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Tuesday, April 01 2025
DIY Plumbing vs. Hiring a Professional: When to Call the Experts

If you have some skills with tools, you may try to fix little plumbing issue. Replace those washers, tighten up a leak, and grab the plunger. However, there are situations not suited to DIY Plumbing. That’s when you start booking for expert plumbing services in Bucks County, PA. Barner Murphy has a reputation for quality work and outstanding customer service.

When Should I Call the Experts for Plumbing Problems?

It’s easy to overlook plumbing. But when something goes wrong, it can be a big “something.” There are specific situations in which you need plumbing services in Bucks County. Here are just a few.

  • Water Heater Failure

Having no hot water is a frustrating inconvenience. However, a failed water heater might leak if there are tank cracks. For those with gas water heaters, there’s a safety issue involved. Watch for odd smells and report them immediately. Barner Murphy carries a line of exceptional water heaters to replace your broken one. 

  • Toilet backup that doesn’t stop: 

Close the valve where the toilet gets water. Human waste backup is a health and safety matter. Call Barner Murphy, and let us get to the heart of the problem.

  • Clogged Sink

Nothing you’ve tried gets the sink flowing again. Don’t be tempted to us chemicals at this point. Some drain clog removers can actually harm your plumbing. So, reach out to your friendly neighborhood plumbing service in Bucks County. A quick response means your shower will be up and running quickly.

  • No Water or Water Pressure

You need a plumbing expert to find the reason why you have no water or your water pressure is slim and none. DIY won’t work. Walls and yards require inspection to diagnose the culprit.

  • Water Main Break

This is a job for the town or county utility crews. You may see flooding in the streets, and water may become contaminated. Sometimes water raises to your sidewalk or lawn. You will be without water until they find and repair the problem.

  • Burst Pipes

If not addressed quickly, the water from a burst pipe can damage ceilings, floors, and walls. Later, this can lead to mold, meaning remediation. Barner Murphys plumbing services in Bucks County include assistance with this matter. 

  • Leaks

You’ve tightened that pipe 10 times, and it still leaks persistently. Or, perhaps you are finding signs of leaks with no source. Leaks should be fixed as soon as possible. Pipes are like the arteries in a home and contribute heavily to your house’s overall plumbing health.

Knowledge Matters

Master plumbers go through years of training. They have all the tools necessary to fix water systems, and you’ve probably never heard of (or seen) half of them. DYI vs. hiring a professional means being honest with your level of ability. A Yahoo video can only do so much. Your repair efforts are not guaranteed, meaning you may have to spend more time and money trying to resolve something.  

Remember the phrase, “water has its way.” While you may think you’ve fixed a problem, it could stem from a different source altogether. A professional plumber can examine the situation and trace the water to avoid more damage. 

Barner Murphy strives for the “do it once; do it right” mindset. You will be part of our repair process from the first inspection until the project’s end. You get quality results with no hidden fees, and our work comes with a guarantee.

Get ahead of plumbing problems. Call our Levittown, PA office at 215-945-8560 and set up a meeting, or use our contact form to explain what services you need. We look forward to helping you keep your house dry.

Posted by: AT 01:18 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, March 04 2025
Moving Into a New Home? Why You Should Call Professional Plumbing Services First

Buying a house is among the largest decisions a person or family can make. But before you sign those papers or move into the new home, it’s crucial to have the plumbing checked from stem to stern.

Why You Should Call Professional Plumbing Services First?

A new home consumes a lot of cash and credit. You want to be sure all the major systems in the house work properly, including the plumbing. The professionals at Barner Murphy know from experience that there can be a lot of problems in the works, lurking unseen or even hiding in plain sight. What looks like a smudge on a wall can actually be water damage.

When you get a plumbing inspection, besides making sure the system is up to code, there are several key spots checked.

  • The fixtures to see if they’re outdated

  • The functionality of the septic or sewage system

  • Any signs of leaks

  • Outside faucets and downspouts that can drip into the foundation

  • Toilets, showerheads and faucets for signs of wear

  • The water heater fittings and valves

If the inspection turns up an issue, it affects home valuation. Depending on how much it would cost to fix, you can lower your offer accordingly. You can also request repairs, or withdraw your offer altogether. 

Water Has its Way

Water flows down the hill. It moves freely around unsecured obstacles (like cracks) to reach the bottom. That’s why you may find water damage from a leak in the least obvious place, like behind cabinetry. At Barner Murphy, we offer inspection services. Once complete, you’ll have a full report of what’s okay and what looks problematic. You’re already investing a great deal, so getting an inspection done alleviates unhappy surprises. 

Closing and Moving

Discovering water problems is just the beginning. Repairs take time. You need to get on the schedule. The plumber needs to gather equipment and products required to get the work done. 

If the repairs require days or weeks, your move can get delayed. This proves problematic if 

  • you’ve already sold your current residence (if applicable) and have closing procedures already on the books. 

  • You have a firm “move out” date set with your apartment or condo owner. In this case you could be without water for a while.

The sooner you know about plumbing problems, the sooner they can be resolved.

Money Matters

Financially, waiting to have someone check your plumbing could prove costly. The price for repairs and supplies is always going up. Additionally, the longer a water problem lingers, the greater the possibility of mold not to mention further damages. 

Now is the ideal time for remediation and upgrading fixtures for water efficiency. Then you can start moving all those boxes!

Call on Barner Murphy

Whether you are moving into a new home, or need the services of master plumbers who are bonded and insured in your current home, give us a call (215-945-8560). For your convenience, we have an online contact form, too. 

We’ve served New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and neighboring regions with high quality services since 1996. Barner Murphy guarantees a trustworthy experience. There are no hidden fees. We communicate everything to you upfront in easily understandable terms. If you have questions, we have answers.


 

Posted by: AT 01:54 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Monday, February 10 2025
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter: Expert Tips from a Plumbing Company

Autumn comes and there’s a distinct chill in the air. That cold reminds you that it’s time to prepare your plumbing for winter. At Barner Murphy we cannot stress enough the importance of preventing frozen pipes during inclimate weather. When water in your pipe freezes, it creates pressure. In turn you can experience costly breaks both inside and outside the home. 

Preventing Frozen Pipes

It’s not hard to imagine the kind of trouble broken pipes mean to your home and property. The potential damage can be very costly, so your best bet is doing what you can to prevent  frozen pipes this winter before the weather gets to them.

Expert Tips from a Plumbing Company

The professionals at Barner Murphy can come to take a good look at all the vulnerable spots in your home and property. We can tune up that furnace, too! If the furnace goes out, that only makes matters worse. BTW, keep your thermos above 55F at all times. 

Vulnerable Spots Indoors

Faulty or non-existent insulation. You can get wraps and sleeves for your pipes. Check spaces like your attic, basement, exterior walls, and outdoor faucets. Oh, and don’t forget an unheated garage.

Windows & Walls: You can lose a lot of heat through wall cracks and windows. Some of those spaces may come in contact with your plumbing. So start sealing right away. It will save you on air conditioning next season, too!

Faucets: If you have severe freeze warnings let your faucet drip a bit. The flow through your pipes, while minimal, does help keep them from freezing. You won’t see a terrible uptick in your water bill.

Cabinets: If your cabinetry has any pipes nearby, opening that door can help keep it warm. 

Take time for a walk through. Insulate pipes where you see them. Ask for proper products if you’re not sure at your retailer (or give us a call!).

Vulnerable Outdoor Spaces

There are spots where ice can easily mess with your plumbing. Outdoor water valves are an open invitation. Pull up your sprinkler systems, disconnect the hoses, and store them inside. Otherwise, you’ll probably have to replace them next spring. 

Barner Murphy can come and install faucets that are freeze-proof. No fuss; no muss!

Did it Work?

Okay. Even your best efforts at preventing frozen pipes this winter mail fail. There is so much plumbing you cannot see. So, what are the signs you missed something?

The primary sign is that your faucets start acting funny. They slow to a trickle, cold as ice, or may not flow at all. And there may be no consistency from one faucet to another. 

Another sign is visible frost on the popes. A little may not freeze your plumbing, but accumulation is another matter. You may even notice an odd smell nearby.

Clank, clang, bang! You hear rattling in your home (and not from your music!). These sounds can happen when pipes expand and contract. Time for a check-up!

Give Us A Call

When you think you have a frozen pipe issue, it’s time to call for help. Barner Murphy has master plumbers at the ready. When you want guaranteed results, contact us. Call  215-945-8650 or use our online contact form for more information.

Posted by: AT 11:26 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Saturday, January 04 2025
Preventing Common Plumbing Issues in Older Homes

Plumbing issues are common but more likely to happen in older homes. An older house may have pipes made of materials no longer approved for newer homes. Pipes can also fail with age.

Fortunately, there are ways to deal with plumbing issues in older homes. Barner Murphy can help you determine affordable solutions.

Copper Pipes with Lead Solder

In 1978, the government banned using lead in paints and piping. However, homes built before 1978 may feature lead in their plumbing systems. In the past, it was commonly used to solder copper pipes.

If you have lead in your plumbing system, it can seep into your water, causing digestive problems, fatigue, memory loss, and irritability. Your systems may require refitting or replacement.

Rusted Galvanized Pipes

After lead was banned, galvanized steel became the most popular plumbing material. However, the steel was coated with a protective layer of zinc that could wear down over time, increasing the risk of corrosion.

Signs of corrosion include rust seeping into water and cracked and leaking pipes susceptible to bursting. Homes with galvanized steel pipes may consider a system update.

Polybutylene Pipes

Polybutylene pipes became popular after galvanized steel pipes fell out of fashion. They are common in homes built in the 1980s and 1990s. However, plumbers soon found these pipes had much in common with galvanized steel pipes. Namely, they tended to flake crack and didn’t last long.

You may require a replacement if you have polybutylene pipes in your home.

Worn and Outdated System

Even a system made with durable materials can wear down over time. Limescale can build up in pipes, causing inconsistencies in water pressure, poor water quality, and leaks. You may notice that these issues cause unpleasant odors and an unexpected increase in your utility bills.

Faulty Sewer Lines and Intruding Roots

Sewer lines bring water into your home. Over time, pipes can weaken, and dirt and minerals can build up, leading to clogs and leaks. Roots can also grow underground, damaging your sewer lines and worsening existing issues.

Leaky Faucets

Leaky faucets are common in older homes as aging plumbing components wear out. Water leaks waste water and increase water bills. Upgrading to new water-efficient fixtures may be a cost-effective solution.

Pipe Bellies

Homes naturally shift and slope over time. This movement can impact your water system, causing a negative slope in your water line, AKA a pipe belly. Pipe bellies can lead to toxic wastewater accumulation, flooding, and property damage. Early signs include slow drains, backups, and the appearance of green patches in your yard.

This issue can worsen quickly, causing significant damage. It’s best to treat it right away.

Barner Murphy Can Address Piping Issues in Older Homes

Problems associated with older plumbing can lead to significant repairs. Don’t trust the job to just anyone. Barner Murphy has your back.

Barner Murphy stands out for our history of customer satisfaction. We offer quality products, extensive services, and a workmanship guarantee. Our reliable technicians will show up promptly to provide on-time service.

Contact us for practical solutions to your plumbing issues.

Posted by: AT 08:29 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, December 17 2024
What to Do When You Have Low Water Pressure: Causes and Solutions

Low water pressure is an unwanted issue. Showers are not as satisfying when water pressure is reduced. Moreover, it can be difficult to get anything clean, including your body, your hair, and the dishes.

Inadequate water pressure is typically a plumbing issue. Here’s a list of possible causes and solutions.

A Clogged Pipe

You may be experiencing low water pressure due to clogged pipes. Mineral deposits often build up in pipes, especially in homes with hard water. While clogged drains can be DIY fixes, pipes are more complex. You may need to call a professional.

Corroded Plumbing

Your plumbing system can corrode over time. A galvanized steel system will show signs of corrosion after just 20 years. Brass pipes may last 40 -70 years, and copper pipes can hold up to 50 years. However, despite the material, corrosion will happen eventually.

Corrosion is also more likely to occur if you built out your plumbing system after your home build was completed. These updates put more pressure on your plumbing system causing it to work harder and corrode sooner.

When pipes are corroded, they may need to be cleaned or replaced. This job typically requires professional assistance.

Leaks

Leaks in your pipes or the water line reduce water output. The water will drip out of your system before reaching your faucets.

You can determine if reduced water pressure is caused by a leak by looking around your home for flooding, pooling water, or wet spots in your walls. A meter reading will also provide insight. If the water meter changes when no water is being used, it may be detecting a leak.

Additionally, many meters have leak detectors.  

Faulty Pressure Regulator

Some homes have pressure regulators that ensure your water pressure is at a safe level. It will keep your water pressure at 50 psi to avoid excessive water flow that can strain appliances. If the pressure regulator fails, it may increase or decrease your water pressure.

You can determine if your pressure regulator works by attaching a pressure gauge to a hose spigot outside your home. Then compare it to your pressure regulator reading. If there are discrepancies, your pressure regulator may be damaged.

Utility Company Issues

Sometimes, low water pressure could be a utility company issue. Talk to your neighbors to find out if they are experiencing the same problem. If so, consider installing a booster pump to increase water pressure from your main supply line.

Barner Murphy Can Help You Address Your Water Pressure Issues

Water pressure issues are typically not easy fixes. You usually need to hire a professional to fix your problem. Barner Murphy can get you the help you need.

Barner Murphy can assist with various plumbing services, from general to new construction. We offer a quality workmanship guarantee. Our team is led by the best plumbing experts in Bucks County, PA.

Contact us the next time you are experiencing plumbing issues. We will get the job done.

Posted by: AT 06:25 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, November 14 2024
DIY Plumbing Fixes: When to Try it and When to Call a Professional

When issues occur in your plumbing system, it’s tempting to DIY them. A do-it-yourself approach saves money, and in some instances, it could be a quicker fix. However, it can lead to more extensive repairs, greater expenses, and even injuries.

So, which plumbing tasks should you DIY, and which should you leave to a professional? Read on to find out.

DIY Tasks

Clogs

Some clogs can be cleared with a plunger, a snake, or a baking soda and vinegar solution. Beware of using chemical-based products that can damage your plumbing system. If you try these methods and your clog doesn’t clear, call a professional.

Replacing Faucet Washers and O-rings

If you have a leaky faucet, you may be able to fix it by replacing the washer or o-ring. You must disassemble the faucet, replace the faulty part, and reassemble it. However, leaks can also be caused by other internal components that may not be as easy to replace. A plumbing service will find the culprit and administer the necessary fixes.

Running Toilets and Leaky Flappers

 A running toilet wastes water and produces unwanted noise in the household. You may be able to solve the problem by inspecting the flapper, fill, and flush valve. It may be as simple as adjusting or reconnecting the chain or replacing it.

However, if you have an older toilet, it may be more cost-effective to replace it than install new parts. A professional can advise you on the best solution and aid with toilet installation.

When to Call a Professional

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure could be due to an issue with your utility company, running multiple appliances, or a clog in your water source. However, it is often related to larger problems that need professional attention such as pipe corrosion, cracked sewer lines, and water leaks.

Water Heater Issues

A lack of hot water is typically tied to water heater issues. Your tank may be too small for your home, you may need to move it closer to water sources, or you may be dealing with leaky tanks, corrosion, and overheating. A professional will handle all your repair and replacement needs. They can also assist with moving the unit- do not attempt to move it yourself.

Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes may be caused by freezing, corrosion, or high water pressure. There are temporary fixes for leaky pipes, but ultimately, you’ll need to call a plumber for a repair.

Sewer Blockages

Sewer blockage generally requires underground sewer line repairs that should only be handled by a licensed professional.

Barner Murphy Has a Solution for All Your Plumbing Issues

You may be able to DIY plumbing issues, but Barner Murphy is here when more complicated problems arise. We provide installations, repairs, and replacements for garbage disposals, faucets, fixtures, gas lines, water heaters, sump pumps, and more. Our work is backed by a quality workmanship guarantee.

Contact us for reliable fixes for all your plumbing needs.

Posted by: AT 11:00 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Friday, October 11 2024
How to Prevent Common Plumbing Problems Before They Start

Plumbing problems are simply a part of owning a home. They’re frustrating, and can potentially cause a lot of damage if left unchecked. Better still, talk to our experts at Barner Murphy for reliable information on preventing common plumbing problems before they start. 

Common Plumbing Problems

Most homes have things in common when it comes to plumbing headaches.

Sink, Sank, Sunk

Slow-draining sinks and drains typically originate with obstructed plumbing systems Think of things like soap residue and your hair. As debris builds up, mineral deposits increase, especially if you have hard water. A sluggish sink can indicate other problems, so get them checked.

Flushing Delemas 

When your toilet runs slowly, or worse overflows, something is in the trap or drain pipe. Culprits contributing to this issue include paper towels, excessive toilet paper, food, etc. Sometimes a plunger works, but when it doesn’t call on a reputable firm like Barner Murphy to come to the rescue.

Catch That Toilet

A running toilet, believe it or not, can lead to a lot of water loss (you’ll see iron your bill). In the worst cases, the tank fills the toilet causing overflow. Typically our flapper valve or float mechanism is off-kilter. Sometimes you can adjust it, but ask for assistance if that doesn’t work.

No Hot Water!

You are in the middle of a wonderful shower, and the water runs cold out more quickly than usual. Your hot water heater is chilling you out. It’s malfunctioning. You may see water around the base of the heater, or hear it making odd noises. Depending on the age of the system, you might consider buying a new one and having it installed by experienced people. Our master plumbers are happy to go over your options. Updated and properly adjusted plumbing items are part of sound maintenance practices.

Beyond these four you may experience low water pressure, leaky pipes, a sewer backup, and sump pump failures.

Proactive Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems Before They Start

So how can you keep your plumbing system healthy in cost-effective ways? When you think about the bottom line, remember that leaving a plumbing problem unattended will likely cost you far more to fix. That’s where regular inspections come in. Barner Murphy can make an appointment with you and check everything from top to bottom. 

Beyond inspections, pay attention to your system. Listen, watch, and locate shut-off valves. A little observation can go a long way toward prevention. Do the maintenance you know how to do, like flushing the water heater annually, or insulating pipes against cold weather.

Next, keep your drains clear. If you don’t have debris covers, GET them. Make sure these receive regular attention. 

While it might be tempting to reach for a chemical drain cleaner, it can harm your pipes. Greasy is also sneaky. A common drain is not a food disposal.

About Barner Murphy

We pride ourselves in quality work that’s guaranteed. Our professionals explain any issues directly. Questions are welcome.  If you live in Bucks or Montgomery, PA, we are just a phone call away.

Contact our Levittown office at 215-945-8560. Or drop us a line using our online contact form.

Posted by: AT 04:23 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Friday, September 13 2024
Signs That Your Pipes May Need to Be Replaced

Pipes are arguably the most important part of your plumbing system. They carry water throughout your home and waste to your sewage system. They ensure your plumbing is functional.

Issues with your pipes are bad news for your home, but the sooner they are addressed, the better. Early detection and repairs can prevent small issues from becoming bigger.. Here are some signs to look out for.

Signs Your Pipes Need to Be Replaced

Frequent Leaks

Pipe leaks may be a sign your pipes are damaged or corroded. You may notice water pooling around your home, or you may see water stains behind your walls. These are symptoms that require further attention. If left unaddressed a leak can cause mold, mildew, and considerable damage to your home.

Rusty or Discolored Water

Rusty or discolored water could mean that your pipes are corroded. A strange taste could also be a symptom of corrosion. Corrosion should be addressed immediately before your pipes fall apart. Drinking contaminated water can also pose a health hazard for your household.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure could indicate clogged or damaged pipes. A plumber may be able to clear your pipes, but serious damage may require a replacement. Either way, it’s best to get the issue checked out before it turns into an expensive repair.

High Water Bills

High water bills and low water pressure often go hand in hand. It means your pipes are working harder to deliver water throughout your home. It could be the sign of damage or a clog- but either way, it’s worth investigating. In addition to preventing expensive repairs, it will save you money on your water bill.

Strange Noises

You may notice strange noises coming from your pipes, like banging and clanging. Odd noises often mean something is loose in your system. Ignoring these issues can lead to significant damage. Call your plumber right away.

Mold or Mildew

You may not notice leaks, but if mold or mildew appears, it could mean there are leaks in your system. Mold and mildew can cause health issues- and if your pipes are leaking, you should get them repaired sooner rather than later.

Aging Pipes

Pipes typically last about 50 years but will eventually require a replacement. If you live in an older home, get your pipes inspected. The contractor will let you know if a replacement is necessary.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can often be repaired, but they can be caused by poor venting in the pipes. Plant roots and trees can also cause your clogs. These issues could mean a replacement is necessary.

Contact Barner Murphy for Your Plumbing Needs

Bad pipes are just one possible plumbing issue. You may also be dealing with problems with your faucets, pipelines, drains, and water heater. Barner Murphy can address any issue that arises.

Barner Murphy has been serving the Bucks County community since 1996. Our quality workmanship is guaranteed. Our positive customer testimonials speak for themselves.

Contact us the next time you have a plumbing issue. We will get your system running smoothly.  

Posted by: AT 02:53 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, August 20 2024
The Role of Plumbing in Home Renovations: Discussing Considerations and Tips for Plumbing Upgrades or Changes During Home Renovation Projects.

You’re ready to renovate part (or all) of your home. Don't forget about plumbing upgrades while looking at walls, spaces, electricity, etc. Pipes are like a body’s veins. They transport water to your faucets. Afterward, their job is to carry waste away. 

There isn’t a day that goes by without you interacting with your plumbing system. So, it stands to reason that if you are renovating your home, you should upgrade or change your pipes and ensure they’re functional. Nonetheless, you probably have no idea where to begin. The experts at Barner Murphy can give you tips and considerations, outlining them clearly for your consideration.

Key Points for Plumbing Upgrades During Home Renovation

Several focus points come into play when changing your piping.

  1. The pipes need to be the right ones for handling water pressure

  2. The pipe locations need to be away from any potential contaminating source

  3. Drains need proper sizing so they remain clear

  4. The Editors of Home Energy Magazine stress that faucets can be aesthetically pleasing while providing water efficiency.

  5. Check local codes, obtain permits, and schedule inspections. Most often, your contractor handles this point.

  6. Work within your budget

  7. Plan for future needs. For example, if you plan to extend your kitchen at a later date, the current plumbing work can be laid out to accommodate these forthcoming changes.

  8. Provide the contractor with any existing plumbing blueprints if you have them. 

  9. Get a complete inspection of your current system. Barner Murphy will look for leaks, water stains, and corrosion, and consider the age of your plumbing focusing on safety, economy, and performance. 

A successful home renovation depends on these four elements, as well as quality products like those we offer at Barner Murphy for long-term efficiency. 

TIP: Always plan your system before choosing fixtures

The Role of a Professional Plumber

In our work with plumbing in home renovations, we use cameras to look at drains. This helps us assess sediment buildup. We also perform pressure tests. A detailed inspection of your system helps in making sound decisions for the work ahead. The goal is long-term functionality. So, adding smart home technology that monitors the system can catch small issues before they become large ones. 

Tip: Ask about available technology that will help save money and identify issues

Communicate with your plumber about your vision for the home’s layout and fixtures. This helps in the planning. Not all pipes connect to all fixtures. 

Watch the Bottom Line

Renovations often have hidden costs (10%-20% higher than anticipated). That means planning for your plumbing upgrade should include a little wiggle room. To help with this, Barner Murphy will provide detailed estimates for any necessary work, and discuss any questions you may have. 

Why Barner Murphy?

Two master plumbers created Barner Murphy. Their goal was (and continues to be) a personalized, professional service you can trust. “Reliability” is our middle name.

Barner Murphy values client relationships. We focus on customer satisfaction based on clear communication. When you have a question, our professionals are happy to answer. Quality work is guaranteed!

Located in Bucks County, Levittown, PA, you can call us at 215-945-8560 or use our online contact form for further information.

Posted by: AT 02:49 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Friday, July 26 2024
Signs It's Time to Test Water Quality in Your Home

There is no question that the quality of your water matters. Did you know your body is made up of 50-70% water? In fact, water has unique properties that allow our body to use minerals and nutrients for basic functions. At Barner Murphy, we cannot emphasize enough how important it is to remain aware of potential home water quality issues.

Signs It’s Time to Test Water Quality in Your Home

  • Colors: When people call Barner Murphy reporting their water looks odd, even muddy, it’s time for an inspection. Note these colors may appear on laundry, or even on the water fixtures, looking reddish.

  • Itchy or rashing skin. If everyone in the family breaks out in skin irritation after the last load of laundry or a shower, this is a sign of water quality issues.

  • Odors: Does your water have a funny smell that you’re not accustomed to? Many people describe it as rotten eggs. The presence of surfer or bacteria can result in nasty smells. There may, alternatively, be an earthy or metallic odor, which is a sign of copper, lead, mercury, or iron in the water.

  • Soap that doesn’t bubble. If you notice you have tub or sink rings or grey streaks, these spots are warning signs. You may notice your dishwasher isn’t performing as well, leaving a film, too.

  • Stomach problems. Contaminated water can create nasty digestive issues. If you notice diarrhea or pains shortly after drinking some water, you have a prime suspect.

Potential Sources of Water Quality Problems In Your Home

  • Agricultural work, landfills, and industrial sites can all impact your home’s water quality. If you live in an area like this, get your water tested regularly. 

  • Old plumbing: Unless you have a newer home, there’s a chance that old plumbing lurks somewhere. Time for a healthier alternative: Get an upgrade!

  • Private Wells: Private wells are not regulated. They are more prone to contamination.

Remedial Action

Before you get really worried, call the local health department. They can tell you if something is amiss in your area. You can buy home water testing kits online or in hardware stores, but they’re not always as accurate as possible.

There’s certainly the option of sending out a water sample to a certified lab. The problem here is time. You want to fix this as soon as possible to protect your family’s health.

That’s where Barner Murphy comes in. If you’re in the Levittown area of PA (Buck’s County), we can reach you swiftly and give you dependable information. If anything needs to be done, our master plumbers provide detailed estimates. There are no surprises. We guarantee not only our work but your satisfaction. 

Over the last 30 years, we provided reliable service to many homes in this area. More importantly, our goal is to keep your home healthy going forward. So, we may suggest a regular testing schedule.

There are two ways to contact us. There’s our online form. Or, just pick up the phone and talk to one of our professionals at 215-945-8560. We look forward to being of service.

Posted by: AT 03:00 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email

Barner Murphy Inc. - Bucks County - Plumbing
7204 Hibbs Lane, Levittown, PA 19057 | Phone - 215-945-8560


Licensed Master Plumbers
PA HIC #035743 NJ #10388 RCC LIC # 413

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