5 Surefire Signs You Need Water Heater Repair
One of the worst things that can happen with your home plumbing is a water heater issue. Admittedly, a new water heater is not the sexiest purchase, but it is the one way to guarantee that you get hot water into your home. At the end of the day, hot water is one of the most important things you need in your home. That means that maybe you should pay more attention to your water heater than you currently do. Worried you might miss a plumbing emergency?
You won’t if you know what to look for. The following is a quick look at five surefire signs you need water heater repair. If you know the signs that your water heater is malfunctioning, then you will know how to properly troubleshoot them so that you don’t have to worry about losing hot water at an inconvenient time. Most people wait until they lose hot water, or there is another obvious sign to call a plumber, but the smart option is to recognize you have a plumbing issue and get help from a registered plumber.
Take a minute to read over the following list of signs and keep them in the back of your mind so that if you recognize any of them, you can call a plumber. A little bit of proactive service is always a better choice for everyone versus calling an emergency plumber to deal with a flood in your basement from a busted tank. In addition, you should consider booking a water heater service if your unit is aging. A service is designed to evaluate the lifespan of a unit and correct any issues that are identified before any large symptoms arise. It is something that you should consider if you want to keep your water heater in proper shape.
Water Is Starting to Pool Around the Heater
One big sign that you have an issue with your water heater is any sign of moisture. Leaks and moisture indicate that your water heater is rusting or something is wrong with the inlet valves. This presents a number of different problems for homeowners, all of which need to be correctly corrected. A small continuous leak may not look like a big deal, but it can quickly lead to water damage. Not only can a small leak cause floor damage, but it can also lead to mold or mildew, which is a completely different and difficult situation to deal with.
Of course, outside of the water damage, the main problem with a water leak from the water heater is that it likely means your system is starting to rust. While you may not always see the rust on the outside, if there is a leak, then you know there is rust inside of your tank. This not only means that your tank is starting to die, but it also means that you may be unwillingly consuming rust in your water. With that in mind, any sign of water coming from your tank means an extra phone call to the plumbers.
Water is Starting to Look Rusty
Speaking of rust, sometimes you can see signs of rust in your hot water. You don’t have to wait for a leak to notice the rust and take proactive action. Sometimes people notice that their water is starting to have a brown or red hue, while others notice that there are small flecks of brown matter in their water. Another sign that there is rust in your water is a metallic taste. While you don’t often drink hot water, you usually start to smell or taste some while showering or washing your face. Don’t ignore these little signs. Use them as indicators that it is time to call a plumber for water heater repair.
Hot Water Pressure is Changing
Another sign that you are probably having issues with your water heater is if you notice that the water pressure is changing from day to day. Sediment builds up on the bottom of the water tank over time and can affect the water pressure in your home. If you notice that the shower pressure seems to be dropping or the hot water pressure in your kitchen sink is not what it used to be, then it may be time to look into the issue in a bit more depth. While there are various explanations for water pressure issues, water heater repair is one of the possibilities.
Loud Noises Coming from Hot Water Heater
Another big sign that you need to call a plumber is if you start to notice that loud noises are coming from your hot water heater. There is never a good reason for noises to come from your water heater, and they usually indicate something wrong with a component inside of it. They also can indicate that too much pressure is building up without your water heater, so you don’t want to wait too long to call for help.
You Have to Race to Finish a Shower
Finally, if you need to race to finish a shower because your hot water is running out a lot faster than it used to, then something is going on with your hot water heater. Either it is not warming up as fast as it used to, or it is not properly heating the water evenly in the tank. This is a clear sign that you need to call for water heater repair before you run out of hot water completely.
If you suspect it is time to call a plumber, give Peach Plumbing & Drain a call. We will be glad to schedule a repair visit.
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Things To Know Before Installing a Point of Use Water Heater by A Professional Plumber
Have you ever keenly observed how much water you use in a month? Or how much electricity your household uses monthly? Studies by the United States Environmental Protection Agency show that every average family can use at least 20% less water than their current water usage by installing water-efficient appliances and fixtures. Therefore, your current water bill can be reduced by at least 20%, especially when a certified plumber does the installation. Notably, this is advantageous because of the cost implication and because it helps in water conservation, especially when global warming impacts are being left. If you have noticed that you have been having issues with your water not heating up fast enough or that your water costs are suddenly very high, it is best to consider installing a point-of-use water heater. But since this is also a financial investment, it is advisable to do some research before venturing into the market. Therefore, below is a deeply outlined article with everything you need to know about a point-of-use water heater.
Definition of a Point of Use Water Heater
This is a water heater located at its place of use instead of a central location. Due to placing a point-of-use water heater close to where the hot water is needed, the hot water dispensation is quick and efficient. Therefore, the efficiency and quick supply, the point of use water heater is a great alternative to the traditional central hot water storage. Conventional hot water storage takes longer for the hot water to reach the necessary place.
How is a Point of Use Water Heater Powered?
A point-of-use water heater works through the power of electricity. However, there are other types, such as gas-powered point-of-use water heaters. But these types of point-of-use water heaters are very rare. Their scarcity in the market is because their installation cost is higher than the electrically powered point-of-use water heater. Additionally, it takes an expert plumber a long time to install them due to the complication of their venting and gas line requirements.
How Does a Point-of-Use Water Heater Work?
The electronically powered point-of-use water heater has two main types. The first is the water tank point-of-use water heater version, and the second is the tankless point-of-use water heater. The water tank version uses a heating element to convert electrical energy into heat energy. The heat energy heats water, which is then stored within the tank, ready for use.
On the other hand, the tankless point-of-use water heater has a heating element that heats cold water as it passes through the water unit. Therefore, as its name suggests, the tankless point-of-use water heater does not have a standby water tank with heated water. Consequently, this point-of-use water heater requires a higher electricity ampere than the water point-of-use water heater.
Which Are the Common Applications for Point of Use Water Heaters?
The main working principle of the point-of-use water heater is that you can use it anywhere in your house. Since the plumber can install it right close to the point of need, it is multifunctional. However, some of the most commonly used places include your shower. This greatly differs from the conventional water heaters since the only water you will need to heat, especially in the tank point of use water heater, is for the shower. The traditional central heater must have a large quantity of hot water for the entire house.
A point-of-use water heater is also commonly placed under the kitchen sink. This is essential for cleaning the dishes and general kitchen use, such as washing cooking ingredients and cleaning hands. Finally, most homeowners choose to install the point of use water heater close to the washing machine in the laundry area. Therefore, if any of the mentioned areas do not have an adequate hot water supply, you should install a point-of-use water heater.
Which are the Benefits of Point-of-Use Water Heaters?
Heats Water Faster
The first and most renowned advantage of a point-of-use water heater is its ability to heat water and immediately make it available for your need. Unlike the conventional water heater, where you mu wait for the water to heat up, the point-of-use water heater provides hot water as soon as you open the tap.
Keeps Water Hot Through Out
Since a plumber will install a POU water heater close to the point of need, its water supply is always hot whenever you need it. However, if your water heater is far from the point of need, which is mostly the case with conventional tank water heaters, then you might barely get hot water since it cools down as it travels to the location. The point-of-use water heater solves this problem by being close to the point of use, guaranteeing fast and continuous hot water.
Saves You Money
The point-of-use water heater plays a very important part in saving you money. Since you will not have to wait for the water to heat up, it eliminates water wastage, leading to hiked monthly water bills. In addition, due to its small and compact design, its initial purchasing and maintenance costs are low compared to conventional water heater prices. Therefore, once you make it your home’s choice of water heater, you are assured of hot water provision and a low maintenance fee. Finally, the electrical energy used to heat water in a point-of-use water heater is comparatively lower than in a traditional water heater system. Therefore, this system is important in minimizing energy consumption and, thus, the monthly electricity bill.
Is A Point of Use Water Heater Best For You?
If you have a home where most of your taps are far away from your water heater and you constantly have to wait for the water in your taps to heat up, installing a point-of-use water heater will solve all these issues. Call us at Peach Plumbing & Drain for point-of-use water heater installation services.
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Stainless Steel Vs. Copper Water Heater Heat Exchangers: Advice Form a Plumber
Your home’s plumbing system has so many parts which work together to bring out its efficient working. These parts vary from the most noticeable components, such as the main supply water line, the drainage system, and output devices, such as facets and sinks. Then there are the more complex parts, such as the water heating system and its components like the isolation valves, recirculation pump, and heat exchangers. With the guide and explanation of a plumber, these are easy parts to understand their meaning and operation. Although you may not be the one to repair these parts, it is crucial to know their function and, most notably, their role in your plumbing system’s functionality. The knowledge will help you decide which devices to incorporate into your home. Therefore, this article will discuss heat exchangers. When you’re through, you can confidently pick the best type that works for your home to achieve the needed comfort.
What is A Heat Exchanger?
First, before answering what a heat exchanger is, it is essential to outline where it is found in your plumbing system. A heat exchanger is found in the tankless water heater of your home and is considered the component of the water heater. A heat exchanger is part of a tankless water heater that heats the cold water from the main supply line. It is the part responsible for giving you hot water throughout your home. However, although you may learn about heat exchangers, opening the tankless water heater is not advisable. This part should be left to a skilled plumber.
Which are The Types of a Heat Exchangers?
There are two significant types of heat exchangers available in the market. These include stainless steel heat exchangers and copper heat exchangers. As the name suggests, a stainless-steel heat exchanger is made from stainless steel, while a copper heat exchanger is made of copper. Although other materials can be used to make heat exchangers, these two types are considered the best since they are the most effective and cheap. However, this factor causes a crucial question, which is the best heat exchanger between the two types? To satisfactorily answer this, let us look at the benefits and drawbacks of each type.
Benefits of a Copper Heat Exchanger
Fast Hot Water
A copper heat exchanger heats water fast due to the conducting ability of the copper material. Therefore, when a plumber installs this type of heat exchanger, you are assured of getting hot water at a faster rate. If you like instant hot water for your showers, this would be the best choice for your home. In cases where a copper heat exchanger takes a few seconds to heat water, it would take a stainless-steel heat exchanger up to a minute to heat the water.
Drawback
Hard Water Damage
The copper heat exchanger’s most significant disadvantage is its material’s affinity to scale buildup. If you are yet to incorporate a water-softening procedure in your home, this might not be your best option. This is because scale buildup due to hard water usage happens quickly in a copper heat exchanger. Consequently, the buildup will reduce water flow over time, compromising the system’s efficiency. This will cause unwanted problems such as early breakdown of your tankless water heater leading to unnecessary and expensive repairs by a professional.
A Benefit and Drawback of Stainless-Steel Heat Exchangers
Benefit
The most significant benefit that a stainless-steel heat exchanger will offer your home is its ability to fight off scale buildup from hard water usage. Therefore, even if your home does not have a water treatment system, the stainless-steel heat exchanger will fight off the scale buildup and protect your tankless water heater from the effects. Although the stainless-steel heat exchanger may not be able to fight off the buildup entirely, the system will not be affected as rapidly as a copper heat exchanger.
Drawback
Unfortunately, a stainless-steel heat exchanger takes much time to heat water to the needed temperature, especially without a recirculating line. Therefore, it would take a long time before your shower water gets hot compared to the copper heat exchanger. Therefore, before getting a stainless-steel heat exchanger, it is advisable to consult a plumber. Due to its slow heating, the stainless-steel heat exchanger will also cause water wastage as you wait for the water to heat up. Consequently, this will drive your water bills higher and cause you to pay more.
What are the Major Differences Between a Stainless-Steel Heat Exchanger and a Copper Heat Exchanger?
The first notable difference between these two heat exchangers is that the copper heat exchanger will heat your water faster than the stainless-steel heat exchanger. Secondly, a copper heat exchanger is prone to scale buildup compared to a stainless-steel heat exchanger. This factor can cause dire effects on your tankless water heater, such as lowering the efficiency and thus its lifespan due to many unnecessary and avoidable repairs. In addition, the scale buildup will eventually incur a high amount to fix the damage caused to your tankless water heater. Finally, a stainless-steel heat exchanger might afford you a smoother, uninterrupted service in the earlier stages since it is not affected by hard water as much compared to the copper heat exchanger.
What are the Key Similarities Between a Stainless-Steel Heat Exchanger and a Copper Heat Exchanger?
The primary similarity between these two types of heat exchangers is that both heat your water. Additionally, in both, you should perform yearly maintenance. It will help protect your water heater and prolong its lifespan, meaning you won’t have to replace the unit soon.
A heat exchanger is essential to having hot water in your home. However, when it comes to the different types, both have very different and distinct benefits and drawbacks. To know which type is best for your home and installation service, contact us at Peach Plumbing & Drain.
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Understanding What a Vacuum Breaker Is and Its Benefits From Your Trusted Plumbing Service Provider
There are many confusing terms in the plumbing world, especially for a homeowner. When a plumbing service provider visits your home, you may feel lost and need clarification on the terms you hear. However, most of the devices your water technician mentions are around your home, and you have encountered them occasionally. For instance, have you heard the term vacuum breaker and wondered what it is? This article will explore the vacuum breaker. It will explain what it is, why it is necessary, and why your home needs one.
What is a Vacuum Breaker?
A vacuum breaker is an essential plumbing safety equipment in a plumbing system designed to prevent the backflow of contaminated into your home. Therefore, when installed by a skilled plumbing service provider, it plays a vital role in keeping the used water from flowing back and mixing with your home’s clean water.
A vacuum breaker consists of two check valves enclosed together in a housing. It works by eliminating the vacuum that would let used water from your home flow back into the house, mixing with your clean water supply. In most cases, vacuum breakers are used in outdoor hose spigots to prevent polluted water from being drawn into your clean water pipe. Hence, they protect your home against the harmful effects of polluted water. You can also use them in your garden or yard to guard against contaminated sources such as lawn fountains and sprinklers.
Conversely, this plumbing safety equipment is used indoors in refrigerator equipment with ice makers, floor drains, and other pipes where water backflow is possible due to negative pressure within your home’s plumbing system or back siphonage. Notably, confusing a vacuum breaker with a pressure release valve is easy. However, these two devices serve entirely different purposes.
On the one hand, a vacuum breaker prevents the backflow of water into your home by creating a breaking vacuum. Conversely, a pressure valve release reduces the system pressure caused by overpressure situations in your home due to faulty pressure regulators or unexpected events. The overpressure can also be a result of thermal expansion within your home.
Types Of Vacuum Breakers
A vacuum breaker prevents potentially hazardous water from flowing back into your home and mixing with your water supply. There are several types of vacuum breakers available in the market, which include the following;
Air Gap Vacuum Breaker
An air gap vacuum breaker is commonly used in residential settings. This type is primarily used to prevent contaminated water from being pulled from a swimming pool drain, sink, or any other system into your home’s main water line. Therefore, a skilled installation technician will advise you to buy this type of vacuum breaker when searching for one.
Other vacuum breaker types include:
- Hose bib locking clips.
- Pressure breakers.
- Freeze-safe anti-siphon devices.
- Atmospheric vacuum breakers.
- Sprinkler head anti-siphoning devices.
- Dual check valve assemblies.
Vacuum breakers are designed to protect your home’s drinking water when they sense a drop in pressure by breaking the vacuum in your plumbing system. Therefore, you should use these devices to protect your family’s health.
Benefits of Using a Vacuum Breaker
Prevent Vacuum Formation
A plumbing service provider uses a vacuum breaker to regulate the water flow in your water and irrigation systems to prevent a vacuum from forming in your vessels and pipes. A vacuum in your water line can lead to a decrease or negative pressure, pulling contaminants back into your system.
Protect Your Home from Backflow
Backflow is when water in your plumbing system flows backward toward your home. This abnormal flow is caused by a pressure decrease or vacuum presence in the system. Therefore, a vacuum breaker eliminated the vacuum hence preventing backflow.
Promotes Your Family’s Health
Since the vacuum breaker prevents contaminants from entering your clean water, dangerous chemicals and other pollutants do not get into your water. Therefore, this keeps your water supply clean and safe for use around your home.
Saves You Money
If a backflow event happens in your home, it requires expensive repairs and system cleaning to restore your system functionality. A vacuum breaker eliminates the possibility of backflow into your home, thus keeping it safe from contaminants and saving you money. In addition, a vacuum breaker will reduce your monthly bills since it regulates your water pressure. Therefore, your monthly bills reduce due to regulated water pressure in your home.
Simple Maintenance
Vacuum breakers have fewer moving parts, reducing their wear and tear rate. This also makes them simple to maintain and repair.
Eco-friendly
A vacuum breaker contributes to keeping the environment safe and clean by limiting wastewater flow only in one direction. This eliminates the possibility of wastewater flowing to the surface, keeping natural resources safe and reducing water pollution.
Typical Applications with Vacuum Breakers
Vacuum breakers are installed by a plumbing service provider in many plumbing systems to protect against backflow and vacuum formation in water systems. Therefore, they are commonly used in residential settings to make the water supply clean and safe.
A vacuum breaker can also be used in commercial and industrial settings like nursing homes, hospitals, schools, factories, restaurants, and other places with access to drinking water. Some other applications for vacuum breakers include
- Fire protection systems
- Irrigation Systems
- Industrial Processing Cooling Systems
- Pressure Washers
- Steam Boilers
- Power Plant Cooling Towers
In industrial settings, vacuum breakers allow air into the pipes filled with pressure when water is not in use. When there is a high demand for water in the system with negative pressure, the breaker sends a warning signal indicating a problem.
A vacuum breaker is a virtual device that protects your family and plumbing system from backflow into your clean water. It also helps you to care for the environment and saves you money. Do you want one installed at your home? Contact your reliable plumbers at Peach Plumbing & Drain today for professional installation service.
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Upgrades To Save You From Unending Plumbing Repairs
Plumbing is a crucial part of any well-functioning home. A well-maintained plumbing system ensures that water flows freely, hygiene is upheld, and utility bills remain manageable. However, despite our best efforts to keep our plumbing systems in excellent condition, they are still prone to damage, which requires frequent repairs and replacements. Constantly repairing your plumbing system can be costly, not to mention that it can be disruptive to your daily routine. Fortunately, you can avoid this by upgrading your plumbing system. In this blog post, we’ll look at some upgrades that can help you avoid unending plumbing repairs.
Install a Water Softener
Hard water can wreak havoc on your plumbing system and appliances over time. You’ll have to deal with a buildup of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can damage pipes, reduce water pressure and shorten the lifespan of your appliances. This could explain why you have been spending a lot of money on frequent repairs and replacements. A water softener is an upgrade that will remove hard minerals from your water supply, making it gentler on your pipes and appliances. Also, with a water softener, you’ll use less soap, shampoo, or detergent to get the desired results, saving you considerable money in the long run. Therefore, investing in a water softener will save you frequent calls to a plumber for repairs and replacements and help you save money on utility bills.
Upgrade Your Water Heater
A leaky or faulty water heater is one of the most common plumbing homeowners face. In extreme cases, you may have to get the entire system replaced. You should consider upgrading your water heater to avoid this and save yourself from unending repairs. Today’s market offers various energy-efficient models designed to operate at maximum efficiency, reducing your monthly energy bills and reducing the frequency of repairs.
In addition, a new water heater can also improve the quality of your daily routine. With a new water heater, you won’t have to worry about cold showers or unexpected water leaks. Instead, you’ll enjoy consistent hot water and peace of mind knowing that your plumbing system works efficiently. So why wait? Upgrade your water heater today and start enjoying a plumbing system that works for you, not against you.
Install an Automatic Water Shut-Off Valve
Have you ever come home to a flooded bathroom or kitchen due to a burst pipe? It can be stressful and expensive, so installing an automatic water shut-off valve is a smart upgrade for any homeowner. This device detects leaks or other issues with the plumbing system and immediately shuts off the water supply, preventing further damage to your home. One of the reasons you are facing endless plumbing repairs is that minor leaking and other issues were not addressed on time before they could cause further damage. When you have a valve to detect problems and immediately shut off the water supply, you can call a plumber to handle the repairs without worrying about further damage.
Tankless Water Heater
A traditional water heater with a tank can cause plumbing problems, such as corrosion and sediment buildup. A tankless water heater is an upgrade that eliminates those issues while providing hot water on demand. A tankless water heater is smaller, more energy-efficient, and can last up to twice as long as a traditional one. Although the initial cost may be higher, a tankless water heater will save you money on your energy bill and repairs in the long run.
Water Pressure Regulator
High water pressure is the leading cause of leaks throughout a plumbing system. If your pipes are under high pressure, they can risk bursting or leaking. Installing a water pressure regulator is a great way to protect your pipes and appliances from excessive pressure, preventing leaks and other damage from occurring. This upgrade will also ensure a consistent water flow throughout your home while conserving water and reducing environmental impact. Don’t let plumbing issues drain your wallet – upgrade to a water pressure regulator today.
Install Modern Plumbing Fixtures
Old fixtures can wear out easily and need regular plumbing repairs. Upgrading to modern fixtures like low-flow toilets, efficient showerheads, and aerators can reduce water usage and save you money on your water bill. Low-flow toilets use less water and require fewer repairs, while efficient showerheads and aerators reduce water consumption by regulating the amount of water used. Modern fixtures can also add aesthetic value to your home, making it easier to sell in the future. It’s a win-win situation – upgrade your fixtures today and enjoy reliable plumbing and cost savings.
Repipe Your House
If your house is old, the pipes could be corroded, rusted, or infested with mineral deposits. This can lead to leaks, reduced water flow, and pipe damage. Repiping your house involves replacing old pipes with new ones made of durable materials like PVC or copper. If you have been experiencing plumbing issues frequently, repiping is a long-term solution that can save you money on repairs and damages caused by leaks or pipe bursts.
Invest In Professional Plumbing Inspection
Upgrading your plumbing system may seem expensive in the short term, but it can save you a lot of money and time in the long term by preventing frequent plumbing repairs. However, even with all the above upgrades, it is essential to maintain your plumbing system regularly. This includes checking for leaks, cleaning your drains, and scheduling a regular maintenance appointment with a licensed plumber. Regular maintenance can help detect plumbing issues early, prevent extensive damage, and prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system.
We Can Help With These Upgrades!
Don’t let plumbing problems take over your home. Call us at Peach Plumbing & Drain and let our experienced professionals help you upgrade your plumbing system. From water pressure regulators to repiping, we have the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively complete all these essential upgrades. Contact us today for more information.
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