Washington Homeowners: Three Money-Saving Plumbing Tips

Your plumbing system is one of the biggest investments you can make in your Washington state home. When things go wrong, you often need to turn to a professional plumbing contractor for repairs. But plumbing bills can quickly go from manageable to a repair that you haven’t budgeted for.

If you want to save money the next time you need the services of a plumber, it pays to plan ahead. Here are three ways you can save and get more value when you have to call a professional plumber.

1. Compare plumber rates

When looking for a plumber, it’s important that you contact more than one to compare hourly rates and services. Although you may be tempted to hire the plumber with the lowest rates, you may end up paying more for your plumbing repair by the time the work is done. As a rule, professional plumbers who are qualified and have good customer reviews will charge more than cheaper plumbers who lack the experience and knowledge you need for quality repairs.

When contacting a plumbing company, ask the following questions about their rates so you have a clear understanding of their billing practices:

• Do you add a basic service charge to the bill?
• Do you bill based on when you leave your last job?
• Do you charge a flat premium rate for the first hour even if you’re only working for 45 minutes?

Need a pro for plumbing repairs? Here's how to find one in Washington state.

2. Know when you need a plumber

Finding a stain on the ceiling from water damage doesn’t necessarily mean you need to contact a plumber. Before picking up the phone to call a pro, investigate to determine whether you have a plumbing leak or if the problem is being caused by something else. They stains may be from old caulking around a bathtub, shower, or toilet letting water slowly drip down into ceilings and walls.

The solution to water stains may be something you can tackle yourself as your next home project by removing old caulking and re-caulking with latex or silicone for maximum sealing.

3. Buy your own plumbing fixtures

Most plumbers will purchase fixtures at a wholesale cost, selling it to you at the list price to cover their fuel cost and time. If you need any fixtures such as faucets, washers, valves, or a new toilet, you can save considerable money by buying them yourself at a home center.

Always consult with a plumber ahead of time before buying any plumbing supplies to avoid confusion and to be sure you’ve purchased the right fixtures for the job.

Looking for plumbing services? Contact a HomeAdvisor contractor in Washington state for expert advice and repair.

This Patch article is sponsored by HomeAdvisor.