job, you will need special tools designed for working on the underground infrastructure. A licensed professional has these tools. Also, it is illegal to dig underground without a permit. If your city or town finds out that you are doing underground plumbing work without a permit, they can charge you a very steep fine. Since only a licensed plumber can be given a permit to make underground plumbing repairs, you need to leave the job to a professional.

Repairing a Burst Pipe

If a pipe bursts in your home, it is considered an emergency. First, you should turn off the water to the house to prevent more water damage. Next, you should call a licensed professional. Many homeowners will try pipe patches, but they are just a temporary fix. It would take the knowledge and experience of a licensed professional to get the job done right.

Pipe Replacement

Replacing the pipes inside the home is a very complex job, and should only be handled by a licensed plumber. To get the job done right, you would need to get to the pipes, which isn’t as easy as it sounds. You would also need to have welding skills and follow safety precautions to avoid fire hazards. These are all things that a licensed plumber is trained to do. If you try to handle the project on your own and you make a mistake, you could end up with water pressure problems, leaks, and extensive damage to the plumbing system. When you hire a licensed plumber, you can be sure that the job will be done correctly.

If you are experiencing any plumbing issues, you should call Bert Norman’s Plumbing. We serve residential and commercial customers in the Jacksonville, FL Metro Area. Each of our technicians are highly trained, and they are licensed and insured. If you want the job done right, it is best to leave the job to us. We offer free estimates and emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today.

Photo By Pineapple Studio at istock

How Your Plumber Can Upgrade Your Home | Callahan, FL

Posted on July 14, 2020 by bertnorman

When you think about making your house better, a great place to start is your plumbing system. With a few changes to your bathrooms and kitchens, you and your family can enjoy better performance from your plumbing. And, even better, most plumbing upgrades actually add value to your home.

In Callahan, FL, Bert Norman’s Plumbing offers experienced, licensed, professional plumbers and a full array of installation, repair, and replacement services for your home or office. Talk to our team of specialists today about what changes would add the most convenience and value to your property.

It can be difficult to single out just one upgrade, so be sure to talk to your i before you make any decisions. Your professional plumber can make sure your remodel goes quickly and gives you the beautiful results you expect and deserve. To get you started, here are a few bathroom upgrades that your plumber can add to your home.

Add Another Bathroom

No matter how big or small your family is, there always seems to be someone in the bathroom when you need it. The best way to get around this is to have your plumber in Callahan, FL add an extra bathroom to your house. The only problem you will have is deciding where to put it.

You could give your kids a bathroom of their own or add one to your master bedroom. This can not only keep the bathroom free more often, it adds an element of privacy that can keep the guest bathroom clear and looking good.

Or you could decide to treat your guests to their own bathroom. Add a half or whole bathroom to your guest room for a touch of elegance and convenience that will make your home worth more.

With the popularity of outdoor buildings on the rise, you could give your playroom, office, or man cave a half bathroom for the ultimate convenience. No more running back and forth into the house to use the bathroom.

Switch to Low Flow Shower Heads and Faucets

New low flow faucets and shower heads are an inexpensive way to lower your water usage and save money on your water bills. By just switching to a low flow shower head, you can save a substantial amount of both.

A regular shower head used 2.5 gallons of water per minute. When you make the switch to a low flow model, you will only need 2.0 gallons of water per minute or less. If you have more than one shower, your savings can add up quickly.

Add to that the savings from your bathroom and kitchen faucets when you change to low flow models. You will be doing your part to conserve our natural resources while saving big on your annual water bill.

Even better, you will not have to sacrifice your enjoyable shower when you change to low flow shower heads. You will still get the same pleasant shower experience, even though you won’t need nearly as much water.

Update Your Pipes

If you live in an older home, the first upgrade you should consider is modernizing your plumbing system. Your plumber can help you identify which areas are in the most need of change, so you can start there.

The most dangerous areas of your plumbing system are the old pipes that are no longer in use. Materials like galvanized steel are no longer approved for use because of their corrosive tendency. Not only do they break down more often, they can be adding rust and metal debris to your water supply.

Your plumber can make sure that your entire plumbing system is composed of copper and PVC piping, which is non-corrosive and a much healthier choice for your family members. Even though no one will be able to see this remodel, they will all enjoy the benefits of the new pipes.

Install Dual Flush Toilets

Your old toilets are the biggest water wasters in your house. And the older they are, the more water and money they are wasting.

If you have toilets in your house that were made before 1982, you should replace these immediately. These old models use between five and seven gallons of water with every flush.

Toilets made after 1982 are required to use just 1.6 gallons of water per flush, in an effort to conserve water. Just by updating your toilets, you could save a bundle.

One option you have now is a dual flush toilet. In these models, you have two choices of flush strength to get rid of the waste. There is a low force option for liquid waste only and a stronger option for solid waste. Most flushes are for expelling liquid waste, so the saving in water will add up quickly.

Install a Tankless Water Heater

For many decades, water heaters have looked pretty much the same. They all had a big metal tank to hold the water, which is only the start of the design problems. Eventually, these tanks can corrode with rust and develop a leak. But there is a new water heater on the market that is taking the plumbing world by storm.

Tankless water heaters are just what they sound like. There is no tank to corrode and run out of hot water. That means there will be fewer repair problems and no shortage of hot water when you need it.

Tankless water heaters provide hot water just when you need it by super-heating the water in a looping pipe system. You will never run out of hot water, no matter how many showers have been taken. And, you won’t have to wait for the water in the tank to heat up after it has been emptied.

Contact the licensed professional plumbers at Bert Norman’s Plumbing today for more information about how we can help you improve your home. Our qualified team is waiting to serve you. Let our plumbers make your house the dream home you’ve always wanted!

Photo By Feverpitched at istock

The Importance of Having A Professional Plumber For Plumbing and Plumbing Maintenance | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on July 7, 2020 by bertnorman

You most likely have never had to endure a life without plumbing. This privilege has a long history of invention and innovations. The plumbing systems we take for granted daily have played a pivotal role in our everyday lives and the way we live today.

Sanitary waste removal has been a hot button topic for centuries. Before large communities began forming waste removal was fairly simple. All you needed to do was dig a hole and presto. This natural process was good for the environment at the time. With the birth of sidewalks and pavement, dirt and trees became less prevalent. People began to live close together and privacy was becoming a thing of the past. Waste removal techniques before plumbing were extremely unsanitary and toxic to the civilians that lived there. Do not take your plumbing systems for granted. If you notice a problem fix it by contacting a trusted and local plumber in Jacksonville, FL.

How Flushing Toilets Tremendously Improved Our Lives

Toilets are such an important component of everyday life. If we suddenly ceased to have them, we would suddenly not know what to do. The streets would be filthy with sewage. This was a problem before the first sewage waste pipeline was invented for New York in 1728 due to a compelling need for more sanitary conditions. Before the invention of the sewage lines human waste was just thrown into the street. This is why your waste disposal lines are especially important.

The invention of the flush was also revolutionary and has brought us a lot of conveniences. The invention was brought to us in the late 1800s by a man named Thomas Crapper. This is why we sometimes refer to the toilet as the crapper. The name may have a slightly humorous tone to it but it has seriously improved our quality of life. Due to this amazing invention, we can now go to the bathroom in our homes without any smells or toxins permeating the air for too long. If you notice any issues with your toilet you need to contact a professional right away. Toilet issues can be a serious problem.

You may need to invest in a new toilet if your porcelain throne is in need of constant repairs. Bert Norman’s plumbing will come out to your home and property and help you decide on how to proceed. The issue may not be as simple as a replacement. A plumber may be required to replace the entire appliance if it has reached the end of its lifespan.

The Benefits of Preventive Maintenance

You can rely on your trusted local plumber from Bert Norman’s plumbing to take care of all your plumbing system needs. Plumbing is a big job, there are a lot of components to a one single plumbing system. Preventive maintenance for your plumbing system is just as important as the plumbing specialist you hire to maintain your property’s systems. Your plumbing technician should be certified and reliable, this way you can rest easy knowing your very necessary plumbing systems are taken care of.

Fewer Breakdowns

The median age of American homes is 36 years of age. Your home may be a little older or younger. Older homes will have more frequent breakdowns than newer homes. When a newer home begins to break down you need to stay on top of the maintenance to not further damage your property and keep it as new as possible for longer. Plumbing systems can last anywhere from 17 to 100 years. The amount of time your plumbing systems last depends on how you care for it and what your pipes are made out of. Hire a professional who is experienced and certified to ensure your plumbing systems are working normally.

Contact a plumber to inspect your home at least once a year. This will greatly reduce the number of plumbing repairs your property may need. This will save you money and postpones the need for a total plumbing system replacement which can be an extremely costly investment.

The professionals at Bert Normans plumbing will perform plumber services on any of the systems you need to be checked. They are located in Jacksonville, FL and have been servicing the area since 1985.

Sufficient Water Pressure Helps You Save Money

Pipes can be made out of things such as copper, lead, or polyvinyl chloride. PVC is the most common type of pipe used today. PVC is durable but has its weaknesses. Some homes have different kinds of materials connecting. Special configurations require a trained and experienced plumber to handle.

Water pressure can be affected by the type of pipes you have within your walls. The water supply pipes are typically made of copper. Copper is the best material for such a large job. Some older homes still have iron pipes for water supply. This is what was used decades ago as plumbing systems evolved. Copper is the best for water supply due to its tolerance for high water pressure amounts staring through it constantly. If you notice a difference in your water pressure It may be time to contact a plumbing technician.

Depending on the issue your plumbing specialist may be able to simply patch up the issue. Your plumber may also suggest a total replacement of the water supply system if your systems aren’t up to par. Contact Bert Norman’s plumbing to have a plumber inspect your water supply system to help you decide on what the next best steps should be.

Water Quality Improvement

Another benefit of preventive maintenance directly affects the quality of water coming out of your faucets. Having your plumber inspect your plumbing and water supply systems will help improve your water quality. If the professional were to replace your iron pipes with copper ones you have instantly increased the quality of your water. Iron tends to rust and leave small particles of debris in your bath and drinking water. Copper can rust as well but isn’t as prone to doing so as iron would.

Bert Norman’s Plumbing offers 24/7 plumbing services in case of an emergency. You can also count on them to perform services such as drain cleaning, repairs, replacements, and more. They are known to use high-quality materials as well as modern and efficient techniques. Contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing for more assistance if you live in or around the area.

Photo By Grigvovan at Shutterstock

Here’s to Your Bath and Kitchen: What a Plumber Can Do | Fernandina, FL

Posted on June 28, 2020 by bertnorman

A plumber is always right at your fingertips no matter what. From simple, routine repairs to major projects, the professionals at Bert Norman’s Plumbing are here to serve those living in Fernandina, FL and other surrounding regions.

A good plumber can provide a vast array of home plumbing services right at your fingertips, and those services can be anywhere from the smallest problem to any major project for your Fernandina, FL home. It could be something as small as getting your shower pan replaced, or something major, such as a hot water repair or replacement or a sewer line upgrade.

With shower pans, it can be difficult to tell if there is a leak that warrants a repair. In fact, leaks that are the result of a faulty shower pan are so hard to detect that they can slip your eye and cause untold damage to your home and its foundation. The water damage that results from a leaking shower pan can lead to mold or mildew, rotting wood, or possibly termites on down the road as the result of the rotting wood.

There are many types of shower pans in which to choose from, some of which are either tiled or composed from fiberglass. Others are custom-made or are simple base shower pans and nothing too fancy. Sometimes, even an acrylic or stone version can be available to replace your old one, and the plumber will know just what to do when the need arises. If anything, each professional has special knowledge of the many kinds of shower pans that are available and will gladly answer your questions and address your concerns as needed.

One of the newest and most trendy services that is offered by Bert Norman’s Plumbing is reverse osmosis, which is a special type of water filtration system that removes harsh chemicals from your home water supply. Water is applied to one side of the filter to remove all the ions and hard metal elements such as copper or lead, and that makes the water much safer for both drinking and other types of personal use.

Reverse osmosis moves the water molecules from lower to higher concentration, thus allowing much time for filtration prior to the water coming through your taps. In fact, there are several filtration methods that the water must go through, one of which is a sediment filtration, then the next being the actual osmosis filter right before the water hits the final stage of purification, that being the carbon filter. Sometimes, ultra violet lamps are used, but not quite as necessary as the other two methods that get the nasty elements out of the water prior to its use.

Although reverse osmosis sounds like a wonderful service to have, it may not be the one for everybody. Not everyone shares the same priorities when it comes to addressing their plumbing wants and needs, and the professionals at Bert Norman understand that there are so many services for a qualified plumber to perform. Simply put, the list goes on and on, and a good plumber is qualified to do anything to fix your plumbing woes.

Faucet upgrades and fixture makeovers are other services that can be done by a qualified plumber from Bert Norman’s. In fact, it is a commonly known fact that a dripping faucet often wastes around 230 gallons of water per year, and that’s quite a bit that can be used. Most homeowners understand that this can add more weight to the size of their monthly water bill as the expenses continue to add on a month-by-month basis, and that in itself presents a major source of stress and aggravation.

A plumber from Bert Norman’s has knowledge of all of the new types of faucet fixtures on the market and can walk you through the process as you choose the design that is best suited for your bath and kitchen areas. You may want to opt for a polished brass set, or may decide to settle for simpler versions such as a classic stainless steel or brushed nickel. Anything that would suit the theme of your kitchen or bathroom and match well with other colors and plumbing fixtures is definitely worth investing money in.

Whether they are new or not, tub and shower faucets have a quick way of slowly but suddenly coming undone and making it hard on you to enjoy your evening bath or shower. When they don’t work as they should, it’s time to call a plumber. Replacing the tub or shower valve becomes a serious must, as without it, it becomes almost impossible to keep that portion of your plumbing active and functioning for very long.

In fact, valve replacement goes well beyond the shower and tub, as it can be applied to other types of indoor plumbing as well. Good valve service extends to your drains as well as your general plumbing. Drain valves extend beyond plumbing in that they release excess quantities of liquid and gas from your plumbing system, which makes them vital to the general running of your indoor plumbing. Without them, water would neither flow smoothly nor would it be safe or clean for use if gas and other chemicals remained in it.

Plumbing valves serve to regulate the ebb and flow of your water. In fact, they “direct” traffic in that they remain in firm control of the way the water is moved in and out of your plumbing system.

The stop valve is the plumbing valve that completely stops the flow of water to any plumbing outlet or device. Think of your faucets, your toilet, the washing machine, and your dishwasher, just to name a few. If the water ran long after you’ve stopped using those, you’d be looking at a larger than life water bill. Therefore, when the valve breaks, calling a plumber as soon as possible is an absolute must.

Whether it’s your kitchen or bathroom plumbing that’s in need, don’t wait. Call or visit online to schedule an appointment at Bert Norman’s Plumbing for the work you need today.

Photo By Andy Dean Photography at Shutterstock

Quality Plumbing Service | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on June 21, 2020 by bertnorman

Plumbing service is always a critical must, and those who own homes or run businesses know the high price of plumbing gone bad. Anything from a drain clog, an aging water heater, or leaky water fixtures are all the basic plumbing necessities of your home’s indoor plumbing. Pipes can go bad due to wear, tear, or simple aging, and nothing is more stressful than a pipe that suddenly bursts without any warning.

Drain clogs have symptoms of their own, and they are many and varied. Keep in mind that all of your drains are interconnected, and that what happens in one affects the others. In your bathroom, if your toilet or sink drains are clogged, they can back into each other. And when you see this happening to your fixtures, then you know it’s time to call on the professionals at Bert Norman’s of Jacksonville, FL for your plumbing service needs.

Anything can cause a drain clog. Grease and oil collection can align the walls of your pipes and start hardening once they cool, thus causing a drain clog that slows the passage of water into the sewage system. Other items, such as food bits, hardened soap scum, jewelry, and small toys often have sneaky ways of creeping into your drains and getting stuck without warning.

A leaking or malfunctioning garbage disposal can be another cause of your drain cleaning woes. One good sign that your disposal is on the brink is the sudden appearance of fruit flies that lurk around your sink area. Thankfully, good plumbing service also includes the ability to repair or replace a broken garbage disposal.

There may be a time when you turn on your garbage disposal only to have it regurgitate a mountainous mess of food bits, both great and small. Before you know it, both sides of your sink are covered in leftovers, leaving you with a giant mess in which to deal with.

Thankfully, the contractors at Bert Norman’s have plenty of experience in assessing and treating your garbage disposal needs. As part of good, quality, plumbing service, your plumber can look at your unit and determine the course of service at a cost that’s affordable to you. They have vast knowledge of all types of makes and models and can give you a reasonable estimate of the cost of parts and labor involved. Good plumbing service includes the installation of a garbage garbage disposal, repairing an existing one, or simply maintaining one on a periodic basis.

And homeowners should beware that a bad garbage disposal can be another leading cause of a clogged drain. In fact, if it fails to properly grind your food up, then it can choke the very life out of your drain and cause the kind of damage that leads to the need for professional plumbing service.

DIY efforts may appear to be normal, even heroic, but they are hardly recommended for your drain cleaning needs. Home drain cleaners such as Draino can cause more harm for your pipes and drains, thus leading to more costly and time consuming repairs down the road. Therefore, it’s best to rely upon good, quality professional plumbing service from a licensed professional.

Many times, a plumber can use a mechanical snake to pull out solid debris from a clogged drain, This method is commonly used in cases where a bathroom drain may suffer a clog with origins that can be traced to a collection of hair or two-ply toilet paper. Other cases will need to use other measures of drain cleaning, however, and these include those where drains are clogged due to food, oil, grease, or soap scum build up. In those cases, it becomes critical for the plumber to use hydro-jetting, where several pounds of pure water are injected straight into the drain pipe without the added use of harmful chemicals.

There are many other modern-day plumbing amenities we have all come to rely upon; and, in some cases, even taken for granted. For example, water heaters are certainly nothing new to homeowners, and those who live within the Jacksonville, FL area know all too well that without a reliable water heater comes much undue plumbing distress.

Hot water has a variety of uses within the home, and without it, basic tasks of normal daily living cannot be done as well as you’d like. Think of those long, warm, luxurious tub baths that are a source of comfort and luxury right after a hectic day at the office. Plus, those nice, steaming morning showers that have you feeling clean and ready to start your day are the result of a good water heater that does its job and does it well.

Your plumbing service does include water heater installation and repair, which is a major source of help once your unit loses the steam it needs to keep you and your home clean and sanitized. The plumbing service team at Bert Norman’s knows all too well that taking a cold shower is no fun, and that we humans take great pride in how well we keep ourselves nice and clean. Sometimes, a new unit can break down due to poor installation or a missing part, but older units with a lifespan of ten years or more will need to be replaced as soon as possible.

The good news is that newer water heater models stand a far better chance of running much more efficiently and of being in full compliance with EPA standards. Plus, a better, more improved model can greatly reduce your monthly water bill, thus saving you even more money in the long run.

This is especially true if you decide to have a tankless water heater installed. Tankless water heaters are reliable about heating only the amount of water you will need to use in the course of a day. It also uses far less water due to the fact that it doesn’t need to come up through the pipes to the source of output, as the unit is very tiny and typically uses much less water than traditional brands.

Whatever the issue is, don’t wait. Trying to fix it yourself may come across as noble, but the consequences are great and outweigh the benefits. You can call or visit online today to speak with a professional for an appointment with Bert Norman’s Plumbing.

Photo By kurhan at Shutterstock

12 Ways to Stay On Top of Energy Bills with Plumbing Service While Sheltering in Place | Jacksonville, FL

Posted on June 14, 2020 by bertnorman

The outbreak of coronavirus throughout the world has changed the way we live and created the need for a new normal. Until COVID-19 is entirely under control — most likely when a vaccine is introduced — we’ll likely be following social distancing measures. One of the most annoying consequences of spending more time within the home is the increase in energy bills. You’ll be using utilities more than usual and therefore spending more money while potentially earning less.

In some cases, you may require assistance from a plumbing service like Bert Norman’s Plumbing to help make your home as energy-efficient as possible. If you’re in Jacksonville, FL, call us today at 904-686-8611.

1. Turn Off the Faucet When Washing Hands

It’s one of those things that most people are aware that they should do, but rarely remember to. As far as energy saving, most people aren’t washing their hands correctly. If you’re following the guidelines from the CDC to wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds, well done! It’s helping to slow the spread of the virus, taking some strain off the health service and saving lives. However, always remember that water is a precious resource.

When washing your hands, the water should only flow twice. Once at the beginning, to build up the lather, and once at the end to rinse. If you wash your hands eight to 10 times per day, you alone could be wasting up to six gallons of water every day. And remember, that’s six gallons for each member of your household! You’ll instantly notice a significant reduction in your energy bills if you make this simple change — and you don’t even need to call in the help of a service!

2. Unplug Electronics When You’re Not Using Them

Most electronic devices use electricity even when they’re not switched on, especially if they have a standby feature. Chargers, stereos, TVs, computers and consoles are trickling your money down the drain every time you leave them plugged into the outlet. You might think it’s such a small amount that it doesn’t matter, but over time and across the extensive range of devices we all have now, it seriously adds up.

Always check around the house for things that are plugged in but not in use — from computers to lamps, there are probably more savings to be made that you realized!

3. Never Boil More Water Than You Need

It’s another one that seems obvious but sees loads of water, and therefore money, go down the drain every day. Each time you fill the kettle for a coffee or tea, make sure you’re only boiling what you need. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself with a pot full of limescale and sky-high energy bills.

4. Only Wash a Full Load of Dirty Clothes

You can cut water consumption significantly by only using the washing machine when you can make sure it’s at capacity. Even if your machine has a half load function, it uses considerably more than half the amount of water of a full wash. Again, it’s a change that seems minor but over time, adds up to equal serious savings. If your washing machine isn’t functioning properly, call in the help of a reputable plumbing service to assess the problem and fix it.

5. Use a Dishwasher or Bowl to Wash Dishes

If you live in a single household, we recommend using a bowl full of water to wash the dishes in. Using free-flowing water for this job is a surefire way to spend more than you should on water. Larger households will save money by investing in a dishwasher. You may require a plumbing service to install a new dishwasher or repair the old one to ensure it’s as energy-efficient as possible.

6. Time Your Showers

Technically, a shower uses less water than a bath — but only if you don’t stand under it for inordinate amounts of time!

7. Never Use the Toilet as a Trash Can

Remember, the toilet isn’t a trash can! There are only three things that should go down the toilet: water, toilet paper and human waste. Toilet paper dissolves almost instantly when immersed in water, unlike any other type of paper. Additionally, on top of being a nuisance to the environment, you’ll spend more money on the extra water used to flush foreign objects down the bowl. If your toilet in Jacksonville, FL, needs unblocking, you might need a plumbing service to come and help you out.

8. Fix All Leaking Taps

You know that tap that drips every 30 seconds, and it’s okay because you’re used to it now? Call in a plumbing service to fix it immediately! It might look like a tiny amount of water because it’s leaking so slowly, but over days, weeks and months, it adds up to gallons and puts a strain on your pocket.

11. Look for Leaks

While it’s not the most glamorous way to spend your time, lockdown presents you with an opportunity to scope out any leaks in your plumbing. Hairline fractures on your pipes could lead to even more water waste than leaking taps, and you can’t see or hear those. One of the most cost-effective things you can do in the current situation is to find those leaks and get them fixed by a skilled plumbing service.

12. Flush Less

The average toilet flush uses more than three gallons of water every single time! Armed with this knowledge, you might consider flushing the toilet as often as you have been. You can get flushers installed that let you control how much water you use each time. Speak to a plumbing service about getting this type of flush for your toilet.

Plumbing Services

If you think your home requires the help of a plumbing service to make sure you’re spending as little on your energy bills as possible, call Bert Norman’s Plumbing today at 904-686-8611.

Photo By M_a_y_a at istock

Plumber Tips: 10 Effective Ways to Save on Water Bill | Fernandina, FL

Posted on June 7, 2020 by bertnorman

Unwanted leaks and drips could contribute to about 10% of your water bills if not immediately attended to by a professional plumber. If not repaired or replaced, they could even cost you more money.

Other plumbing-related issues such as having an inefficient washer or showerheads also contribute to your bills as they use a great amount of water. Thankfully, you can fix these by either replacing them or installing new ones. Always call a professional when you need help; do not attempt to do them on your own.

When a plumbing problem is fixed, you don’t get skyrocketing water bills and you can save money. Below are other ways to effectively conserve water at home and save on your utility bills.

1. Buy Energy Efficient Appliances

When acquiring a new washing machine, find out the amount of water it uses per load. If possible, look for the Energy Star seals on the label or WaterSense. These types of machines usually use 50% less water per load. They are a bit more expensive than the regular washers but it should give you massive savings in the long run.

When washing, do make sure that you have a full load. And you may want to skip an additional rinse to save up to 5 gallons of water. To avoid more rinses, just use less detergent powder.

2. Repair Leaks

A professional plumber in Fernandina, FL should be able to help you fix these leaks. You can have regular maintenance with a plumber so they can check the pipes for leaks and other problems that might contribute to water loss. Another option would be to do the inspection yourself. Call a plumber right away if you think there is a problem.

You may think that a small leak isn’t really much — this is not true. Leaks on a running toilet could cost you gallons of water down the drain. So call a plumber if you suspect that you have a plumbing problem.

3. Load Up the Dishwasher

As much as possible, use the dishwasher only when it’s fully loaded to conserve more water. If you do not have a dishwasher, buy a basin for washing the dishes. You can conserve more with a basin than washing the dishes while the tap is running.

4. Turn Off Shower

Make it a daily habit to turn on the shower only when you are actually using the water for rinsing. If you are trying to shampoo or condition your hair, always turn it off. Switch it on only when you are ready to rinse your hair. If everyone in your family does this simple habit, you could save on your water bill.

Another option would be to reduce the number of minutes that you use the shower. Instead of taking a shower for 15 minutes, perhaps you could reduce it to 10 minutes.

Do the same while brushing your teeth. Turn off the faucet and use a rinsing glass instead.

5. Install Low-flush Toilets and Showerheads

Low toilets are a little expensive but they can greatly reduce your water usage. As opposed to the full flush toilets, low-flow use less water per flush. This can result in bigger savings in your water bills.

A low-flow showerhead can also reduce the amount of water by about 50%. Call a plumber to assist you with the best options for your toilets and showerheads.

6. Add Aerators to the Faucets

If you do not know what an aerator is or how to add this to the faucet, call a plumber in the area to assist you with this.

Aerators are usually attached to the faucet to reduce the amount of water that comes out. At the same time, it also increases water pressure.

7. Install a Tankless Water Heater

A tankless heater is a little more expensive but it’s efficient. It only heats water when you need it and it heats faster. Definitely one of the best options to save on your water bills.

8. Install a Smaller Bathtub or Skip it

An average bathtub needs about 35 gallons of water. Expect skyrocketing water bills if you keep using this every time you take a bath. Your options would be to install a smaller bathtub and use it only a few times a month, or completely skip using it and take the shower instead.

9. Replace Toilet Flapper Once a Year

Call a plumber to help you out with this. A newer flapper could help you save a lot on your water bill. Another option would be to replace it with an adjustable flapper so you can control the amount of water that you use for flushing.

10. Collect Rainwater

Save bills by collecting rainwater and use it for either cleaning the cars or watering the plants. You can also use this for cleaning the driveway or the outer area of your homes.

Follow our tips for saving water to see significant changes in your bills. Remember that small changes will add up to massive savings in a year.

Contact Bert Norman’s Plumbing, Inc in Fernandina, FL

If you need a plumber to assist you with repairing leaks, installing a tankless water heater, or any plumbing-related problem, get in touch with Bert Norman’s Plumbing, Inc. They are available 24/7! They have been in the industry for several years and all are highly competent to carry out the job. Every appointment matters to them — they always overdeliver!

A few services they offer include unclogging your drains, garbage disposal, shower pans and faucet replacements, water heater installation, repipes, plumbing inspections, bathroom remodeling, and other plumbing services. They will be happy to assist you with whatever plumbing-related dilemma that you have.

Your exceptional plumbing service is just a call away. Contact them today for an appointment!

Photo By Monkey Business Images at Shutterstock

8 Signs That You Need to Call a Plumber | Callahan, FL

Posted on May 28, 2020 by bertnorman

Statistics indicate that 37% of U.S. homeowners have suffered losses from water damage due to plumbing problems. A plumbing emergency can be stressful for some homeowners.

This is because most plumbing issues may compromise your regular life by affecting drainage or water supply. You may have some relevant tools to take care of the minor plumbing problems, but in most cases, it’s advisable to seek the help of a professional plumber.

Why a Do-It-Yourself fix isn’t the answer

Some minor plumbing problems can easily be handled without requesting the plumber’s services. However, some are best left to a plumbing expert who is updated with the industry’s coding standards and has hands-on experience. A professional will know the diagnosis and answer to your plumbing problem.

Trying to fix the plumbing problem yourself may make the problem worse and also expose you and your family to a safety risk.

You’ll not regret calling a plumber to handle your plumbing problem. It’s essential to keep a list of the professionals to call when you detect any of the signs below.

Running toilet

Is your toilet still running after flushing hours ago? This is a common problem for most residential properties, and in most cases, it goes unnoticed since it doesn’t create a lot of noise.

A running toilet will increase your monthly water bill due to the loss of water every day. The moment you detect a running toilet, you should know that there is a severe problem with your plumbing system.

A running toilet occurs when the seal that links the toilet tank to the bowl is damaged. This results in the tank refilling repeatedly, hence the irritating noise that you’ll keep hearing. A plumber will rectify the problem

Soggy basement

It’s estimated that 98% of basements in the US experiences some water damage in the course of their lifetime. Soggy basements are a nightmare to every homeowner.

Puddles, soggy boxes, wet furniture, and rugs are some of the problems caused by wet basements. Leaking pipes are the primary cause, but at times it may be due to heavy rains, and you happen to have a faulty waterproofing and insulation.

Fixing this issue should be your top concern. Overlooking it may lead to respiratory health issues because the moist environment is conducive for the growth of bacteria and mold.

A professional will help you to find where the leak originates and fix it.

Slow drainage

Are you experiencing slow drainage in your bathroom or sink? This issue is an obvious sign that you need to contact a plumber. A slow or delayed drainage means that your drainage system is clogged up, hence preventing water from moving freely.

Some common particles that result in slow drainage in your kitchen sink include a mixture of insoluble items and grease. When such particles accumulate for a long time, they tend to block the normal flow of water.

Slow drainage in bathrooms means that particles such as gels and hairs have formed clogs in the pipes. In such situations, it’s advisable to call a who’ll fix the problem using a unique tool called an auger to remove the clogs.

Serious back-flow issue

A backflow in your house is a sign that you have a severe plumbing issue. Plumbing systems have several connections that make the backflow phenomenon dangerous to you and your family.

The interconnections may result in the backflow polluting the clean water supply. The problem should be addressed promptly to avoid potentially hazardous outcomes.

The moment you notice a foul smell or slight color change in your water supply, then you reach out for a plumber in Callahan, FL, to solve the backflow problem in your plumbing system.

Low or non-existent water pressure

Good water pressure allows you to enjoy your everyday life. When the water pressure drops, you’ll find it challenging to perform easy tasks such as washing hands, getting dishes done, and showering. This complication will not only waste your time but could hike your water bill.

Low pressure is a sign that there’s a clog in the faucet’s aerator, which is blocking water from flowing out, even when the handle is fully turned on. You may be tempted to DIY by using a sharp object to poke the tiny hole in the aerator to resolve the blockage.

However, this can end up causing severe damage in the faucet or even cause a leak if you keep poking around. Instead, you should call a technician to fix the hitch.

Broken pipes

Burst pipes can put your home in chaos. They will not only damage your property but may also force you to relocate for days until the problem is fixed. Pipe failure is a common phenomenon during winter, where they rapture when the water inside freezes. But, they also occur due to misuse, old age, or physical damage due to intense pressure.

This problem results in massive water damage if not addressed promptly. Finding the pipes affected is like fumbling around in the dark for your flashlight. That’s why it’s advisable to reach for local plumbers to fix the burst pipes.

They’ll locate if the break is under your house, behind the wall, or in your yard. A plumber will save your home from expensive flooding and can quickly spot a bulging pipe, which is under unusual pressure and prevents a leak before it happens.

Gurgling

When you note that your toilet is gurgling when not in use, then your system is trying to find air. This will strain the system to work extra hard. Hence, there’ll be a likelihood of the water spilling out. The primary cause of gurgling drains is obstructions in the venting system. The gurgling sound emanates because of air being forced through the water in the drain trap. The sound mostly comes from the shower, toilet, or vanity sink.

There is no water available

It’s very discouraging to turn on the faucet at your kitchen sink, and nothing comes out, not because you didn’t pay your water bill, but because of a severe plumbing issue. Lack of water in the faucets is because of a leak or undiscovered blockage in the pipe.

Sometimes it’s easy to pinpoint to the source the problem, but most of the plumbing system for most homeowners is not visible, hence challenging to identify the source. A plumber will assist you in finding the source of the hitch and using diagnostic tools to fix it.

Your go-to plumbing partner in Callahan, FL

Whether you’re seeking drain cleaning, disposals, faucet and water heater replacement, or toilet repair, Bert Norman’s Plumbing is the company to consider.

We deliver smart plumbing solutions that save your money and time, and we always include a human touch in our services. Our customer care agents are available around the clock to help you. Give us a buzz today, and we’ll be happy to solve your plumbing headaches.