Plumbing systems are essential parts of any building. The proper functioning of an establishment is compromised when something goes wrong with this system. This is why the need for plumbing services comes up. Experts providing these services can suggest repairing the old system or installing a new one altogether. So to ensure a good service, it can help to know about the type of plumbing services, their cost, and benefits.

Being experts in repairing, installing, and maintaining a complex system of fixtures, tanks, and pipes, plumbers can deal with any area of this system, starting at the water main and ending at the faucet in one’s home or commercial property. They can also fix issues that occur in waste disposal systems, such as the sewer line. Some plumbers might even be able to resolve problems with appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. A few of them are licensed to work on gas lines too.

Types of plumbing services
The available services can be classed into two types: commercial plumbing and residential plumbing.

Commercial plumbers offer their services to commercial establishments, such as building complexes, schools, hospitals, retail outlets, and other public places. They carry out both repair and maintenance work. But the complexity of the piping system in commercial establishments is greater than that in residential buildings, as there are many sinks, urinals, etc., across floors, which are in frequent use. So, the fixtures should also be of higher grade or more durable.

Residential plumbers help fix problems with flooding, leaks, blocks, and improper drainage at residential places. They can resolve issues with drains, sewer lines, and even water heaters. The piping system of residential buildings is less complex, and is easier to navigate. Also, the fixtures in home plumbing systems vary from those in commercial systems in size and grade.

Cost of plumbing services
On average, commercial plumbing services could cost about $100 an hour, whereas residential plumbing services could be about $80 an hour. However, there are a few factors that could have an impact on the cost of both types of services.

Experience
The more experienced the plumber, the higher the cost. So when hiring a plumber, one must keep in mind that if his fee is too low, it could mean he probably doesn’t have the skill and experience necessary to resolve a complex issue.

License and insurance
Although a few states in the country do not require a plumber to have a license, it is always better to hire someone who does have one. Another thing that is important apart from the license is insurance. Going with someone who has insurance will keep one protected against any potential risk. So, hiring a plumber with both a license and insurance is a good idea.

Timing
Often, one may require urgent services at an inconvenient time, like the middle of the night. These emergency services affect the cost, especially for residential plumbing work. Most residential plumbers work a standard day of 8 hours, so one could end up paying time and a half or even triple the hourly rate in case of an emergency outside standard working hours. Some plumbers could also charge a flat fee in addition to the increased hourly rate. This could be anything from $100 to $350. However, commercial plumbers, on the other hand, might need to work on holidays and weekends or at night when the employees are not around.

Benefits of hiring these services

Safety
Although a leak might appear to be minor, it has the potential to become dangerous and cause major issues in the long run. Some of these could be water damage and electrical hazards. So instead of putting oneself and their family at risk, one should consider hiring a trained expert to fix minor or major issues with the system.

Tools
Professional plumbers have the necessary tools to carry out the work that needs to be done, like specially designed high-quality cameras used to inspect drains. So one can rest assured that their problem will be resolved efficiently and quickly.

Affordable
Although one might think that they can fix a mere leak or clog, they could make it worse, and one must also use the right tools to carry out the job well. Hiring a professional will ensure that the work is done in less time, keeping further issues and complications at bay.

Preventive action
This is especially critical for commercial establishments and high-rise apartment blocks. Hiring a plumber at regular intervals to carry out drain inspections could help prevent blockages in pipes, pollution of tap water, strange smells in water, and bursting of water pipes. This will save one money in the long term and ensure a smooth-functioning living condition.