Author: webdev

According to the U.S Geological Survey (USGS), over 85% of American households have hard water, which can cause scaling, mineral accumulation, and expensive appliance repairs. An appropriately sized water softener can help avoid these issues, reduce salt usage, and improve water quality. But how big of a water softener do I need for my home?

In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate water softener size for your home. 

Why Water Softener Efficiency Matters

When selecting the size of your water softener, efficiency is essential. A softener that is too small will have trouble producing adequate soft water, which could result in frequent regenerations, wasted salt, and higher water usage. However, if the softener is too big, you will overpay up front and use more salt than necessary.

A properly sized water softener minimizes salt usage while ensuring that your house never runs out of soft water. This can lead to big savings over time on repairs and salt purchases and potentially extend the life of your plumbing and appliances.

How Big of a Water Softener Do I Need?

So, what is the required size for a water softener? Your household’s water use and the hardness of your water ultimately determine the answer.

Hardness of Water

The amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in your water is known as water hardness, commonly expressed in grains per gallon (GPG). While city water users can typically obtain this information from their local utility’s water report, well water users must test for hardness.

Assume that your water hardness is 10 GPG. If your home’s water contains iron, you will need to change the hardness value. To your hardness level, add 3 GPG for every 1.0 ppm of iron. Precise hardness assessments are essential for appropriately sizing and configuring your water softener.

Water Consumption

The daily water consumption of your home is the second element. Examining a recent water bill is the simplest way to calculate this figure. To find your daily average, divide the total amount of water used by the number of days in the billing period. If you don’t have this information, multiply the number of people living in your home by 75 gallons per person per day as a rough approximation.

For instance, a household of four people would need roughly 300 gallons of water daily. You can determine the capacity requirements for your softener by considering both your water hardness and daily water use.

Calculating Daily Softening Requirements

You must first determine how much softening you need daily to fit your water softener appropriately. This is the quantity of hardness grains your water softener must eliminate daily. Here is a detailed example:

  • Hardness of water: 10 GPG
  • Water Use per Day: Four persons times 75 gallons equals 300 gallons.
  • The daily requirement for softening is 10 GPG multiplied by 300 gallons, which equals 3,000 grains.

In this case, the daily hardness that your softener must withstand is three thousand grains. You can calculate the weekly softening capacity required by multiplying your daily softening requirement by seven, as most softeners are only meant to renew once a week.

  • The weekly requirement for softening is 3,000 grains every day multiplied by seven days or 21,000 grains.

Choosing the Right Softener for Your Needs

Now that you know your household’s softening needs, it’s time to select the appropriate softener size. The two main criteria used to grade water softeners are the quantity of resin, and the number of hardness grains that can be eliminated before regeneration is required. An overview of softener capabilities is provided here:

  • A resin volume of 0.75 cubic feet is 15,000 grains.
  • A resin volume of 1.0 cubic feet is 20,000 grains.
  • 1.5 cubic feet of resin may hold 30,000 grains.
  • A resin volume of 2.0 cubic feet equals 40,000 grains.
  • 3.0 cubic feet of resin may hold 60,000 grains.

For a weekly need of 21,000 grains, a softener with a 1.0 cubic foot resin tank—which can handle 20,000 grains—would be marginally undersized. A 1.5 cubic foot softener with 30,000 grains of capacity can be the best option if you want to guarantee effectiveness and avoid frequent regenerations.

High Salt-Efficiency Water Softener Guide

Another essential factor to take into account when selecting a water softener is salt efficiency. You do not want a system that uses more salt than necessary. The resin sizes and corresponding salt efficiency are described as follows:

  • Resin volume of 0.75 cubic feet: 15,000 grains, 6 lbs. of salt for every renewal.
  • Resin volume of 1.0 cubic feet: 20,000 grains, 8 lbs. of salt for every renewal.
  • Ten pounds and thirty thousand grains in 1.5 cubic feet of resin of salt for every renewal.
  • Resin volume of 2.0 cubic feet: 40,000 grains, 12 lbs. of salt for every renewal.

More giant resin tanks use salt more effectively and have higher grain capacity. If reducing salt usage is a top concern, choose a high-efficiency model that regenerates less frequently and uses less salt per cycle. Over time, these modest initial costs can result in substantial savings!

Contact Us Today to Find the Perfect Water Softener Size for Your Home

Still wondering, “how big of a water softener do I need” for your home? No worries—we’re here to help! At Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we can guide you through the entire process, from determining your water hardness to selecting the perfect softener that fits your household’s specific needs. Call us today at 602-866-2665 to schedule a consultation. We’ll ensure you get a water softener that fits your home, lifestyle, and budget perfectly. Enjoy softer water and long-term savings with a system designed just for you!

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When purchasing a house, it is important to steer clear of any undisclosed problems that may result in significant expenses. One important aspect to examine is the plumbing system, and employing a camera sewer inspection can be extremely beneficial. This inspection offers a transparent assessment of the sewer lines’ status, potentially identifying issues overlooked in a typical home inspection. Here’s a closer look at how a camera sewer inspection can benefit you as a homebuyer.

What is a Camera Sewer Inspection?

A camera is utilized for sewer inspection by attaching a small, high-resolution camera to a flexible rod. This camera is placed into the plumbing system through a designated entry point, like a drain or cleanout. While moving through the pipes, the camera transmits real-time video to a monitor, providing the inspector and potential homebuyer with a clear view of the plumbing’s condition. This live video inspection offers a quick and clear assessment of the plumbing system’s condition, often hidden within walls and under floors.

With the use of this technology, you can obtain a thorough understanding of the plumbing system’s condition before buying. The recorded video can assist in identifying problems that are not easily seen with usual inspection techniques. Here are five significant advantages of using camera sewer inspections for prospective home purchasers:

5 Benefits of Camera Sewer Inspection for Home Buyers

  • Discover Hidden Issues

One key benefit of a camera sewer inspection is its capacity to reveal concealed problems in the plumbing system. Issues like roots from trees growing into pipes, pipes collapsing, or obstructions may only be detectable with specialized inspections. The live video from the camera lets you inspect the pipes and detect potential problems that may result in expensive repairs. Identifying issues early can prevent surprise costs and provide insight into the plumbing system’s condition in the house.

If tree roots are found during the inspection to have entered the sewer lines, it is recommended that this problem be addressed promptly to prevent it from escalating. Likewise, catching a collapsed pipe early can help avoid costly and larger repairs in the future.

  • Strengthen Your Negotiation Position

You can improve your negotiation position with the knowledge gained from a camera sewer inspection. Suppose the inspection reveals problems like major obstructions or harm. In that case, you can utilize this data to haggle for a reduced buying price or ask the seller to fix the required damages before finalizing the deal. A thorough understanding of the plumbing system’s condition allows you to make a more educated and confident offer.

If the inspection reveals that the sewer lines require urgent action, you can ask the seller to either repair the issue or lower the home’s price. This advantage can assist you in obtaining a more favorable agreement and guarantee that you avoid unforeseen maintenance expenses.

  • Gain Peace of Mind

Knowledge of the plumbing system’s exact condition can bring peace of mind. A sewer line inspection with a camera enables you to view the condition of the sewer lines and assess whether they are in good shape or need fixing. Peace of mind is priceless because it guarantees a wise investment and prevents unexpected issues in the future.

If the sewer lines are in great condition during the inspection, you can move forward with buying the property with confidence, as one important aspect of the home is in good condition. Alternatively, if problems are discovered, you will possess the necessary details to make informed choices and tackle issues before they escalate.

  • Avoid Unexpected Repairs

By spotting problems early, you can resolve them before they escalate into more serious and expensive issues. Taking proactive steps can help you save money and prevent any surprises with plumbing problems once you’ve settled in.

If the inspection shows a small blockage or initial corrosion indications, address these problems promptly to prevent them from becoming more significant issues. This precautionary step can prevent the need for urgent repairs and keep the house’s plumbing system in proper condition.

  • Assess the Condition of Sewer Lines

A sewer camera inspection thoroughly evaluates the state of the sewer lines. It enables you to assess pipe material, alignment, and overall integrity. Gaining insight into the condition of sewer lines allows you to predict upcoming maintenance requirements or possible problems.

For example, if the examination reveals that the sewer pipes are constructed with old or decaying materials, you can prepare for upcoming renovations or fixes. This evaluation provides a better understanding of the home’s future upkeep requirements and enables you to make wiser choices regarding your investment.

More: How to Prevent Costly Sewer Line Damage

Struggling with Sewer Line Issues? Call a 24-Hour Emergency Plumber!

If you’re in the Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, or Goodyear areas, don’t wait for a plumbing emergency. Contact us at 602-866-2665 to book your appointment. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to assist with sewer line issues and ensure your plumbing system remains in top condition. Don’t let sewer line problems catch you off guard – contact us today!

Posted on Author webdevCategories Drain Cleaning, Emergency PlumberTags , Leave a comment on 5 Benefits of Camera Sewer Inspection For Home Buyers

Maintaining your home’s plumbing system prevents inconvenient and potentially costly problems. One often overlooked aspect of this maintenance is professional sewer drain cleaning. Scheduling regular cleanings can save you from unpleasant surprises and expensive repairs. But how often should you have your drains cleaned? 

In this blog, we’ll discuss the benefits of professional drain cleaning, how to get rid of drain smell,  and provide guidelines on how frequently to schedule these services.

What Is Professional Drain Cleaning?

Professional drain cleaning utilizes specialized equipment and methods to eliminate clogs and avoid future obstructions in your plumbing system. Plumbers commonly utilize a motorized drain auger or drain snake for basic unclogging jobs. This device can handle various drainpipe blockages by spinning a metal coil through the pipe to dislodge or remove the obstruction.

Plumbers could opt for a water-jetting device to tackle more challenging blockages. This technique utilizes a high-pressure hose that emits a strong water stream into the pipe. The water jetting procedure thoroughly cleans the entire pipe wall, eliminating both the current blockage and any accumulation that may cause problems in the future. This technique efficiently prevents the formation of new blockages by thoroughly clearing the pipes.

How Often Should You Schedule Professional Sewer Drain Cleaning?

Most plumbing experts recommend scheduling professional drain cleaning once a year. This annual cleaning helps to:

  • Purify Your Pipes: Regular cleaning removes accumulated grease, soap scum, and other residues that can lead to blockages.
  • Flush Out Potential Blockages: Preventative cleaning can address early signs of potential clogs before they become severe problems.
  • Reveal Plumbing Issues: Professional inspections during drain cleaning can identify problems such as damage, loose connections, or water leaks.

By sticking to an annual schedule, you can avoid the inconvenience and costs of severe clogs and plumbing emergencies. This routine maintenance is a simple, cost-effective measure that offers long-term benefits for your plumbing system.

5 Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

  • Eliminates Unpleasant Plumbing Odors

Over time, organic material and garbage can accumulate in your pipes, resulting in unpleasant smells that may infiltrate your house. Expert drain cleaning efficiently eliminates these remains, removing the origins of these smells and ensuring your home stays pleasantly scented.

  • Minimizes the Risk of Major Blockages

Frequent cleaning decreases the chances of significant blockages that may result in slow drainage or total pipe blockages. Removing the accumulation that causes blockages decreases the chance of encountering major plumbing problems.

  • Protects Against Plumbing Damage

A debris build-up can cause increased stress on your pipes and connections, which may result in leaks or ruptures. Expert drain cleaning can alleviate this stress by eliminating the blockages, thus safeguarding your plumbing system from harm.

  • Helps Avoid Expensive Repair Costs

Preventive maintenance, like annual drain cleaning, is much cheaper than major plumbing repairs. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can avoid the high costs associated with emergency repairs or pipe replacements.

  • Enhances Water Drainage and Flow

Clean pipes allow water to flow smoothly, reducing the chances of slow drainage and backups. Enhanced water flow improves the overall efficiency of your plumbing system and ensures that water drains quickly and effectively from your fixtures.

Schedule Your Professional Drain Cleaning Now in Arizona!

Regular professional drain cleaning is essential to home maintenance, as it can prevent costly problems and keep your plumbing system in top condition. If you’re in the Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, or Goodyear areas, don’t wait for a plumbing emergency. Schedule your annual drain cleaning with Custom Plumbing of Arizona today!

Contact us at 602-866-2665 to book your appointment and ensure your plumbing system remains in excellent shape. Our expert team is here to provide reliable, high-quality service to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Sewer LineLeave a comment on How Often Should You Schedule Professional Sewer Drain Cleaning?

Discovering unusual sounds from your water heater can be alarming, but understanding why and how to address it can save you time, money, and stress. In this blog post, we will explore everyday water heater noises, when they might indicate a problem, and what steps you can take to resolve them.

Common Water Heater Noises

Water heaters can make a variety of sounds, each indicating different issues:

Rumbling

A deep, rumbling sound often indicates sediment buildup in the water tank. This sediment consists of minerals that settle at the bottom of the tank, especially in areas with hard water. When the heater heats water, it bubbles through the sediment, causing the tank to rumble. DIY enthusiasts can try flushing the tank with a hose to remove sediment or use descaling solutions to break down mineral deposits.

Popping

Like rumbling, popping noises are caused by sediment and mineral buildup inside the tank. As the water heats up, steam bubbles form under the sediment and burst, creating popping sounds. Flushing the tank annually can prevent sediment buildup and reduce these noises. If an aluminum anode rod reacts with high alkalinity levels, a plumber may need to replace it to resolve the issue.

Sizzling, Hissing, or Crackling

These sounds are more common in electric water heaters and are typically caused by sediment buildup around the heating elements. Flushing the tank annually helps prevent sediment from burying the heating elements and causing these noises. Gas water heaters may produce sizzling sounds due to internal condensation dripping onto burners, indicating a potential tank leak that requires a plumber’s inspection.

Ticking

Changes in water pressure, heat trap nipples, or loose pipe straps can cause ticking noises around the water heater. While generally harmless, loose pipe straps should be tightened or replaced to prevent pipes from shifting and causing ticking sounds. Adjusting water heater settings or replacing heat trap nipples can also mitigate ticking noises caused by pressure changes or efficiency features.

Screeching, Screaming, or Singing

High-pitched noises from the water heater, similar to a boiling kettle, often indicate severe water flow restrictions, typically at the temperature and pressure relief valve. If you hear these noises, immediately turn off the heater’s gas or electricity and the water supply and contact a plumber to inspect and address the issue.

Which Noises are Cause for Concern?

While some water heater noises are harmless and quickly resolved, others can signal more serious problems. Sediment buildup is often unavoidable, especially in areas with hard water or high mineral content. Regular water softener use can help reduce mineral accumulation and sediment buildup. However, annual flushing and draining of the water tank remain essential to prevent decreased heating efficiency, potential clogs in drain valves, and safety hazards.

What to Do When Your Water Heater Makes Noise

Dealing with a noisy water heater typically requires professional intervention, especially if you lack experience with plumbing tasks. Certified plumbers should perform annual maintenance tasks such as flushing the tank to ensure your water heater operates efficiently and safely.

Residents in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, or Goodyear can rely on Custom Plumbing of Arizona for expert assistance with water heater issues. Our certified plumbers are equipped to handle installation, repair, or replacement services, ensuring your water heater operates reliably. Whether you’re dealing with a minor noise issue or suspect a more significant problem, don’t hesitate to contact us at 602-866-2665. Schedule a free inspection today to maintain your water heater’s efficiency and longevity.

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Nothing is more frustrating than turning on a faucet and finding no water flowing. Whether in the kitchen, bathroom or elsewhere, a lack of water can disrupt daily routines and raise concerns about plumbing problems.

In this blog post, we will explore common causes of water flow issues in faucets and offer practical solutions to help you diagnose and resolve these frustrating problems.

Why is No Water Coming Out of My Faucet?

There are a few potential reasons if your tap is not providing water. Ensure that the shut-off valve underneath the sink is turned on, as it is commonly the main reason. Another possible problem is a clogged aerator, which can be fixed by removing and cleaning any blockage. Moreover, there may also be an issue with the water supply, like a temporary shutdown for maintenance or a broader disruption of water services. If these steps do not resolve the problem, it could indicate a more complicated plumbing issue, such as a clogged pipe or a faulty faucet, which will need the expertise of a professional.

5 Solutions to Try

  • Test a different tap

Before jumping to conclusions, try testing another faucet in your household. If all other faucets function properly, the issue will probably only affect the one faucet with no water flow. This helps to narrow down the problem and aids in troubleshooting.

  • Inspect the Aerator for blockages

Over time, sediment and dirt can quickly block the aerator, a tiny sieve positioned at the tip of your faucet. Carefully remove the aerator from the faucet spout to inspect and clean any debris, ensuring to check for visible blockages or buildup in the mesh screen. To maintain cleanliness, rinse the aerator with running water or soak it in vinegar to eliminate mineral deposits. After cleaning, reattach the aerator and check if there is an improvement in water flow.

  • Check the main shut-off valve for your water

If no water is coming out of any faucets in your home, the problem could be with the main water shut-off valve. Usually positioned close to the water meter, this valve regulates the water entering your residence. Ensure it is completely unlocked by rotating it counterclockwise. Occasionally, these valves may inadvertently be shut off while performing maintenance tasks, which can greatly decrease the amount of water flowing.

  • Inquire with your neighbors

If you think the problem is bigger than your house, check with your neighbors to see if they also have the same issues. An issue with the water supply that affects the whole community or maintenance work done by the local water utility could impact several homes nearby.

  • Call Your Water Provider

If the issue continues and you believe it is beyond your ability to fix it, contact your water service provider. They can offer details about current maintenance, disruptions, or problems concerning the water supply in your vicinity. A technician may also be sent to your property to conduct a more in-depth investigation.

Expert Plumbing Services in Arizona

For residents in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, or Goodyear, Custom Plumbing of Arizona offers expert assistance with all plumbing issues. Our certified plumbers are equipped to handle installation, repair, and replacement services to ensure your plumbing systems operate smoothly. Whether dealing with a minor faucet issue or a more considerable plumbing concern, don’t hesitate to contact us at 602-866-2665. Schedule a free inspection today and benefit from our reliable service.

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