
Monday, September 25 2023
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
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 MurphyYou’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. Friday, August 25 2023
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 ContemporaryIt 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 MatterIt 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 PermitsTown 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 InformationPlumbing 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. Thursday, July 27 2023
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 ToiletsLow-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 HeadsBefore 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 MachinesNewer 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 HeaterTankless 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 CheckedYour 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 LeaksLeaks 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 FaucetsHomes 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 HelpBarner 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. Tuesday, June 27 2023
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.
Faucet Damage CausesBelieve 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 FaucetOnce 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 RepairsIf 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. Friday, May 19 2023
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
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 LeakGas 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 HelpIf 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. Sunday, April 16 2023
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 ThemFirst, 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 TermNot 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 PlumbersCompanies 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, PABarner 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:
Monday, March 20 2023
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 EssentialsOk, 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
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 ImportantYou 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
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 PAIn 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:
Help us help you keep your plumbing system healthy year-round. Monday, February 20 2023
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 RinseBefore 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.
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