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Monday, September 25 2023
Emergency Plumbing Situations: How to Respond and Minimize Damage

There is no such thing as a “good” time for emergency plumbing situations. Sometimes it feels like they happen at the worst possible moment. Whatever happens, it’s important to have some knowledge of how to respond to minimize damage until a plumber arrives. 

Here are some of the most common emergency plumbing situations that we see time and time again at Barner Murphy.

Emergency Plumbing Situations

  • Burst Pipes: Turn off your water supply immediately. Call a plumber. While you wait, clear away as much water as possible to avoid more damage.

  • Clogged Drain: There are some DYI possibilities. Before you reach for a chemical aid, be careful. Make sure it’s suited to your type of pipe. Or, you can try hot water and a plunger. Many clogged drain problems are stubborn. That’s when a plumber steps in. 

  • Leaks: Over time, leaks can cause damage you don’t see, like producing mold. Shut off the water. Unplug any nearby appliances. If there are any valuable items, put them somewhere safe. Remove as much water as you can to prevent seeping. Now, pick up the phone and call Barner Murphy to finish the job. 

  • Overflowing Toilet. Turn off the water valve as quickly as possible. Clean up the mess so professionals can navigate easily. Plus, you don’t want that kind of wastewater lying around unattended.

  • Sewer Backup:  Call an expert ASAP. If the water enters your basement, report the issue to the local public works office. 

  • Water Heater Malfunction: Step one is checking the pilot light. If it’s out, relight and restart your water heater. Peek at your breaker box to see if anything is “off.” Check your thermostat when the water’s cold. When these approaches fail, seek a professional. You may need a new water heater.

Don’t Panic!

It’s perfectly understandable that your first reaction to water issues is panicking. You don’t want water damage. If you’re just calling around for emergency service, you may choose one that takes advantage of your situation. So take a few minutes assessing options and compare service call fees and warranties. Bear in mind, some plumbing problems may require specially certified individuals for repair. 

The professionals at Barner Murphy respond to the problem and provide fair estimates. We are not only there for servicing but also providing information about the situation and other potential “hot spots” in your home. This is why we have a solid foundation of trust with our regular clients. 

DYI?

Some people have a bit of knowledge about plumbing. On the other hand, if you haven’t got a clue, this is not the time for tinkering. Some DYI efforts make matters worse.

Calling Barner Murphy

You’ve done all you can personally to minimize damage from an emergency plumbing situation. If those efforts yielded no results, give us a call (215-945-8650). We have a highly trained staff who can answer your questions. We have an online contact form, but a phone call yields a swift response.

Posted by: AT 02:52 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Friday, August 25 2023
Upgrading Your Plumbing Fixture: A Guide to Modern and Efficient Options.

When you purchase a home, you also discover a lot of hidden things, be they good, bad, or ugly. Plumbing fixtures are among them. While functional, they may have no semblance of style or your vision for your home. 

When you’re ready for a facelift, make sure you include plumbing. A modernized plumbing system improves your home’s value. Plus, a new system means years without worry. 

Why are Plumbing Upgrades Important?

Think of plumbing like veins running to and from your house. You want that system running free and clear on the interior. Then, on the exterior, you can add all the aesthetics for visual appeal. 

Plumbing is not just another proverbial pretty face. At Barner Murphy, we’ve experienced firsthand how plumbing upgrade improves energy efficiency. One example is a tankless water heater. These may lower your utility costs! 

Such energy-efficient fixtures are part of innovative technologies throughout the home, some of which are pretty nifty. How about a waterfall faucet for the shower? Or, you can get sensor-activated faucets that reduce water consumption, for example. And they’re not ugly, either! You can find something that will fit your home perfectly. 

Sleek Style to Classic and Contemporary

It is not an exaggeration to say there are plumbing fixtures for everyone’s tastes. In recent years the market expanded to create magnificent new fittings and accessories. The choices can be overwhelming. So, when you shop, bring along pictures of the areas where you want to upgrade for better color and tasteful touches. You would be amazed to see how little touches impact the impression of a bathroom or kitchen.

Materials Matter

It is important to choose the right materials for the project at hand. Copper pipes offer durability but get very costly. PEX is hardy and durable and doesn’t hit your pocketbook so hard. As your plumber about what’s right considering the specifics of your home.

Pesky Permits

Town and city ordinances read like stereo instructions. There are specific regulations in place, which means you may need permits. Otherwise, you can face fines. Thankfully, once you contract a plumber, they handle pulling whatever permits you require to get the job done.

Expert Installation and Information

Plumbing of this nature is rarely a DIY proposition. You are far better off leaving your work in experienced, knowledgeable hands. Barner Murphy is a fantastic choice. We make sure your installation is correct, help you smooth out any building codes, and answer questions along the way. 

Sometimes, your new choices don’t fit quite right with those already in place. An expert plumber, like those we have on our team, can make the modifications you need. 

If you’re doing kitchen and bathroom renovations, you want to think about usability too. Are there ways of placing fixtures to make your life easier? How about having a water sprayer in a better location for servicing pots and pans, for example? Get creative! And by all means, take your time. These changes are a long-term investment, so choose wisely. 

Ready to Start?

When you’re ready to take the plunge, consider contacting Barner Murphy in Levittown, PA.  We guarantee the quality of our work and practice full visibility. You will always be part of the process and approve any change in costs. 

We have an online contact form: https://www.barnermurphy.com/contact. Or, call our office at 215-945-8560. We look forward to providing excellent service.

Posted by: AT 04:20 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, July 27 2023
Eco-Friendly Plumbing: Sustainable Practices for a Greener Home

The world is becoming more environmentally friendly. Efforts include upgrading utilities to ensure they don’t produce waste. In addition to saving energy, these measures also reduce energy bills.

There are several ways to upgrade your plumbing system to minimize water waste. Read on for some practical suggestions. 

Install Low Flush Toilets

Low-flush toilets use less water than traditional toilets. Before the early 1990s, when low-flush toilets came out, toilets used about 3.5 gallons of water per flush. They also used float valves that often leak and increase water loss.

When governments became aware of water shortages, they developed water-efficient standards for toilets and other appliances. Low-flow toilets were a result of these developments. They use 1.6 gallons per flush. They reduced water waste by over 50%.

Use Low Flow Water Heads

Before 1992, traditional water heads used five to eight gallons of water per minute. Today’s showerheads are low-flow and must adhere to no more than 2.5 gpm. Most utility companies will install low-flow showerheads in your home free of charge.

Utilize Water Efficient Washing Machines

Newer model washing machines use less water and energy than older models. ENERGY STAR-certified models use 25% less energy and 33% less water than regular washers. Front-load washers will also use less water than top-load washers because they fill only the washer’s bottom, while top-load washers soak the entire wash.

Get a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters only heat as much water as you need when needed. The on-demand heating can reduce energy use by 34%. It varies from a traditional water heater that heats water continuously. Traditional heaters waste energy and increase your risk of running out of hot water.

Tankless water heaters also last five to ten years longer than traditional heaters. They are a wise investment.

Have Your Pipes Checked

Your water pipes contribute to the water and energy use in your home. Steel and PEX pipes hold heat well and are an energy-efficient option.

Have a contractor check your system to ensure you are using high-quality pipes. They can also check for leaks that may be causing water waste.

Fix Leaks

Leaks may be coming from your pipes.  But they can also come from faucets and random appliances. If you find a leak, address it immediately to avoid a worsening problem and more water waste.

Touchless Faucets

Homes waste a significant amount of water when faucets are left on. They may be partially shut off,  or they may not be shut off at all.

Motion sensor faucets will only activate when your hand comes near the sensor. They will shut off immediately when your hand moves away. They can save you gallons of water.

How Barner Murphy Can Help

Barner Murphy Plumbing Company can help you create an eco-friendly plumbing system for your home. We offer complete plumbing installation for new construction, including environmental features. We provide high-quality water heaters that conserve water and energy. Our general plumbing services include the repair of various fixtures and faucets to eliminate leaks.

We offer repairs, installations, and replacements that help you save water, energy, and money. Contact us to schedule your eco-friendly service today. 

Posted by: AT 02:06 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, June 27 2023
How to Replace an Outdoor Faucet

The longer you live in a house, the more little things go wrong. A fixture needs tightening, a part in the stove dies, and perhaps there are water pressure problems. These types of issues are quickly noticeable. But what about the things you don’t see often? They may break, and you won’t even know it until you need it, including your outdoor faucet. If you are a DYIr, you might be interested in how to replace an outdoor faucet.

Is it Time to Replace Your Outdoor Faucet?

As professionals, we at Barner Murphy in Buck’s County, PA, recognize that many people aren’t certain about making this type of repair. Is it really necessary? If you have regular plumbing maintenance, your plumber may alert you. On the other hand, if you are inspecting yourself, three key things indicate it’s time to replace the spigot.

  1. Drip, drip, drip: If your outdoor faucet constantly drips, it’s not only a sign that you have to replace it; the dripping sends up your water bill. Try replacing the washer first. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to take out your tools or call for help.

  2. Calcium deposits (limescale) and rusting. These are pretty noticeable at the spout. It’s important to have a professional like our master plumbers at Barner Murphy check this situation. Sometimes the buildup means there is interior corrosion, tainting the water quality.

  3. Water pressure. If your water pressure constantly changes in the outdoor faucet, pause for a moment. Do you have normal water pressure everywhere else? If so, then the spigot is the issue.

Faucet Damage Causes

Believe it or not, outdoor faucets have a long lifespan, which is why most people forget about them. Nonetheless, many homeowners move into established homes where the outdoor plumbing may have never been checked. 

The main root of your faucet problems is the environment. They are outdoors 24-7, 365 days a year. That’s a lot of wear and tear. So they rust, cog, and accumulate black slime filled with bacteria.

Fixing the Outdoor Faucet

Once you’ve decided the spigot needs repairing, there are basic steps you can take to fix it. First, you need a replacement. Talk to the folks at the hardware store about longevity, if it’s freeze resistant, and whether you can get an ergonomic grip. Stainless steel and brass fixtures are the best choices. 

Second, shut off your water supply to avoid potential mishaps. Afterward, unscrew the valve and let the water drain out.  Now you can begin removing the existing spigot by unscrewing it. 

When the old faucet comes free from the wall, screw your new faucet in its place. Make sure you screw things in tightly. Turn your water back on so you can check for leaks. If things look good, fill any gaps around the spigot with concrete. 

Professional Faucet Repairs

If you’re not confident about doing repairs yourself, or you run into trouble when you’re trying to replace the spigot, it’s time to call a plumber. At Barner Murphy, we guarantee our work. Our highly trained staff will review your options and immediately inform you of any other problems they observe.

To learn more or make an appointment, you can use our online contact form. Or call our Levittown, PA office at 215-945-8560. We look forward to hearing from you. 

Posted by: AT 02:39 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Friday, May 19 2023
What you Need to Know about Natural Gas

Your home and those of many other houses nationwide use gas for heating and cooking, and usage is on the rise. For example, in 2018 its estimated that 35 percent of electricity in the US was generated by natural gas. Why the popularity?  It is safe and efficient. Some of the items around you right now that might be powered by gas include

  • Clothes dryer
  • Cooktop
  • Broiler
  • Fireplace
  • Furnace
  • Grill
  • Oven
  • Range
  • Water heater

If you have a hot tub or swimming pool, natural gas may warm them, too.

Why Natural Gas?

There are benefits natural gas offers over alternative fuels. Basically, natural gas is less expensive. It burns cleaner, protecting the environment, having reduced carbon emissions substantively. You can rely on the results natural gas provides. For this reason, Barner Murphy uses natural gas options when working on your home.

Can Gas Lines Fail?

Yes. Just like any other type of system in your house, your gas line may become compromised. Ground disturbances may create issues, particularly with older lines made of metal. Just like plumbing, the lines can degrade over time. Tree roots can be troublesome, too. For your safety, it’s advisable to have your gas lines inspected by a professional service like Barner Murphy. Inspections can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

Signs of a Gas Leak

Gas can be sneaky. Take the example of the flame going out on the stove while the burner is still “on.” It will be a while, usually, for people to notice something off. The smell is akin to rotten eggs. When you discover it, turn the burner off and air out the room.

That example is human-centric. But what about things out of your control? If you see a line of grass dying, it may reflect a gas leak killing the turf. Or you open your gas bill and have sticker shock. If it’s far higher than normal, you may be losing gas somewhere. Finally, if your gas appliances don’t seem to work properly, they may not be getting enough gas due to the leak.

Call for Help

If you suspect a gas leak, IMMEDIATELY contact the gas company and call 911. Some areas have specific numbers for reporting gas emergencies. If the review reveals a problem, it’s time to call in experienced help, like what we offer at Barner Murphy. Our team will communicate the details of your situation clearly, providing information you can trust.

Our culture is built with the goal of creating ongoing relationships with our customers. The more we know your home, the better we can serve you. And our work is guaranteed. We rely heavily on your satisfaction to drive positive referrals forward.

There are several ways you can reach out to Barner Murphy in Levittown, PA. Use our online contact form, or call our Bucks County, PA office at 215-945-8560.

Try calling Barner Murphy Plumbing & Heating for your next plumbing issue, and you will find, as many before you have, that your search for a friendly, trustworthy plumber has ended.

Posted by: AT 01:34 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Sunday, April 16 2023
Top Plumber Near Me

Whether you need a repair or plan on transforming a space that will need water, you may ask, “is there a top plumber near me?” It’s an excellent question. Having a professional plumber means when you need someone NOW they’re not driving for an hour to provide services.

Find One Company & Stick with Them

First, a bit of advice. Find a plumber you want to work with, even if nothing is wrong. Building relationships matter. Repeated, successful, like what we provide at Barner Murphy, work provides a sense of trust. We have a lifetime of experience in Bucks County and Mongomery, PA, as well as undertaking jobs in New Jersey.

Think Long Term

Not to brag, but we get 5-star reviews on Google all the time. Knowing we have satisfied customers is of utmost importance. We would rather provide you with ongoing maintenance before something destructive takes over, and you have to start from step 1. There’s a good reason for the saying, “water has its way.” Water can and will end up in the oddest of spots. When we set up a schedule for an inspection, we have your history at hand. Keeping your plumbing healthy improves the value of your home.

Types of Plumbers

Companies often have plumbers at specific levels in their careers, from the very top with Master Plumbers to apprentices who are just beginning. For example, an apprentice plumber does much of the same tasks as licensed plumbers with the help of a trained expert to guide them.

Tradesman Plumber:

This plumber has a license. Nonetheless, there are limits to what tasks they get assigned. Installations, repairs, renovations, and construction are examples. The Trademan may take an Apprentice under their wing.

Master Plumber:

This individual has been through apprenticeship and tradesman work. They are not only licensed but have the authorization to make plumbing contracts and obtain plumbing permits. To become a Master Plumber, you need 5 years of experience and 3 professional references (grandma doesn’t count). Barner Murphy takes pride in our team of Master Plumbers. We hire the best, so the services you receive are outstanding.

Specialization:

Along the way to becoming a Master Plumber, some decided to specialize in one specific service. For example, pipefitters install and maintain pressurized pipes for appliances such as water tanks. The type of plumber you’re most familiar with is a general plumber who works in residential settings.

Barner Murphy in Buck’s County, PA

Barner Murphy began servicing PA and NJ in 1996. That’s over 20 years working with Master Plumbers and helping people just like you. So in answer to the question, “is there a top plumber near me,” look no further. We do not skimp on functionality or quality.

We explain all the details of your job upfront in easily understandable ways (no “shop” talk). You become a partner to whom we listen carefully. It’s our job to not only make you happy but also make sure your water system is in tip-top shape. Your satisfaction equals our success. There are two ways to reach our Levittown, PA office:

  1. Our online contact form or
  2. Telephone 215-945-8560.
Posted by: AT 12:25 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Monday, March 20 2023
Master Plumber Tips on How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Spring

As everything thaws, our professionals at Barner Murphy have seen plumbing problems arise in many types of homes. What seems to be a small problem may quickly escalate. So, while you’re spring cleaning, prepare your plumbing for spring, too.

Spring Plumbing Essentials

Ok, so where do you begin? After all, houses have a LOT of plumbing. Here are some of the essential steps in your spring preparation. You may notice some similarities to your fall maintenance routine.

8 Spring Plumbing Tips

  1. Check the basement for any water leaks (floor, walls, windows). If there’s trouble, call a professional. DYI is great, but you want to fix this fast, fix it once, and fix it right.
  2. Check the water valves throughout your home, looking for dripping or leaks
  3. Give your toilets a good flush, and make sure they work properly.
  4. Check your water heater
  5. Test your sump pump
  6. Clean your gutters and downspouts
  7. Go outside and test the faucets and sprinkler systems
  8. Clean all your drains of hair or soap buildup

Some people overlook step five, thinking the gutters are still clean from fall. Not true. They can accumulate dirt and debris. Gutters can often experience cracking and sagging from ice. If something looks troublesome, give us a call.

Why Spring Plumbing Maintenance is Important

You want to revel in the warm weather, start to garden, and have a cookout. The last thing on your mind is your home's pipes. Make a means of reminding yourself, perhaps with sticky notes or an alarm on your phone. The longer you wait to do a household checkup, the worse damage can become. This, of course, means more money out of your pocket.

At a superficial glance, you may see nothing that sets off a mental alarm. That’s true for most people. Without plumbing expertise, it’s easy to miss important “tells” of problems in your system. Missing those signs can lead to expensive repairs. So why not call a professional immediately and avoid that issue altogether?

Regular maintenance from a company you trust provides a history of the work and associated warranties. The work you do, or a friend does, will not have any guarantees. In fact, you could be unwittingly making matters worse.

 A professional spring maintenance check may include things like

  • Searching for leaking faucets and connections
  • Ensuring the sump pump and water heater are operational
  • Reviewing ceilings for water stains

These three are among the most common seasonal problems our company sees. You want these caught as early as possible.

TOP RATED, trusted, licensed, and insured MASTER PLUMBERS Bucks County PA

In 1996, we had master plumbers ready to fix your home’s plumbing, but first, we check to see what is going on. Everything is communicated to you in easily understood ways, not doublespeak. Our work is reliable and high-quality, performed by staff who have the know-how for whatever your problem may be. The bottom line is, Barner Murphy wants you to be satisfied with our services every single time.

There are two ways to contact us to learn more about spring plumbing maintenance:

  1. Our online contact form
  2. By phone (Levittown): 215-945-8560.

Help us help you keep your plumbing system healthy year-round.

Posted by: AT 03:15 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Monday, February 20 2023
How Do You Clean Your Washing Machine?

Did you know that your washing machine needs to be washed? Sure, we run water and detergent through the machine. However, that water pulls out dirt and grime that can build up over time. If you’re noticing smells when you open your washer or after running it, it’s probably time to give it a good clean. So, how do you clean your washer?

Give Your Washer a Good Rinse

Before you clean your washing machine, it’s a good idea to give it a rinse first by running its self-cleaning cycle. Your washer’s user manual has instructions on how to use the self-cleaning cycle. This will give your washer a basic cleaning. If you notice minor odors, then you can add baking soda to help clear them away. However, if you notice a mildew or mold smell, you should add white vinegar or bleach instead.


Do You Have a Septic System?

If you’re on a septic system, using bleach to clean your washer is a bad idea. You can do damage to the septic ecosystem. If you have a septic system, substitute white vinegar anywhere that we mention using bleach, including with the self-cleaning cycle.

How to Clean a Top-Load Washer

If it’s been a while since you cleaned your washer, or it needs a deep clean, then you’ll want to do more than simply run the self-cleaning cycle. If you have a top-load washer, you’ll want to use these instructions to clean it.

  1. Empty the washing machine of any clothes, dirt, and debris
  2. Set the washer on its largest load size and the hottest water cycle
  3. Fill the washer tub with hot water and pause the machine before the agitation cycle begins
  4. Add 4 cups of bleach directly to the water
  5. Allow the machine to run through its wash, rinse, and spin cycles
  6. Clean the soap, bleach, and fabric softener dispensers
  7. Fill the machine with hot water again
  8. Add 4 cups of white vinegar
  9. Allow your washer to run through its complete cycle

As you can see, washing a top-load machine is straightforward. Remember not to use bleach if you have a septic system. Instead, you’ll run white vinegar in steps 4 and 8.

How to Clean a Front-Load Washer

Like with a top-load machine, washing a front-load machine is simple. However, the process contains key differences that take into account the machine’s design.

Empty the machine of all clothes, dirt, and debris

Fill the detergent and bleach dispensers with bleach

  1. Run the machine on the normal cycle with warm water
  2. After the cycle is complete, wipe down the door gasket. If it is moldy or smelly, use a toothbrush to scrub it with a vinegar/water solution
  3. Thoroughly dry the door gasket with a dry cloth or towel
  4. Following the instructions in your user’s manual, remove the dispenser drawers and clean them
  5. If the machine’s interior feels greasy, wipe it down with a household spray cleaner or complete steps 1 & 2 again
  6. Run a short cycle with warm water (do not add any bleach or vinegar)
  7. Dry the interior of the machine and door gasket

Once you complete those steps, you should have a nice, clean machine.

How Often Should I Clean my Washer?

Generally, you only need to clean your washing machine every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it. If you notice that you still have odors, even when you wash it every three months, you may have more serious problems with your sewer line.

Who Should I Call for a Sewer Inspection?

Ensure you receive quality service by coming to the best. Contact Barner Murphy today to schedule your sewer inspection or repair.

Posted by: AT 03:32 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, January 24 2023
A Sewer Inspection System Can Save You Money

Clogs, slow-draining sinks, or foul odors are common signs something is wrong with your sewage system. However, you don't have to wait until you notice a problem to get an inspection. If you live in an older home or if you're about to purchase a home, a sewer inspection can save you money and hassle.

What Is a Sewer Line Inspection? 

A sewer inspection uses a small camera to go into the sewer lines and check for potential problems. Using the camera feed and a monitor, the inspector can check for a variety of issues without having to pull up flooring or dig. These issues include,

  • Invasive tree root
  • Collapsed areas
  • Substance buildup including,
    • Grease, oil, and fats
    • Flushed items
  • Cracks or breaks

tree root blockage

Isn't a Sewer Inspection Part of a Home Inspection?

While a good home inspector will include an examination of the basic plumbing in a home you're purchasing, they don't typically have the specialized equipment needed for a full sewer inspection. They also may not have the expertise to notice problems that a professional plumber would see. So, it's a good idea to add a sewer inspection to your home-buying to-do list.

How Do I Know If I Need a Sewer Inspection? 

You don't want to pay for unnecessary services, so it's important to know when you should consider a sewer inspection for your home. You should get an inspection if,

  • You have clogged drainage (sink, tub) that doesn't improve with drain cleaner
  • You have foul odors emanating from your sink, tub, or clean toilet
  • You notice leaks in your foundation
  • You are purchasing a home (new construction or used)
  • You have lived in your home for several years and never gotten an inspection(we recommend inspections every 3-5 years)

What Happens If You Find a Problem?

The next steps in the process will depend on what we find on an inspection. Sewer repairs can be expensive, however, if you get regular inspections and find problems early, you will save on repairs. Suppose you’re purchasing a new home and sewer line problems are found. In that case, you can negotiate repairs into the purchase contract, determine if you want to handle repairs later yourself, or find a different home altogether. The professional handling your inspection can tell you the severity of what they find and help you determine your options for repair. They may even be able to provide you a cost estimate so that you know how much repairs will be or if you should worry about fixing the issue now or how long it can wait if needed (remember, however, that putting needed repairs off too long can lead to serious and expensive problems down the line).

Who Should I Call for a Sewer Inspection?

Ensure you receive quality service by coming to the best. Contact Barner Murphy today to schedule your sewer inspection or repair.

Posted by: AT 02:00 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Wednesday, December 14 2022
Signs That Your Sewer Line Is Broken

Your sewer line is essential in your household piping, carrying your wastewater out to a sewer system. At Barner Murphy, we always recommend preventive maintenance. Nonetheless, there are times when your sewer line may break. How do you recognize the problem?

The signs of a broken sewer line in your house include the following:

  • More than one drain working slowly or backing up constantly

A minor clog in a drain can usually be fixed with a drain snake or plunder. However, when your kitchen and bathroom sink clog simultaneously, there’s either a deeper clog or a sewer break.

  • Mold & mildew in the basement

Mold and mildew thrive in a damp environment. So, if it’s spreading through your cellar can be a sign of the sewer backing up or having a broken line.

  • Rank smells in various areas of your home.

Your drains should never smell funky or like rotting food, and this aroma may be sewer gas backing up into the home.

  • An increased presence of pests

If you’ve caught site of rodents or notice the presence of bugs has increased, it can signify a sewer break. Rodents are like the environment of a sewer, and insects thrive in the murky water of a sewer break.

  • Patches of lawn appear healthier than the surrounding grass.

When a sewer line cracks, it releases wastewater into the grass, which can act like fertilizer. Worse, septic waste may amass in your yard, making soggy spots that smell terrible.

  • A gurgling toilet

Your toilet should be making normal sounds. Get this checked out. 

  • Cracks in the foundation

If the break is near the foundation, it can destabilize that area, leading to cracks, settling, and possible sinkholes.

  • Concrete slabs or areas of lawn sinking

If you have a concrete patio, driveway, walkway, etc., the water from a sewer break can cause parts to sink, making them unlevel with the rest. The lawn acts similarly.

Getting Help

When you have all these issues simultaneously, it’s a good idea to call professionals like those at Barner Murphy in Bucks and Montgomery, PA. Our experts can assess the problem quickly and offer solutions. The sooner you call for help (215-945-8560), the better. The longer this problem exists, the more costly it becomes due to the damage caused to your house.

There are three ways Barner Murphys may go about fixing your sewer problems.

  1. Pipe Lining: A liner goes into your old pipe. It’s inflated, making a secure pipe inside the frame of the old one.
  2. Pipe Bursting: A polyethylene pipe gets pulled through the old line, breaking it.
  3. Trenching: As the name implies, this means your yard needs to be dug up. It is the only way we can fix a collapsed sewer or the slope of the pipe in the wrong direction.

If you think your sewer line may be in trouble, you can reach us through our online contact form or call our trained staff any time at 215-945-8560.

Posted by: AT 02:50 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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