As a homeowner in Austin, plumbing problems might make you a little uneasy. After all, no one likes the surprise of investing in something boring like a new garbage disposal or water heater. However, plumbing is an essential part of daily life, so when a problem does arise, you’ll want to take it seriously.
At Champion AC & Plumbing, we believe that plumbing problems should be solved in the most effective, affordable way possible. We’re here to explain how you can determine whether your plumbing problems require replacement or repairs.
Fixing Your Water Heater
Cold showers are only acceptable when you’re very hot or camping. When you’re at home, you want water that fits Goldilocks’ standards – not too hot and not too cold. When your water heater stops working correctly, there are a few things to check for before replacing it.
Troubleshooting Your Electric Water Heater
Before replacing your electric heater, check if the power is connected properly. You can also make sure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature or install pipe insulation. If the thermostat isn’t working properly, try replacing it before you replace the entire heater.
Troubleshooting Your Gas Water Heater
Some repairs to schedule for gas water heaters include fixing the gas connection or reigniting the pilot light. Other fixes include cleaning the sediment from the tank, insulating the pipe and raising the temperature on the thermostat.
If none of these solutions work, you might need to replace the water heater. On average, your water heater should last around ten years, so if you’re wondering whether you should repair or replace water heater parts, consider the age and lifespan of your unit.
Garbage Disposal Issues
A garbage disposal is great when it works well, but it can be frustrating when it doesn’t do its job. When your garbage disposal stops working, you might not need to replace it right away. There are a few simple repairs that can help your disposal work for years to come:
- Clear clogs with natural drain cleaner
- Reset the disposal and check the electrical connections
- Rotate the blades to clear clogs
Garbage Disposal Replacement
Garbage disposals usually last around ten years. If you notice that your disposal frequently clogs, resets, leaks or doesn’t break up food, it could be time to replace it. Garbage disposals can be dangerous because of the impellers as well as the fact that they require electricity.
Being so close to your sink, this can be a safety hazard – water and electricity do not mix! If you need a garbage disposal repair or replacement, it’s best to call an expert to protect yourself from harm.
Dealing With A Sewage Ejector Pump
Just hearing the word “sewage” is enough to make your nose crinkle. There’s a reason sewage is supposed to stay in pumps and pipes – it’s gross. This is why fixing a broken sewage ejector pump is one of the most urgent plumbing problems that homeowners face.
If your pump basin is flooded with sewage, you don’t necessarily need to replace your ejector pump. Instead, schedule the following repairs:
- Make sure the “float” switch is working
- Check for a tripped circuit breaker
- Replace the impeller
- Check the sewage lines for any clogs
If none of these repairs work, you’ll probably have to replace your ejector pump. Ejector pumps last around seven to ten years, so consider replacing your pump if you encounter a problem and it’s an older machine.
Trouble With Your Sump Pump
If you don’t want a flooded home, it’s important to fix a broken sump pump as soon as possible. However, sometimes you’ll need to replace the entire pump, especially if it’s reaching the end of its lifespan. Your sump pump should be replaced every seven to ten years.
Sump Pump Repairs
If your sump pump isn’t working properly, it could have been installed incorrectly. You can repair this by scheduling a plumber to correct the installation. Other times, you might need to unclog the pump or fix the switch. Sump pumps can be confusing to repair on your own, so it’s best to call a plumber before you attempt a DIY solution.
Sump Pump Replacement
No matter how many times you fix your sump pump, it will eventually need to be replaced. Signs that you’ll need to replace your sump pump include:
- Frequent cycling
- Constant running
- Failure to start
If you’re constantly scheduling repairs, it might be time to bite the bullet and replace the whole pump.
Scheduling Service With Austin Plumbers
If you’re experiencing plumbing issues in the Austin area, Champion AC & Plumbing is here to help. We can help you figure out whether your plumbing problems require repair or replacement. Gives us a call to schedule an appointment!
