Tag: water

Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater Installation

Why Install a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater installation can provide many benefits for a household, including better energy efficiency, a longer life expectancy for the water heater, and more. This post will discuss the advantages a tankless water heater has over a traditional storage water heater. 

More Energy Efficient

save money Tankless water heaters deliver remarkable energy efficiency compared to conventional storage water heater models. This is because tankless water heaters operate only when hot water is needed, rather than having to continuously heat water and maintain the water temperature in a large tank for when it will be needed, like a storage water heater. 

A tankless water heater’s on-demand water heating approach eliminates the standby energy losses associated with a traditional storage water heater. The efficiency difference is substantial. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24 to 34 percent more energy-efficient than storage water heaters for homes that use 41 gallons of hot water or less daily. This more energy-efficient performance translates to lower water heating costs and saves homeowners money. 

Saves Space and Provides an Endless Hot Water Supply 

hot shower Tankless water heaters can also transform a household’s hot water experience by providing an unlimited hot water supply. A conventional storage tank water heater has a tank of hot water that can run out, leading to a lack of hot water until the tank refills and heats more water. However, tankless water heaters don’t need a large tank to hold hot water. Instead, they heat water on demand only when it’s needed. This means multiple people can take showers back to back without having to worry about running out of hot water and getting stuck in a cold shower.

Without bulky storage tanks, tankless water heaters also take up significantly less space. They can be mounted directly on walls, freeing up valuable floor space in utility closets, basements, or garages. Homeowners can utilize this newfound space for additional storage, which is especially helpful in homes with limited storage.

Superior Longevity

Installing a tankless water heater is also beneficial as it will last longer than storage water heaters before needing water heater replacement. Conventional storage water heaters typically last around 10 to 15 years before needing replacement, while tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more when properly maintained. 

The impressive longevity of tankless systems stems primarily from their operational design. Unlike storage water heaters that constantly cycle to keep water heated even when it’s not needed, tankless units activate only when hot water is needed. This reduces wear and tear on critical parts. 

This extended lifespan represents a significant advantage for homeowners and their long-term investment in water heater installation. Water heaters are essential home appliances, but can be expensive. So, although tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost, they can save homeowners money on monthly energy costs and by being able to go longer without needing to be replaced. 

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild is a locally owned and operated company serving the Brookhaven community. They provide flat-rate pricing, easy scheduling, and the latest technology. Call them for tankless water heater installation in Brookhaven, GA.

Ways to Catch a Water Leak

Tips to Help Homeowners Find Water Leaks

Water leaks may start as minor inconveniences, but they can quickly escalate into costly nightmares that threaten a home’s structural integrity and monthly water bills. Whether it’s a subtle drip beneath the kitchen sink or a hidden pipe leak behind the walls, undetected leaks waste thousands of gallons of water annually and can lead to mold growth and serious property damage. 

In fact, according to the EPA, the average household loses nearly 10,000 gallons of water each year due to water leaks. That’s equivalent to washing about 300 loads of laundry! By learning to identify water leaks, homeowners can immediately call for water leak repair to protect their homes and save money. This guide will share common signs of water leaks and ways to detect them.

High Water Costs

billsUnexpectedly high water bills are a common indicator of a water leak in the home. When the water bill suddenly spikes without any significant changes in the household’s water usage, it’s likely a leak. Even a seemingly minor leak, such as a dripping faucet or running toilet, can waste hundreds or thousands of gallons of water per month, substantially increasing water costs.

Addressing water leaks promptly upon noticing a spike in the water bill is essential for both financial and property protection. Beyond the immediate impact on the water bill, undetected leaks can cause extensive water damage and structural damage. So, professionals recommend comparing water bills over several months to establish a baseline for normal water usage, making it easier to identify suspicious increases that warrant investigation. Taking immediate action when a leak is suspected can prevent costly water damage repairs and avoid wasting both water and money.

More Signs of a Water Leak

Water leaks can also lead to other signs that homeowners should watch for. Beyond unexpectedly high water bills, signs of a leak may include running water sounds when no fixtures are in use, damp spots or water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors, or reduced water pressure from fixtures. The presence of mold and mildew, or the musty odor that can accompany them, can also indicate water leaks, as they thrive in moist environments.

Foundation issues and water damage can also point to water leaks. They can appear as cracks in walls, ceilings, floors, or foundations, warped flooring, peeling paint or wallpaper, or unexplained water pooling around the home. Pay attention to the yard as well. Unusually lush or green patches of grass or unexplained puddles in the yard can indicate an underground water line leak. When spotting these warning signs, quickly call for water leak detection and repair to help prevent additional water damage and costly repairs.

Use the Water Meter 

water meter The water meter is one of the most reliable ways for homeowners to detect hidden leaks in their home’s plumbing system. To conduct a meter test, first ensure that no water is being used inside or outside the home. So, turn off all fixtures, appliances, and irrigation systems. Then, locate the water meter and record the exact reading or take a photo of the dial. Wait at least one to two hours without using any water, then check the meter again. If the reading has changed despite no water usage during that time, it signals a water leak.

Homeowners can also use the water meter’s leak indicator if it has one. It usually looks like a small triangle or diamond-shaped dial that rotates when water flows through the meter. This indicator is sensitive enough to detect even minor leaks. If this dial is still moving while all water sources are off and no water is being used, it also indicates a leak. 

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild is a locally owned and operated company serving Brookhaven, GA, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, on-time service, and the latest technology. Call them for water leak detection and leak repair in Brookhaven, GA.

Repair vs. Replace: What Your Water Line Needs

When To Call For Water Line Replacements or Repairs

The water line is vital to a home’s plumbing system, delivering clean, fresh water to the faucets and appliances so families can safely use and consume water. However, like all home systems, water lines can deteriorate over time due to age, corrosion, or damage. 

Knowing when to repair or replace the water line is crucial to maintaining a safe and efficient plumbing system. Here are the key signs that it may be time for Brookhaven homeowners to repair or replace the water line and what they should do if they notice any of these issues.

Rust and Corrosion

bad smell Rust and corrosion are common in older water lines and can lead to significant issues if not repaired quickly. Corroded pipes not only compromise the integrity of the plumbing system but also impact the water quality in a home.

When determining if there is corrosion in their pipes, homeowners should watch for these signs:

  • Discolored Water: If the water appears brown, orange, or cloudy, it may be due to rust inside the pipes.
  • Strange Taste or Smell: Corrosion can introduce metallic or unpleasant tastes and odors to the water supply.
  • Poor or Worsening Water Pressure: Corroded pipes can restrict water flow, leading to noticeable drops in water pressure.

If homeowners notice these signs, they should call a professional plumber. Depending on the severity of the corrosion, the affected pipes may need to be replaced to restore water quality and pressure.

Leaks

bills A leaking water line clearly indicates something is wrong with the pipes and cannot be ignored by homeowners. While some leaks may be repairable, extensive damage or aging pipes may require a full replacement.

There are numerous signs of water line leaks that homeowners should watch for, including:

  • Higher Water Bills: An unexplained spike in the water bill could mean a household has a hidden leak, wasting water.
  • Wet Patches on the Lawn or Floor: Soggy spots on the lawn, even during dry weather, or damp areas inside the home can point to a leaking water line.
  • Poor or Worsening Water Pressure: Similar to corrosion, leaks can cause water pressure to drop as water escapes the system.

If homeowners suspect a leak, they should contact a professional plumber immediately. Experts can inspect the water line to determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

Old Age

Unfortunately, water lines don’t last forever. Exactly how long they last largely depends on the material they’re made from. In general, plumbers use the following guide:

  • Galvanized Steel Pipes: Typically last 40-50 years.
  • Copper Pipes: Can last 50-70 years.
  • PVC Pipes: Often last 50+ years, but external factors can shorten their lifespan.

Homeowners should prepare for water line replacements if they start to see signs of aging. Some key signs to watch for are:

  • If the home’s pipes are older than 40-60 years, it’s wise to have them inspected by a professional plumber.
  • Older pipes are more prone to leaks, corrosion, and other failures that can lead to costly repairs or property damage.

Repiping the home is a significant investment. Still, it can save property owners money in the long run by preventing water damage and improving the efficiency of their plumbing system.

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild has been providing quality plumbing services to the Brookhaven area since 2013. They offer flat-rate pricing and easy scheduling to ensure outstanding customer service. Call them today for water line repairs and repipe services in Brookhaven, GA.

When to Replace a Water Heater

Ensure There’s Hot Water in the Cold Months

When the weather gets chilly outside, homeowners must ensure they have a fully functioning water heater to provide hot water to their household. If a system malfunctions, it can be time for property owners to schedule water heater replacement services.

To ensure they schedule water heater replacements before it’s too late, Brookhaven plumbers recommend that homeowners look for key signs indicating the system is breaking down. These include a lack of hot water throughout the house, a leaking system, and an aging unit. Recognizing these symptoms can keep families safe and help homeowners save money on urgent services and rising energy bills.

Fluctuating Water Temperature

As a water heater starts to break down, homeowners may notice changes in the water temperature. While the most telling sign is when a family member steps in the shower and is surprised by cold water instead of hot water, there are also more subtle signs to watch for.

If the water temperature is uneven or fluctuates, it can indicate a problem with the water heater.

Homeowners should also pay attention if they experience a hot water shortage sooner than usual. If one notices their showers turn cold after a few minutes of enjoying the warm water, it can indicate that an experienced plumber should inspect the water heater. A professional can determine if these water heating issues require repairs or replacements.

Leaking Water Heater 

water heater leak A leaking water heater is an obvious sign that it needs to be replaced. Other visible signs are water stains on the ceilings or walls near the water heater. If homeowners notice leaks around the base of the water heater tank or near the system’s connections, property owners must call a plumber as soon as possible. 

Property owners must schedule tank water heater services as soon as they notice the first signs of a leak. Leaks can quickly lead to major water damage if not repaired or addressed immediately.

Signs of Aging

water heater corrosionHomeowners should watch for signs of aging or corrosion in their water heater. These symptoms can quickly indicate that a new water heater installation is needed.

On average, water heater tanks last between 10-12 years. If a system is nearing this age, homeowners need to be alert to signs of wear and tear—like corrosion—that can indicate the unit needs to be replaced. Signs of rust can signal the unit is corroding, weakening the tank and leading to leaks.

About The Plumbers Guild

Since 2013, The Plumbers Guild has provided professional services to Brookhaven. They offer flat-rate pricing, simple scheduling, and outstanding services. Call them today for water heater replacements in Brookhaven, GA.

Reduce Energy Bills With a Tankless Water Heater

Homeowners Can Go Green With a Tankless Water Heater Installation

There are numerous ways for homeowners to save energy in their homes. One option they might overlook is to install a tankless water heater. Tankless water heater installation can lead to many benefits for homeowners and their households compared to traditional storage water heaters. This post will discuss tankless water heaters, their benefits, and signs it’s time to replace an older water heater. 

Signs to Replace a Water Heater

cold water When it’s time for water heater replacement, homeowners should consider installing tankless water heaters. But first, they need to know what to look for, which can indicate that their water heater needs replacement. Several signs can signal to homeowners that it may be time to replace their existing water heaters, including:

  • Inconsistent water temperature or a loss of hot water
  • Strange noises from the water heater
  • Water is leaking from the water heater 
  • The water heater is corroded, or the water looks rusty and discolored
  • The age of the water heater is beyond its life expectancy
  • The water heater needs frequent repairs
  • Higher energy bills

How Tankless Water Heaters Differ From Traditional Ones

Homeowners should understand some key differences between tankless water heaters and traditional storage water heaters so that they are more informed about their options when it’s time for a water heater installation or replacement. Storage water heaters must keep a tank of water heated to provide hot water for a home. In contrast, tankless water heaters only heat water as needed, eliminating the standby energy losses associated with keeping a tank of water hot, which makes them more energy efficient. 

A tankless water heater heats water directly without using a storage tank. When the hot water is turned on from a fixture, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, and either a gas burner or an electric heating element heats the water. This process ensures that hot water is available continuously, eliminating the wait time for a storage tank to fill up and heat to replenish the hot water supply.

Tankless Water Heater Benefits 

save money Although they are more expensive to install, tankless water heaters provide many benefits, making them an increasingly popular choice among homeowners. One of their advantages is their energy efficiency. Unlike traditional storage water heaters, which must continuously heat and reheat the water in the tank to have it ready for use, tankless units only heat water on demand, which reduces the household’s energy consumption and lowers utility bills. 

Additionally, tankless water heaters have a longer life expectancy, often lasting up to 20 years or more. On the other hand, the life expectancy of storage water heaters is around 10 to 15 years. Tankless water heaters also save space due to their compact size, offering more flexibility in installation locations. Also, because they provide hot water on demand, tankless water heating systems eliminate the inconvenience of running out of hot water, ensuring a continuous supply for showers, washing dishes, and other household needs. So, the next time homeowners need to install a new water heater, they should consider a tankless one. 

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild is a locally owned and operated company that has been serving Brookhaven and the surrounding areas since 2013. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and the latest technology. Call them for tankless water heater installation and repair services in Brookhaven, GA. 

Add a Water Filtration System to Improve Your Home’s Water Quality

Why Homes Need Whole House Water Filters

Households rely on their home’s water supply to complete countless daily tasks – from drinking and bathing to cleaning and cooking. If there are contaminants in the water, it can be detrimental to the residents of the household’s health. 

To be sure a home’s water is safe for consumption, a water filtration system should be installed. These systems can effectively remove contaminants and chemicals from a home’s water supply. This post will explain how whole-home water filters work, how they benefit a household, and when a house needs a system added. 

Water Treatment Systems: What Homeowners Need to Know

reverse osmosisWater filtration systems can remove bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants from a home’s water supply to keep it healthy and safe for households. There are numerous types of water filters households can install, including popular options like reverse osmosis systems and carbon water filters. 

Reverse osmosis water filtration systems remove contaminants from the water by filtering it through a semi-permeable membrane. Whole-house carbon filters absorb the contaminants from the water, which are attracted to the activated carbon, to improve the water quality. Other water filtration systems include UV water purifiers and distillation systems. A homeowner can consult with a plumber to determine the best system for their household and their water quality. 

Advantages of Water Filtration Systems 

clear water There are many benefits to installing a whole-house water filter. While the top benefit is protecting the household’s residents by removing chemicals and contaminants in the water and preventing them from getting sick, there are also more perks. 

Water filtration systems can also remove any foul odors and odd tastes from the water. Besides cleaner, healthier, and better tasting and smelling water, a water filter installation can also help save homeowners money and help the environment by not requiring them to keep buying bottled water.

When Homes Should Install a Water Filtration System

Homeowners should install a water filtration system if they start to question their water quality. Plumbers can perform a water quality test to determine if there are contaminants present that need to be removed and share the best water filter for it.

Households can also pay attention to signs that indicate a water filtration system needs to be installed. Some common signs of poor water quality are if the water is discolored or cloudy or if it has a strange odor or taste. If households spot any of these symptoms or just want peace of mind that their water is clean and safe, they should install a water filtration system. 

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild is a locally owned and operated company serving Brookhaven, GA, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate pricing, easy scheduling, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for water filtration system installation and services in Brookhaven, GA. 

Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater? Watch for These Issues

Signs You Need to Install a New Water Heater

If a household’s water heater is aging and experiences certain issues, it can signal the end is near, and a new one will need to be installed. Waiting too long to replace a water heater can negatively affect a household, like losing hot water and cold showers. To avoid this, homeowners should schedule water heater replacement when they notice certain signs. 

Signs of Corrosion

old water heater When water heaters age, they can start to break down and experience corrosion. This can cause numerous issues with a system, including leaks and rusty water. To determine if there is corrosion in a hot water tank, homeowners can look for signs of a corroded water heater, like rusty-looking, cloudy, or orange-tinted water, and whether the hot water has a metallic taste or smell. 

Homeowners should also look for visible signs of rust and corrosion on the water heater tank and any noticeable leaks. When households notice these symptoms of water heater corrosion, they must consider water heater replacement. 

Absence of Hot Water or It Runs Out Too Quickly

cold shower As water heaters fail, households may notice the water coming from the water heater isn’t as hot as usual, or they might run out of hot water sooner than expected. This can be due to various causes, some requiring replacement, while others requiring maintenance or repair. 

One common reason for a lack of hot water is a buildup of sediment in the unit. A broken heating element or thermostat can also prevent the water from heating to the proper temperature. When plumbers inspect a water heater, they will also determine if the system is undersized for the demands of the household or nearing the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced. 

Frequent Repairs or an Aging Unit

If a homeowner is scheduling water heater repairs more and more often, it can signal that the water heater is nearing the end of its life and needs replacing. Water heaters that are old and close to their life expectancy will also need to be replaced before they completely break down. 

As water heaters age, they can become less effective and efficient at heating water and encounter more problems that require repairs. The lifespan of a traditional water heater is around 10 to 15 years, while the lifespan of a tankless water heater is about 20 years. These timelines can vary based on the amount of maintenance performed on the units, but if systems are nearing these life expectancies, homeowners should be prepared to replace them soon. 

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild is a locally owned and operated company serving Brookhaven and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate pricing, easy scheduling, and financing. Call them today for water heater repair and installation services in Brookhaven, GA. 

Skip Spooky Sounds This Halloween By Fixing Water Hammers

Why Homeowners Hear Banging Pipes in Their Walls

If homeowners hear banging from their walls, they might immediately think someone in the house is playing a trick on them. But after further examination, they might discover it’s not a Halloween prank – it’s a water hammer. These noisy pipes happen when there is a sudden change in pressure or direction of water in the plumbing system. 

When this hydraulic shock occurs, property owners need to schedule plumbing repairs quickly before the increase in pressure causes damage to the lines. This post discusses water hammers, what risks they can cause, and what can be done about them. 

All About Water Hammers

A water hammer is most frequently detected by a loud banging noise coming from a home’s pipes. This disturbing sound occurs when the water flow suddenly changes direction or stops in the piping. This results in a loud noise and can also place stress on the pipes and their joints. 

Water hammer is caused by the sudden change in pressure within the pipes. This pressure is usually absorbed by air chambers or cushioning devices within the system. However, when a valve is closed suddenly, the water flow stops abruptly, causing the kinetic energy and pressure to be released back into the pipes. 

Risks Water Hammers Can Present

water hammer Water hammers can cause more than just annoying sounds. They can also put the plumbing system at risk, as the increased pressure can damage the pipes and their joints. The added pressure to the lines can cause leaks or even burst pipes to occur. 

The leaks and ruptured pipes that can occur due to a water hammer can also negatively affect a household, including water damage, high water bills, and mold growth. To avoid larger problems with the piping and their effects, homeowners should schedule professional plumbing services at the first signs of a water hammer.

Methods Plumbers Use While Fixing Water Hammers

water hammer service Water hammers can cause significant damage, so it’s crucial for homeowners to schedule services with a plumber as soon as possible. When a plumber arrives to perform water hammer fixes, they will first inspect the plumbing system to determine the best solution to stop it. 

Plumbers might install air chambers or water hammer arrestors to absorb the shocks. They may also adjust the pressure-reducing valve or better secure the pipes to stop them from vibrating. Depending on the situation, one or multiple fixes may be needed to remedy water hammers.

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild is a locally owned and operated company serving Brookhaven and the surrounding areas since 2013. They offer straightforward pricing, the latest technology, and on-time arrivals. Call them today for plumbing services in Brookhaven, GA.