When it comes to plumbing and heating issues in your house, it can be difficult to know who to call for assistance. Is it better to hire a plumber or a gas engineer? What kinds of services do they provide? In this post, Armstrong Plumbing and Heating help you decide who to call the next time you have a plumbing or heating problem.
What is a plumber?
A plumber is a tradesperson who specialises in installing and maintaining systems used in plumbing systems for drinking water, sewage, and drainage. Plumbers are also responsible for installing and repairing gas lines in homes, though they are only legally permitted to operate on gas appliances if they are Gas Safe certified. Pipework, leaks in pipes, bathroom installations, appliance connections and disconnections, waste disposal systems, testing and fault finding, water storage tanks and cylinder installations are all services a plumber can do.
The signs you need a Plumber
- Low water pressure: A rapid loss in water pressure could indicate an obstruction in your pipes, a leak, or a defective pressure regulator. A plumber is able to identify the issue and make the necessary repairs.
- Slow or clogged drains: If your drains take a long time to empty or are entirely blocked, this could indicate an obstruction in your pipes caused by hair, food particles, or other debris. A plumber can remove the obstruction and restore appropriate drainage.
- Dripping taps or leaking plumbing fixtures: Dripping taps or leaky plumbing fixtures can waste a lot of water and raise your water bill. A plumber can resolve the issue and prevent future damage.
- Leaking pipes: Water stains on your walls or ceiling could indicate a leaking pipe. Leaky pipes can cause significant water damage and mould growth.
- Sewage backups: If your toilets are backing up or you smell sewage in your home, this is an indication of a sewer line obstruction. A plumber can remove the obstruction and prevent subsequent backups.
- Water heater problems: If your water heater is making unusual noises, producing discoloured water, or not giving enough hot water, it could be a symptom of a tank or heating element problem. A plumber can identify the problem and suggest repair or replacement choices.
- Running toilet: If your toilet is always running, it can waste a lot of water and raise your water bill; a plumber can solve this by replacing the defective valve or other components.
- Drain or pipe foul odours: If you notice foul odours emanating from your drains or pipes, it could be an indication of a clog or a problem with your sewage system. A plumber can identify the issue and recommend solutions.
- Water stains or mould development: If you discover water stains or mould growth in your home, it could be the result of a leaking pipe or another plumbing problem.
- No hot water: If you're not getting hot water from your taps or shower, it could be a sign that your water heater or boiler is broken. A plumber can identify the problem and suggest repair or replacement choices.
(More: How to fix a condensate pipe?)
Are you experiencing any of these signs? Don't hesitate to get in touch! Visit our reviews page to learn more about what recent customers have to say about our plumbers in York.
What is a heating engineer?
A gas engineer is a tradesperson who installs, maintains and repairs gas equipment and systems in homes and commercial structures. Gas engineers are responsible for installing and repairing gas boilers, gas fires, gas cookers, and other gas appliances. In addition, a gas engineer can help with boiler installations, boiler servicing and repairs, gas safety certificates, gas appliance connections and disconnections, heating controls and central heating pumps, among other things.
The Signs you need a heating engineer
- Boiler breakdowns or faults: It's essential to call a gas professional if your boiler has broken down or is exhibiting signs of malfunction, such as not turning on or producing heat. They can identify the problem and make the necessary fixes.
- Strange noises from your boiler: If your boiler is generating unusual noises, such as banging or whistling, this could indicate a problem with the heating system. A gas engineer can locate the cause of the noise and resolve the problem.
- Cold radiators or a lack of heat in your home: If your radiators aren't heating up properly or your home isn't being heated evenly, it could be a clue that your heating system isn't working properly. A gas engineer can identify the issue and propose solutions.
- Gas leaks or odours: If you smell gas in your house or detect any indicators of a gas leak, such as hissing sounds or a rotten egg odour, contact a gas engineer right away. Gas leaks can be hazardous and necessitate a prompt response.
- Carbon monoxide alarms going off: If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, it indicates that there is a problem with your gas appliances. Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that can be fatal. Therefore contact a gas engineer immediately.
- Pilot light keeps going out: If the pilot light on your gas boiler keeps going out, it could be a sign of a problem with the thermocouple or other components.
- Reduced hot water supply: If you're not getting enough hot water from your taps or shower, it could be a sign that your water heater or boiler is malfunctioning. A gas engineer can diagnose the problem and make a repair or replacement recommendations.
- High gas bills: If your gas bills have suddenly increased without explanation, it could be a sign of a problem with your gas appliances or heating system. A gas engineer can identify the problem and offer ways to increase efficiency.
- Water leaking from your boiler: Water seeping from your boiler could indicate a problem with the system or the pressure valve.
- Inefficient heating system: If your heating system is not working efficiently or you're experiencing uneven heating in your home, it could be a sign of a problem with your boiler or heating controls. A gas engineer can identify the problem and suggest remedies to increase efficiency and performance.
(More: Is it Time to install a new boiler?)
In case you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, call us right away. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form and request a free, no-obligation quote on any heating services.
Which one should you call?
Call a plumber if you have a plumbing problem, such as a leaking tap or a clogged drain. A gas professional should be contacted if you have a heating problem, such as a damaged boiler or a faulty heating system. If you're not sure who to call, you can always get in touch with us. Our team is only one call away and can easily help you decide if you need a plumber or a heating engineer.
Heating & Plumbing in York: Our Services
We provide a comprehensive range of plumbing and heating services at York Plumbing and Heating, including boiler installations, boiler repairs, bathroom installations and more. Our heating engineers and plumbers in York are qualified and fully trained to quickly and efficiently provide you with excellent services.
