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Hydro Jetting vs Snaking

Does hydro jetting work? Is it a better alternative to snaking? These are all great questions that we hear from property owners all the time. Ultimately, the plumbing solution chosen for your problems will need to meet certain criteria. While hydro jetting is an incredibly effective and sought after option, if your pipes are old, corroded, or just too damaged, hydro jetting will not be an ideal solution. It might even cause more problems than solutions which, in that case, snaking the clog then repairing your plumbing would be the best course of action. That in mind, there are situation when snaking isn’t the best option. If the clog is too far down the line or if it’s just too big for a snake to handle, you would want to hydro jet. 

What we are trying to say is that it’s important to know all the facts before jumping to one solution or the other. For help with that, rely on Warranted Plumbing Services. We are here to help you with everything from inspection to repairs. Call us now to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is hydro jetting safe for pipes? 
  • Yes, when used correctly, hydro jetting is very safe on your pipes. While it is highly-pressurized water, it won’t cause damage when handled properly. To get the best results, it’s important to rely on a professional plumber. 
• What does hydro jetting mean?
  • This is a process used by professional plumbers to clean clogged or slow-moving sewage lines. Essentially, they are pressure washing the inside of your pipes. It’s a highly effective method that cleans, sanitizes, and restores your plumbing.
• Is hydro jetting worth it?
  • More often than not, this process is worth it. When done correctly, your pipes will be cleaned and clear of any problematic issues. In addition to that, they will be sanitized to a degree. All in all, despite the cost, hydro jetting is a valuable investment. 
• Can hydro jetting damage pipes? 
  • Yes, one of the major risks with the process is that your pipes can become damaged. If they are older, already experiencing problems, or someone misuses a jetting machine, your plumbing can quickly become damaged.
• How much does hydro jetting pipes cost?
  • The total cost depends on how far out the clog is when you are having the service done, and more. On average, homeowners will usually expect to pay between $350 and $600 for the service.

Handles, for instance, may need to be replaced if the water continues to run unless you jiggle the handle, if the water runs even if you don’t touch the handle, or if you can’t fully flush without holding the handle down. Parts like flappers, trip levers and fill valves will probably need to be replaced after about 4 to 5 years of use, while your wax seal will need to be replaced about every 20 to 30 years.

You may want to replace an older toilet, however, for a newer one to save money on water bills. Newer toilets are designed to use less water more efficiently. If you have to spend a lot on repairs, a new toilet may cost less in the long run.

If your toilet is damaged or in need of repair, for toilet installation and repair in Pittsburg, CA, count on the pros at Warranted Plumbing Services. We offer a full range of plumbing services. Give us a call at (925) 526-6230.   

How do I install a toilet?

If you are remodeling your bathroom or replacing your old toilet, if you have the right tools and skills, you can install a toilet yourself. The toilet installation tools you’ll need are a pair of work gloves, a level, a mini hacksaw, a putty knife, and a pair of safety glasses. Before you get started you’ll need to make sure you have the space for a new toilet. You’ll need to measure from the back wall to the closet bolts, which hold the toilet on the floor, to find out how much space you’ll need. Below you’ll find some installation tips to get your toilet installed correctly. 

Toilet installation basics

• Slide new closet bolts into the slots on the drain pipe or flange and tighten to the washers to ease in aligning the toilet.
• After running the new wax ring under warm water to soften it, press it gently onto the toilet outlet under the bowl.
• Lower the new bowl straight down over the closet bolts, and press firmly on the bowl to square it with the wall.
• Secure the toilet with the cap bases, washers and nuts to closet bolts. Cut off excess bolt with a hacksaw. The nuts should be firmly tightened but not too tight to prevent the bowl from cracking.
• Install the bolts on the tank and place the rubber gasket on the base.
• Place the tank on the bowl and tighten the bolts by hand first, securing them in place with a wrench.
• Hook the water supply up and turn on the water slowly.
• Check for leaks around the gasket, supply line and base.
• Use a screwdriver to install the seat.

When it comes to toilet installation and removal, to ensure your old toilet is removed properly and the new one is installed properly, you may want to get help from professionals like those at Warranted Plumbing Services.

While installing a new toilet can be a do-it-yourself job, other services like roofing are often best handled by professionals, especially roof replacement. If you’re replacing your roof, you may want to consider architectural shingles as a sturdy, durable option.

How long after installing a toilet can you use it?

Once you are sure the toilet is secure and there are no leaks, you can use the toilet immediately after it is installed. You don’t have to wait for the wax to set, although before using the toilet you may want to put weight on it for the wax to spread. If you’ve caulked around the base of the toilet, however, you’ll have to wait 24 hours to allow the caulk to dry.

How long does it take a professional to install a toilet?

If you get a licensed professional for toilet installation, you can expect it to take about one to two hours to install the toilet. If there are problems encountered, it could take more time. Some of the potential problems a professional might encounter include leaks, a cracked flange that causes the toilet to wobble. Other problems could include improper wax seal compression or replacement or a leaky flush valve may not have been replaced.

How much will a plumber charge to install a toilet?

Charges will vary for toilet installation. On average, the price will normally be less than $350, usually around $115. Issues like leaks could cause the price to rise. You may also be charged for removing the old toilet from the premises.

How Much Does Repipe Cost?

The national average cost of home house repiping is approximately $4,080. The minimum cost for home repiping is, on average, $1,500, and the maximum cost is around $15,000. The range for home repiping varies. The low end is $2,280 and the higher end of the range is $5,120. The size of the house and the extent of the replumbing will impact the overall cost.

How Much Does it Cost to Repipe A House?

There are a number of considerations that will impact the final price tag on repiping a home. Installing rough-in plumbing costs around $4.50 per square foot while repiping an existing home with PEX tubing has a range of $0.40 to $2.00 per linear foot. 

When Should You Repipe A House?

Whole house repiping in Pittsburg, CA will increase your home’s plumbing efficiency. At the end of the day, homeowners should be vigilant when it comes to their plumbing needs. If your home’s plumbing has multiple drains that back up, and if your plumbing is well over fifty years old, it’s a good time to call a qualified and certified plumber to assess your home’s plumbing. Affordability is just as important as quality. This is why it is important to receive multiple estimates so that you can ascertain the exact problem and the most appropriate solution.

Are Polybutylene Pipes Bad?

In the past, specifically the 1970s, polybutylene pipes were highly advertised, and highly in demand. Unfortunately, in the 1980s, it was determined that polybutylene pipes react with chlorine in the drinking water supply. The reaction of chlorine to PB pipes causes them to deteriorate from the inside out. This chemical reaction makes the pipe become extremely weak and brittle. Out of this discovery, a class-action lawsuit was formed. As a result, polybutylene pipes are no longer used, and if home inhabitants find they have polybutylene pipes, they can file a claim. There is still money set aside from the lawsuit to replace those pipes.

How to Repipe a House

Plumbing issues should be considered an infrequent but necessary part of homeownership. If your home is displaying multiple issues, it may be time to repipe your home. When a home repiping is in order, a certified and licensed plumbing company will replace the water lines in your home. It is a time-intensive and labor-intensive process, which is why it is not a service that is undertaken lightly. Your home’s efficiency is important. If your air conditioner is sputtering or has fallen into disrepair, you may need air conditioner parts replacement. Consult with a trusted HVAC technician to receive your personalized consultation.

Why Repipe a House

Are you considering repiping your home? Please consider the following bullet points when determining if repiping your home would be a good idea.

• Your home has plumbing that has not been updated in decades.
• The plumbing in your home has low water pressure. 
• You’ve had multiple pipe leaks. In such cases, your plumber may recommend a repiping because he or she sees that there will continue to be extenuating plumbing problems without a whole-house repiping.
• Your water is red or brown. This is a huge red flag. Your plumber will advise you of the reasons why your water is red or brown. One of the reasons includes rusty pipes. Rust will break off into your home’s water supply and transform the color. In such cases, water quality is affected.

Cost to Repipe With Pex

If you have weighed the various options, and have decided to move forward with PEX pipe replacement, the final price tag will be affected by the size of the house and the complexity of the piping system. Still, PEX piping costs significantly less than copper piping. A PEX pipe replacement usually costs $4,000 to $6,000. These amounts total to significantly less than a copper pipe replacement, which costs between $8,000 to $10,000 for the same approximate job.

You need a plumbing company that specializes in repipe in Pittsburg, CA. We deliver proven results. Call Warranted Plumbing Services at (925) 526-6230 to speak with our staff about making an appointment today!

How do you detect a gas leak?

A gas leak can exhibit many signs that can point towards a problem with your gas lines. You may be able to observe signs of a gas leak or benefit from electronic gas leak detection from a gas leak detector.

How Gas Leak Detector Works

Gas leak detection can come in many forms with different kinds of sensors that can trigger a response to notify you of a problem with your gas lines. One such type of gas leak detection device is an ultrasound one. This is a non-concentration based detector that only sends a signal that travels at the speed of sound to the air to the control system on the onset of a leak.

Gas Leak Detector vs Carbon Monoxide

A carbon monoxide alarm will only be able to detect carbon monoxide and not any fumes or raw fuel. That is to say, it won’t be able to detect natural gas, propane or methane. A gas leak detector can come in different types and has the ability in some cases to detect a range of gases or fuels from propane, natural gas, methane, coal, and alcohol. 

How do I know if I smell gas?

Natural gas is naturally odorless so manufacturers have made it a practice to add an additive that will smell like rotten eggs in order to assist occupants in gas leak detection.

Can a gas leak in your house kill you?

A gas leak can be dangerous as it’s a silent yet a deadly type of danger and you have to be proactive in checking on your gas lines in order to determine the conditions of your system. Such cases as incorrectly fitted gas appliances can cause the spread of unhealthy levels of carbon monoxide. As this is a tasteless scentless gas it can cause serious health concerns such as brain damage or even lead to death if exposed long enough. Be sure to pay attention to the signs of a gas leak, if you feel lightheaded and dizzy leave the premises immediately. 

What do you do if you suspect a gas leak?

When you first suspect a gas leak it’s important to first vacate the premises in case of the gas leak setting off a fire. Do not operate any electronics or even turn off or on computers or light switches. The slightest electrical use can set off a spark if the gas is dense enough in the proximity of those appliances. Even your cell phone should not be tampered with until you are a far distance away from the building or gas line. Once safety has been obtained it will then be considered a good idea to call your gas company to turn off your meter, if the gas pipe needs to be repaired or replaced they may be able to do so. Otherwise, a plumbing company may pick up where they left off. 

Are gas leaks common?

Gas leaks are common during extreme weather occurrences such as with a tornado, earthquake, hurricane, mudslide or tsunami. Yet in the everyday scenario, they aren’t typically unless there’s an impact on your gas lines or changes in gas pressures. See what type of gas leak detector for home or business may be right for you.

Contact A Professional

Get the assistance of a professional plumber or gas company for gas leak detection and repair. Only with a professional will you be able to benefit from proper fittings and adjustments in gas pressures. Be sure to ask all of the necessary questions like how to detect a gas leak and what the pressure reading should be to stay afloat of any abnormal readings and behavior. It’s better to be safe and aware of any changes in your gas line, be sure to have annual inspections conducted by an expert for the optimal performance of your gas line. 

If you’d like assistance with gas leak detection in Pittsburg, CA call (925) 526-6230 with Warranted Plumbing Services!

For this, high efficiency plumbing is essential to have. Keeping costs low in the summertime can be difficult without it and doing all of the aforementioned things can send your water bill through the roof just like the temperature on the thermometer.

What steps can you take to combat those high water bills and enjoy your summer without having to dread receiving the water bill in the mail? Can you make these changes without having to reduce the number of times that you use your water fixtures? Here are a few keys to take note of.

What Does Water Efficient Mean?

Being water efficient means reducing the amount of water wastage by measuring the amount of water that is required for a particular purpose and then limiting the amount of water that is used or delivered. This is different from water conservation in that it has a focus on reducing waste, not necessarily restricting the use of water.

Tankless water heaters can help with becoming more water efficient. There are also energy efficient HVAC systems that can help to lower your overall energy costs as well.

High-Efficiency Plumbing Fixtures

High efficiency plumbing fixtures are a great way to reduce the amount of water being wasted in your home. These are fixtures that have been constructed to use less water with each intended use, saving on the total amount of water that is used by the household as a whole.

Some high efficiency fixtures can reduce the usage of the average family by as many as 700 gallons per year. That is obviously a sizable amount and not something to scoff at.

What Are Water Efficient Fixtures?

Your standard water efficient fixtures mostly come from the bathroom, where the most amount of water is used. This includes bathroom faucets, shower heads or faucets, and toilets. This can also entail washing machines, dish washers, and kitchen sinks as well, though the washing machines and dish washers are becoming more standardized in reduced water usage and not something you may have to immediately focus on.

How do Low Flow Faucets Work?

Low flow faucets help to reduce the amount of water flowing through the fixture by acting as a sieve. This means that the water separates from a single flow into separate tiny streams. This means that there is less space for the water to flow, reducing the amount of water that is used.

By using this technique water pressure is maintained, even when less water is used. Most don’t notice a difference in the amount of water coming out of a low flow faucet even though they save about a gallon of water per use.

Plumbing Fixtures With Low Rates

Finding high efficiency plumbing fixtures that generate low water usage rates can go a long way towards water waste reduction and, ultimately, reducing your water bill. The rates at which water flow is reduced depend upon the fixture and its individual specifications.

Low flow toilets in particular are a great way to incorporate high efficiency plumbing into your home. Toilets have traditionally used a lot of water per flush, in the several gallon range typically, and low flow toilets now have the capability of using far less water.

High-Efficiency Faucets Are Key

In the United States each year, there are more than 3 trillion gallons of water that could be saved if water-efficient fixtures were used. This is true as well of high efficiency water faucets. The amount of water wasted in kitchen and bathroom sinks each year is staggering, especially considering the amount of water that could be saved simply by using high efficiency faucets.

Faucets use more than 2.5 gallons per minute when standard faucets are used. Installing a high efficiency plumbing fixture such as a faucet would reduce that by a full gallon per minute per household. That adds up to a lot of gallons of water saved every year if the switch to high efficiency faucets were more widespread.

How Much Water do Aerators Save?

This depends highly on the aerator being used. Some can reduce the water flow of a sink by up to 30 percent or more, depending on which type of aerator that you are using. By reducing the amount of water flow used by a sink, you reduce the amount of water that is ultimately wasted.

Aerators are great for those on a budget. Replacing fixtures can be pricey and an aerator reduces water flow without having to replace an entire fixture.

How Does Trenchless Sewer Repair Work?

• Inspect the Sewer Line Before you can take any kind of action, a plumber will need to inspect your sewer line to see the extent of the damage, corrosion, or clogging.
• Select the Best Course of Action Once you can see the extent of the damage, your contractor will know the best course of action to repair your sewer line. Whether they decide that you need to slide in a flexible new pipe, blowing resin in or insert an inflatable lining, or burst apart your old pipe while inserting a new replacement at the same time, a trained professional will suggest what will work the best for you.
• Clear the Pipe Before you can insert the new material, you have to clean out any clogs, grease, dirt, or waste. That means using a hydro-jetter to flush the pipe with pressurized water, then removing any other debris from the line with a mechanical drain-snake. Once the line is clear you can apply the trenchless sewer epoxy or another form of pipe repair or replacement material.
• Apply the Lining This is the stage where the fix is applied. Whether you’re getting a new pipe, some form of expandable lining, trenchless sewer epoxy, or something else, your damaged or old sewer line is ready for it. No matter what decision your plumbing professional recommended after it’s applied your sewer line should be back in good, working order and any problems you had associated with it should be cleared up.
• Re-Inspect the Pipe This is when you can answer the question “Does pipe relining work?” Once the new lining, material, or pipe has been placed and given time to cure, your plumber will examine the work to ensure everything was applied correctly and doesn’t have any damage or issues. Then it’s time to bury the access point once everything is finished.

What causes bad water quality?

Water quality is measured by the type of need in which it is consumed. Bad water quality can be caused by a number of harmful resources. These resources can be a danger to the plant based and animal life residing in the water which in turn can result in numerous health issues for humans. Chemicals and other pollutants such as oil and metals, can cause irretrievable damage if not tended to correctly.  By not properly following water quality guidelines, the quality of water can create and lead to bigger problems. Bacteria and other microorganisms grow and fester if left untreated and will cause health concerns.

What is a good water quality?

On the other side of the spectrum, good water quality is considered to be free of any foreign substances that may “taint” the quality or characteristics of water. Regular characteristics for water quality are approved by EPA who keep within the guidelines of water quality standards or WQS.  By these standards, good water quality is treated properly under state and federal law for the consumption of all citizens.

What determines water quality?

As stated earlier, water quality is determined by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) who test quality by using certain factors. Water quality criteria is broken down into four factors: radiological, physical, chemical and biological. These factors are tested to make sure that the quality of water consumed by the public are up to standard and do not possess a health risk. For example, since water is used for our irrigation systems, specific characteristics need to be met. We often joke about how the bathroom water leads to the ocean, well without proper procedure, the water quality can cause severe illnesses. These guidelines are put in place to regulate all water usage for the public’s health and for the wellness of our environment that provides it.

How can water quality be improved?

Water quality can be improved by recycling and controlling what is being dumped into our rivers, lakes, oceans, etc. While many of us cannot control what happens outside of our scope with the bigger companies, we can control our water quality at home.  Much like indoor air quality, water quality in home is of great importance and can decrease health issues for you and your family. Illness many times start with simple yet avoidable ways such as with your water quality. In order to help maintain good water quality, there are certain at home water quality kits that are useful and can detect foreign unwanted materials in your water.  

What is water purification and quality?

Water purification is essential to clean living. It is used for our cleaning, cooking, and disposable of our wastes. There are several ways to ensure that the water in your home is up to specs. One way is by disinfection. You can disinfect your water by allowing chlorine, in small doses, to cleanse the water and make it more suitable for use. Illnesses from bacteria in your water are rare, but they do occur. You can also purify your water by using water filters for your basic needs. This allows any solid matter to be captured by a filter and thus provide cleaner water. Filters are more commonly used attached to the kitchen faucet. For Faucet installation in Pittsburgh, CA call (925) 526-6230.

Having good water quality and health go hand in hand. Good water quality nourishes the body and assists in good health practices. Unknown facts about water quality can be quite surprising but great information to know. Did you know that drinking hot water may not be the best idea as the water is sourced through your storage tank and not through the main pipes? The water from your toilet is also recycled, purified and filtered back to your water systems for your main usage. When treated properly, water quality can be outsourced many times over.  Also, a fact in good water quality eliminates the myth of bottled water being cleaner or safer to drink than tap or faucet water. Bottled water is not as regulated as water from the kitchen sink possibly due to the fact that faucet water is a necessity in every home and therefore needs stricter guidelines to be used. For further information on good water quality and water quality criteria, go to Pittsburg, CA or by phone (925) 526-6230.

The feeling of stepping into a shower and feeling the warm water gently run down your body is one that provides many people with extreme comfort. From having a long stressful day, a long journey, or coming in from the icy-cold, warm showers are an immediate source of comfort for many people of the world. Your hot water heater is in charge of making sure that your water is nice and warm, not only for your shower but also for doing the dishes, laundry, and helping clean around the house. When you come home and find that you have standing water in your home, due to a hot water heater burst, you know you have some trouble on your hands. It is important to know what to do when your hot water heater bursts and the signs that trouble might be brewing.

What causes a Hot Water Heater to burst?

Have you ever taken an empty plastic water bottle and twisted it so much that the cap suddenly shot off? If so, you know the unmistakable sound of the pressure forcing the cap to snap off, allowing for the trapped air to escape. When your water heater bursts, it is because of a similar principle. Your hot water heater is like the water bottle, holding contents that under extreme pressure, begin to swell. Here are some of the ways and signs that your hot water heater is about to burst.

• 

  Sediment build up can cause pressure inside your tank leading to a hot water heater burst. 

  Sediment build up occurs when natural minerals and debris from the water begin to collect at the bottom of the hot water tank. The sediment build-up makes it harder for your hot water heater to heat up the water, as the sediment acts as an insulator. Because of extra work, the water heater has to put in, the water heater becomes too hot, causing pressure to build up. Just imagine boiling water for too long in a pot with the top on, eventually, the water is going to try and escape from underneath the top, and spill out onto your stove. Unlike a pot though, the water heater doesn’t have an easy way for the pressure to escape, causing the water heater to eventually bust.

  • There are some warning signs before the sediment build-up becomes a problem. If you hear a popping sound coming from your hot water heater, you know it is time to get it looked at. A plumber will be able to help flush out the drains in your hot water heater, allowing for the sediment build-up to leave the tank and get rid of the problem.
• Corrosion on the hot water heater tank due to rust is a sign that the sacrificial anode rod has completely rusted. The sacrificial anode rod is designed to sit within your hot water heater to help prevent rust from occurring on the tank by acting as a shield. Once this rod is gone, then the hot water heater tank begins to rust. If not caught quick enough, can cause your hot water heater to have a hole which will result in water flooding your home.
  • The sacrificial anode rod should be checked every two years to make sure it doesn’t have too much wear, and if it does, that it is replaced. You will probably have to replace the rod every 4-5 years, but that is a lot less expensive than paying for a whole new heater. You can catch this problem early if you notice that your tap-water is beginning to take on a brownish coloring.
• Internal Pressure built up in the tank for too long can cause a hot water heater burst or, in worse cases, to explode. Pressure builds up naturally over time in your hot water heater due to steam caused by the hot water. Your hot water heater is designed to protect itself against that with its temperature and pressure release valve. It opens up, allowing the water and steam to escape from your tank. Like anything in life, the temperature and pressure release valve begin to wear down over time, causing it to be less and less effective and releasing the built up steam and water.
  • You will recognize this problem if your temperature and pressure release valve is constantly opening up to release water or if it leaking. These two problems signal that pressure is building up within your tank and you have the risk of a hot water heater burst. Making sure that the temperature of your hot water heater isn’t too high can help resolve this issue. The temperature should be anywhere from 120-125 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Making sure you get the temperature and pressure valve tested every two years will also make sure that everything is running properly, and if any repairs are needed, that they can be taken care of before a bigger problem emerges.

Notice any of these problems but are not sure who to turn to? Warranted Plumbing Services is able to help with all of your hot water heater needs. Whether your hot water heater needs a routine check-up or there is already a burst/explosion, our experts will be able to give you the help and guidance you need to not only fix the problem but to also give you a peaceful frame of mind. Call us at (925) 526-6230 in Pittsburg, CA to talk to our team today!

Is It Dangerous to Have a Leaking Water Heater?

A leaking water heater is usually a clear sign that something is amiss. Leaking water is dangerous, as it means the integrity of your hot water heater is in jeopardy. If left unresolved, that leaking water can lead to some serious problems such as a burst, an explosion from built up pressure, water damage to your property, and contaminated water from rusty pipes. If you notice leaking water, call a professional immediately, as it will save you from dealing with major damages and expenses later. Don’t forget that your trusty neighborhood plumbers at Warranted Plumbing Services can help with any of your hot water heater needs.

What To Do When A Hot Water Heater Burst?

One of most dangerous parts about a hot water heater burst is the flood of water that is escaping from the tank. It is crucial that you stop the water first, as to avoid any more water damage to your home. Make sure to turn off the water supply valve that is feeding water to your tank. (With a properly working tank, the valve shuts off automatically when it fills, but because of the burst, there is no way for the tank to ever be completely filled.) If this doesn’t work, turn off the main water supply to your home.

If you have an electric water tank, it is important that you cut off the power going to the tank. The heating element of your tank can cause a fire if it does not have water around it to act as a buffer for the heat. You can do this by switching off the breaker that is in control of the hot water heater. If you have a gas powered water heater, make sure you turn off the gas valve. WARNING: If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and wait until the gas dissipates, if it doesn’t, it means that the gas pipe was damaged as well and you have a gas leak.

If you have a basement, turn on the sump-pump and allow the water to drain as much as you can. If not, try to sop up as much water from your home, and remove any furniture or belongings that are at risk, or have already, come in contact with the water.

Finally, assess the damage and call your insurance agency. Most insurance agencies will work with you in covering the damages done by your hot water heater. That’s when you can turn to your trustworthy team, at Warranted Plumbing Services, to help you assess the damage, offer support, and provide either a water heater replacement or repair the damaged one, if it is salvageable. Dial (925) 526-6230 today to talk with an experienced plumber to help you with all of your hot water needs.

What Happens If A Hot Water Heater Explodes?

As mentioned earlier, your hot water heater can explode if the pressure inside the tank is too high. The gas in the hot water tank, caused by the heating of water, pushes against the walls of the tank when the release valve is blocked. When this happens, your water heater will respond much like a rocket and explode, blasting through your ceiling and landing a couple blocks away. This is extremely dangerous for not only you, your home, and your family, but it is also dangerous for your neighbors. The damages to your home would be extensive and costly, which would only leave you with more turmoil. If you suspect that there is a problem with your water heater, it is important that you call for professional help. Not doing so only puts you and your family at risk. If you are looking for a reliable team that is quick to respond to any call or emergency, just call Warranted Plumbing Services at (925) 526-6230 in Pittsburg, CA.

“Efficiency” is one of the key buzzwords of our generation. That’s why homeowners buy the latest energy efficient HVAC system installation and electricity-conserving light bulbs. But what are they doing about water efficiency? We’ve all been told that limiting water waste is critical for our community, but few understand the true benefits of conserving water use and improving efficiency. Today, we’ll dive into the subject to learn more about how our water usage effects those around us, plus how we can improve water efficiency to save money each month!

Water Efficiency and Conservation

First, let’s outline the differences between water conservation and water efficiency. To conserve water is to refrain from using it when possible, or to utilize less water when we do consume it. As one becomes more water-conservative, their total volume of water consumed will be reduced. 

Efficiency refers to how much of a resource a person, tool, or machine must consume to complete a task. For instance, if Bill utilizes one gallon of water to wash a bucket of clothes, while Sally uses two, Bill completed his task in a more efficient manner. A high efficiency clothes washer will consume less water than an inefficient machine to wash the same amount of clothes.

While many times greater efficiency can lead to high water conservation, the two are not the same thing. That’s why a home outfitted with high efficiency products may consume more water than another home. Enough of definitions, though! Let’s discuss how your family can save money on water.

How Can I Keep My Water Bill Low?

The only way to save money on water expenses is to consume less water (or conserve more water). All the fancy appliances in the world will not help you cut expenses if the total amount of water your family uses stays the same. That being said, high-efficiency water appliances can easily help you reduce the amount of water you consume and save you money at the same time. We’ll talk about this is a moment.

One of the easiest ways your family can save money is by regulating each person’s personal use. Ask your kids to only take one shower a day, unless absolutely necessary. Some people are guilty of washing before bed, then taking another wakeup shower in the morning. Others run the dishwasher when it’s only half full. The most effective water-savers plan out their laundry day by putting all the family’s reds, blues, etc. in combined loads. One controversial water-saving topics is the water efficiency: bath vs shower debate, which we will briefly touch on later!

As you can see, there are many ways to reduce your water consumption. Now, about water-efficiency…

Water Efficiency and Home Appliances

Your plumbing system regulates the flow, expenditure, and the conservation of water. Attached to that system is each and every home water appliance, including:

• Your Water Heater
• Bathroom and Kitchen Faucets
• Showers and Tubs
• The Fridge
• The Dishwasher
• The Clothes Washer
• Outdoor Irrigation (i.e. Sprinklers)

All of these appliances consume water, some more than others. The water heater is one of the biggest consumers of both water and energy in the house. When looking for replacement unit in the future, make sure to take a look at each option’s water heater efficiency rating. There’s a great guide available from the US Department of Energy on how to make an informed decision on your water heater.

One of the best things to do to improve the water efficiency appliances provide in your home, is to switch to low flow faucets. Nowadays, it’s a common habit to simply throw the shower or sink faucet on full blast without even thinking about it. Even if you spend the same amount of time completing each task (washing dishes, taking a shower, etc.), you’ll consume less water overall.

For outdoor irrigation systems, you can easily install a timer that turns off the water after a preset time. If you’re looking for an even deeper investment into energy and water efficiency, try replacing your dishwasher and clothes washer with high efficiency models. While these systems aren’t constantly running, they do consume large amounts of water during each load. Changes here can mean considerable savings over the years. Be sure to keep an eye out for water leaks as well in your plumbing. A constant drip, let alone a steady pour, can wasted hundreds of gallons in a short time frame.

What Uses More Water: a Bath or a Shower?

This is an age old question that’s been contested time and time again, but the answer is pretty clear. An average shower will consume far less water than the average bath. The average shower lasts 10 minutes, consuming a total of 25 gallons of water. The average bath requires 40 gallons of water (for a full tub, with the occupant). That being said, if a family member takes showers that last beyond 16 minutes, they’ll be consuming just as much water as someone taking a bath.

What are 10 Ways to Save Water?

We’ve talked about many ways homeowners can conserve water. Below, we’ll re-summarize some of the most popular water efficiency tips and add in a few bonus entries.

• Switch to energy efficient water appliances.
• Limit shower times to 10 minutes or less.
• Wash full loads of laundry and dishes.
• Keep an eye out for leaks (check your water bill).
• Install low-flow faucets. 
• Turn off the tap in-between uses (brushing teeth, hand washing).
• Install a recirculating pump to save cold water.
• Install timers on outside irrigation. 
• Wash the dog (or cat) outside to water grass and plants.
• Install a rain barrel on the roof.

Schedule Your Water Efficiency Inspection Today!

Need help with a new faucet installation or dishwasher? Our team at Warranted Plumbing Services would love to help your family with your water efficiency and conservation goals! There are many ways to save water for your household, and we know that your family will have fun discovering what works for you. To learn more about water efficiency in Pittsburg, CA or a surrounding community, give our team a call at (925) 526-6230.

 

If you have found yourself with a leak somewhere in your home, it is undoubtedly very frustrating. Leaks are not only annoying, but they can be expensive to have repaired and they cost you more money because it is a waste of water that is happening. The best thing that you can do for a leak is to turn the water off until you can have a plumber come out and repair it. This way you are not wasting any money and there is no chance of water damage happening while you wait. Unfortunately, most people at some point or another, have to deal with leaking happening. Even heating companies in Orange Ca have to deal with things like leaks all of the time. The best thing you can do is to find the source of the leak, turn your water off, and call your plumber to have a leak repair in Pittsburg, CA, done.

Possible Leak Sources

Under Sink – Often times the leaks underneath sinks go unnoticed because it isn’t an area you are looking at each day. The pipes under sinks can begin to leak and even cause mold.

Toilet – If your toilet begins to leak water from it, you will want to put towels down quickly to avoid damage.

Broken Pipe – A broken pipe could mean that a crack has occurred and that is something that you should be concerned about.

Hose Bib – A hose bib can become loose and begin to leak.

Many of our plumbing leads come from leak-related problems. If you end up needing a leak repair in Pittsburg, CA, give Warranted Plumbing Services a call at (925) 526-6230, today.