When should you call a plumber vs. your water utility?

by digital.team | Apr 21, 2014 | Plumbing

When you suspect a water leak, it’s hard to know who to call: your water utility or a plumber?

It depends on the situation, but here are a few tips to help you decide.

If an increase in your water bill is the reason you suspect a leak, you’re probably better off calling a plumber. The water utility will only repair leaks on their side of your water meter. If the water meter is turning more than it usually does, guess what that means? The problem is most likely between the meter and your house. You’ll need a plumber to take care of it.

What if there’s a puddle in your driveway, and you suspect the water is coming from underground pipes? It could be either your house lines or the water company’s. The best way to find out is to make sure all the water in your house is shut off, and check the meter. If it’s still turning, the leak is on your side. Call a plumber.

If the meter is not turning, the leak is on the water company’s lines. Call and report it to your water utility. Many water utilities charge a service run fee if you call in a leak that ends up being on your property. If you take the time to make sure which side of the water meter the problem lies on, you can save time and money.

Worried about your water bill if the leak is on your property? Some water utilities will give customers a one-time credit or adjustment to their bill. Call and explain that you had a leak, and offer to provide a plumber’s invoice to show you’ve had it fixed. Ask your local water company if they’re willing to make a leak adjustment.

If you do discover a leak on your property, call Dauenhauer, any hour. Don’t incur a needless service run fee on top of the leak repair cost and extra water usage. We specialize in leak detection of all kinds, and can save you time, frustration and money. We’ll schedule an appointment for a FREE quote and get your leak fixed fast.

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He gave me a very fair estimate compared to your competition. I have already called back for Bob's help with another issue and will use him whenever the need arises. I have already shared his name and Dauenhauer plumbing with family and friends.

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How much flushing power do you really need?

by digital.team | Apr 7, 2014 | Plumbing, Toilets

When choosing a toilet, it’s important to consider how much flushing power you really need. While the Internet is filled with videos of high-powered toilets, the odds are slim you’ll ever actually need to flush a bucket of golf balls.

Still, there are legitimate applications for all the different kinds of toilets. Here’s some information to help you determine which one is best for your particular needs.

High Efficiency/Water Saving Toilets

If you’re environmentally conscious, you might consider a water-saving or high-efficiency toilet. The initial cost of these units is generally higher than a standard gravity flush toilet. However, they use much less water and can be more economical over time.

Gravity Flush Toilets

The most typical toilet is a gravity flush toilet. These are the least expensive in terms of the actual fixture cost, although the price can vary depending on the brand, toilet height and bowl shape. For most residential applications, a standard gravity flush will do the job just fine.

As with price, flushing power can vary a great deal between different models. Most units have a “Flush Power Rating” which can give you a general idea, on a scale of 1-10, how much flushing power to expect.

You might consider a less expensive, lower flush power unit for a vacation or weekend getaway property, a guest bath, or some other situation where you don’t expect the bathroom to see a lot of daily use.

Pressure Assist/Power Flush Toilets

The most powerful flushing type is a pressure-assist or power flush toilet. These units can be more expensive, although they use less water than a standard toilet. A pressure-assist toilet uses air pressure to force water through the toilet at high speeds. For most applications you will not need a pressure-assist toilet, however, there are always exceptions. For example, in a basement bathroom that is below ground level, a gravity flush may not work properly. The drawback of a power flush toilet is that they are noisier than gravity flush toilets.

If you find the variety of options confusing and need help replacing your toilet or installing a new unit, call Dauenhauer. We’ll schedule an appointment to figure out the best option for your needs. We also have a great deal on a Kohler Class 6 Cimarron Toilet – $525 for toilet and installation, and that includes the seat. This is a great deal for a bulk flush, comfort height, highly efficient toilet. Learn more about this deal.