5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Heater

If you’re a homeowner, chances are you rely on your water heater to provide hot water for showers, dishwashing, and other household tasks. But like any appliance, water heaters have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. Ignoring the warning signs that your water heater is on its last legs can lead to costly repairs and even dangerous situations.

To avoid these issues, it’s important to pay attention to the following signs that it’s time to replace your water heater:

  1. Age: Most water heaters have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If your water heater is approaching or has surpassed this age, it’s likely time to start shopping for a replacement. As water heaters age, they become less efficient and more prone to breaking down. Replacing an old water heater can save you money on energy costs and reduce the risk of unexpected repairs.
  2. Rust and corrosion: If you notice rust or corrosion on the outside or inside of your water heater, this is a sign of serious wear and tear. These issues can lead to leaks and other problems, and it’s best to replace the unit before it fails completely. Rust and corrosion can be caused by a variety of factors, including hard water, high levels of humidity, and even low-quality water. If you suspect that your water heater is rusting or corroding, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional plumber.
  3. No hot water: If you turn on the hot water and are met with cold water, this is a clear indication that your water heater is not functioning properly. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty heating element or a clogged burner. In some cases, these problems can be fixed with a simple repair. However, if the water heater is old or has been poorly maintained, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.
  4. Strange noises: If your water heater is making strange noises, such as knocking, banging, or rumbling, this could be a sign that there is a problem with the heating element or the tank itself. These issues can often be fixed, but if the water heater is old, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. Strange noises can also be caused by sediment build-up in the tank. This occurs when minerals in the water settle to the bottom of the tank, creating a layer of sludge. If left unchecked, sediment build-up can damage the heating element and shorten the lifespan of the water heater.
  5. Leaks: If you notice water pooling around the base of your water heater, this is a sure sign that there is a leak. These leaks can be caused by corrosion or a faulty valve, and they can quickly turn into a major problem if not addressed. If you have a leaking water heater, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible. Leaks can cause serious water damage to your home, as well as increase your water bill.

Conclusion

Paying attention to these five signs can help you determine when it’s time to replace your water heater. By replacing your water heater before it fails completely, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that you have a reliable source of hot water in your home.

If you are concerned about having one of these issues, contact us today at (800) 259-7705! Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action now!

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How to keep your plumbing in top shape all year long

No one wants to think about their plumbing until there’s a problem. But by then, it’s often too late. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers some tips on how to keep your plumbing in top shape all year long, so you can avoid those pesky (and expensive) repairs.

1. Check your water pressure regularly

If you don’t have a water pressure gauge, you can use your sink’s sprayer to test the pressure. Turn on the faucet all the way and see how high the water pressure goes. If it exceeds 80 pounds per square inch (psi), you may have a problem. High water pressure can damage pipes and fixtures, so it’s best to have a plumber check it out.

2. Inspect your pipes for leaks and corrosion

It’s important to inspect your pipes for leaks and corrosion regularly. A little bit of corrosion can cause big problems, and a leak can quickly turn into a flood. If you notice any signs of corrosion or leaks, call a plumber right away.

3. Flush your drains regularly to prevent clogs

One of the best ways to prevent plumbing problems is to flush your drains regularly. This means pouring a pot of boiling water down your drains once a week. Not only will this help to keep your drains clear, but it will also help to disinfect them.

4. Use strainers in your sinks and showers to catch hair and other debris

One of the best ways to prevent plumbing problems is to use strainers in your sinks and showers. This will help to catch hair and other debris before it can clog your drains. It’s important to clean out your strainers regularly, so they continue to be effective.

5. Be careful what you flush

The only things that should be flushed down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Flushing anything else, such as feminine hygiene products, diapers, or even flushable wipes, can cause problems. These items can clog your pipes and lead to costly repairs.

6. Inspect your water heater for signs of wear and tear

Water heaters are a necessary part of every home, but they can also be a major source of problems if not properly maintained. It’s important to inspect your water heater for signs of wear and tear, such as leaks, corrosion, or even just rust. If you notice any of these problems, call a plumber right away.

7. Check the age of your water heater

The average lifespan of a water heater is about 10 years. If your water heater is approaching this age, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it. A new water heater can be a big investment, but it will save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs.

8. Have a plumber check your plumbing system regularly

It’s a good idea to have a plumber check your plumbing system regularly, especially if you notice any signs of wear and tear. A plumber can identify potential problems and fix them before they cause any damage. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers comprehensive plumbing services, so you can rest assured that your system is in good hands.

Conclusion

Prevention is key when it comes to plumbing problems, by following these simple tips, you can avoid many of the most common plumbing problems and keep your plumbing in top shape all year long. If your problem is difficult to manage, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is always here to help – with 24/7 emergency services, we’ll be there when you need us most, and you can rest assured that we will get the job done right the first time. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (800) 259-7705 or send us a message!

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How To Know If Your Plumbing Needs Repairs

No one ever wants to think about their plumbing until there’s a problem. But it’s important to know what kind of plumbing services are offered by a company before you hire them. Some common plumbing services include repairing or replacing water heaters, fixing leaks, unclogging drains and toilets, and installing new faucets and sinks.

What are some common signs that your plumbing needs repairs?

One of the most common signs that your plumbing needs repairs is a leak. This can be a slow, steady drip, or it could be a sudden and large amount of water that suddenly appears on the ground or in another area of your home. Other signs to look out for include low water pressure, foul odors coming from drains or water heaters, and water that is discolored or has a strange smell.

How can you determine if these signs are the result of a plumbing problem, or something else?

In order to determine if these signs are due to a plumbing issue, it’s important to consult with a professional plumber. There are several ways to determine whether your plumbing needs repairs or not, such as:

Checking for leaks

One of the most common signs that your plumbing needs repairs is if you notice any water leaks. Leaks can occur in many different areas of your plumbing system, such as at joints, in pipes, or at fixtures like faucets and showers. If you see any water leaks, it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Inspecting pipes and fixtures

Another way to tell if your plumbing needs repairs is by inspecting the pipes and fixtures for any signs of damage. If you see any cracks, leaks, or other damage, it is important to have them repaired before they cause more serious problems.

Listening to strange noises

Another sign that your plumbing needs repairs is if you start to hear strange noises coming from your pipes or fixtures. These noises can be caused by many different things, such as leaks, blockages, or breaks in the pipes. If you hear any strange noises, it is important to have them checked out by a professional to determine the cause and to have the necessary repairs made.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to contact a reputable plumbing company to have the necessary repairs made. Waiting too long to repair your plumbing can result in more serious problems that will be more expensive to fix. Therefore, it is important to be proactive and take care of your plumbing system to avoid costly repairs down the road.

What services does a plumbing company offer?

Most plumbing companies offer a wide range of services, including repairing or replacing water heaters, fixing leaks, unclogging drains and toilets, and installing new faucets and sinks. They can also help you with more complex issues, such as locating and repairing underground leaks or cleaning out clogged sewer lines. If you experience any plumbing problems in your home, it’s always best to consult with a professional plumbing company that can provide you with the help and support you need.

How much do typical plumbing repairs cost?

The cost of plumbing repairs can vary depending on the size of the repair and the company performing the work. However, on average, repairs can cost anywhere from $50 to $300. It is important to get an estimate from a plumbing company before authorizing any work to be done. This will help ensure that you do not get ripped off by an unscrupulous company.

Conclusion

While some plumbing problems, such as a leaky faucet, are easy to diagnose and repair on your own, other more serious problems should be handled by a professional plumbing company. By knowing what to look for and what services these companies offer, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing system is always in good working condition.

Following these simple signs can help you avoid costly plumbing repairs in the future. But if you do find yourself in need of plumbing services, be sure to hire a reputable company with experience handling similar issues.

If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak with a qualified plumbing professional. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is always here to help – with 24/7 emergency services, we’ll be there when you need us most, and you can rest assured that we will get the job done right the first time. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (800) 259-7705 or send us a message!

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Plumbing 101: 3 Reasons Your Hot Water Is Smelling Terrible

Is your hot water smelling like rotten eggs lately? There is no need to fear. Although, getting clean with terrible-smelling water can be stressful. 

Water that smells like sulfur, rotten eggs, or decaying matter is a widespread issue that can cause serious problems beyond feeling embarrassed when inviting guests. The solution is not as easy as replacing your water heater, which could be pretty expensive. Most often than not, there is an underlying cause why your water is smelling awful that even a new water heater cannot resolve.  

Let’s look at the top three reasons why your hot water is smelling terrible and what you can do to resolve it:

1. Bacteria Growth in the Water Heater

If your water heater uses well water, sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) may be to blame. Small amounts of hydrogen sulfide gas are produced when SRB digests sulfur-based components in water.

The bacteria love the water heater tank’s warm, dark environment. Your water heater’s anodes produce hydrogen ions, which sulfur bacteria utilize to produce hydrogen sulfide gas. Showering atomizes bathwater, elevating the stench, especially if you don’t use the heater for a long time.

Although SRB is not harmful to people, the foul odor from your water heater should be addressed. You can shock the water supply with chlorine, and setting the thermometers to 160°F overnight will do the trick. However, make sure everyone is out or is aware of the rapid rise in hot water temperature.

You may also think about installing a UVC sanitizer to your water source. This kills 99.9 percent of the bacteria passing through it and prevents reinfection.

2. Bacteria Growth in the Drain

Another typical cause of stenchy water is bacteria developing in the drain. Organic matter, such as food waste, gathers on the drain walls over time and becomes a nutrient for bacteria to thrive, causing the rotting smell. 

One method to check if the issue is coming from your drain is to fill a glass halfway with the smelly water from the sink, then move away from the sink. Afterward, swirl the water around within the glass a few times. If the issue is in the drain, the tap water in the glass should be odorless. 

To resolve your drainage problems, pour about half a cup of regular baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Afterward, flush and clean it, and wait fifteen minutes before pouring down hot tap water.

3. Bacteria in the Water Source

Another cause of the rotting egg stench is your water supply. If the water source emanates a terrible smell, it means the water contains hazardous microorganisms that can be harmful when drank or poured over the body.

If you have a water well, the natural chemistry of the groundwater may be promoting bacterial development in the well. For this reason, You need to shock the well and pump out water until the chlorine stench is gone.

In addition, a faulty or incorrectly placed septic system might be near your well. Stop using your water right away and get in touch with your community’s health department. If you use city water, you also need to contact the water supply authority right away.

Conclusion

The presence of bacteria in your plumbing systems is not an ignorable issue. To avoid further contamination, stop using the well’s water immediately and contact your local health authority. If you use city water, you also need to contact the water supply authority.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we are your 24/7 emergency plumbing in Lake County, CA, as well as Mendocino Counties. We are trustworthy, competent, and customer-focused, whether it’s faucet repair, toilet repair, blocked or backing up drains and sewers, or septic systems. We provide fast and efficient plumbing solutions with cutting-edge technology and extensive plumbing experience. Plumbing emergencies don’t wait, so if you’re having some, call us now!

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Why You Should Hire a Water Heater Expert

Water heaters are one of the most overlooked appliances in a home or business, which is surprising seeing how important it is! A high-quality water heater, when installed properly, can run and provide you with warmth and a comfortable temperature for many years. 

Typically, a water heater can last between 10 and 15 years. It is perhaps one of the reasons that many homeowners or facility managers just forget about it. The problem is when it fails and breaks down, and you don’t have hot water for showering, doing the dishes, cooking, and more.   

More people need to realize that hot water is essential in their house or business and that they should take steps proactively to ensure that their water heaters are working correctly at all times. The best way to do that is to perform regular maintenance by an expert in a water heater in Lakeport, CA. 

Here are some of the reasons you should hire a professional for your hot water needs:

Professional and Expert Repair Service

When you repair or do the maintenance of the water heater yourself, you’d always doubt the job that you’ve done, especially if you hear strange sounds or you feel your water heater is taking longer to produce hot water than it used to. If you call a pro, on the other hand, you have peace of mind knowing that the fix is done correctly and that you won’t be encountering any problem anytime soon. 

Correct Installation

If you reach that point when you need to replace your water heater, it makes sense to hire a trained professional. Know that a water heater needs to be properly installed if you want it to run smoothly for years. It is during installation that you can also begin planning your maintenance routine with the professional. You’d know that there’s someone you can trust to ensure that the system has all its parts in excellent working condition. 

The installation is not something you can do because there are a lot of elements like wiring, plumbing, and more that can be complex and require special tools and know-how to be done correctly. 

Safety, Always

Water heaters run on a 240-volt power line that can quickly deliver a shock level that’s lethal, especially when combined with external conditions like floods or water leaks. It’s better to have a seasoned water heater expert do any repair work that might be necessary to reduce the risk of personal injury. Even those heaters that still run on natural gas or propane can emit dangerous carbon monoxide and other flammable gasses. As you know, these can lead to severe damage to your home and a threat to your family’s health. It’s simply safer to call a pro to do the job. 

Warranty Protection

Aside from the reasons mentioned above, you should seriously consider the repercussions may be if you decide to install or repair your water heater on your own because most manufacturers would void the insurance if you do this. 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are all these great reasons to leave the repair, maintenance, and installation of your water heating system to an expert plumber in Lakeport, CA, who specializes in water heaters. Not only is it convenient, but you’ll also get quality service, your warranty will be intact, and you’ll all be safer!

If you’re looking for experts in the repair or installation of water heaters in Lakeport, CA, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has your back. Whether you need a new system installed or your current one serviced, we can do it for you. Contact us today to get a quote!

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Notable Benefits of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater

Just about every home in the United States is outfitted with a water heater. There’s really no replacing water heaters as they are an invaluable part of any home. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t improve upon them. And while you may think this is a trivial matter as your heater already works fine, we ask that you give this subject a little more thought as making a small change will make a huge difference. Indeed, when it comes to plumbing installations very few are as impactful as a tankless water heater.

Now, we understand if you need a little more convincing. You’ve been using your current heater for years and find very few incentives to change things up. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the most notable benefits of making the switch to a tankless water heater.

Lower Energy Bills

You may be wary about the costs associated with making the switch to tankless water heaters. And while it is true that you will need to spend some money, it’s also important to note that making this small change will end up saving you money in the long run. This is because tankless water heaters allow you to save money on your electricity bills. The reason for this is simple: unlike traditional water heaters, the tankless heater only warms the water when it is needed. You’ll be wasting a lot of energy if you keep using traditional water heaters as the water is being heated constantly.

Lessens Environmental Impact

Speaking of electricity usage, because your current heater wastes electricity this also makes it quite bad for the environment.  This won’t be an issue for tankless heaters, as they are significantly more efficient compared to other heaters. This efficiency translates into a smaller carbon footprint for your household. And while we still have a long way when it comes to combating climate change, we should all do our part to lessen the negative impact we have on the environment.

Extended Lifespan

While traditional water heaters are pretty sturdy, the tankless variants last even longer. Traditional water heaters can last up to a decade but tankless heaters can easily double that. This can be particularly valuable if you plan on staying in your home for a long time as this will save you money as you will likely never have to replace your heater.

Saves Space

The average water heater is around 60 inches by 24 inches. This can take up valuable space in your home. By making the switch to tankless heaters, you are effectively making more room in your home. While this may seem trivial, the space you save can be used for a slew of different things and will be valuable if you find that you’re lacking in storage space.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped convince you how potentially life-changing this one small change can be. As you can see, there is a slew of different benefits attached to making the switch to a tankless water heater. It not only benefits you but is also an overall improvement when it comes to your impact on the environment.

If you’re in the market for new plumbing installations, give Benjamin Franklin Plumbing a call today. Our team of experts is committed to providing you with effective, clean, and safe solutions that will help you avoid costly damage done to your pipes or the stress of putting potentially harmful chemicals into your water supply.

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3 Noises Your Water Heater Makes and What They Mean

Water heaters are the most overworked mechanical equipment in any household as they constantly provide heated water to all your plumbing fixtures on demand. Without one, you’ll be stuck manually heating water to maintain your home’s comfort when showering, bathing, or even washing the dishes. 

Despite the integral role a water heater plays for homeowners, it’s easy to neglect its needs and forget to give this workhorse the tender love and care it deserves. Once the water heater starts to show its weariness, it’ll start to make noises to get your attention. 

However, different sounds have their own meaning, and ensuring what you hear doesn’t get lost in translation is crucial if you want to avoid a catastrophic and costly plumbing crisis. If you ever notice your water heater producing odd sounds, the list below should clue you in on what they could possibly mean for you: 

1. Popping or Rumbling Sounds 

When you notice something “popping” inside your water heater, then it likely means there is too much limescale build-up at the bottom of the tank. This is made from hardened mineral deposits and sediment gathered at the bottom, resulting in excess gunk that traps steam bubbles underneath.

Once the bubbles burst, you’ll hear popping sounds. It may seem harmless at first, but keep in mind that letting the minerals turn into limescale can eventually take a toll on your water heater. Once the popping noises transform into loud rumbles, then it means the sediment build-up is at its limit. 

2. Sizzling or Crackling Sounds 

A water heater should only produce humming sounds, but once something starts to sizzle, then it may indicate another problem related to sediment build-up. This can clog the drain valve or trap the lower heating element underneath all the mineral residue, causing your unit to be unable to produce heated water. 

3. Screeching Sounds 

Nothing sounds scarier than a screech, and the ear-splitting noise deserves as much alarm when it’s coming from your water heater since it’s trying to say that it’s suffering from a water flow restriction. Many factors can clog the valve, but no matter the root, blocked valves can prevent water from flowing to your pipes properly. 

The Bottom Line: Decoding What Your Water Heater Is Saying by Listening to Its Noises

Your water heater may make noises to try and tell you it’s struggling, but there are specific sounds that may clue you in on the root of the problem. Keep your eyes open and tune in to your water heater’s needs – it may be asking you to call professional plumbers before the problem worsens. 

Do You Need Emergency Plumbing Services in Mendocino County, California?

If you need help fixing plumbing emergencies, it’s best to keep calm and put licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers on speed dial! Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has some of the best emergency plumbing services covering all of Lake & Mendocino Counties, so get in touch with us today at (707)-263-1629 to see how we can flush your problems down the drain round-the-clock! 

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5 DIY Plumbing Tips That Will Still Require A Professional Plumber

And When to Call a Professional Plumber

Most of us would love to save money whenever we can.  When it comes to plumbing, however, it’s generally better to call in the professional; especially when you may be in over your head or you just don’t have the time.

Some of the smaller plumbing jobs, however, can be done at home without the risk of causing a massive flood.  Here are 5 plumbing tips that you can use in order to get the plumbing job done.  When it comes time, however, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is here to serve all of your Lake and Mendocino County plumbing needs.

Know how to Keep Sewer Lines Clear of Root Issues

If you live in a house that’s over 40 years old, your sewer lines are prone to tree root damage.  As the trees mature, their roots go deeper and seek out water.  What’s the wettest area around your house?  Probably that aging pipe that is transporting all the wastewater to the city sewer!  Fortunately, there are no tools required to keep this line clean.  There are a few different brands of root killer which you can flush down the toilet.  This foaming compound enters into the pipes and grabs on to the tree roots that are creeping through the pipes.  It kills the ends, and creates a bond so the roots won’t grow back any time soon.

Why most DIY Sewer lines will require a professional plumber

Root killer is a preventative measure though.  If you haven’t been keeping those pipes clear, you will need someone to clean out the sewer pipes first so that everything can function just how it’s supposed to.

Know how to Replace a Shower Head

Tired of your old shower head?  Or do you have one that dumps out far too much water and you want something to help keep utility costs down?  Replacing a shower head is one of the simpler plumbing jobs you can do.  Using an adjustable wrench, simply unscrew the old fixture, clean the threads, wrap with plumbing tape, and screw the new fixture back on.

Why a professional plumber is a better option to replace a shower head

When you’re working with the pipes there is always the chance that you could do some damage.  Even though it’s a simple job, you may want to have a professional plumber come by to ensure it all goes smoothly.

Know how to Stop a Constantly Running Toilet

A toilet that won’t stop running is pretty annoying.  But do you know how much water you’re wasting?  Your running toilet could be draining thousands of gallons of water each month; costing you hundreds of dollars per year.  The repair is often little more than a minor adjustment on the components.

Take the back off the toilet tank.  Most running toilet problems are due to a damaged or warped flapper.  Turn the water off to the toilet, and then flush to clear the water from the tank.  Remove the old flapper and install a new one.  But what if it’s not the flapper?  If the toilet is leaking through the overflow, simply adjust the float just turn the float adjustment so that the water stops about 1 inch below the overflow tube.

Too many trips to the hardware store can save you a lot of time if you hire a professional plumber

Toilets aren’t actually as complicated as we often think they are.  But they can be overwhelming if you don’t know quite what to look for.  Combine that with multiple trips to the hardware store because there are so many different parts means a plumber can save you a lot of time when stopping a running toilet.

Know how to Turn off the Water to the House

Many houses are getting older, and so are the pipes.  Those pipes will eventually wear out and fail.  What do you do if one breaks and water is shooting into the house?  First, turn the water off!  After that, call the punctual plumber to get the problem taken care of.

Near where the water comes into the house, there will be a water meter and a water shut-off valve.  Most are a quarter turn ball valves.  When the handle is in-line with the water pipe, the water is on; when the handle is perpendicular to the water pipe, the water is off.

If you find it hard locating the main water pipe shut off you will be better off calling a plumber

Prevent as much damage as possible by killing the water to the house quickly.

Know how to Clear Out a Slow Shower Drain

One of the worst feelings in the world is to be taking a shower and the water starts to pool up around your feet.  That slow drain is generally caused by hair going down the drain and getting stuck.  The clog is worsened when soap latches onto the hair creating a big gunk of a mess.

There’s no need to rip the whole drain apart.  Instead, grab a zip it drain cleaning too and push it into the drain.  The “teeth” will slip into the drain easily, and grab the hair on the way back out.  The mess that was slowing your drain is cleared out in just a couple of minutes.  Note: not for the faint of heart!  The gunk pulled from the drain can be pretty gross.

That hairball you pull out might solve the issue… but the issue might be further down the pipes.  In order to really get things cleaned up, a plumber will have to come and “snake” out the drain.  That’s where we can help.

 

Call a Plumber if You’re Not Comfortable

These 5 DIY plumbing tips aren’t the most difficult tasks, but what if it’s a bigger project you want to take on?  Whenever you tackle a DIY plumbing project you have to keep a few things in mind.  First, do you know how to do the entire project the right way?  If not, find a plumber near you.  Second, will you be able to do the job without messing anything else?  If not, a plumber can.  Third, do you have time to tackle the project?  Most of us are busy, if you don’t have time, your local plumber will save you the headache.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing serves Lakeport, CA and the surrounding areas.  We offer emergency plumbing services for all of Mendocino County and parts of Lake County.  Give us a call at 707-263-1629 to schedule your service.

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How Professional Plumbers Can Save You Money on Water Heater Repairs

It can be tempting to handle some of the repairs around your house on your own to help you save money. However, in the long run, this isn’t going to save you much, primarily because most people don’t have the expertise and knowledge required to complete some of the most complex repairs, let alone some of the simpler ones. This is why it’s often best to work with the professionals. A professional plumber can ultimately save you money on your water heater repairs, ensuring you have an operational water heater at all times.

Lower Your Energy Bills

One of the biggest complaints homeowners have is how much their utility bills are. Both electric and gas water heaters will come with a rating that indicates how much energy they use when they are operating at peak efficiency. Over time, these units will begin to operate less efficiently, which will cause the unit to begin using more energy than it previously did. This is why it’s important to pay close attention to your energy bills. If you begin to see your bills rise, you will need to determine which appliance is the cause. One of the best ways to do this is to call on the professionals to conduct an inspection of your water heater. They will be able to identify any problem that may exist and then resolve it quickly so you can experience lower utility bills again.

Reduce Your Water Bill

Did you realize if your hot water heater requires repairs, it could actually be wasting water? This typically happens if the water heater springs a leak. While it would seem like you would be able to easily identify the presence of a leak, sometimes the location of the issue or its severity can impact whether you will notice water pooling around your water heater. If you don’t notice a problem, you will be wasting water without giving it another thought. Professional water heater repair will ensure these leaks are handled quickly and efficiently. In addition to leaks, there are other reasons an inefficient water heater increases your water bills. Think about your habits when you use your faucets and want hot water. If you’re like most people, you have to run the water until the hot water reaches the taps. If your hot water heater is struggling, this will take longer, causing you to use more water and thus increase your bills.

Prevent Further Damage

Perhaps one of the biggest reasons to turn to the professionals for your water heater repairs is because they have the experience necessary to complete the repairs properly the first time around. Many people mistakenly think they can diagnose and correct any problems their water heater may have. After all, there are many tutorials online that show you what to do and how to do it. Unfortunately, these are often difficult to follow and things aren’t as easy as they may appear to be. If you don’t perform a repair correctly, you will ultimately do more damage to your water heater, which will require you to either hire professionals to redo your incorrect repairs or replace your water heater entirely. Completing any repairs in their earliest stages will ensure no further damage is done and you are able to continue using your current water heater without worrying about needing a replacement in the near future.

Save on Parts

It isn’t always easy to diagnose the problem when it comes to your water heater. If you misdiagnose the issue, buy the wrong parts and spend the time replacing them, only to find the problem persists, you have not only wasted your own time, but you have wasted your money and will need to pay even more to either buy the right parts or hire the professionals to make sure the problem is properly managed. Not only will you save money knowing the professionals have purchased the correct parts for the job, but in many cases, plumbers have access to discounted parts and will pass those savings along to you. This can also make for a much cheaper repair than doing it yourself, even if you do have to pay the labor costs.

Prolong Its Lifespan

In most cases, water heater repair is often significantly cheaper than replacing the entire unit. While you will need to replace it at some point in the future, hiring the professionals to repair any problems you encounter will keep you from having to pay for a replacement long before it is due. This is why it’s important to request regular inspections to identify minor problems before they become more serious issues. Unfortunately, many serious issues will require a full replacement to ensure it is properly fixed. However, if you make these repairs when they are still small, you will be able to save money by keeping your water heater operational for a longer period of time.

As a homeowner, it’s important to find as many ways as possible to reduce your regular bills and keep your budget under control. With all of the appliances in your home, it’s critical to make sure they all operate efficiently. Unfortunately, there are some homeowners who feel they can save themselves money by performing repairs on their own. However, when it comes to something as complex as your water heater, it is often best to hire the professionals to complete the work for you. Few people have the experience and knowledge to perform plumbing repairs, which means they may waste their money buying the wrong parts. Hiring professional plumbers can be a great way to reduce the risk you will waste money performing repairs that aren’t necessary, as well as reducing your energy and water bills, prolonging the lifespan of your water heater to put off replacement as long as possible and preventing further damage due to incorrect repairs. The goal is to make sure your water heater is operating as efficiently as it was designed to so you can enjoy the hot water you need on a daily basis.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing serves Mendo Lake, CA and surrounding areas. We have technicians trained to repair, install, and tune-up water heaters of all makes and models. Give us a call at (707)-263-1629 or visit us online at Benjaminfranklinplumbingmendolake.com.

*We have 24/7 emergency services available in Lake & Mendocino Counties

Toll Free: (877)-236-1776.

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Hot Water Dispensers – Understanding The Basic

Hot water dispensers can be very convenient – both for home use and for industrial purposes. However, there is still some confusion about what, exactly, a hot water dispenser is, how it works, and the different types of hot water dispensers available on the market today.

Let’s take a look at the basics now, starting with what hot water dispensers are.

What Is A Hot Water Dispenser?

A hot water dispenser is an appliance that integrates a faucet or some kind of water container with a heating element. This heating element allows water to be heated to a certain temperature instantly, or heats a specific volume of water, and maintains that level of heat. Usually, water is heated to about 201° F, or just under the boiling temperature.

This makes it easy to get hot water for just about any application – whether it’s for hot beverages such as coffee or tea, for cooking food, for cleaning laundry or dishes, or any other reason. Hot water dispensers eliminate the time-consuming process of constantly boiling water in electric/stovetop kettles, or in pots and pans. 

The Different Types Of Hot Water Dispensers

There are three primary types of hot water dispensers that are used in the home today. Here’s what you need to know.

  • Integrated hot water dispensers – Integrated hot water dispensers are the most expensive, power-hungry type of hot water dispenser. However, they are also the most convenient.As the name suggests, these hot water dispensers are integrated directly into your home’s sink and plumbing, and usually can dispense hot water directly from a faucet in the sink.Typically, integrated hot water dispensers consist of an insulated tank, a heating element, and a faucet, and link directly with the water supply of your home. Water is drawn into the insulated tank, where a heating element brings it to the desired temperature. Then, the water is maintained at this temperature until it must be used.After water is dispensed, the insulated tank will fill with cold water, and the entire process will be repeated. Though these dispensers do use a fair amount of energy, they are very convenient, and integrate seamlessly into an existing sink.

  These units also often integrate a filtration system, allowing for a more high-quality water supply.

  Instant, “tankless” hot water dispensers are also available. These are usually more expensive than      units with tanks. They use an extremely powerful heating element to rapidly bring cold water to a        boil on-demand, and they don’t need an insulating tank.

  This allows users to save money on power costs, as the unit is only activated when hot water is            dispensed.

  • Boil-on-demand water dispensers – Boil-on-demand water dispensers are, essentially, supercharged electric kettles. These devices do not require installation, and are usually small enough to fit comfortably on a kitchen counter.These water dispensers are able to heat a small volume of water – usually not more than a pint or so – in a very short time, usually less than a minute. Because water is not constantly heated and kept at a steady temperature, they are more energy-efficient than comparable integrated hot water dispensers.However, they do have some drawbacks. They take longer to boil water, as the process is not instantaneous. They also require regular refilling by the user, making them somewhat more inconvenient. Finally, only a small volume of hot water can be boiled at once.Despite these drawbacks, these units are very inexpensive, making them popular for consumers on a budget.
  • Thermo-pot hot water dispensers – These standalone units are quite similar to integrated hot water dispensers, but do not require installation in a sink. They are usually quite a bit larger than boil-on-demand water dispensers.Thermo-pot hot water dispensers essentially combine an electric kettle and an insulated hot water flask. The boiler brings the water to the desired temperature, and the built-in heating element and insulated tank allows the water to maintain that temperature until the water is used.These dispensers usually have a capacity of between 2-5 liters, making them a better choice than boil-on-demand water dispensers if a large volume of water is required. However, these units must still be refilled by the user, and do use up a fair amount of electricity maintaining proper water temperature.

The Benefits Of A Hot Water Dispenser

Hot water dispensers have a number of benefits, compared to alternative sources of hot water such as the sink, stovetop kettles, or dedicated electric kettles.

  • Higher temperatures – Most home water heaters limit temperatures in sinks and showers to about 120° F. This is done for safety reasons – you don’t want to accidentally use boiling water in your bath, or for cleaning your dishes.Still, sometimes you may need higher-temperature water to cook, or make hot beverages quickly. Hot water dispensers usually bring water to temperatures in excess of 200° F, so they’re perfect for these applications.
  • Convenience – Having hot water on demand is much more convenient than going through the process of filling a kettle and boiling it – so a hot water dispenser can save you quite a bit of time!
  • High capacity – Your standard kettle can only boil 48-64oz of water at a time, and boiling a large volume of water takes time. In contrast, high-capacity hot water dispensers can often boil and heat a gallon or more – providing you with a high-volume water heating solution.

Hot Water Dispensers – Safe, Convenient, And Affordable

Because hot water dispensers come in so many different types, there’s sure to be a dispenser out there that’s perfect for you. So think about how you can benefit from the convenience of a hot water dispenser, and shop now.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing serves Mendo Lake, CA and surrounding areas. We have technicians trained to repair, install, and tune-up water heaters of all makes and models. Give us a call at (707)-263-1629 or visit us online at Benjaminfranklinplumbingmendolake.com.

*We have 24/7 emergency services available in Lake & Mendocino Counties

Toll Free: (877)-236-1776.

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