Frequently Asked Questions

Watch the water meter. If you have a leak, monitoring your home’s water meter will give you a definite answer. Investigate your appliances and plumbing fixtures Dye test the toilet tank. Check to see if you have an abnormally larger water bill.

One of the biggest causes of wasted water in your home is a slow leak that you cannot see. These can be behind walls and are generally silent and go undetected.

Do not let that leak go without having it repaired. Over time the leak may get worse and cost your water bill to increase. Leaks can lead to other issues like damage to your home and even mold issues.

Depending on the Manufacture and age of the faucet depend on what is best. If it is what we would call a “builder grade faucet,” we would suggest it is best to replace it.

Check the flapper on the flush valve. These typically wear out or can even get loose and out of alignment. If this is not the issue, check that the water level is not adjusted too high and check that the fill valve turns off when the flush cycle is completed.

Pros:

• Lower initial cost: The installation of a traditional water heater can be half as much as a tankless water heater.
• Easy and inexpensive to replace: Fewer installation complications mean that there’s less that can go wrong.

Cons:

• Higher utility bill: They heat and reheat water at a pre-set temperature regardless of your water needs. This increases your utility, bill-especially during the winter.
• Bigger and harder to place: They occupy more room and can’t be placed outside.
• Can you run out of hot water: Have you ever been the last in your family to get the shower? It’s a chilling experience. This problem can be avoided by purchasing a larger tank (although that will be more in energy costs.)
• Shorter life: Lasts 10-15 years. This means there’s more turnover, and therefore you have to buy them twice as often as a tankless water heater.

Pros and cons of tankless water heaters

Pros:

• Saves money in the long run: According to Energy.gov, “For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand (or tankless) water heaters can be 24%-34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters.
• It doesn’t take up much space: They are small and can be installed in more places, even outside on a wall
• Lives longer: Lasts 20+ years. Almost double a traditional water heater’s life.
• Deliver hot water on demand: Provides two to three gallons of hot water per minute.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost: Costs $3000 to $4500 installed (depends on the model and who you get it from).
• Retrofitting adds to the upfront cost: Replacing a traditional water heater with a tankless system is more complicated. So that increases the installation cost even further.

The water temperature coming into your home in the winter is typically colder. Turning up the temperature on the thermostat on your water heater should correct this.

Good maintenance is to replace a tank-type water heater every 15 years. If your water heater is making popping noises or is not heating up as it should be, it is time to replace it.

Turn off the shut-off valve at the base of your toilet. Then you can try plunging your toilet to release the blockage.

Over time the nail on hangers or straps that support your pipes can come loose from expansion and contraction. Routinely check the exposed supports to ensure they are not getting loose or have fallen out. Other symptoms can arise from not having an air hammer arrestor on the appliance with solenoids. Such appliances as washing machines, dishwashers, and humidifiers.

All water heaters should be drained every six months per manufacturer instructions. This will prevent building up sediment in your tank, keep the sensor on the gas control valve clean of debris and help your tank last longer and prevent other issues over time.

Even if you have one installed professionally in a quality product, you should replace it every 7-10 years.

At Suburban Plumbing, we stand out for our expertise in sump pump services, water heater repairs, and more. With a commitment to quality, reliability, and personalized service, we ensure your plumbing needs are met with excellence. Discover the Suburban Plumbing difference today.

Suburban Plumbing distinguishes itself through a combination of experience, customer-centric service, and a commitment to excellence. Learn about our team’s expertise, dedication to quality, and how we’ve become a trusted name in the plumbing industry on our About Us page.

If you require urgent plumbing services or have questions, getting in touch with Suburban Plumbing is easy. Visit our Contact page for our phone number, email, and a convenient contact form. We’re ready to address your plumbing needs promptly and efficiently.