Plumbing Repair: Water Heater And Water Line Repair | Atlanta, GA
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Our home’s plumbing is something that we may take for granted at times. We turn on the tap and hot or cold water comes out. Easy enough, until the water doesn’t appear. Other signs of a problem include cold water when you turn on the hot tap and brown or discolored water instead of the clear, sparkling appearance you were expecting. Some homeowners in Atlanta, GA, prefer DIY repairs, but it’s very easy to make mistakes on plumbing repairs that can lead to even more costly restoration after water damage. A professional plumber gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home’s plumbing is in good working order without worrying about accidental problems arising from an amateur repair job.
Water Heaters
Water heaters are in use almost constantly throughout the day. We use them while we’re showering, washing clothes, washing dishes, or cooking. It’s extremely inconvenient when a hot water heater isn’t working properly. Regular service can keep your water heater in good repair, but there’s always a chance something could go wrong.
Leaks
Plumbing repairs are almost unavoidable after a few years of use. Leaks are the most common problem. It’s important to fix leaks as quickly as possible because even small amounts of water can do a lot of damage. It’s even more important if your water heater is positioned somewhere that gives leaking water access to your home’s foundation.
Leaks are sometimes due to physical damage. Even a small crack can let surprisingly large amounts of water leak out. Cracks may or may not be repairable, depending on their size and location. Your plumber can offer advice after evaluating the tank. If a crack is too serious, it may be cheaper and safer to replace the hot water heater.
Temperature and Pressure
The temperature and relief valve is responsible for releasing water if the pressure inside the tank builds up beyond safe limits. Pressure can increase if the temperature is too high or if the water pressure in your home increases. A faulty relief valve is a safety hazard.
Temperature issues are another relatively common reason for a plumbing repair. Water can be too cold or too hot. Most people generally think of a faulty hot water heater producing cold water, but a faulty thermostat can let water reach temperatures high enough to cause burns. If the thermostat is set too high, you may be able to figure out how to fix it using the owner’s manual.
Cold water may be caused by a lack of power. Sometimes this can be fixed by resetting a circuit breaker or replacing a fuse. Other possible issues include a faulty thermostat or heating element. These elements are replaceable, but you always have to weigh the cost of repairs against the age and general condition of your hot water heater.
Water Lines
Water lines are another common focus of plumbing repairs. An absence of hot water is an inconvenience, but not having any water at all makes life very difficult. We need water for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. Pets need a consistent supply of fresh, clean water. Water is brought into our homes through a network of pipes that collectively form the home’s water line. We turn on the tap and water comes out because water lines transport fresh water from municipal infrastructure in Atlanta, GA.
Potential Damages
Required plumbing repairs are determined by a variety of factors, such as the age of the lines and the material they’re made of. Copper water lines tend to cost more than PEX pipes, so PEX has become more popular in recent years. Galvanized steel pipes may need repairs after a relatively short period of service. Even copper lines that could potentially last over 50 years are going to need a repair at some point.
Normal wear and tear, corrosive materials in soil, changes in hydraulic pressure, ground shifts, tree root infiltration, rodents and other pests can all damage water lines. Plumbing repairs could be necessary due to mineral residue and buildup over time. A faulty installation when the home was built and the first water lines were installed can also contribute to future plumbing repairs.
Professional plumbing repairs for water lines are necessary because accessing water lines isn’t easy. It’s never easy to reach structures underground, and it’s even harder if lines run underneath the home’s foundation. Sometimes water lines in two story homes also run through walls. It’s very easy for an amateur to make a costly mistake with such repairs.
Consequences of Leaks
Wet spots in the yard are a common sign of a faulty water line. Of course, wet areas, soggy patches, and puddles are normal after it rains. It’s time to worry when those same signs appear when it hasn’t rained recently. A leaky water line can let more than 90 gallons of water seep out on a daily basis. Most of this water makes it to the surface as the ground becomes more saturated.
It’s important to get the problem fixed quickly because the saturated ground can cause shifting and corrosion that may cause even more damage. Water can flow out of your yard and into the street if the leak occurs in certain locations. You should arrange for plumbing repairs right away if this happens so you aren’t liable for damage to roads, sidewalks, or neighboring properties. Leaks may eventually release enough water to let a sinkhole form, which creates even bigger problems.
Contact Peach Plumbing & Drain If you experience problems with your hot water heater or water lines in Atlanta, GA. The professional licensed plumbers at Peach can help you with all of your plumbing issues and even offer emergency services when something happens that can’t wait for business hours.