How to choose a plumber

Nothing spells a kitchen or bathroom crisis like a clogged drain or toilet. Both areas are subject to heavy use and hair, food and other debris can overwhelm capacity.

While most tackle these issues themselves, not all plumbing problems can be solved with a plunger or a drain snake. Clogged or loose pipes can create a major home or business nightmare, so if you’ve exhausted your do-it-yourself options it’s time to bring in a professional plumber.

A competent, experienced plumber will ensure your house or business stays comfortable and sanitary by diagnosing problems and determining the best available fix. Here are some tips to help you find the best plumber.

CHOOSE AHEAD OF TIME

First and foremost, don’t wait until you have a plumbing emergency to start finding a good plumber in your town.

Waiting until you have an urgent need is a common mistake. Emergencies leave you open to dealing with unscrupulous people. There is also a good chance that you will pay too much for their services.

As soon as you can, begin your search for a plumber to service your home.

ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS

Friends and family members may be able to refer you to an excellent professional. Good word-ofmouth recommendations are the best way to find excellent service. Look for people in your local area. Sometimes, plumbers may charge extra if you are not in their designated service region.

SEARCH ONLINE

Consider looking online for a good plumber. Just remember that information on the internet is not always correct. Be mindful of who is giving a stellar customer review. Look closely for complaints about shoddy work or high prices. Dissatisfied customers are more likely to talk about their experiences. Of course, one person’s bad experience may not accurately reflect what you can expect. Look for multiple reports from different sources before drawing a conclusion.

COMPARE PRICES

Cost should always play a role in picking a plumber. Contact at least three different plumbers to get an idea of the differences in labor and material costs. They should be able to provide you with estimates for different services.

It is vital that you find a professional who knows what he is doing. Whatever you save up front could turn into extra expenses down the road if the work isn’t done correctly.

ASK QUESTIONS

Asking questions is the best way to form expectations. Not only should you understand labor rates, but you should also know if there are any

guarantees on work. Find out how long the plumber has been in business and where he received his training.

The bottom line is that you need to hire someone who cares about their customers and their homes. Conducting a thorough search before an emergency will prevent you from being disappointed.

Kettman HEATING & PLUMBING, INC. 107 East Harrison St. • Granville, IL www.kettmanheating.com 815-339-6124