Tag: water

As It Gets Cooler Outside, Don't Neglect Water Heater Maintenance

Homeowners Shouldn’t Wait Until They Have to Take a Cold Shower to Care for Their Water Heaters

Whether a home has a traditional or tankless water heater, it usually goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Water heaters are typically hidden in a closet or back room and silently funnel hot water throughout the house to various faucets and appliances. Just like the human body needs a checkup with the doctor occasionally, the water heater needs maintenance whether it is malfunctioning or not. This article will share why water heater maintenance is necessary, what happens when a plumbing professional performs water heater maintenance, and troubling signs that may indicate a need for water heater repair.

Major Benefits of Water Heater Maintenance

save money The water heater has gone from being an innovative new gadget when it was invented in 1889 to being a staple, even a necessity, in every household. The water heater is like the heart of the plumbing system that keeps the family and all their clothes and eating utensils clean. Maintenance for this essential appliance is vital to keeping it working well. Some advantages of annual maintenance include:

  • Consistent Temperatures: The water heater will be able to maintain the proper water temperature better with regular checkups.
  • Peak Efficiency: The water heater must be maintained regularly for its best energy efficiency.
  • Saves Money: If the appliance is working at its most efficient, it will use less energy and save money on energy bills.
  • Longer Lifespan: A well-kept water heater will last longer and experience fewer issues than one that has been neglected.  

What Happens During a Maintenance Visit?

water heater service The water heater should get a maintenance checkup at least annually. One of the primary issues that must be addressed in a maintenance visit is the presence of sediment in the water heater. These mineral deposits within the pipes and the tank affect the water heater's efficiency and performance. A plumbing professional will take care of this by draining and flushing the water heater to remove it. 

Another thing that must be done is checking the anode rod and replacing it if it’s time. This is a metal rod that has a slight positive ion charge. It attracts corrosive negative ions in the water, which means the anode rod itself corrodes instead of the interior of the hot water heater. Other things that need to be checked include the pressure relief valve and the heating element. The water heater will also be inspected to catch any issues. 

Beware These Signs From a Home’s Hot Water Heater

If a homeowner notices any of these signs with their water heater, they should call a plumber for service, as it indicates the water heater may need maintenance or repair:

  • Loss of hot water or longer recovery times
  • Water temperature is inconsistent, too hot, or too cold
  • Noises like banging, hissing, whistling, or popping
  • The water heater is leaking
  • Higher energy bills

About Super Plumbers

Super Plumbers has more than ten years of expertise serving Tyler and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, personalized service, and financing. Call them today for water heater and tankless water heater services in Tyler, TX. 

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Common Problems That Cause Poor Shower Water Pressure

Causes of Low Water Pressure in the Shower

Spending some relaxing time at home helps people get through the day, and one thing that can help people relax is a long, hot shower to rinse away the stress of the day. But the relaxation can be ruined due to showers suffering from poor water pressure. This post will discuss some of the most common causes of low water pressure in the shower. With this expert advice and some help from a plumber, homeowners can waste less energy worrying about dealing with low water pressure and more time relaxing in a home with excellent plumbing. 

Water Heater Issues 

water heater

In any situation, the best way to troubleshoot a problem is to isolate the symptoms as much as possible. If water pressure suffers only when hot water is used, the cause of the low water pressure could be traced back to the water heater. A plumber can help determine the cause of this issue and fix it so that better water pressure can be restored.

The water pressure issue may be caused by various issues related to the water heater, such as insufficient flow rate, sediment buildup, and incorrect temperature settings. Other potential causes can include an obstruction in the hot water line, a broken pressure-regulating valve, insufficient water supply to the heater, or incorrect installation. In some cases, homeowners may also experience low hot water pressure when other appliances in the home are running simultaneously.

Pipe Leaks 

Leaks in water lines can cause a variety of problems for homeowners. One such problem is reduced water pressure in showers and other fixtures. If water pressure seems low throughout the house, leaks are likely the problem. When a leaking line is present, it reduces the available volume of water throughout the plumbing system, which leads to weak or intermittent streams from showerheads or faucets. 

It can be especially noticeable when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously. It is vital to repair any leaks promptly to restore water pressure to the shower and other fixtures throughout the home. When experiencing low water pressure with multiple fixtures, contact a professional to evaluate the plumbing system and repair leaks if needed. Additionally, fixing plumbing leaks will reduce water bills.

Problems With the Showerhead 

shower

Sometimes the cause of low water pressure in the shower is the showerhead itself. This is likely the case if the poor water pressure occurs only with that one showerhead. Examine the showerhead to determine if this is the problem in the shower. Mineral scale is a white, crusty substance that will likely be visible in and around the holes in the showerhead, and this scale can clog the showerhead, which causes reduced water pressure.  

This is even more likely in homes with hard water, which includes most American households. One of the consequences of hard water is mineral scale deposits in piping and plumbing fixtures. When this scale thickens, it can restrict water flow through pipes and fixtures, resulting in low water pressure. Showerheads can be removed and cleaned or replaced to restore proper water pressure in the shower if this is the cause. 

About Super Plumbers

Super Plumbers is a family-owned and operated company serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, personalized service, and financing options. Call them today for plumbing services in Tyler, TX.

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Easy Ways to Spot an Underground Water Leak

Tips for Finding an Underground or Hidden Leak 

Homeowners need to identify and respond to suspected hidden or underground leaks quickly. The longer these problems remain unaddressed, the worse they could become. A homeowner may notice mold growth along the baseboards, foul odors, and sagging floors within days, and after a while, these things can affect a home’s structural integrity. In this blog post, readers can learn how to spot a leak and the value of consulting a water leak detection service. 

Signs of a Hidden or Underground Leak 

leak How long it takes for a hidden water leak to show signs depends on many factors, including the severity of the leak. In general, however, one can notice these signs of a leak quickly after the leak forms: 

  • The sound of running water: If a homeowner hears running water, but no fixtures are on, this could point to a leak. 
  • Decreased water pressure: When water exits the water line through a leak, one can notice a decrease in water pressure almost immediately. 
  • Puddles of water on the lawn: An underground leak may reveal itself as wet spots or pooling water in the yard. If there aren’t puddles of water, the ground may feel muddy or unsteady. 
  • High water bills: When there is a leak, a homeowner may notice a spike in their water bill, despite no change in their water consumption.

Check the Water Meter 

A water meter is a device that measures the amount of water that is being used in a household. It is usually located near the main water supply line and can be easily accessed by homeowners. It is a valuable tool for identifying hidden water leaks that may not be visible to the naked eye.

To use the water meter to check for leaks, start by turning off all the faucets in the house and ensuring all the appliances that use water are turned off. Next, locate the water meter and take note of the reading. Once about an hour has passed without using any water, check the reading on the water meter again. If there is a difference between the initial reading and the current reading, this indicates a leak. 

Another easy way to use the water meter to check for leaks is the leak indicator on the water meter. Most modern water meters have a small triangle or dial that moves when water is being used. If this indicator moves even when no water is being used, this could be another sign of a hidden water leak.

Consult a Leak Detection Service for Further Support 

pro As soon as homeowners suspect they may have a leak, they should contact a plumber immediately. Professional leak detection services are crucial for identifying and repairing hidden leaks promptly and accurately. They use sophisticated tools and techniques to detect leaks that are not visible. These tools can include infrared cameras, acoustic leak detectors, and video inspection equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak.

One of the most significant advantages of hiring professionals for water leak detection services is the speed and efficiency with which they can identify and repair leaks. Using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, they can quickly locate the source of the leak and recommend the best course of action for repairs. This means that any damage to property or water bills can be minimized, and the likelihood of further leaks is reduced.

About Super Plumbers 

Super Plumbers is a local family-owned and operated company serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding communities. They provide competitive pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and personalized service. Call them today for water leak detection and repair services in Tyler, TX.

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Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater is an Eco-Friendly Choice

The Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater

As more homeowners look for ways to make their homes eco-friendly, upgrading to a tankless water heater is becoming popular. Tankless water heaters are designed to provide hot water on demand without needing a large storage tank. This makes them a more efficient and eco-friendly option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy consumption and lower their utility bills. This blog will discuss tankless water heaters, their benefits, and signs it’s time to replace an old water heater.

Is it Time to Replace Your Old Water Heater?

shower Older water heaters can be less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, leading to higher energy bills and costly repairs. If homeowners are experiencing any of the following issues, it may be time to replace the water heater:

  • The water heater is more than ten years old
  • Homeowners notice leaks 
  • Homeowners see corrosion or rust 
  • The home frequently runs out of hot water or has inconsistent water temperatures
  • Strange noises can be heard coming from the tank

If homeowners notice any of these signs, they should contact a qualified plumber to inspect their water heater and determine if a replacement is needed. 

How a Tankless Water Heater Works

A tankless water heater is a type of water heater that provides hot water on demand without the need for a big storage tank to house the hot water. Unlike storage water heaters, which constantly heat and store large amounts of hot water, tankless water heaters only heat water when needed, saving energy and money. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water flows through the unit, where powerful heating elements heat it quickly. This on-demand heating process means that a tankless water heater only uses energy when hot water is needed, resulting in significant savings over time.

One main feature distinguishing tankless water heaters from other water heating systems is their small size. Because they don't require a storage tank, tankless water heaters are significantly smaller than traditional water heaters, making them ideal for homeowners short on space or simply wanting a more compact water heating solution. In addition, tankless water heaters are known for their durability and longevity, often lasting up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

save Upgrading to a tankless water heater can provide a more efficient and eco-friendly solution that has several benefits, including:

  • Reduced energy consumption: Tankless water heaters only use energy when hot water is needed, making them a more energy-efficient option than traditional water heaters.
  • Lower utility bills: By reducing energy consumption, tankless water heaters can help lower monthly utility bills.
  • Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters have a much longer lifespan than traditional water heaters, which can help save money on replacement costs in the long run.
  • More hot water: With a tankless water heater, homes will have an almost endless hot water supply, so they won’t have to worry about running out like when a storage water heater’s hot water tank runs out of hot water.
  • Space-saving: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional water heaters, making them a great space-saving option for homeowners.

About Super Plumbers 

Super Plumbers is a family-owned and operated business serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding communities. They provide 24/7 emergency repairs, upfront pricing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for tankless water heater services in Tyler, TX.

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What Causes Poor Water Pressure?

What Causes Water Pressure Problems?

Low water pressure is a common plumbing problem around the home. Water pressure issues can sneak up quickly or slowly happen over time. During plumbing inspections, plumbers test water pressures in a home and often discover that the pressure is low.

When water pressure is too low, everything is a little harder. Loads of laundry must wait longer for the wash basin to fill with water. Showers are less relaxing affairs. Toilets take forever to refill after a single flush. Luckily, no one has to live with water pressure issues.

This article is a quick guide to the problems that commonly cause water pressure issues. If homeowners notice poor water pressure, they can use this guide to help direct plumbers to the source of their problems.

Too Many Leaks

leaks This may seem obvious, but leaks are a massive problem. The EPA estimates that 10 percent of homes have leaks that waste at least 90 gallons of water daily. Since plumbing is designed to operate at certain pressures, any leaks cause a corresponding pressure drop. When several leaks are present in a home’s plumbing system, the loss in pressure can be noticeable and frustrating.

Leaks happen for a couple of reasons. First, outdated piping becomes corroded or brittle and starts springing pinhole leaks. Second, normal wear and tear on a plumbing system expose weaknesses in fittings and pipe joints.

Leaks are a hassle for two main reasons: leaks waste money on wasted water and cause a drop in water pressure. Homeowners should keep an eye out for leaks by looking for signs like:

  • Wet spots on the lawn
  • Spikes in water bills
  • Sounds of running water
  • New insect problems
  • Wet areas on the floor
  • Moisture climbing up walls

Plumbers will address leaks by detecting the leak and making the necessary repairs. In most cases, each leak can be attended to separately. In extreme cases, plumbers may recommend a repiping project to tackle outdated plumbing materials.

Clogs and Mineral Buildup

Another common cause of low water pressure is obstructions in the pipe. How do obstructions get into new, freshwater piping? Besides food waste, clogs come from two main sources:

  • Mineral Scale: Freshwater carries minerals dissolved within it that contribute to hardness. These minerals can merge onto the inside of piping and obstruct flow. Common treatments include installing water softeners to reduce the mineral content of water.
  • Corrosion: Old piping, especially metal piping, is a victim of corrosion. Most metals react to oxygen in the water, which causes pipes to corrode. Corrosion forms scales and flakes on the inside of piping that obstructs flow.

Before making any necessary repairs, some ways plumbers can remove clogs and build-up are drain snaking and hydrojetting.

Closed Valves or Faulty Fixtures

ensure valves are open An important observation for a homeowner to make about low water pressure is how extensive the problem is. Is one fixture affected or entire bathrooms? The whole house? Knowing this can help narrow down the causes of low water pressure.

If the low water pressure only affects one fixture, the likely cause is the fixture itself. Sink faucets and showerheads have valves that can become dislodged and partially block flow. If the loss of water pressure is more widespread, homeowners can check the main shutoff valve and the water meter valve to ensure they are not closed or partially closed. The valves not being completely open can restrict flow to multiple fixtures. This method of narrowing down the source can help homeowners and plumbers work together to fix low water pressure.

About Super Plumbers

Super Plumbers is a family-owned and operated company with over a decade of experience serving its neighbors in Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and financing. Call them today for plumbing services in Tyler, TX.

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