Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you offer?
General Plumbing & Repairs
Fixture Service: Repair and replacement of faucets, sinks, tub knobs, and shower valves.
Toilet Services: Repair of fill valves, fixing "wobbly" toilets, and new installations.
Leak Detection: Identification and repair of both water and gas leaks.
Remodels: Plumbing services for residential bathroom and kitchen renovations.
What should I know before calling for a service visit?
To help me stay on schedule and provide the best service, please inform me of all items that need attention when you call. Often, "while you are here" requests are more time-consuming than the initial problem. Knowing the full scope ahead of time ensures I allot enough time to fix everything in one visit without needing to reschedule.
Additionally, a picture is worth a thousand words! Please feel free to text photos to (225) 341-2224 or email them to ed@edtheplumber.com. The more information I have upfront, the more likely I am to have the correct parts with me when I arrive for your service.
Can my old tub or shower valve be fixed?
Yes! Almost every valve can be repaired from the front without cutting into your walls. Most valves consist of the valve body (inside the wall), the cartridge/stem, and the trim (the handle and plate).
Repairs: If the valve won't shut off, is hard to turn, or leaks at the handle, the internal components can usually be replaced.
Limitations: Valves are proprietary. If your valve is very old (e.g., 50 years), replacement trim options may be limited to chrome. Newer faucets offer more variety in styles and finishes.
How do I make an appointment?
Call or text (225)341-2224
Your project deserves 100% of my focus. When I’m working for you, my phone stays away so I can get the job done right. If you call and I don't pick up, don't worry—I check all my messages and return calls every evening once the tools are put away.
How should I prepare the work area?
Please ensure the area where the work will be performed is accessible. For example, if I am fixing a kitchen or bathroom sink, please clear out the items stored underneath. While I am happy to move items for you, it is difficult to return everything to its exact original spot.
Pro-Tip: I recommend keeping a clear view of your plumbing even when items are stored under sinks. Many leaks cause significant damage because they go unnoticed behind stored items. Catching a minor drip early can save you from costly repairs!
How can I protect my pipes from freezing in Baton Rouge and St. George?
Baton Rouge homes aren't always built for deep freezes, so a multi-step approach is best:
Insulation: This buys you time, but eventually, the temperature will equalize. Think of it like an insulated cup; it stays warm longer, but not forever.
Run Water: Moving water is much harder to freeze. Even a "pencil lead" sized stream can keep a pipe from freezing because the city water (usually around 60°F) warms the pipe as it flows.
Don't Forget Hidden Lines: People often remember sinks but forget washing machine lines, ice makers, or outdoor hose bibs.
Smart Hacks: Run your dishwasher or a load of laundry right before bed. Empty your ice maker bin so it continues to pull water throughout the night.
Airflow: For plumbing on exterior walls or in raised houses, open cabinet doors to let the home's warm air reach the pipes.
What makes you different?
With over 30 years of experience as a licensed Master Plumber and Gas Fitter, I provide Baton Rouge homeowners with high-level technical expertise through a personalized 'one-man show' model. When you call, you speak directly to the expert performing the work. My service van stays fully stocked with a vast inventory of repair parts, allowing me to complete most jobs on the spot without the delays of store runs common with other companies.
Should I repair or replace my plumbing fixture?
This depends on your goals. While new fixtures are nice, many older fixtures (50+ years) were built to last and still function beautifully.
The Cost Factor: Often, the labor cost to repair a fixture is similar to the cost of replacing it. For example, replacing a leaking wax ring on a toilet involves almost the same labor as installing a brand-new toilet.
The Verdict: If you are "on the fence," consider the age and quality of the existing fixture versus the cost of a new one.
What forms of payment do you accept?
To make the process as seamless as possible, I accept a variety of payment methods. Payment is due at the time of service via:
Traditional: Cash, Check, Debit, and Credit Cards.
Digital: Apple Pay, PayPal, and Venmo.
Bank: ACH bank transfers.