What’s included in a plumber’s service?

What’s included in a plumber's service depends on the project type they are undertaking, whether it’s inspecting, repairing, or installing. The type of plumber involved also plays a major role, whether it’s an apprentice, journeyman, or master. 

Generally, plumbers offer a variation of these services.

Drainage and water supply services

These services focus on the systems that remove wastewater and supply clean water. They include:

• Evaluating the drainage system to identify blockages or leaks.
• Fixing clogged drains, broken pipes, and leaky faucets or fixtures.
• Installing sinks, toilets, faucets, and water heaters.
• Offering routine cleaning and inspections of drainage systems to prevent clogs and backups.
• Replacing old pipes or installing water softeners and filtration systems.

Gas fitting and plumbing services

These services are crucial for homes that utilize gas for heating or appliances. They include:

• Installing new gas lines for stoves, water heaters, or other appliances.
• Identifying and repairing leaks in gas lines.
• Regular inspections and servicing of gas appliances (gas cooktops, fireplaces, and ovens)

Emergency plumbing

Many plumbing companies offer emergency services for urgent situations. These include:

• Repair of burst pipes, severe leaks, or overflowing toilets.
• Unclogging a drain
• Repair of stormwater and sewer drain
• Cleaning of garbage disposal 

Other plumbing services

In addition, plumbers provide a range of additional services, such as:

• Backflow prevention: Installing devices to prevent contaminated water from entering the clean water supply.
• Hydro-jetting

How can I save money on a plumber?

Regular maintenance

Regular maintenance can save you significant money in the long run. For example, use drain protectors in your sinks and showers to catch food, hair, and other debris before they clog your drainage system.

Additionally, clean your sink drain weekly and monthly using baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup.

DIY minor repairs

You can tackle minor plumbing problems, like a leaky faucet or running toilets. If you're confused about how to do it yourself, check out YouTube video tutorials and videos to learn how to fix these issues.

Get multiple quotes

Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Contact several plumbers to get estimates for the same job. This will allow you to compare prices and services and ensure that you get a competitive rate. 

Look for reviews and ratings online as you compare prices. Remember that the lowest price may not always come with the best service, so consider the overall value.

Ask about discounts

Many plumbing companies offer discounts. Some even have membership programs that provide discounts on services and priority scheduling for regular maintenance.

Ask your plumber if you can take advantage of any current promotions, such as seasonal discounts or deals for first-time customers.

Bundle services

If you have multiple plumbing issues, address them all at once, especially if you're paying by the hour. For instance, if you have a leaky faucet, you can combine that with other small tasks like tightening your loose shower head and fixing a low water pressure issue. Some plumbers may also offer discounts for bundling services.

Plan for off-peak times

Schedule hiring a plumber during off-peak hours to save some money. If your plumbing issue isn’t urgent, ask the plumber if they have availability during weekdays or early mornings. Rates are often lower during these periods, allowing you to save on labor costs.

Use quality fixtures

When upgrading fixtures in your home, think about the long-term benefits of investing in quality products. While it may be costly at the beginning, it can save you money by reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Also, look for energy-efficient models that can help lower your water and electricity bills over time.

Is a plumber worth the cost?

Hiring a plumber is absolutely worth the cost, especially for specialized tasks that require experience and professional tools.

Here are some other reasons:

• Hiring a plumber helps avoid DIY mistakes that can result in bigger, more expensive problems like water damage, mold, or burst pipes.
• Experienced plumbers can quickly diagnose and fix issues that might take you hours to figure out, saving you time and frustration.
• Plumbers have specialized equipment that is costly to buy for a one-off repair.
• Professional plumbers follow local building codes, which is important for resale and avoiding legal issues.

We recommend Angi’s List

We recommend Angi’s list if you’re looking to hire a plumber. The plumbers on Angi’s list meet certain standards to be featured, including background checks and licensing verification, which adds a layer of confidence when selecting one.

Plus, you can read reviews from real customers and request multiple quotes to know who to hire for your next project.