Press Releases Archive - Page 2 of 6 - Annapolis Plumbing Contractor

Common Signs It’s Time for Water Heater Replacement

How to Tell When a Water Heater Needs to Be Replaced

Water heaters are such a staple of everyday life that it’s easy to take them for granted – until they stop working, that is. When the water heater goes on the fritz, homeowners are quickly reminded of how frequently they use their water heater and how essential it is for good hygiene, sanitation, comfort, and cleanliness.

So if the water heater goes out unexpectedly, waiting for it to be replaced can feel like an eternity – especially in the middle of a frigid Maryland winter. So, to avoid getting stuck without hot water, homeowners can learn how to spot the warning signs of a water heater on its last leg. Here are some easy ways for homeowners to know when it’s time for water heater replacement.

Corroded Water Heater

The first way to tell that the water heater needs replacing is if the water heater is rusted and corroded. Common signs of corrosion in the water heater are hot water that is rust-colored, murky, or cloudy, or it has a metallic smell. These issues typically indicate that the water heater tank is corroded. Conventional storage water heaters have devices called anode rods inside the tank that attract corrosive substances to prevent them from corroding the tank. However, the anode rod must be replaced periodically to provide continuous protection against corrosion.

Similarly, if sediment and minerals are allowed to build up inside the tank, it can cause temperature issues and damage the tank’s glass inner liner, exposing the tank to corrosion. This is why regular water heater maintenance is so vital for the health and longevity of the unit. Unfortunately, water heater corrosion is generally regarded as the kiss of death – a corroded hot water tank is corrupted and will lead to leaks if not replaced.

A Lack of Hot Water

One sign of a faulty water heater that will come as no surprise to anyone is a loss of hot water. Whether the shower never gets hot, water comes out cold or lukewarm when the hot water tap is open, or the hot water doesn’t last as long as it used to, a lack of hot water is a sure sign there’s something wrong with the water heater, and it may need to be replaced.

There are several possible causes of hot water loss in storage and tankless water heaters. These include dirty gas burners, malfunctioning heating elements, sediment buildup in the tank, a broken heat exchanger, a faulty thermocouple, and faulty wiring – to name a few. In some cases, homeowners may simply need water heater repair or maintenance to get things back to normal. However, depending on the issue, its severity, and the age of the unit, replacing the water heater may be necessary.

The Water Heater Is Near the End of Its Life or Needs Repairs Often

Lastly, the age of the water heater may be reason enough to replace it – particularly if it acts up or needs to be repaired often. A typical storage water heater’s life expectancy is 10–15 years, while a tankless water heater’s life expectancy is around 20 years. If the unit is nearing those ages, it’s best to replace it before it breaks down and leaves the home without hot water. Newer water heaters are much more energy efficient than older models, so a water heater upgrade can help reduce water heating costs.

Another reason to replace a water heater is if it requires more frequent repairs and service visits to stay in good working order. Not only is it inconvenient to constantly have to deal with water heater issues, but shelling out for repairs over and over again can add up over time. If it gets to the point where homeowners have to call for water heater repair every year for an older unit, they’re better off investing in a new water heater. Homeowners can consult a plumber to see whether a water heater replacement is best.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They offer dependable, flat rates, live assistance, and preventative maintenance agreements. Call them today for water heater installation or repair in Annapolis, MD.

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Is Your House Haunted, or Is That Spooky Sound a Water Hammer?

Water Hammer Sounds Can Be Scary, Here’s How to Deal With Them

Most homeowners know all the everyday sounds that can be heard in their homes, but occasionally, a loud, unknown sound may surprise them. Thankfully, the loud, banging noises in the walls aren’t the sounds of a haunting this Halloween but could be a plumbing phenomenon called a water hammer.

Understanding What It Is

A water hammer may sound like banging, which is the result of hydraulic shock that transpires when the shut-off valve on a high-pressure water line suddenly locks in place. The sound is caused by a pressure surge when water in a pipe is forced to stop or change direction quickly.

Most pipes have pockets of air inside them that help cushion against the sound of a water hammer, so if the water hammer sound occurs in a home, this usually means that the air chambers are clogged or filled up with water. It’s important to clear the air pockets in both cases by draining the line. Otherwise, water hammer sounds will persist.

Potential Risks of a Water Hammer

Unfortunately, the risks of water hammers aren’t just about the inconvenience of dealing with noisy water pipes or banging sounds behind the walls where the pipes are located. There are very real risks to a water hammer that homeowners should take seriously to save themselves from a lot of trouble down the line.

Aside from noisy pipes, water hammers can result in damage to the piping as well as their joints and connectors. This can lead to problems like leaks, broken and ruptured pipes, damage to the pump and flow system, and extensive water damage to the property. So, if someone suspects a water hammer, they should call a plumber to fix it.

Methods for Professional Water Hammer Repair

A plumber can determine the best solution for a water hammer based on the situation, which may include one or a combination of the following repair methods:

Draining the plumbing system: Because the transient flow of water in a plumbing system is likely to cause a water hammer when the air chambers are full of water, one possible solution is to drain these chambers and clear out the water.
Installing a water hammer arrestor: Water hammer arrestors are built to absorb the jolt associated with a sudden water pressure increase. This is because they have air-filled cylinders that are designed for that purpose. It is a good option for most homes since these devices are easy to install for a professional.
Adjusting the water pressure: Sometimes, a simple adjustment to the water pressure in the system by adjusting the pressure-reducing valve can do wonders in eliminating the water hammer.
Tightening and stabilizing loose pipes: Banging pipes can sometimes result from pipes that haven’t been correctly fastened in place, creating more movement that can worsen noise and damage. Stabilizing these loose pipes with pipe straps or securing them with studs and screws can help eliminate these loud sounds.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, live assistance, and a maintenance plan. Call them today for plumbing services in Annapolis, MD.

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How to Identify Water Leaks at Home

Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips for Catching Leaks

A leak is one of the most common plumbing problems people encounter at home. While most leaks are relatively easy to find and fix for plumbers, hidden leaks could be neglected because homeowners don’t even know they are there. If leaks are not caught early on, they can result in extensive water damage and high water bills. Homeowners should learn the signs that point to a potential water leak so they can call a plumber to nip the problem in the bud early and prevent it from becoming a major problem.

Signs to Watch Out For

When it comes to water leak detection, the signs can be clear, especially knowing what to look for. The following are some of the most common signs that point to a possible water leak:

Low water pressure
Presence of mold and mildew
Water stains
Peeling paint
Drooping ceiling
Damaged floors and carpeting
Running water sound when no water is used

Unusually High Water Bill

Apart from the signs mentioned above, one particular indicator stands out as an obvious sign of a leak: a water bill that is higher than usual, especially if there has been no significant change in water consumption from one month to the next. A high water bill is an important signifier of a leak because even small leaks that might not display any of the previous signs can waste a lot of money and be noticed through water costs.

High water bills are likely due to a leak because it indicates that water continues to run even if no fixtures and water-using appliances are being used. The only explanation for water continuing to run in this manner is if it exits from a leak in the system, either within the network of pipes, from a fixture, or through a loose joint or connection.

Use the Water Meter for Leak Detection

While professional leak detection equipment is the best way to confirm a leak, it is still possible for a homeowner to do this without the help of such devices. A home’s water meter can be used to determine whether a leak is present in the plumbing system. Some kinds of water meters have a leak detector in the shape of a small red or blue triangle that spins when no water is being used in the home to indicate a leak.

If this leak indicator is not present with a home’s water meter, it is still possible to use the meter to determine the presence of a leak. All a homeowner has to do is make sure all the plumbing fixtures and appliances that use water are shut off and then record the water meter reading. Then, they can come back after a few hours to check if the meter reading has changed without any water having been used in that time. Any change in the reading means that water has continued to run even if it’s not being used, with the most likely cause of the water consumption being a leak in the plumbing system, which alerts homeowners that they need to call a plumber.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas since 1947. They offer flat rates, live assistance, and fast, efficient service. Call them today for leak repair services in Annapolis, MD.

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Understanding the Importance of Backflow Testing

FAQs About Backflow

While water is the safest and most convenient it has ever been, most people don’t understand the vast amount of infrastructure and work it takes to keep water clean and readily available. Water is the perfect carrier for many different chemicals and harmful organisms. Under certain conditions, these pollutants and pathogens can find their way into the safe water supply.

One of the most common conditions that causes contamination of safe water is called backflow. The fluid dynamics in plumbing are such that under the right conditions, water can be siphoned backward through the system. When this occurs, contaminated water mixes with safe water and can endanger everyone on that section of the water grid. Everyone should be familiar with certain devices that prevent backflow and practices like backflow testing to help keep water safe. Here is a quick guide to backflow, answering some commonly asked questions about backflow.

What Happens During Backflow?

In fluid dynamics, there is a process called siphoning. In its simplest form, it looks like a third-grade science experiment where a tube pulls water from a higher bowl to a lower bowl with no mechanical help. The principle behind a siphon is the fact that there is a pressure differential across the tubing. The same thing can happen in plumbing, but it is called backflow.

Backflow generally occurs under circumstances that generate a pressure differential. When a high demand occurs in a large pipe, it can siphon water backward from smaller pipes, like when a water main ruptures. If the proper precautions aren’t in place, the smaller lines will pull whatever fluid they are in contact with backward into the system. This can include anything from sewage and groundwater to chemicals.

How Is Backflow Prevented in Plumbing?

Since backflow poses such a threat to clean water supplies, rigorous standards are in place to prevent backflow. The easiest and simplest way to prevent backflow is to leave an air gap between the supply and drain lines. These are common in homes in places like sinks and overflows for water heaters.

Air gaps are not always appropriate where piping is concerned, so devices called backflow preventers can also be used. In the home, they are common on irrigation systems and sometimes near the service entrance where water lines enter the house. Most commonly, they are in industrial settings protecting huge water lines.

How Often Should Backflow Devices Be Tested?

Backflow devices are crucial for keeping the water supply safe, so they must be tested for proper operation by qualified experts. Backflow devices are essentially more reliable check valves that ensure that water only flows in one direction through piping so that, in the event of a pressure differential, no contaminated water will enter the plumbing.

Backflow prevention devices are required to be tested annually. This allows plumbers to ensure they operate as expected and correct deficiencies. Having them tested routinely is essential not only to protect a home’s water supply but also to prevent the contamination of multiple homes’ water and the spread of waterborne diseases.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas for over 70 years. They offer flat rates, live assistance, and a maintenance club. Call them today for backflow testing and certification in Annapolis, MD.

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Does the Garbage Disposal Need Repairs?

Signs That the Garbage Disposal Need Repair or Replacement

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors reports that garbage disposals should last around 12 years. During that time, parts may need replacing, repairs may be needed, and blades may need to be sharpened. But how can homeowners tell the disposal needs professional attention? In this short guide, homeowners can learn the signs that something is wrong with a garbage disposal that needs a professional’s attention.

Odd Sounds

A garbage disposal will make noise as it minces waste. However, it should not make:

Humming sounds: This means that the motor is trying to turn on but can’t. This could be an issue with the power supply, or it could mean something’s caught in the blades.
Rattling or screeching noises: These sounds metal can make likely mean that a part of the garbage disposal has come loose or something is stuck inside, like a utensil that has fallen down the drain. A plumber can tighten any components that have come loose over time or replace them, depending on their age, and find and remove anything that may be stuck inside.
No sound at all: A garbage disposal makes noise as it runs. If it doesn’t turn on and makes no sound, the issue could lie with the power source.
Buzzing: This could indicate multiple problems with the garbage disposal, from a jam in the motor to a burnt-out battery.

Attempting to fix garbage disposals without professional training can be dangerous. DIY repairs could end up damaging the system further or result in injury if it turns on unexpectedly, so homeowners should call professionals to fix them.

It Doesn’t Work Well

Some more common signs that a garbage disposal isn’t working well and warrant a professional’s attention include the following:

Frequent clogs: If the garbage disposal’s blades don’t properly chop up waste, the remnants can get stuck in the plumbing system. In addition to clogs, this can lead to slow draining.
Reset button must be frequently used: If the reset button has to be used often to restart the disposal, there is an issue that needs attention. Garbage disposals can trip and shut off due to problems like overheating and jams.
It takes too long to chop up waste: A garbage disposal should mince waste quickly. If one has to keep the system on for several minutes, this likely means that the blades need replacing or sharpening.

The Garbage Disposal Smells Bad

The point of installing a garbage disposal in the kitchen sink drain is to shred and get rid of waste. So, the kitchen sink shouldn’t smell bad. If it does, this likely means that food is clogged and stuck in the pipes or the disposal itself. Homeowners can run ice cubes in the garbage disposal to help dislodge any food waste stuck on it. However, if this doesn’t work, plumbers can help find and remedy the problem.

There are also ways homeowners can help prevent clogs in the pipes and things from getting stuck in the disposal. Along with ice cubes, running cold water while the disposal is on helps waste go down the drain and not get stuck. In addition, only put a little food waste down the disposal at a time and avoid putting particular food waste down the drain and disposal at all. Grease and oil, coffee grounds, eggshells, vegetable scraps, and water-absorbent foods like pasta and rice shouldn’t be put in a garbage disposal.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, live assistance when you call, and on-time arrival. Call them today for garbage disposal repair and installation in Annapolis, MD.

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Three Ways to Prevent Plumbing Problems

Flush Those Plumbing Worries Good-Bye!

All it takes is one plumbing problem to turn the household upside down. However, many plumbing problems are preventable. From leaking pipes to clogs and more, plumbing problems can cost a great deal of money if not taken care of properly. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to prevent plumbing disasters this summer. This blog post will discuss three simple tips that can help keep the plumbing safe and problem free all season long.

Being Mindful of Plumbing Leaks

If a homeowner suspects that they have a leak, they should address the problem immediately. Leaks do not get better on their own. If anything, they get worse, wasting water and causing further damage. But how does one detect a leak before it becomes a plumbing disaster? Homeowners can check their water meters to check for leaks and look out for warning signs. Here are some common signs of a leak homeowners should know:

If a homeowner notices mold growth, water stains, or dampness, this could point to a hidden leak.
If a homeowner hears running water and there isn’t a water-using appliance or fixture turned on, this could also point to a leak.
If the water bill is much higher than average without explanation, this points to a leak.
If there is low water pressure from the plumbing fixtures, it can indicate a leak.

Not Pouring Grease, Fats, or Oils Down the Drain

Summer is a time for outdoor activities and cooking delicious meals with friends and family. While it’s easy to get distracted by the fun times, it’s important to remember not to pour any grease, fats, or cooking oil down drains when cleaning up after grilling or cooking.

Grease, fats, and cooking oil can quickly build up in drain pipes, forming tough clogs requiring professional services to clear out. When they cool, these substances harden and can catch any other debris going down the drains to form blockages. To prevent blockages due to fats, grease, or oil build-up, pour leftover oils into an old container and discard them properly in the trash once it cools. Take the proper precautions this summer to protect your plumbing from clogs and the issues they can cause for the home.

Prioritize Maintenance and Professional Drain Cleaning

It’s essential to consult a trained plumber routinely because plumbing systems are sophisticated networks that need periodic maintenance. By scheduling regular maintenance for the plumbing system, homeowners can help prevent issues such as clogged drains, slow-running toilets, or water leaks.

Regularly cleaning out drains ensures that debris doesn’t build up over time and cause blockages. This will also help prevent foul odors in the home from backed-up sewer lines and prevent burst pipes caused by clogs. Additionally, having a professional inspect the entire plumbing system can detect potential problems before they become serious issues requiring costly repairs or replacements.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate prices, live assistance, and a preventive maintenance agreement. Call them today for plumbing maintenance and drain cleaning services in Annapolis, MD.

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A Relaxing Spa Day at Home is Just What Mom Needs for Mother’s Day

Three Ideas for Recreating a Spa Atmosphere in a Residential Bathroom

Mother’s Day is this month, and if chocolate and flowers just don’t seem special or unique enough of a gift anymore, try treating mom to a spa experience. But make it so that she can access that luxury not just for one day but all the days of the year by turning a bathroom into a relaxing spa-like oasis right in the comfort of the home. This blog post will discuss ideas for creating the perfect atmosphere for at-home spa days.

Choose the Right Showerhead

A showerhead upgrade is a simple way to help transform an ordinary bathroom into one that gives off spa-like relaxation. There are many showerhead choices that can be narrowed down based on their features. Some popular options for shower heads include:

Rain showerheads: Rain showerheads are wider in diameter for better coverage and deliver a low-pressure, steady stream of water meant to simulate the relaxing sensation of rainfall. These are popular options as they are among the most soothing showerheads available.
Low-flow showerheads: Low-flow showerheads are an excellent option for those who want luxury while reducing the environmental impact of their water use in the shower. They reduce water usage without sacrificing water pressure and help homeowners save on water bills.
Ones with built-in speakers: Some showerhead models have built-in speakers that allow users to listen to music and podcasts. Imagine enjoying the soothing sounds of spa music directly through the showerhead to enhance the experience.
Showerheads with built-in lights: Lighted showerheads can come in various LED colors and allow the colors to be changed, designed to create ambient and relaxing lighting that fits a variety of moods.

Install a Bathtub for the Ultimate Spa Experience

When choosing a bathtub for the home, there are several important considerations to remember. Beyond the style that best suits the home’s decor and design, people should consider factors such as the size of the tub and its installation process. Bathtubs come in various styles, from classic clawfoot tubs to modern free-standing tubs. With limited bathroom space, an alcove bathtub can do the trick as it can be walled in on three sides and double as a shower.

In addition to the aesthetic appeal, a bathtub can provide numerous health benefits. Soaking in warm water helps the body relax and reduces stress levels. It also helps soothe sore muscles and improves circulation. Taking baths with aromatherapy oils or bath salts can further help relax the mind and body while providing additional health benefits. Ultimately, installing a bathtub can be a great addition to a home, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience that is also beneficial for health. With the right design and features, it can make all the difference in creating a calming spa getaway within a home.

It’s All in the Details

Upgrading the look of your bathroom can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. People can replace outdated faucets with sleek, modern designs like touchless ones that bring new life and charm to the room. Adding a few decorative pieces like a mirror or towel rack can also help elevate the aesthetic when looking for a simpler or subtle upgrade. Bringing in a natural element with plants, flowers, and other aspects of nature can also help to breathe life into a bathroom and help recreate the atmosphere of a relaxing spa.

Finally, don’t forget about the scents. Aromatherapy candles, diffusers, and even freshly cut flowers can bring positive energy into the space. People can also opt for a more subtle scent with organic or natural soaps and oils that will leave the bathroom smelling fresh and inviting. With just a few simple upgrades, a bathroom can be transformed into an at-home spa oasis that helps residents enjoy the peace, comfort, and relaxation it brings.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. has over seven decades of experience serving Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas. They provide fast, efficient service, flat rates, and live assistance. Call them today for plumbing and bathroom remodeling services in Annapolis, MD.

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A Brief Guide to Slab Leaks

All About Slab Leaks

Many different types of problems can occur with plumbing. Some are more common, like a clogged toilet or a dripping tap, and others are more serious, like a sewer backup or burst pipe. One of the more challenging plumbing problems is dealing with a slab leak. This blog will discuss slab leaks, their dangers, and how professionals fix them.

What is a Slab Leak?

Slab is a term used to refer to the concrete foundation of a building, typically on or below ground level. A slab leak is a water leak that occurs in the plumbing under the slab of a structure and can cause significant water damage if left unaddressed. Faulty pipes, corrosion, shifting soil, and ground movement are some issues that usually cause these leaks.

The most common signs of a slab leak are damp spots on the floor or walls, continuously running water sounds from inside the walls or floors, and high water bills due to wasted water. If a homeowner suspects a slab leak, it is crucial to contact a professional plumber immediately and have them inspect the plumbing for signs of a leak and damage.

The Devastating Consequences of Slab Leaks

Slab leaks can lead to various consequences that damage a home’s structural integrity. A slab leak can cause water to seep through the foundation, leading to flooding, structural damage, and mold growth. Slab leaks can cause costly water damage, including mold growth and structural damage that can cause cracks in the foundation, leading to cracked walls and uneven floors.

This is not only dangerous for any occupants, but it can be costly to repair. Slab leaks can also increase water bills due to higher water usage from the leak. It’s important to act fast when suspecting a slab leak in the home to avoid such consequences. Seeking professional inspection and repair services can help address the issue before it causes further damage.

Calling Professionals for Slab Leak Repair

Professionals specializing in slab leak detection and repair services can help identify and address the problem. These professionals use various techniques to detect leaks, such as acoustic listening devices, infrared cameras, pressure tests, and video inspection cameras.

Once they have located the source of the leak, they can then determine the best course of repair. This may involve sealing the leak with a pipe liner, replacing a section of pipe, going under the slab, or in some cases, rerouting the plumbing. It is important to note that slab leak repairs should only be done by experienced professionals with the necessary tools and expertise to do so correctly.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas since 1947. They provide flat rate pricing, live assistance, and a preventive maintenance agreement. Call them today for slab leak repair services in Annapolis, MD.

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Go “Green” This St. Patrick’s Day!

Three Easy Ways to Conserve Water and Save on the Water Bill

Everyone wants to do everything possible to save water and money. Yet, some don’t know where to start or how much they spend each month on their water bill. This blog post will share three easy things homeowners can do to start conserving water and saving on their water bills.

Install Water Saving Plumbing Fixtures

Investing in eco-friendly fixtures and appliances is an effective way to save money and reduce water consumption. Some eco-friendly and water-saving plumbing fixtures include low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucets. Low-flow toilets are designed to minimize the amount of water used when flushing waste. They are usually between 1.28 gallons and 1.6 gallons per flush, compared to older toilets, which can use up to 7 gallons of water per flush.

Showerheads designed to reduce water usage can also be beneficial. Many low-flow showerheads are designed to maximize the pressure while using less water. Some only use 2 gallons or less per minute, compared to 5 or more with a traditional showerhead. Faucets are another way to save water. Many eco-friendly faucets come equipped with sensors that reduce the amount of water used when someone turns on the tap and an auto-shutoff feature, which will automatically stop the water flow if left running for too long.

Practice Mindful Water-Saving Habits

Saving water and money isn’t a once-in-a-while habit. It’s something that homeowners must practice each day to see long-term results. Some of these practices include:

Turning off the faucet while brushing one’s teeth or washing dishes
Turning off the water when shaving or when possible in the shower, like shampooing
Using the dishwasher or washing machine for full loads only

HuffPost notes that to wave water, homeowners can also take showers instead of baths, as long as the showers are short. The publication notes that a shower without a water-saving showerhead uses about five gallons of water a minute, while a bath uses around 36 gallons to fill the bathtub. Using a water-conserving showerhead will reduce the gallons of water used for a shower to 2 gallons or less a minute.

Only Flushing Toilet Paper

People should only flush human waste and toilet paper down a toilet. Anything else could cause serious problems, from toilet clogs to creating underground fatbergs to polluting the ocean. The following is a list of items that homeowners should throw in the trash––and not flush down the toilet:

Paper towels, napkins, and wipes
Diapers
Menstruation products
Food residue
Cigarette butts
Plastic
Dental floss

Toilet clogs can also waste water because each time a toilet flushes, it uses water. Unclogging a toilet with an average household plunger typically requires multiple flushes to clear, so preventing clogs from occurring can help reduce household water usage.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding communities since 1947. They provide flat rate pricing and a beneficial plumbing preventive maintenance agreement. Call them today for faucet, fixture, and sink services in Annapolis, MD.

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Get a Fresh Start This Valentine’s Day and Kick the Old Water Heater to the Curb

Signs a New Water Heater is Needed

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate the special people in life, but for some, it may be a time to take stock of the relationship and make a decision. Deciding whether to weather the storm or cut and run can be hard, but it takes careful analysis to make a good decision.

Deciding to stick with the current water heater in the home can be an equally difficult decision. Water heaters are expensive appliances, so they shouldn’t be replaced without good reason. On the other hand, water heaters are necessary, so if the current model fails to do its job, replacing it may be the best option. Making this decision can be difficult, but luckily, there are relationship advisers in the form of local plumbers. These experts offer advice to help make a wise decision in this difficult situation.

Corrosion

Corrosion is a natural reaction between oxygen and the base metals that make up a home’s water heater and piping. One of the biggest enemies of reliable plumbing over the centuries has been corrosion, and many creative methods have been used to deal with it. In modern water heaters, the tank is protected by a special rod of metal designed to be corrupted before the metal of the water tank. This rod is called an anode rod.

Over time, the anode rod will be corroded away, leaving the tank unprotected. When this happens, rusty spots may appear on the water tank, or corrosion can occur on copper pipes near the tank. Eventually, the tank will begin to leak and need to be replaced. If the water heater is showing signs of corrosion, then it is a good time to schedule a water heater replacement.

Inadequate Amount of Hot Water

A water heater has one job: to provide adequate hot water to a family for laundry, cleaning dishes, and performing comfortable hygiene rituals. As a water heater ages, it loses its ability to keep up with the demands placed upon it. Inefficiencies develop, and eventually, someone will be stuck in the middle of a shower with no hot water.

While a few water heater repairs may be made to restore lost efficiency, the water heater will most likely need to be replaced. Water heater replacement will allow homeowners to select a unit with a faster recovery time so that no one will get stuck taking a shower without hot water again.

High Energy Bills

A loss of efficiency in the water heater has consequences other than simply losing hot water. It can also drive up utility costs. Heating water is expensive and can account for more than 10% of monthly utility bills. Over the years, the cost will continue to climb as inefficiencies are more pronounced. Water heater replacement is a great place to start for homeowners looking for relief from high water heating bills.

A new water heater will inherently be more energy efficient than one more than five years old. In addition, homeowners can select models that are designed more effectively. All in all, installing a new water heater will restore lost efficiency and lower monthly energy bills.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. has served the community of Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas since 1947. They offer flat rates, emergency assistance, and honest, quality service. Call them today for water heater repair and installation in Annapolis, MD.