Q&A
Plumbing Contractor
Do I really need to work with a licensed plumber? Can’t I just call a handyman?
I want to educate people on the importance of working with a licensed plumber. A handyman might seem like a quick fix, but they’re not licensed by the state of Texas for plumbing work. We’ve seen the aftermath of that — fixing botched jobs isn’t fun for anyone. Licensed plumbers undergo rigorous training and complete a state-issued exam. They also stay current through continuing education, ensuring high-quality service and safety. When you hire a licensed plumber, you’re getting someone who has been fingerprinted, background-checked at the state level, and trained to handle anything plumbing-related, from preventing cross-contamination of your water/sewer line connections to ensuring your gas lines are correctly installed. It might cost a bit more, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind and quality workmanship. At Jennings Plumbing, we’re all about going the extra mile to exceed expectations and keep your home in top shape. I teach my guys to go beyond code and make it a better plumbing system.
My drains keep getting clogged. What can I do?
Hair is usually the main culprit when it comes to bathroom sinks. I recommend using those little screens to catch the hair before it goes down the drain. As for kitchen sinks, garbage disposals can be a bit of a mixed blessing. My advice is to scrape off most of the food scraps into the trash before rinsing dishes. It can save you from needing to make a service call. Make sure you don’t put grease down the kitchen sink, either. Keep a container handy for that stuff when you’re cooking — it’ll save your pipes a lot of trouble in the long run.
What are some signs that indicate a problem with my water heater? Should I get a tankless water heater?
If your water starts looking rusty brown, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. That discoloration signals your water heater’s tank lining might be failing, leading to corrosion and potential leaks. Annual inspections and flushes can extend its life. As for tankless heaters, they’re great for new builds or if you’re doing a major remodel, but retrofitting can be pricey.
What should I do if I have an emergency plumbing situation outside of regular business hours?
If it’s a water leak, I recommend calling the fire department. They can get to you faster than I can. Or call the local water company. They might have someone on call who can shut off the water.
Do you offer inspections or maintenance services?
Absolutely. We’re launching a membership program soon. We’ll come to your home for a thorough inspection of your plumbing system, covering what’s visible, and running sewer cameras to check for any hidden issues. Plus, we offer water sewer tests to ensure everything’s tip-top, including below-slab plumbing. This is important because a broken line can lead to serious foundation problems. Check out JPSTX.pro for details on our membership program.
About The Expert
Shawn Jennings
Jennings Plumbing Services
Shawn Jennings, a seasoned master plumber, founded Jennings Plumbing Services in 2003. His family-owned and operated business prioritizes safety and reliability, performing background checks and drug screens on each new plumber they hire. Shawn is dedicated to providing the highest standard every time.