Company: Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service

Celebrate Earth Day With These Environmentally-Friendly Appliances and Fixtures

Make Your Plumbing More Eco-Friendly This Earth Day

The road to a healthier, more livable planet starts at home, and homeowners can take concrete steps to ensure that their homes are more eco-friendly not just in time for Earth Day celebrations but, more importantly, to make day-to-day living a little greener and less harmful to the environment. Here are a few ways to create a greener living space at home.

Save Water with Eco-Friendly Plumbing Fixtures

tap waterPracticing eco-conscious habits such as shutting off the tap or taking shorter showers aren’t the only ways homeowners can save water at home. When it comes to water conservation, many fixtures can be used in tandem with eco-friendly habits to reduce the amount of water used or wasted domestically. The following are just some of the fixtures that would make water conservation not just possible but easy for the average homeowner:

  • Low-flow showerheads and faucets reduce water consumption by reducing the amount of water that flows out of these fixtures. From a regular flow rate of 2.2 gallons per minute, low-flow fixtures can reduce this by 30% to just 1.5 gallons per minute. 
  • Touchless faucets - These help with water conservation by automatically shutting off water flow when it senses that no one is using the water. Not only does a touchless kitchen faucet or a touchless bathroom faucet save water, but it also makes washing hands and dishes or brushing teeth easier and more eco-friendly.
  • Water-saving toilets - These toilets save water by allowing homeowners to use one of two flush volumes. The first is a full flush, intended for solid waste, while the second option uses half the water to flush and is usually used for liquid waste. 

Invest in Energy Saving Appliances

washerCommon household appliances that are frequently used can be swapped for their more energy-efficient versions, especially if these appliances are already old and are due for a replacement anyway. Modern versions of appliances like washing machines, water heaters, and dishwashers are now built to consume less energy while delivering the same cleaning or heating power. They get bonus points for being efficient in water consumption, giving them the double impact of saving energy and water simultaneously.

Pipes Can Be Environmentally Friendly Too

Who knew that a home’s pipes could be made to conform to better environmental standards these days? The fact is that making simple choices about the size, type, diameter, and even the layout of a home’s piping system can go a long way in the fight for energy efficiency and water conservation. Maintaining pipes is also important as leaks in a home’s plumbing system cause pumping systems to work harder to maintain flow rate, not to mention all the water wasted when leaks aren’t addressed right away.

About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service is the trusted plumbing services provider in the Tri-state area. With helpful and knowledgeable technicians who provide accurate diagnosis and cost-effective solutions, Bud’s has racked up Best of the Best awards three years in a row - a testament to the peace of mind and satisfaction their services have given the Evansville community. Call them today for all plumbing services in Evansville, IN.

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Learn About Women Pioneers in the Plumbing Industry

Woman in blue overalls with a plunger and blueprint in a modern kitchen for Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service.

Women's History Month Celebrates Women in the Plumbing Industry

Women's history includes breakthrough careers that were once male-dominated. The plumbing industry is no exception. Over the past several decades, training programs have noticed an increase in women plumbers nationwide. 

Women Plumbers Today

plumbingApproximately 5% of all plumbers in America are women. While once considered a man's profession, women are interested in plumbing for several reasons. Plumbers can earn up to $103,000 per year with the right qualifications. With a specific skill set and strong motivation, women from all over the country have decided to join the trade as trained technicians.

Becoming a plumber does not mandate years of college tuition. It allows students to learn by enrolling in a vocational school or community college. Hands-on training is provided, and plumbers can rise through the ranks to earn a higher income. Many women today have chosen to start their businesses for more freedom and flexibility.

Unlike many other professions, plumbing provides job security. Women can now make the same amount of money as men while working in the industry.

What Was the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers?

In 1858 an outbreak of hot weather caused untreated wastewater to infect a growing number of citizens. To combat disease many women chose to become plumbers as a way to combat disease and illness. The Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers championed women plumbers in addition to women's rights as a whole.

Originally the organization was formed for housewives of local plumbers. It was considered a social event where women could get to know each other. What started as a friendly social group eventually evolved into an activism group that supported women's right to vote and the Family and Medical Leave Act. 

In the 1930s, they played a hand in the importance of public sanitation. They were able to help create clean and safe bathrooms for public spaces such as gas stations, offices, and restaurants. The committee is part of a larger organization called the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors' National Auxiliary. 

The First Female Master Plumber

lillianLillian Ann Baumbach became the first master plumber in America. In 1950 she began her career unclogging new pipe systems, but soon she would find herself interviewed by Walter Cronkite. She discussed what the general career was like, as well as her experiences as a woman in the field. 

Known by some as the "Pretty Plumber," Lillian Baumbach was a pin-up model during the Korean War. She received dozens of fan letters after becoming a plumber at age 21 and had over 200 pen pals. 

Lillian Baumbach always knew she wanted to become a plumber. In part, this was due to her childhood. In the 1930's Mrs. Baumbach went on service calls with her father, who worked with piping systems at the time. She would later become her father's business's service manager and treasurer.  

The number of female plumbers has dramatically increased since the 1950s. According to the Institute of Women's Policy Research, there has been a 70% increase in women plumbers from 2018 to 2019. The numbers continue to rise. 

About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service has provided 24/7 plumbing services in Evansville, IN since 1920. Their friendly and reliable staff will always take the time to explain the issue, offer personalized service, and only start a project after providing upfront pricing and estimates. From emergency plumbing service to routine care, homeowners can rely on Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service today.

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Don't Let a Clogged Toilet Spoil the Mood!

White toilet and black plunger, tools for maintaining plumbing by Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service.

Why Does the Toilet Keep Getting Clog?

A clogged toilet is one of those unpleasant plumbing issues that no one wants to experience. Unfortunately, it's also one of the most common issues homeowners face. Even worse, toilet clogs often happen at the most inopportune time, like right before leaving for work, in the middle of the night, or - heaven forbid - during a romantic Valentine's Day evening!

But there's good news: toilet clogs are preventable (and it's easier than it might seem). This article will outline a few of the most common causes of clogged toilets and the simple steps homeowners can take to avoid them - so they never have to worry about an overflowing toilet raining on their parade!

Be Mindful of What's Getting Flushed

flushedPerhaps the most common cause of toilet clogs is flushing things that aren't meant to be flushed. This includes paper towels, napkins, facial tissues, feminine hygiene products, diapers, baby wipes (even those marketed as "flushable"), and - for those with little ones running around - the occasional toy. These materials (not including the last example) may seem fine to flush, but they don't break down the way toilet paper does, which makes them more likely to get stuck and obstruct the drain pipe.

As a rule, the only thing that should ever be flushed (aside from human waste) is toilet paper. Once everyone in the house is aware of this, clogs will be far less likely to occur - but it's also a good idea to keep the toilet lid closed when not in use to prevent objects from falling in accidentally.

Avoid Flushing Too Much Toilet Paper

paperWhile toilet paper is the only truly flushable material, it can still cause clogs if too much is flushed at once. This is because it can wad up into a dense ball and become lodged in the pipe, preventing water from penetrating and breaking it down.

Of course, there's no one specific amount of toilet paper that causes clogs. This ultimately depends on the toilet paper type, the drain pipes' condition (do they contain a residue of muck and debris?), and the toilet itself (many older toilets tend to be more prone to clogging). But to reduce the risk of clogs, homeowners can make an effort to use less toilet paper in general or simply flush multiple times to spread out the volume of toilet paper being flushed at one time.

Keep Sewer Lines Clean

Another common cause of clogged toilets (and drain clogs in general) is sewer line clogs. This often occurs in combination with one of the abovementioned problems. If the home's sewer line is partially obstructed or coated with muck, unflushable materials or large wads of toilet paper can easily get stuck and clog the sewer line. This, in turn, clogs the toilets and all of the other drains in the home.

The best way to avoid this is to keep the sewer pipes as clean as possible. Adhering to the guidelines above will certainly help, but it's also a good idea to watch what goes down the home's other drains, not just the toilets. Hair, soap scum, grease, and food waste are a few of the most common culprits behind sewer line clogs (grease is particularly insidious), so it's best to avoid putting these down the drain when possible.

But no matter how vigilant homeowners are about what goes down their drains, some nasty buildup is inevitable. That's why scheduling periodic drain cleaning with a plumber is important. Having this done every 1-3 years is the general recommendation. However, sewer drain cleaning is vital, particularly by a professional, as this typically requires special equipment and permission from the city or local utility authority.

About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service has been Evansville's top choice for plumbing services for over 100 years. As a family-owned and operated company spanning three generations of service, they are the proud recipients of numerous awards, including the Angi Super Service Award in 2022. Their friendly, trustworthy, licensed, and insured technicians are available 24/7 for emergencies and come backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. So don't hesitate to call Bud's Plumbing for clogged toilet repair and drain cleaning in Evansville, IN!

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Three Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Can Avoid This Year

Two plumbers shaking hands in a kitchen, highlighting professionalism for Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service.

Avoid These Plumbing Mishaps in 2023 

YouTube. Social media. Google. What do all of these services have in common? They claim to offer fast and easy DIY plumbing fixes. However, there’s a reason why plumbers go through years of training. There’s no such thing as an “easy” plumbing fix. What’s more, issues that may initially seem small could quickly turn into significant problems. 

2022 is over. To start the new year right, homeowners should avoid these plumbing mistakes: 

Using Liquid Drain Cleaners to Remove Clogs 

clogsThe New York Times emphasizes the importance of abstaining from over-the-counter drain cleaners. Here’s what homeowners need to know: 

  • Drain cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can break down pipes over time. Even drain cleaners that claim to be safe on the label can’t be trusted. 
  • Drain cleaners threaten human health. Drain cleaners can cause respiratory ailments if inhaled, especially when mixed with other chemicals. Drain cleaners can also cause nasty burns if they contact with the skin. 
  • Some drain cleaners don’t remove clogs. Instead, they congeal around the obstruction and make the problem even worse. At that point, only a professional can address the problem. 

Plumbers don’t rely on drain cleaners when it comes to serious clogs. Instead, they rely on drain snakes and other tools to get the job done. They can also rely on their years of experience to quickly identify and address problems. 

Forgetting to Schedule a Water Heater Maintenance Visit 

maintenanceThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses the importance of yearly plumbing maintenance visits. A professional examining the plumbing system once a year offers an extra layer of protection against certain problems. When a plumber comes to examine the plumbing system, they can: 

  • Evaluate the water heater for any problems 
  • Remove any clogs or obstructions 
  • Clean the drain 
  • Address any mold or mildew 
  • Remove any corrosion 

A plumber can also explain what measures can prevent certain problems. For instance, they may advise getting a drain mesh screen. This small purchase can prevent food residue and debris from going down the drain and causing problems. They may also suggest replacing outdated appliances. 

Attempting Do-It-Yourself Repairs 

As noted, there’s no such thing as an easy plumbing fix. No matter how small, every issue could benefit from a professional’s opinion. By attempting DIY repairs, a homeowner risks: 

  • Causing further damage. Without proper training, a homeowner may not know how to operate certain tools or recognize certain hazards. They risk damaging their home’s foundation or causing serious complications. 
  • Spending more money than expected. When a plumber comes to a job site, they have all the tools necessary to render certain repairs. When homeowners attempt to fix a problem, they might have to spend hundreds of dollars on one tool. 
  • Wasting time. An experienced plumber can “get in and get out” when they have a task. A homeowner who watched a two-minute clip online could spend hours on an issue, only to learn they don’t have the right skill set. 

About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service 

Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service is a proud Better Business Bureau (BBB) member. They offer discounted rates and same-day plumbing service. They stand by their motto: “You approve the job before we do the work!” Call today for more information on teaming up with a plumber.

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Three Things to Look for When Finding an Experienced Plumber

Two plumbers shaking hands, showcasing collaboration in a trade environment with tools visible in a tool belt.

Finding a Reliable Plumbing Professional This Holiday Season 

Anyone can pick up the phone and hire a local plumber. But nobody wants just any plumber. They want one who shows up on time, charges reasonable rates, and gets the job done. But how does a homeowner find reliable service? 

Look for Positive Reviews Online reviews

Reviews, whether good or bad, tell a thousand words about plumbing companies. Here, one can learn about the quality of work done, the company's accessibility, and other important factors. Here are some things to know when looking over dozens of reviews about a home improvement service: 

  • No company is perfect. It's not uncommon to see a few negative reviews amid a sea of positive ones. There's no reason to write off a potential contractor for a handful of lukewarm comments. 
  • It matters who leaves the reviews. There are tons of fake reviews online. A good way to learn about a review's validity is to click on the profile of the person who left it. If they have many reviews, then it's valid. If a negative review is their only one, a homeowner should think twice about whether it's real. 
  • Many websites offer reviews. Google is just one of many websites that offer reviews of local businesses. The Better Business Bureau, Angi, and Yelp also host reviews about emergency plumber services. 

Search for Licensed and Bonded Professionals 

Even during a straightforward repair, a lot can go wrong. A professional could nick a wire while installing a new water heater. They could accidentally hurt themselves while on the job. That's why plumbing companies need to be licensed and bonded. Insurance provides financial help if anything unexpected happens. 

Without hiring a licensed and bonded professional, a homeowner risks having to pay for certain damages out of pocket. They also open themselves up to liability if a negligence-related incident causes the contractor harm. 

Consider Getting a Coupon

maintenanceMany plumbing companies thrive on repeat customers. These people trust the company and rely on them for certain repairs. To keep customers coming back, many plumbing companies offer special deals. 

Some of these specials include discounted rates. One can expect to save anywhere from five to fifteen percent on certain services. It all depends on the issue in question and what measures go into correcting it. 

About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service 

Upfront pricing. Licensed and bonded professionals. Honest service. These are just some of the things the residents of Evansville, Indiana, have come to expect from Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service. These plumbers have years of experience combating frozen pipes, leaky toilets, and other issues. Now, they're offering their expert plumbing services at reasonable rates. One can call today to learn more. 

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