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How The Drain Relining Process Can Solve Your Plumbing Issues

Introduction

Have you ever experienced a drain emergency at home? Is that persistent drip-drip sound keeping you up at night? Or perhaps you’re dealing with a constantly clogged drain that refuses to be vanquished, no matter how much drain cleaner you attempt to battle it with. Well, the good news is drain relining might be just the solution you’ve been scanning the horizon for. This blog post aims to uncover the intricacies of this innovative method and demonstrate how it can solve your plumbing issues in the long run.

Plumbing problems strike every home at one point or another, yet many homeowners are unaware of the array of solutions available at their fingertips. Enter drain relining – a non-invasive, cost-effective, and highly efficient method of dealing with pipe and drain issues that don’t involve ripping up your precious flooring or landscaping. But what exactly is drain relining, and why should you consider it as your solution of choice?

Let’s delve right into the heart of drain relining to comprehend how this process truly works, its myriad benefits, and potential drawbacks. Before all that though, it’s imperative to fully understand what leads to damaged pipes in the first place. Here is a concrete examination of the procedure, allowing you to distinguish whether it is the ideal solution for your plumbing predicaments.

Understanding Pipe Damage And The Need For Repair

Every homeowner dreads the moment they discover a leak or a clog in their pipes. It’s a daunting task, especially when you’re completely unaware of what’s causing the issue. From temperature variations, soil shifts, and tree root intrusions, to simple wear and tear over time, numerous factors can contribute to pipe damage.

In most scenarios, minor problems can quickly escalate if left untreated, leading to significant damage and, subsequently, extravagant repair costs. This is why early detection and resolution are critical in maintaining the health of your plumbing system.

Drain relining emerges as a modern and effective solution to this age-old problem. But to adequately appreciate its stronghold as a preferred method of repair, you must first comprehend what the procedure entails and how it’s carried out.

What Is Drain Relining And How It Works

Drain relining, often referred to as ‘Cured-in-Place Pipe’ (CIPP), is a no-dig process used to repair damaged pipelines. This technique involves inserting a liner soaked with resin into the damaged pipe, which is then inflated and left to cure, forming a new pipe within the old one.

The process commences with a diagnostic drain survey to determine the nature and extent of the damage. Once this is ascertained, the problem area is cleaned thoroughly, and a tailor-made liner is inserted into the pipe. Consequently, the liner is cured or hardened, effectively creating a sturdy, new pipe within the existing one.

Unlike traditional methods that require excavation, drain relining is non-invasive, swift, and generally less costly, making it an ideal solution for property owners grappling with damaged plumbing systems.

Benefits Of Drain Relining

There’s no denying that drain relining has transformed the landscape of plumbing repairs, offering numerous exciting benefits. Firstly, the no-dig methodology makes it a faster, cleaner alternative to traditional methods.

Secondly, drain relining provides a strengthened and more durable ‘pipe within a pipe,’ offering enhanced resistance to future damages. Thirdly, it’s a versatile method, suitable for various pipe materials and diameters.

Lastly, the extended lifespan and low maintenance requirements of relined pipes culminate in significant cost savings, satisfying both your pipes and pockets!

Potential Drawbacks Of Drain Relining

As promising as it may seem, like any other method, drain relining isn’t devoid of its downsides. Firstly, though infrequent, there is a possibility of the resin not setting correctly, which might require rectification.

Secondly, drain relining might not be applicable if your pipe is heavily fractured or collapsed. Lastly, despite being cost-effective in the long run, the initial costs can be higher than traditional methods, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Conclusion

Plumbing issues are no surprise to homeowners. Despite their inevitability, the ways to tackle them have diversified significantly over the years. Drain relining stands out in this milieu – a unique blend of innovation and functionality, solving plumbing issues effectively and ensuring longevity.

Undoubtedly, the convenience, speed, versatility, and cost-effectiveness of drain relining make it a formidable contender in the world of pipe repairs. But, as with any home improvement decision, it’s essential to thoroughly weigh up the pros and cons and engage a reputable, skilled professional to do the job. After all, the health of your home’s plumbing system lies in good hands; make sure they’re the best ones.

So, if you’re grappling with pesky plumbing predicaments, drain relining might just be your knight in shining Armor, ready to rescue your home from the distress of leaking or clogged pipes!

How Do Experts Help with Leaking Pipe and Repair Services?

Water damage is a common and costly problem that a homeowner can face. Leaks can cause extensive damage in a short amount of time, so it’s essential to address them as soon as possible. Additionally, the EPA reports that, “Household leakscan waste approximately nearly 900 billion gallons of water annually nationwide.”

If you’re experiencing a water leak, it’s important to call a professional plumber for accurate leak detection. They can diagnose the problem and provide solutions for repairing the leak and restoring your home from water damage.

Here are some ways experts can help with leaking pipes and repair services.

1. Locating the Source of the Issue

The first step in fixing a leaking pipe is to locate the source of the leak. It can be difficult if the leak is small or in a hard-to-reach area. However, experts have tools and techniques that they can use to quickly and accurately locate leaks.

Once the source of the leakage has been located, the expert will then be able to determine the course of action for repair. Some common reasons for leaks include:

-Damage to the pipe itself

-A loose connection

-Corrosion

-Blockages

2. Determining the Cause of the Leak

After accurate leak detection, the next step is to determine the cause of the leak. It can be done by checking the pipes and fixtures themselves, or it could require further investigation through pipe camera inspection services.

In some situations, the problem may be as simple as a loose connection that needs to be tightened, while other times, it could be something more severe like a broken pipe. Once the cause of the leak has been determined, the necessary repairs can be made.

3. Repairing the Leak

There are different methods to repair leaking pipes. Some of them are:

-Replacing the damaged portion

-Using a pipeliner

-Applying an epoxy coating

Each method has its set of pros and cons. Therefore, it is best to consult with a professional before deciding which repair method to use.

For example, a pipe liner will work best if the damage to the pipe is not too extensive. However, replacing the damaged portion may be a better option if the damage is severe.

Applying an epoxy coating is another popular repair method. The method can be used for both small and large leaks. In addition, epoxy coatings are durable and can last for many years.

4. Restoring Water Damage

It is vital to have a plan for water damage restoration in case of an unforeseen pipe leak. Water damage can wreak havoc in homes, causing severe structural damage and creating the perfect environment for mold. A professional will have the proper equipment to quickly dry out your home and prevent further damage.

5. Preventing Future Leaks

Lastly, professional plumbers will help prevent future leaks from occurring. It is done by repairing any current damage and ensuring that your pipes are in good condition.

For example, plumbers will install new washers in your faucets and ensure that all the connections in your pipes are secure.

Final Words

Leakages in the pipes are a cause of great concern for any homeowner. It is essential to know how to identify these leakages and to take quick corrective measures. Experts in this field can help you do just that.

6 Plumbing Problems Homeowners May Encounter

Home is where we go to relax after a long day at work. It’s where we get to unwind, release the stress from our day and be at ease. But just as you’re getting ready to sit down with a hot meal, a glass of wine, and your favorite show, a gush of water washes your plans down the drain.

At some point, every homeowner will encounter plumbing problems. They can potentially be the most frustrating kind of problem you can experience with a home. They also extend beyond leaky faucets and clogged drains. 

Here are six issues that can happen to your plumbing.

1. Dripping Faucets

A dripping faucet may seem innocuous but as water drips down the drain, so does your money. If a faucet drips once a second, that’s 86,400 drops a day. One gallon of water has 15,140 drops of water, which is 5.7 gallons of water wasted a day.

That’s just for one faucet – if you leave your faucets as is, expect your water bill to skyrocket. Fixing a leaking faucet can be as simple as putting in new O-rings. 

2. Water Heater Plumbing Problems

Issues with water heaters are easy to spot. If you turn on your hot water and it never heats up, there’s a problem.

Other signs of water heater issues can include dripping water, puddles of water, noises from your water heater, and discolored water. Some issues you can fix yourself, but in most cases, you’ll want to call a plumber.

3. Leaky Pipes

Leaking pipes can be a symptom of other plumbing issues. 

Some reasons for leaking pipes can include clogs, pipe corrosion, pipe joint damage, cracked seals, and a buildup of water pressure. As soon as you see pipes leaking, call a plumber. When left alone, leaking pipes can cause damage to your plumbing system and home.

4. Toilet Leaks

Leaks in toilets aren’t an obvious problem. A leak in your toilet doesn’t leave a mess on your floor. Instead, it allows water to flow down the drain, taking your money with it. 

If your toilet runs all the time, it most likely has a leak. A common reason for this issue is the rubber flapper in the tank losing its shape. When it loses its shape, it fails to seal the tank properly.

5. Clogged Toilets

Clogged toilets are one of the most unpleasant plumbing issues you can have. In most cases, all you need to do is take your plunger to it to release the clog. If multiple toilets in your house are clogged, this can be indicative of a larger plumbing issue.

6. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common issue in old houses, but it can happen in new homes too. It can happen suddenly or over time, depending on the cause. A leaking pipe can cause low water pressure, but a water main break will cause problems for you and the rest of your neighborhood.

Quality Home Improvements

Plumbing problems can upend your plans, but contacting a plumber as soon as possible can save your plumbing and the rest of your home. If you spot leaking pipes, issues with your water heater, and multiple clogged toilets, you could have bigger issues at play. 

Don’t wait to get them fixed, or you’ll have to shell out more money to fix more problems.

4 Sure Signs Your Home Has Water Damage

Plumbing issues can be a pain to fix at times. They may not seem like a big deal but can lead to more significant issues if not taken care of quickly.

One of the most prominent is water damage. It can stem from plumbing issues and other problem areas in your home.

Is it possible to detect early signs of water damage? Of course, and we’ll tell you how below.

1. Visible Stains

A telltale sign you have water damage in your home is stains on your wall or ceiling. You’ll usually see a yellowish-brown color expanding in whichever way the water goes.

First, check for leaks in areas of your home that frequently use water, such as:

  • Kitchen
  • Bathroom
  • Laundry rooms

While inspecting these areas, take the time to examine the floors. Water can travel into floor crevices and cause visible damage their too.

2. Growing Mold 

Another sign you may have a water damage problem is mold spots popping up around your house. Mold grows when areas in your home remain damp. You’ll likely see black and brown spots growing from the water-damaged areas.

When you’re exposed to mold for lengthy periods, you’ll start to develop allergy-like symptoms such as:

  • Lung irritation
  • Itchy eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing

If you spot any mold around your home, make a plan to get rid of it right away. You can clean it up with mold remover or use DIY cleaning solutions, like combining water and vinegar.

3. Musty Odors

Have you walked into your home recently and caught a musty smell in the air? Rain could have gotten into your home, which could cause a musty smell. Or, you may have an older home, which will create its own odor.

But it could also be a sign of water damage to your property. Damp areas left without oxygen can create mold, which contributes to the musty smell around your home.

4. Damaged Floors

As previously mentioned, it’s essential to inspect your floors for water damage when water leaks from other areas. If you see cracks in your tiles or wood flooring, that could signal water damage.

Yes, the sign is obvious, but most homeowners overlook it because there’s no standing water nearby. But further delay could deteriorate your flooring even more. 

Do regular checks to ensure none of your flooring materials has any present cracks. You can also use this helpful link to learn how water restoration companies take care of water damage issues around the home.

Know Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

Sometimes water damage signs can be evident, while other situations may call for a more in-depth analysis of your home. However, if you think you have a water damage problem, it would be better to fix it before it worsens.

Smaller issues can be dealt with through DIY means. But if you think the damage is more extensive, find a local professional to assess the situation and help with repairs.

If you’ve enjoyed our article, feel free to check out our blog. Hopefully, you’ll find related content that interests you.

What to Do if Your Water Heater Makes Strange Rattling Noises?

Montgomery County is one of the densely populated areas in Maryland. The place is home to around 1.1 million people in the US. If you are buying a home here, you can contact the top Montgomery County plumbers to fix leakage issues in your home.

Among the common plumbing problems, water heater noises are commonly found in most homes. Noises can be tough to pinpoint since you cannot see the source of the noise. Here are some easy ways in which you can deal with water heater issues in the US.

Common Reasons for Water Heater Problems

The Residential Construction and Fire Code Compliance Division of Montgomery are responsible for maintaining the structural components of buildings in the County. Expert Montgomery County plumbers adhere to the rules and regulations of the government to fix water problems in the area.

Here are some common reasons for water heater noises in homes.

No Hot Water

An apparent reason for no supply of hot water is that your tank’s thermostat might have been set too low. It means the water heater isn’t heating up to the temperature it needs to for you to get hot water.

Leaking Water Heater

Montgomery County also conducts regular plumbing inspection programs to check the area’s sewage and water supply systems.

To check for leaking, you must turn off all power or fuel supplies to your water heater then carefully remove its front access door. Next, look for any obvious signs of leaks, water stains, or puddles. If you find signs of leaking at the bottom, this could indicate a problem with your drain valve.

On the other hand, if you see water around the top of the heater, it may be time to replace gaskets or seals in your access door or top.

Not Enough Hot Water

Water heaters can be a tough product to maintain, and when there’s a problem, it usually means you’re going to have a cold shower. This is especially aggravating if the water heater isn’t that old. However, it’s not always necessary to purchase a new model or call in an expensive professional for repairs. Many problems are easy to fix with the right professional help.

Leaking T&P Valve

A T&P valve is required when your tank-type water heater is in direct contact with a basement or crawl space. It’s designed and installed to provide an added layer of protection in the event that the water in your tank overheats and begins to leak.

When you hear a hissing noise coming from the top of your water heater:

·           It may be a T&P valve, which is designed to relieve excessive pressure. This means it has done its job; you can turn it back down and stop worrying about an exploding tank.

When the hissing continues:

·      The sound could mean that the T&P valve is stuck open. This isn’t a serious problem, but it should be checked out if you want to avoid wasting energy or experiencing weird changes in your pressure levels.

·      It could also mean that the T&P valve has sprung a leak, which needs immediate attention because it can cause water damage to your home.

Improperly Adjusted Temperature Controls

It’s possible that your water heater’s thermostat might not be set correctly. As a result, there will be less hot water available than usual. The solution is to turn up the temperature of the controls so more heat is produced by the tank—not just transferred through it by radiation and conduction.

Common Signs That You Have a Leaking Pipe at Home

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that approximately 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted yearly due to leaking pipes. What’s even more alarming? Research shows that 10% of homeowners waste a staggering 90 gallons per day!

If anything, the importance of early leak detection cannot be overstated. When leaks go undetected for a long time, you will not only waste water, you will also be wasting money. Ultimately, you might also cause severe damage to your property.

Spot leaky pipes at home early by looking for the following telltale signs:

Skyrocketing water bills

Expect the bill to be high during the summer if you have a pool or sprinkler. However, a skyrocketing water bill can also be a sign of something else: a leaking pipe. Keep an eye on your monthly water bill. If you notice a dramatic increase, look for possible leaks immediately.

Visible mildew and mold

A little mildew and mold in your shower are normal. However, if you notice mold and mildew outside your tub, it is likely that you have a pipe leak. Mold in your baseboards, walls, floors, and ceilings are also not normal. Often, they are clear indicators of a leaking pipe.

Stained walls, ceilings, and floors

Even small stains on your walls, ceilings, and floors can be attributed to a pipe leak. If not fixed right away, the leak can end up causing significant damage. For a comprehensive list of signs that point to a leaking pipe, check out the infographic below.

Common Signs That You Have A Leaking Pipe At Home

DIY Vs. Professional Plumbing: Exclusive Home Improvement Guide

Any upcoming plans of plumbing, repiping, or replacing your outdated water heater?

Home maintenance is an essential factor ensuring the comfort and safety of your place. Plumbing is one of the initial steps in home maintenance and improvement. When you live in a house or apartment, rental or owned, repair and maintenance requirements never go out. All this requires plumbing, which is so simple that everyone can do it without any special instructions. So, you have to indulge in DIY stuff from time to time to manage things up for yourself. You can mend all the leaking taps and showerheads, drain clogging, and loose bolts. All you need is a little guidance. However, sometimes things mess up so much that you need a lot of professional interventions.

Sometimes small situations turn into the havoc that forbade you to try them ever by yourself. Try seeking professional support for that. Otherwise, you will end up making things a lot worse. For example, when you have to replace copper pipes, deal with short-circuiting, or remove entire fixtures, you can’t do it yourself. Or precisely, you will never want to. To help you evaluate your skills and teach you some new DIY techniques, we came up with this article. You will also learn when you have to ask for professional services. Continue reading to learn a lot more about DIY plumbing skills and how you can manage some straightforward and relatively minor fix without professional support.

  • SITUATIONS WHERE PROFESSIONAL REPAIR IS REQUIRED

Professional services become inevitable in worst-case scenarios. In these situations, you should never try any DIY repair technique. Otherwise, any error or any unattended plumbing problem can cost you thousands of dollars in an instant. Moreover, the repair of advanced and complex vanities installed gets slightly beyond a common man’s capabilities. In developed countries like America, people are extensively pursuing professional services. So, try to look for some professional licensed plumbers. Licensed plumbers avoid mistakes and have special training to get the job done right the first time to prevent further damage.

Following are the common plumbing repairs that need urgent professional support:

BATHROOM REMODELING:

Bathroom remodeling or generally any remodeling is an intricate business in which you have to deal with electric wiring, pipelines, etc. Try not to initiate the process all by yourself. Damaging any utility lines and pipes can cost you thousands if you are not careful enough. Also, consider any pipeline renovation under this plumbing repair necessity that requires professional assistance.

PIPE OR SEWER REPAIRS:

Unlike other situations, that’s an emergency. No matter how and why your underground pipelines are damaged, call for professional services in your area immediately. Either go for booking an online appointment for repipes in Irvine CA, before the matter of water discoloration or compromised water pressure comes forth. Lining repairs well handled in time are cured in place and reduce the cost required to complete new dig and replace methods. So, be very quick and vigilant in this case if you want to save up your thousands of dollars.

SPRINKLER RENOVATION:

Water pipelines prove a great mess if not appropriately dealt with in time. One mistake can not only ruin the whole system but can also hours and days to repair correctly. If there is some new installation of sprinkler or old one maintenance, hire a professional plumber to assist you. Ensure the professional plumber takes care of the fact that the new system is following the lawn premises.

EXTENSIVE FIXTURE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT:

Like we talked before about bathroom replacement or sprinkler revolution, professional support can prove gold in plumbing. The need to repair broken pipelines and for mega replacements of the entire water heating duct can be a call for help. You have to be very cautious in calling for professionals because only the expert knows which wall and area need fixation. Also, the cost can increase and will destroy your house’s major parts.

CABINETS/FLOORING/COUNTERTOP INSTALLS:

Install new cabinets, flooring, or countertops may seem fun and give the house a completely new look. However, the plumbing required to install all this is not that simple. Yeah, you will find some cabinets and countertops made user friendly with easy installation methods; however, most of them are not this way. Look into the installation method and check if you can easily install it. In the other case, ask for professional services instead of ruining the whole thing.

  • PLUMBING TASKS WHERE DIY IS APPLICABLE

Unlike the major tasks that need immediate attention, you can handle most everyday plumbing tasks independently. The DIY plumbing repair methods are simple, cost-effective, and straightforward and help you provide initial care in emergencies. However, before starting any DIY repair, do complete research, and know the things ultimately. In case you have any confusion, ask some professionals for support. While trying any DIY repair, remember that even minor hiccups can prove havocs in this case.

So, here are the things you can easily handle without much professional support on your own:

  1. Unlike remodeling the whole bathroom, you can do them yourself if you need to do small plumbing repairing tasks. For example: replacing toilet flappers, broken shower, chains, and other everyday use hardware like the sink, bathtub, etc.
  2. You can clear day to day drain clogs yourself in minutes. These drain clogs are not due to any technical fault but by gradual residual build-up and hair.
  3. Replacing everyday washing machine hoses also falls under this. You can also remove dishwasher clogs and upgrade sink faucets too. The reason is, most of the time, the same. You can either clear the residue using simple methods or replace them by simply loosening and tightening simple bolts.
  4. Adding mirrors, fixtures, and accessories can be the best home improvement idea. The installation and plumbing required in this js so simple that you can undertake the DIY plumbing technique to do it! If you have old fixtures such as toilets, faucets, dated appliances, you can turn them into some amazing things by just little retouching by simple DIY hacks.

CONCLUSION:

The professional vs. DIY plumbing repair is a long debate. It all revolves around the single factor that how easy to handle the task is for you and how well equipped with simple plumbing skills. You can also undertake significant plumbing tasks like bathroom renovation etc. at home easily only when you have confidence in what you can handle. If you happened to attend some workshops or have hands-on training, you could do it all.

As we are concluding; Handle any DIY project only when you are confident that you can handle the job. Contact the professionals and experts when you are not very sure about the severity of the situation.

How to Keep Your Plumbing Running Smoothly During the Winter

Certain precautions should be taken for the cold winter months to ensure that your plumbing system will still function without any problems. Not taking the right precautions could result in costly and potentially dangerous mishaps that could put the entire wellbeing of your home in jeopardy. Here are a few tips for keeping your plumbing running smoothly during the winter.

Wrap Pipes During Extreme Cold Spells

When temperatures are expected to drop below freezing for a prolonged period of time, it’s best to wrap your pipes to prevent them from bursting. Pipes that burst suddenly can cause major indoor flooding, extreme mold growth and other problems that can greatly compromise your home’s structure. Heat tape often works great as wrapping material for pipes, or you could also try using heat cables that are thermostatically controlled. Any cracks or other openings that might allow cold air to enter your pipes should be sealed thoroughly as well.

Drain Hard Water from Heater

If the water that you use in your home is hard, the buildup of sediment from this hard water can lead to the development of rust inside your water heater. Draining your water heater thoroughly can prevent this problem. You might also want to consider having your water heater replaced by plumbing experts who can install a new heater that will give you better performance while not being as prone to rust formation.

Disconnect Water Hoses

Any water hoses that stay attached to faucets could cause major plumbing problems when temperatures are freezing. These freezing temperatures can freeze any water inside a hose and cause the hose to expand. This freezing and expansion could wreak havoc on the faucet that a hose is connected to and result in additional plumbing problems.

Keep Outdoor Faucets from Freezing

In addition to disconnecting any attached hoses, there are other ways that you can prevent your outdoor faucets from freezing and hampering your plumbing system. A simple faucet cover often works wonders for preventing ice buildups in and around faucets. The outdoor supply valve should also be shut off to keep water that leads to your faucets from freezing. You can even invest in a frost-free faucet that’s designed to inhibit frost development naturally.

Winterizing your plumbing system is one of the smartest things that you can do for your home. Your home’s plumbing system doesn’t have to succumb to the hardships of winter if the right measures are in place.

Problems with Your Plumbing? Here’s 4 Easy Solutions to Common Problems

You might ignore the plumbing in a home or a business until you begin to have numerous problems, so you must learn how to cope with any issues that do occur. Here are four easy solutions for your plumbing problems that will make it possible to begin using the fixtures in the bathroom or the kitchen again.

Kitchen Garbage Disposal Care

If you have a garbage disposal appliance in a kitchen, then you must understand how to use it correctly to avoid any serious issues. First, you must make sure that hard objects, including eating utensils or bones are not inserted into the device. Next, you should make sure that water is running continuously to wash the food debris through the drainage system. Last, you should avoid pouring grease or vegetable peelings into the garbage disposal because it can break the blades.

Know How to Cope with Toilet Clogs

You can avoid toilet clogs by understanding what you can flush safely. Do not place paper towels or makeup remover pads in a toilet. Choose toilet paper that is biodegradable to make it easier for the substance to degrade in the water of the toilet bowl or in the sewer lines. Keep a rubber-tipped plunger nearby so that you can grab it quickly when a clog does occur.

Proper Sanitation Treatments

When you have buildings with septic tanks, the items must meet the proper health and sanitation codes to avoid polluting the earth’s soil or groundwater. It is essential to have a current septic tank emptied, cleaned and repaired occasionally to prevent any contamination. With routine maintenance of the septic tank’s system, you can avoid having a major issue that prevents the usage of a building’s plumbing devices.

Keeping Hair Out of the Shower’s Drains

It is a good idea to keep hair from entering a shower’s drain because the strands can create a dense clog. The hair strands will combine with shampoo and conditioner, leading to a major plumbing problem. However, you can find devices for the shower’s drain that will capture the hair before it enters the underlying pipe. Make sure to clean this hair catcher frequently so that the shower stall or bathtub won’t fill up with water.

How to Learn More about Plumbing Repairs

You can learn more about plumbing repairs by reading books from your public library or by watching videos online. In some cases, you can enroll in a home repair class to learn more about fixing common household plumbing problems.

Deciding on a standard or a tankless water heater

Whether you’re building a new home or completing a home improvement project, you’ll eventually need a new water heater. That decision used to be relatively straightforward: there were tank water heaters available in gas and electric configurations, and that was that. However, with tankless systems now becoming more prominent in the market, deciding on that new water heater is more complicated. In this article, we’ll address the pros and cons of each type and identify the system that’s best for your home and budget.

All about tankless water heaters

Tankless water heaters, also known as “demand-type water heaters,” represent the cutting-edge in water heater technology, and they’re an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking for an energy-smart, convenient upgrade to their home. These systems are more energy-efficient than tank water heaters: since they only heat water as it’s needed, there’s little energy wasted keeping water warm over sustained periods of time. Over the years, this can add up to major savings for homeowners, especially when you consider that tankless systems can last twice as long as standard water heaters.

Of course, the most famous upside of tankless water heaters is the unlimited hot water. Any homeowner with a large family knows the cold consequences of being the last one to take a shower. That’s because continuous use exhausted the pre-heated supply in a tank water heater. Since tankless systems heat water as it runs through the unit, they eliminate that problem entirely.

As tank water heaters near the end of their lives, there’s a risk that corrosion inside the tank could cause a tank burst—an event with the potential to cause major water damage in your home. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, do not carry this risk.

Whole-home or one for each room?

Most tankless water heaters are capable of providing hot water to your entire home. However, it’s also possible to “zone” your demand-type water heaters, putting them under sinks and behind showers. This means that you can have near-instantaneous, unlimited hot water at that tap specifically. Whole-home tankless water heaters are limited in their ability to provide hot water to multiple taps, appliances, and faucets simultaneously. By zoning your systems, you won’t have this disadvantage.

Standard water heaters

Tank water heaters, also known as “standard water heaters,” have been a reliable staple of the American home for more than a century. Most homes today still use a standard water heater, and for several good reasons. First, most homes are configured for them. Even though these systems do take up space, many homes have reserved space in the garage, a utility closet, or elsewhere in the home for a water heater, complete with all the needed connections.

Second, these water heaters make up for their capped total hot water supply by being able to provide hot water in large quantities simultaneously. With a tank water heater, you can run your dishwasher, washing machine, and shower at the same time. Since tankless systems heat water as its needed, the total water required at once in such a scenario would probably exceed the demand-type water heater’s ability to keep up.

Comparing performance and costs

Tankless water heaters are the more energy-efficient of your two choices. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, demand-type water heaters use as much as 30% less energy than standard water heaters. When you consider that heating water is the second-largest chunk of energy spent in your home (14%), this can add up to big savings on your monthly utility bills. These savings are even greater with a gas setup, if your home has that option. Gas water heaters run more efficient than electric ones do.

At this point, you may very well be asking yourself why you should consider a standard water heater at all. Well, here’s one thing to consider: tankless systems can cost anywhere from 2-3 times of what a tank water heater typically does. You’ll earn back some of that additional upfront cost in your lower energy bills over the lifespan of the system, and there’s a good chance your tankless unit could outlive two standard ones, but the higher initial investment is something to weigh against the otherwise outstanding benefits of demand-type units. Also, no matter which type of water heater you’re looking at, most gas systems cost more than their electric counterparts.

Which is right for your home?

This answer comes down to a few key factors. If you’re planning on staying in your home for the long haul, you’ll get the most out of the energy savings offered by a tankless water heater. A demand-type system might also make sense if you have a large family and you’re all sick of running out of hot water in the mornings. On the other hand, a standard water heater might be a better fit for your budget. If you’re planning on moving in the very near future, a tankless water heater represents an investment you may not be around to see the long-term returns on.

Better yet, talk to a trusted local plumbing contractor. They’ll be able to make an individualized recommendation that takes into account your home, your local energy costs, and any energy-efficiency upgrade rebates in your area. Plus, once you’ve made your decision, you’ll have a team ready to install your new water heater—no matter which one you choose.

Victoria Sanders is the communications director and plumbing writer at Reimer Home Services , a professional home repair & plumbing company servicing Western New York. Victoria has been working within the home repair & plumbing industry for almost 15 years and enjoys sharing her plumbing knowledge with homeowners and other home repair professionals.

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