A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. It can cause extensive water damage in minutes, ruining floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings. Knowing exactly what to do when a pipe bursts can help minimize damage and save you thousands in repairs.

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply Immediately

The first and most important step is to stop the flow of water. Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it off right away. This valve is typically found near where the water line enters your home, often in a garage, basement, utility room, or outside near the foundation. If you’re unsure where it is, finding it before an emergency happens is a smart preventative step.

2. Turn Off Electricity if Necessary

If water is pooling near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel, turn off the electricity in the affected area to avoid the risk of electrical shock. Never step into standing water if electrical hazards may be present.

3. Drain the Faucets

Once the water supply is shut off, open all faucets—both hot and cold—to drain any remaining water from the pipes. Flush toilets as well. This helps reduce pressure in the plumbing system and limits further leaking.

4. Control the Water Damage

Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water. Move furniture, rugs, and valuables away from the affected area if it’s safe to do so. The faster you remove water, the less likely you’ll experience mold growth or structural damage.

5. Identify the Cause (If Safe to Do So)

If you can safely locate the burst pipe, take note of where it happened. Common causes include freezing temperatures, corrosion, high water pressure, aging pipes, or physical damage. Avoid attempting a permanent repair yourself, as improper fixes can worsen the problem.

6. Call a Professional Plumber

A burst pipe requires immediate professional attention. A licensed plumber can repair or replace the damaged section, check for additional weak spots, and ensure your plumbing system is safe to use again. Prompt service can prevent recurring leaks and costly long-term damage.

7. Document the Damage

Take photos or videos of the affected areas for insurance purposes. Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider as soon as possible to start a claim and understand what repairs may be covered.

Preventing Future Pipe Bursts

While emergencies can’t always be avoided, preventative maintenance goes a long way. Insulating exposed pipes, maintaining proper water pressure, and scheduling regular plumbing inspections can help reduce the risk of a burst pipe in the future.

If you experience a burst pipe, acting quickly is key. Knowing these steps ahead of time can make a stressful situation far more manageable—and help protect your home from serious damage.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

Few things are more frustrating than turning on the shower expecting warm water—only to be greeted by an icy blast. A water heater that suddenly stops working can feel like an emergency, but in many cases, the solution is simpler than you think. Before you panic, here are the steps every homeowner should take when their water heater stops producing hot water.

1. Check the Power Source

Your water heater needs a reliable energy source to function. Start here—it’s the most common issue.

For Electric Water Heaters:

• Look for a tripped breaker in your electrical panel.

• Reset it if necessary, then wait 15–30 minutes for the water to warm.

For Gas Water Heaters:

• Make sure the gas supply valve is open.

• Check if the pilot light is lit. If it’s out, carefully relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions (or call a professional to be safe).

2. Inspect the Thermostat Setting

Sometimes the thermostat gets bumped or changed without you realizing it.

• Ensure it’s set between 120–140°F.

• Lower or higher settings can affect performance or efficiency.

3. Look for Leaks or Obvious Damage

Water around the base of your heater, rust, or strange noises can point to bigger issues like:

• A failing tank

• Loose connections

• Pressure relief valve problems

If you see water pooling or notice excessive corrosion, shut off the water supply and call a plumber immediately.

4. Check the Hot Water Demand

Did you just run multiple loads of laundry, dishes, and showers back-to-back? You may have simply run out of hot water.

• Wait 30–60 minutes for your tank to refill and reheat.

• If this happens frequently, you may need a larger tank or a tankless upgrade.

5. Examine the Pilot Light or Igniter (Gas Units)

If your pilot won’t stay lit, the issue may be:

• A dirty thermocouple

• A faulty igniter

• Blocked ventilation

These issues typically require a professional to diagnose safely.

6. Flush the Tank

Sediment buildup at the bottom of your water heater tank can reduce heating efficiency and even cause complete failure.
If you haven’t flushed your tank in the last year, this could be the culprit.
Call a plumber to perform a full flush—especially if you have hard water in your area.

7. Consider the Age of Your Water Heater

Most water heaters last 8–12 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, repair may not be cost-effective.
Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model can save you money in the long run.

8. Call a Professional When in Doubt

While many issues are simple to fix, others require a trained plumber—especially anything involving:

• Gas lines

• Electrical components

• Leaks

• Pressure-related issues

A professional can quickly diagnose the problem, restore hot water, and help prevent future breakdowns.

Final Thoughts

A water heater that stops working doesn’t always mean a major repair or replacement. By following these simple steps, you can troubleshoot the issue safely and determine whether it’s something you can handle—or a job best left to a professional plumber.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

When it’s time to replace your water heater, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to stick with a traditional tank-style water heater or upgrade to a modern tankless model. Both options have their pros and cons — and the right choice depends on your household’s needs, energy goals, and budget. As your trusted local plumbing experts, we’re here to help you compare the two.

How They Work

Regular (Tank) Water Heaters:
Traditional water heaters store 30 to 80 gallons of hot water in a tank, keeping it heated at all times. When you turn on the hot water, it’s drawn from the tank, and cold water enters to replace it.

Tankless Water Heaters:
Tankless models, also known as on-demand water heaters, don’t store water. Instead, they heat water instantly as it passes through the unit using gas or electric elements. That means hot water only when you need it — no storage tank required.

Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters

1. Endless Hot Water:
   Never worry about running out of hot water again — perfect for large families or back-to-back showers.

2. Energy Efficiency:
   Since tankless systems only heat water on demand, they can be up to 30% more energy-efficient than traditional models.

3. Longer Lifespan:
   A tankless water heater can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance — nearly twice as long as a regular unit.

4. Space Saving:
   Compact design frees up valuable space in your home or utility room.

Advantages of Regular Water Heaters

1. Lower Upfront Cost:
   Traditional water heaters are less expensive to purchase and install, making them ideal for homeowners on a budget.

2. Simple Maintenance:
   Fewer components mean they’re generally easier and less costly to maintain or repair.

3. Reliable Performance:
   A proven technology that provides steady hot water for small to medium households.

Considerations Before Choosing

• Hot Water Demand: If your family uses a lot of hot water at once, a tankless system can keep up without running out.

• Installation Cost: Tankless units require a higher initial investment, but they can save money over time through lower energy bills.

• Home Setup: Switching to tankless may require upgrades to your gas line or electrical system — something your plumber can assess for you.

• Longevity and Efficiency Goals: If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, a tankless heater may offer better value over time.

The Bottom Line

Both types of water heaters can effectively serve your home’s needs. If you want the most efficient, space-saving, and long-lasting option — and you’re ready for the upfront cost — a tankless water heater is a great investment. If you prefer lower installation costs and a time-tested system, a traditional water heater may be the better fit.

Need help deciding what’s best for your home? Our licensed plumbers can assess your current setup, review your hot water needs, and recommend the perfect solution for you.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

What Homeowners Need to Know

Your home’s plumbing system depends on one crucial part you don’t often see—the water main. This underground pipe is responsible for bringing clean water from the city supply into your home. When it’s working properly, you don’t give it a second thought. But when it fails, you may notice low water pressure, discolored water, or even leaks in your yard. In these cases, a water main replacement may be necessary.

Signs You May Need a Water Main Replacement

• Low Water Pressure: A damaged or corroded water main restricts water flow into your home.

• Unexplained Wet Spots in the Yard: If you see soggy patches or standing water when it hasn’t rained, your water main may be leaking.

• Rusty or Discolored Water: Corrosion inside the pipe can cause water to come out brown or yellow.

• Spike in Water Bills: A hidden leak in your water main can waste thousands of gallons of water each month.

Why Replacing a Water Main Is Important

A damaged water main won’t just cause inconvenience—it can also lead to property damage, higher bills, and even health risks if contaminated groundwater seeps into the pipe. Replacing it ensures your family has clean, reliable water and prevents bigger problems down the road.

How Professionals Handle Water Main Replacement

Water main replacement is not a DIY project. Licensed plumbers use specialized equipment to locate the damaged pipe, determine the extent of the problem, and install a new, durable water line. In some cases, trenchless technology can be used, which minimizes digging and disruption to your yard.

Preventing Future Problems

Choosing high-quality piping materials and hiring an experienced plumbing company are the best ways to ensure your new water main lasts for decades. Regular plumbing inspections can also help catch issues early before they turn into costly repairs.

👉 If you’ve noticed signs of water main trouble, don’t wait. Contact Just Plumbing By Sam today for a professional inspection and reliable water main replacement.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

Most homeowners don’t think about their plumbing system until something goes wrong. Pipes are designed to last for decades, but just like a roof or an HVAC system, they eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Knowing the warning signs of failing pipes can save you from costly water damage and ongoing repairs. Here are the top signs your home may need repiping.

1. Frequent Leaks

If you’re constantly calling a plumber to fix leaks, it’s a strong indicator that your pipes are failing. While an occasional leak can be patched, repeated leaks often mean the piping system as a whole is deteriorating.

2. Low Water Pressure

Pipes that are corroded or clogged with mineral buildup restrict water flow, leading to low pressure. If cleaning fixtures doesn’t improve the flow, the issue could be inside your pipes.

3. Discolored or Rusty Water

Brown, red, or yellow water often points to corrosion inside old galvanized or steel pipes. This not only affects water quality but can also lead to harmful rust and sediment entering your home’s plumbing.

4. Old Pipe Materials

If your home was built before the 1970s, it may still have galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes, both of which are prone to leaks and failure. Copper and PEX piping are much more durable and reliable replacements.

5. Strange Noises in the Plumbing

Banging, rattling, or groaning sounds from your pipes may indicate pressure issues or weakened pipe walls. These noises shouldn’t be ignored, as they could be early signs of serious plumbing problems.

6. Water Temperature Fluctuations

Inconsistent hot water is sometimes more than just a water heater issue. Old, corroded pipes can affect water flow, creating sudden bursts of hot or cold water.

Final Thoughts

Repiping your home may seem like a big project, but it can actually save you money in the long run by preventing water damage, improving water quality, and giving you peace of mind. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it may be time to have your plumbing system inspected by a professional.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

our toilet is one of the most essential fixtures in your home, but like any appliance, it doesn’t last forever. While many toilets can last for decades with proper care, there comes a time when replacing your toilet is the smarter—and more cost-effective—choice. If you’re noticing problems, don’t just reach for the plunger. Here are five clear signs it may be time to replace your toilet.

1. Constant Clogging

If you’re reaching for the plunger more than once a week, something isn’t right. Frequent clogs, especially in low-flush or older models, may indicate your toilet just isn’t functioning efficiently. Newer models are designed to reduce clogging and flush more powerfully with less water.

2. Cracks in the Tank or Bowl

Hairline cracks can be hard to notice, but they often lead to leaks that damage flooring and create costly repairs. If you see water pooling around the base or notice a crack in the porcelain, it’s best to replace the unit before it turns into a bigger issue.

3. Constant Running or Repairs

Does your toilet run long after you flush? Have you replaced parts inside the tank more than once in the last year? While some repairs are simple, ongoing issues with flappers, valves, or floats can become a money pit. A new toilet may save you both time and water in the long run.

4. It’s Wasting Water

Older toilets can use 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush. New EPA WaterSense-certified models use just 1.28 gallons—cutting water usage significantly. Replacing your toilet could help lower your water bill and reduce your environmental impact.

5. Uncomfortable or Outdated Design

If your toilet is low to the ground, has an outdated shape, or just feels awkward to use, it might be worth upgrading. Newer models come in comfort heights, sleek designs, and offer features like bidet functions, heated seats, or soft-close lids.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your toilet might seem like a hassle, but a new unit can improve water efficiency, comfort, and even the look of your bathroom. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a replacement, a quick inspection by a licensed plumber can give you peace of mind—and a clear path forward.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

A reliable water heater is essential for daily life—providing hot water for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and more. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which water heater is right for your home? From tank size to energy efficiency, the choice depends on your household’s needs, preferences, and budget.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the right water heater.

1. Types of Water Heaters

Before anything else, it’s important to understand the main types of water heaters available:

Tank Water Heaters

• Store a set amount of hot water (typically 30–80 gallons)

• Lower upfront cost

• Ideal for homes with consistent hot water usage

• May run out of hot water during heavy use

Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters

• Heat water only when needed

• Higher upfront cost, but more energy-efficient

• Endless hot water

• Compact size saves space

Heat Pump (Hybrid) Water Heaters

• Use electricity to move heat from the air into the water

• Extremely efficient

• Best in warmer climates with good ventilation

Solar Water Heaters

• Use solar panels to heat water

• High efficiency and eco-friendly

• Higher installation cost, but low long-term operating costs

2. Fuel Type

Water heaters are typically powered by:

• Electricity: Common, easy to install, but may have higher energy costs

• Natural Gas or Propane: Heats water faster and is more cost-effective in many regions

• Solar: Uses renewable energy but requires sunny conditions and a backup system

• Heat Pump: Efficient, but needs enough space and ambient heat

Choose the fuel source based on what’s available in your area and what fits your budget and energy preferences.

3. Size and Capacity

Choosing the right size is critical. Too small, and you’ll run out of hot water. Too large, and you’ll waste energy.

For Tank Heaters:

• 1–2 people: 30–40 gallons

• 2–3 people: 40–50 gallons

• 3–4 people: 50–60 gallons

• 5+ people: 60–80 gallons

For Tankless Heaters:

• Measure in gallons per minute (GPM). A typical household needs 5–8 GPM to run multiple appliances at once.

4. Energy Efficiency

Water heating is one of the biggest energy costs in most homes. Look for the Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating—higher numbers mean greater efficiency.

Consider ENERGY STAR® certified models for long-term savings and possible rebates.

5. Installation and Maintenance Costs

• Tank heaters are usually cheaper and quicker to install.

• Tankless systems require professional installation and possibly plumbing or electrical upgrades.

• Regular maintenance like flushing sediment from tank models and descaling tankless systems can extend lifespan and efficiency.

6. Warranty and Lifespan

Most water heaters last:

• Tank models: 8–12 years

• Tankless models: 15–20 years

Choose a unit with a strong warranty (6–12 years) and a good reputation for durability.

Final Thoughts

The right water heater for your home depends on your budget, household size, energy goals, and space. Whether you want a cost-effective tank model or a high-efficiency tankless system, the choice should be based on long-term performance and comfort.

Need help making the right choice? Just Plumbing By Sam offers professional advice, installation, and maintenance services. Call us today to schedule a consultation and find the perfect water heater for your home!

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, renovating a bathroom, or reconfiguring your entire home, a plumbing remodel is a crucial part of the process. Plumbing plays a major role in the functionality, safety, and comfort of your living space — so it’s important to understand what goes into a successful remodel.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a plumbing remodel, from planning to completion, so you can feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

1. Initial Planning and Consultation

Every remodel starts with a plan. Your plumber will meet with you (and possibly your general contractor or designer) to discuss:

• Your renovation goals

• Fixture preferences (sinks, tubs, toilets, etc.)

• Layout changes

• Budget

• Timeline

This is also the time to identify any upgrades you may want, such as energy-efficient water heaters, better drainage, or modern piping materials.

2. Site Inspection and Assessment

Before any work begins, the plumber will inspect your current plumbing system. They’ll assess:

• Pipe condition and material

• Water pressure and flow

• Drainage and venting

• Accessibility for new installations

If your home has old or outdated plumbing (like galvanized pipes or faulty drains), this may be the perfect opportunity to update it.

3. Demolition and Removal

In most remodels, some demolition is needed to access old pipes or remove outdated fixtures. This phase can involve:

• Cutting into walls or floors

• Removing old bathtubs, sinks, or toilets

• Disconnecting existing plumbing lines

Don’t worry — a professional plumber will work as cleanly and efficiently as possible to minimize disruption.

4. Rough-In Plumbing

The rough-in phase involves installing new pipes, drains, and vent lines before the walls and floors are finished. This is the “behind-the-scenes” work that forms the foundation of your new plumbing system.

At this stage, inspections may be required by local building authorities to ensure everything is up to code.

5. Fixture Installation

Once the rough-in is complete and the remodel progresses, your plumber will install new fixtures such as:

• Faucets and sinks

• Bathtubs and showers

• Toilets

• Water heaters

• Dishwashers or washing machines (if applicable)

They’ll also hook everything up, test for leaks, and make sure each component functions properly.

6. Final Testing and Inspection

Before the remodel is complete, your plumber will conduct final checks, including:

• Water pressure tests

• Leak detection

• Drain flow checks

• Fixture functionality

In some cases, a final inspection by the city or county may be required to close out the permit.

7. Cleanup and Completion

After installation and inspection, your plumber will clean up the work area and ensure you’re happy with the results. You’ll get an overview of your new system and tips for maintenance.

Bonus: Questions to Ask Your Plumber Before the Remodel

• Do I need permits for this plumbing work?

• Will my water be shut off during the project?

• How long will the plumbing portion take?

• Are you licensed and insured?

• Can I upgrade to more efficient fixtures?

Let’s Help You Build the Bathroom or Kitchen You’ve Always Wanted

At Plumbing By Sam, we’ve helped homeowners bring their remodel visions to life with reliable, code-compliant plumbing solutions. Whether it’s a simple fixture swap or a full-scale layout change, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours—and they never happen at a convenient time. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a major leak, or a backed-up sewer, knowing what to do in those first critical moments can help minimize damage and stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when you’re faced with a plumbing emergency.

1. Shut Off the Water

The first and most important step is to stop the water from flowing. Find the main water shut-off valve in your home—typically located near the water meter, in the basement, garage, or along an exterior wall. Turning this valve off can prevent further water damage and give you time to assess the situation safely.

If the issue is isolated to a specific fixture, like a toilet or sink, you may be able to shut off the water just to that appliance using its local shut-off valve.

2. Turn Off the Water Heater

If the problem involves hot water (like a broken pipe connected to your water heater), turn off the water heater to avoid added pressure or damage. For electric water heaters, shut off the power at the breaker. For gas water heaters, turn the gas valve to “pilot.”

3. Open Drains and Faucets

Once the water supply is off, open all your faucets to drain the remaining water in the pipes and relieve pressure. This can also help reduce the chance of additional leaks while waiting for a plumber.

4. Contain the Leak (If Possible)

Use buckets, towels, or mops to control water spread. If the leak is dripping through the ceiling or affecting walls or floors, do what you can to protect furniture and electronics. The faster you act, the less water damage you’ll have to deal with later.

5. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

If the emergency involves a clogged drain, avoid the temptation to pour chemical cleaners down it. These can cause more harm than good, potentially damaging your pipes or creating dangerous reactions—especially if a professional needs to clear the blockage manually.

6. Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber

Now it’s time to call the pros. Make sure you contact a licensed emergency plumber who offers 24/7 services. Describe the issue clearly so they can come prepared. Keep your plumber’s emergency contact number handy—you don’t want to go searching in the middle of a crisis!

7. Take Photos for Insurance

If the emergency causes damage to your property, take photos for documentation. These may be useful when filing a homeowners insurance claim or working with a contractor to repair affected areas.

Final Thoughts

Plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but staying calm and acting fast can make a big difference. Knowing where your shut-off valves are and having a reliable emergency plumber’s number saved in your phone can help you respond quickly and effectively.

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.

A properly functioning water heater is essential for daily activities like showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. However, like any other home appliance, water heaters don’t last forever. Knowing the signs of trouble can help you avoid unexpected cold showers and costly emergency repairs. Here are the key indicators that your water heater may need repair or replacement.

1. Inconsistent Water Temperature

If you notice fluctuating water temperatures—hot one moment, lukewarm the next—this could be a sign of a failing heating element or thermostat. Sediment buildup inside the tank can also cause uneven heating, reducing efficiency and performance.

2. Reduced Hot Water Supply

Running out of hot water faster than usual? This could indicate an issue with the heating elements, a faulty thermostat, or an aging water heater that can no longer keep up with demand. If your water heater is over 10 years old and struggling to provide enough hot water, it may be time for a replacement.

3. Rusty or Discolored Water

Rusty or brownish water coming from your faucets may suggest corrosion inside the water heater tank or pipes. If the rust originates from the tank itself, the water heater may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Left unaddressed, this could lead to leaks and water damage.

4. Strange Noises

Loud popping, rumbling, or banging sounds from your water heater are often caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This sediment hardens over time, making your heater work harder to warm the water and potentially leading to overheating or failure. Flushing the tank regularly can help, but persistent noise may indicate that a replacement is needed.

5. Water Leaks Around the Tank

Any visible water pooling around the base of your water heater is a serious warning sign. Leaks can be caused by pressure buildup, cracks in the tank, or failing connections. If the leak is from the tank itself, replacement is the only option, as water heater tanks cannot be repaired once they begin to crack.

6. Age of the Water Heater

Most traditional water heaters last between 8 to 12 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years. If your water heater is reaching the end of its expected lifespan and experiencing frequent issues, replacing it may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

7. Increased Energy Bills

An inefficient water heater works harder to provide hot water, leading to higher energy costs. If you’ve noticed an unexplained increase in your energy bills, your water heater may be losing efficiency. A new, energy-efficient model can help reduce utility costs in the long run.

Conclusion

Ignoring water heater issues can lead to major inconveniences and costly repairs. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s best to contact a professional plumber for an inspection. Whether a repair or replacement is necessary, taking action early can help you maintain a reliable hot water supply while preventing damage to your home.

Need help with your water heater? Contact us today for a professional assessment!

Just Plumbing By Sam provides plumbing services in St Petersburg and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website, https://justplumbingbysam.com/ or call (727) 320-4933.