Category: Land & Property

Benefits of Partnering with a Professional Plumber

professional plumber

Professional Help Versus DIY Plumbing Measures 

There are some home improvement tasks that anyone can take on. Painting walls, changing the AC’s air filter…even someone with minimal home improvement experience can complete these tasks easily. However, some things are best left to professionals, such as plumbing issues. 

Taking on a seemingly small plumbing problem can cause immense stress, permanent damage, and high repair costs. When a homeowner comes across a plumbing issue, no matter how small, they should consider the value of consulting a licensed and insured contractor. 

Avoid Costly Mistakes with the Help of a Local Plumber

diyA plumbing problem is more than what initially meets the eye and requires a trained professional to evaluate the issue, identify its cause, and render appropriate repairs. 

By forgoing professional help and tackling the issue themselves, homeowners risk spending a lot of money on: 

  • Tools and parts: When a plumber assesses a problem, they already have the parts and specialized tools to fix it. There’s no reason for homeowners to run out and buy an expensive piece of equipment they will use once. 
  • Secondary problems and mistakes: Homeowners may try to fix an issue, only to create a larger or secondary problem in the process. This can increase the cost of necessary repairs and the cost of repairing water damage. 

Many homeowners try to remedy their plumbing problems to save money. However, in the long run, this often backfires. 

Save Time and Energy by Working with a Professional 

time A small plumbing issue, like a leaky faucet, could take only a few minutes to repair or replace. Serious issues, however, such as an underground leak, could take a few days to remedy. The longer a problem persists––even when a homeowner is trying to work on it––the more likely it is to spiral into a larger issue. This can lead to worsening damage which takes even more time to repair. 

On the other hand, plumbers are trained and have the knowledge to fix problems quickly and safely. A plumber has several goals when assessing a situation. One of them involves fixing an issue as quickly and efficiently as possible. However, when an unskilled homeowner decides to address an issue, they could struggle for weeks before properly fixing it. Even then, the DIY repair may only hold up for a few days before recurring. 

There is no reason for homeowners to spend hours watching DIY plumbing YouTube videos and reading dozens of articles online when a professional will immediately know what to do. One may even spend days researching a certain problem, only to end up calling a professional anyway.

Get Peace of Mind by Entrusting Plumbing Problems to an Expert 

When homeowners entrust a plumbing problem to an expert, they get the best benefit of all: peace of mind. This means one can rest assured knowing that: 

  • The issue is fixed and will not cause further damage. 
  • Any underlying problems can be addressed before they get worse. 
  • Expert help will extend the lifespan of the plumbing.
  • Professionals have insurance, so homeowners will not be financially responsible for accidents during plumbing service.

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air 

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over 20 years of experience serving the community of St. George, UT, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, financing, and 24/7 live answer. Call them today for plumbing services in St. George, UT.

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Three Tips to Beat the Summer Heat

How to Stay Cool This Summer

The summer season brings some of the hottest temperatures of the year, so it’s important to know how to keep cool during that time, which most likely means keeping an air conditioner running well with proper maintenance. Read on as AC experts share their top three ways to stay cool and comfortable during the summer. 

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

maintenanceKeeping cool during a heatwave requires a strong and functioning air conditioner. The one way to ensure the system is in top shape is with routine care. While professionals can handle most of the AC maintenance process, understanding what it entails is important for homeowners. 

  • Air Filter: Replace the air filter at least every three months to keep an AC unit working all summer efficiently. 
  • Fin Cleaning: The unit's fins help keep the air cool and circulate it throughout the home. Dust and damage to said fins can prevent the system from working properly. 
  • Debris: Specifically, AC units must have their fins cleaned inside and out to ensure any debris is removed from the area. If left unchecked, litter and waste accumulate, blocking the system from cooling the home. 

Air conditioning units need to be periodically inspected by professionals. On average, this should be done about twice a year and specifically ahead of the summer season. 

Invest In Quality Systems

A reliable and functioning AC keeps cool air circulating throughout the home, saves money, and is energy efficient. Investing in a good quality AC unit is worth the time and money. These systems use better quality components and often come with extended warranties, maintenance plans, and added features that help save homeowners money.

This can include anything from premium filtration systems to smart thermostats that learn the home's patterns and reduce unnecessary runtimes. Depending on the age of the system and the potential repairs, always opt for the higher-quality replacement to ensure peace of mind that there won’t be unexpected and high repair costs down the line. 

When All Else Fails, Use Fans

fansOne of the simplest and cheapest ways to keep a room cool is to use ceiling fans. The summertime brings scorching heat, and a cool home allows for comfortable relaxation. Use ceiling fans to create air circulation and avoid uncomfortable hot spots throughout the house. Homeowners can even save money on energy bills by increasing the temperature on the thermostat by a few degrees and using fans to make up for it. 

To maximize a home's cool air, ensure that ceiling fan blades are adjusted to rotate counterclockwise. This will move air downwards and form a cool breeze in the house. Of course, for homeowners still struggling with rising temperatures, work with a local air conditioner maintenance company to ensure the system is ready for summer. 

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over 20 years of experience serving its neighbors in St. George, UT, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, 24-hour emergency service, and financing. Call them today for air conditioning services in St. George, UT.

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Mom Deserves a Relaxing Spa Day at Home

Three Ways to Turn the Average Bathroom into a Home Spa 

Mother’s Day has delighted mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers for generations. However, chocolates and flowers can get old every year, receiving the same thing. This Mother’s Day makes the holiday truly memorable and gets her something she can use for years. 

A luxurious spa day doesn’t have to cost hundreds of dollars or require a trip across town. Homeowners can transform their bathroom into a lush oasis with a few simple steps. 

Replacing the Showerhead showers

These days, showerheads do more than release water. Some models: 
  • Come with Bluetooth speakers: Imagine – standing in the shower while a gentle melody strums in the background and without the risk of getting the speaker wet. This is a reality for those with a showerhead with Bluetooth capabilities. Getting a new shower head does more than treat mom to a particular day. It’s a year-long shower upgrade. 
  • Feature LED lights: Candles don’t last long and pose fire hazards. Thankfully, many modern showerheads come with LED lights. Some are even programmable, meaning one can enjoy a different light show every time they bathe. 
  • Have water filtration systems: Some showers have “hard water.” This means that sediment build-up can make it feel like a combination of water and sand is coming through the showerhead. With a water filtration system, homeowners can feel like they’re standing under a pure, clean waterfall. 

Considering Bathtub Installation tub

Switching from a shower stall to a bathtub doesn’t just add a special touch to Mother’s Day; taking a bath provides a host of health benefits, including: 

  • Increased circulation
  • Muscle relief 
  • Reduced arthritis and joint pain 
  • Improved mental health 
  • Clearer skin 

While a bathtub comes with many benefits, it’s also a good idea to consider the cons of installation. According to the EPA, the average shower uses 10 to 20 gallons of water. However, the average bath can use up to 70 gallons of water. Luckily, there are many ways to cut costs when bathing like: 

  • Filling up the bathtub halfway 
  • Reducing the number of times that one takes a bath 
  • Turning off the faucet once the tub is adequately full 

These are just a few examples of bathroom remodeling ideas. Homeowners can reach out to professionals near them to learn more. 

Go “Zen” 

This holiday season, one doesn’t have to call a bathroom remodeling service to treat their mothers. They can go “zen.” This may include: 

  • Hanging eucalyptus in the shower: Healthline notes that eucalyptus has many benefits, including pain relief and mood boosters. By turning it in the shower, one’s mother can enjoy aromatherapy, stress relief, and muscle relaxation. 
  • Use bath beads: One can enhance their spa day by using them. Some dots emit fragrant odors, while others offer pain-relief properties. 
  • Purchase a bathtub water heater: Sometimes, the bathwater doesn’t stay hot long enough. This may prompt someone to keep turning on the faucet, which can be wastewater. However, purchasing a bathtub water heater can break the water heater (and faucet). 

These are just some bathroom design ideas. Additional measures could include retiling the floors, upgrading the bathroom sink fixtures, etc. 

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air 

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over 20 years of experience serving the residents of St. George and Southern Utah. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, and 24/7 live answer. Call them today for bathroom remodeling services in St. George, UT.

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How to Survive Allergy Season This Spring

3 Clean Air Tips for Breathing Easier This Spring 

Spring is an exciting season for new beginnings, plant growth, and flowers. The downside to the freshly blooming blossoms is that their arrival also marks the beginning of the dreaded allergy season. Itchy eyes, itchy throats, and running noses are all symptoms of spring allergies.

Homeowners can take steps to improve indoor air quality and prevent the allergy-inducing effects of spring pollen. Proper ventilation and cleaning can go a long way in preventing allergy attacks at home. Here are three HVAC expert-approved indoor air quality tips for helping seasonal allergies. 

Open Windows to Improve Circulation

window
Some homeowners may think that the only way to prevent allergies from spring pollen at home is to keep the outdoor air shut out behind closed doors and windows, but the opposite may be true. On warm, breezy spring days, it can be very beneficial for the indoor air quality to leave the windows open and let fresh air in. 

Allergens such as dust, pollen, and animal hair can become trapped inside the home, constantly recirculating through the HVAC unit. Changing the air filter on time can help prevent airborne allergens in the house, but consistently running the AC unit can lead to high utility bills and stress on the system. 

Opening the windows to allow for the natural circulation of fresh air from outdoors can help to keep the air inside of the home clean, cool, and comfortable for breathing. In moderate spring weather, homeowners can shut off the air conditioning for the day, open the windows, turn on the ceiling fans, and enjoy better air quality. 

Air Filter Replacement

filter

Air filters are placed over the air intake of the HVAC unit to filter out airborne contaminants, allergens, and particles. Without an air filter, particles of dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants will be sucked into the unit. Most HVAC maintenance is best left to a qualified professional, but changing the air filter is one step that homeowners can do themselves to keep their unit in ideal condition.

For most homes, air filter replacement needs to be done every three months, but replacing the air filter monthly during allergy season can help to prevent allergens from recirculating in the air through the AC unit. 

Some air filters are better than others for preventing allergic reactions. Homeowners may want to consider investing in some heavy-duty air filters designed to filter out tiny particles of allergens in the air to get through allergy season. 

Do Some Spring Cleaning 

Allergic reactions to flower and tree pollen may affect some people more than others based on genetics. However, dust is a universal allergen that can cause allergic reactions in anyone. When suffering from spring allergies, dust in the home only further aggravates allergic reactions. 

Thorough cleaning can help homeowners rid the home of allergens. During the cold winter months, houses are usually shut off from the outdoors to keep warm air inside. By springtime, dust may have accumulated from the lack of ventilation. In addition to opening the windows to let fresh air in and old air out, regularly dusting the home’s surfaces can help prevent allergies. 

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has been proud to provide its neighbors in St. George and Southern Utah with quality home services for over 20 years. They offer straightforward pricing, 24/7 live answer, and same-day service. Call them today for indoor air quality services in Washington, UT.

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Meet the Women Who Changed the Plumbing Industry

The History of Women in the Plumbing Industry 

In honor of Women’s History Month, our plumbing experts want to discuss the history of women in the plumbing industry and celebrate the achievements of female plumbers. Plumbing has historically been a male-dominated industry, but women plumbers have made significant contributions to the industry. Here are some of the inspiring success stories of women in plumbing history. 

plumbing woman

 

Modern Women in Plumbing

According to labor statistics, only around 3% of workers in the plumbing industry are female plumbers. Even though women plumbers are few, they have contributed greatly to the industry as plumbing inventors, plumbing contractors, and master plumbers. 

Many women plumbers manage and/or own their own plumbing companies. Women plumbers can also be found working in senior leadership positions across the plumbing industry. Some advancements in modern plumbing systems would not have been possible without the contributions of these women.

 

 

Ladies Auxilary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers

The Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers began as a group of men. The plumbers from the National Association of Master Plumbers met to plan activities to entertain their wives during plumbing conferences. Eventually, the wives themselves were put in charge of the Ladies Auxiliary Committee, and their roles changed. 

Many of the sanitary codes for public restrooms that we have today can be attributed to the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers. They teamed up with gas station chains and rest stops to get clean, sanitary public restrooms installed everywhere. The Ladies Auxiliary Committee also helped create sanitary codes for public restrooms, which at one time did not exist. 

About Lillian Ann Baumbach

plumbing woman Lillian Ann Baumbach was a famous female plumber in the 1950s. She was a pin-up girl for the American military. Her nickname was “The Pretty Plumber” among her fans, who wrote her over 100 letters. Lillian Ann Baumbach is remembered for more than just her good looks- she was also the first female master plumber.  

She was one of the first women to break through the “glass roof” in the male-dominated plumbing industry and become a master plumber. Master plumber is the highest career achievement for plumbers, and it requires years of training. 

Lillian Ann Baumbach was the daughter of a plumber and began training as an apprentice with him soon after graduating from school. She quickly passed the test to become a journeyman plumber and began preparing for the master plumber test. 

At the age of 21, she took the test to become a master plumber and passed when most of the boys in the class failed. She eventually got married, and instead of opting for the life of a 1950s housewife, she started working in a senior management position at her father’s plumbing company. The life story of Lillian Ann Baumbach is just one of the many success stories of women in the plumbing industry. 

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has been serving its community with outstanding services from experienced plumbers and HVAC technicians for 20+ years. Homeowners can depend on the expert technicians at Walker Plumber, Heating & Air for fast, fair, and friendly service. Call Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air today to schedule an appointment with an experienced local plumber in St. George, UT!

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