Tag: 24-hour plumber

When facing the dilemma of water heater repair, it’s crucial to consider various factors that can impact your decision. Your water heater plays a vital role in your daily life, providing you with the comfort of warm showers and essential hot water for household tasks. However, like any appliance, water heaters have a limited lifespan and can encounter issues over time.

In this blog post, we will delve into three key factors to help you determine whether water heater repair is worth the investment.

3 Factors That Determine Whether Water Heater Repair Is Worth It

  • Your Water Heater’s Age

The age of your water heater is a fundamental factor to consider when deciding between paying for repairs or replacing the unit entirely. On average, tank water heaters have a lifespan of approximately 10 to 15 years. If your system is only a few years old, it may be worth investing a few hundred dollars in repairs to extend its operational life for another 5+ years.

However, if your water heater is approaching the 10-year mark or is even older, repairing it may provide only a short-term solution. In such cases, the cost-effectiveness of repairing it becomes questionable, as you might need a replacement soon after. Therefore, replacing the unit is often the more prudent choice for older water heaters.

  • What Needs to Be Repaired

The nature of the repair required is another crucial determinant in the repair-or-replace decision. Some water heater issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive fixes, such as replacing a faulty thermostat or pressure relief valve. These repairs are generally cost-effective and can prolong the life of your water heater.

However, certain repairs, especially those involving expensive replacement parts or complex issues like a corroded tank, may tip the scales toward replacement. As a general rule of thumb, experts recommend considering a water heater replacement if the cost of repairs exceeds $500 and your unit is over 8 years old.

Imagine your water heater as a puzzle, with each component contributing to the overall functionality picture. If only a single piece is damaged or missing, such as a faulty valve or heating element, it’s like solving a jigsaw puzzle with a few missing pieces – it’s still solvable. But if the puzzle is missing a significant portion or key pieces, like a corroded tank or a damaged heating core, the solution becomes impractical, and replacing the entire puzzle with a new one is the more logical choice.

  • Your Water Heater’s Warranty

Water heaters typically come with limited parts warranties from the manufacturer, covering the cost of replacing faulty components for a specified period, normally ranging from 5 to 10 years, depending on the manufacturer. If your water heater is still within the warranty period, repairing it can be a cost-effective option. The manufacturer will cover some or all of the repair expenses, saving you money.

However, if your water heater’s parts warranty has expired or you never had one to begin with, you’ll be responsible for all repair costs. In this scenario, the decision to repair or replace becomes more financially significant. The cost of repairs, when entirely your responsibility, can quickly add up, making replacement a more attractive option.

To determine if a limited parts warranty covers your water heater, search for your water heater model number on the manufacturer’s website or contact the manufacturer directly. It’s important to note that most manufacturers have specific guidelines to maintain the validity of the parts warranty. These guidelines often include:

  • Registering your water heater with the manufacturer within 90 days of installation.
  • Providing proof of regular professional maintenance for your water heater.
  • Using manufacturer-authorized replacement parts when necessary.
  • Complying with these guidelines is essential to ensure that your warranty remains valid and can help offset the costs of potential repairs.

Find Water Heater Repair Near Me

If you find yourself facing a water heater repair dilemma, whether it’s repair or replacement, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team of skilled plumbers at Custom Plumbing of Arizona is prepared to assist you, no matter where you are in the Greater Phoenix area, from Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, and Tempe, to Goodyear and beyond. We’re dedicated to providing top-notch services tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today at 602-866-2665, and let us help you make the right decision for your water heater dilemma.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Water HeaterTags Leave a comment on Is Water Heater Repair Worth It? 3 Factors to Consider

Water hardness is a sneaky culprit that often goes unnoticed, silently affecting the efficiency and longevity of your appliances and plumbing. 

Have you ever found yourself questioning why your water heater doesn’t have the longevity it should, or why your appliances seem to wear out faster than anticipated? Have you had trouble with poor water pressure in your plumbing system? Hard water might be the culprit.

This invisible problem can have significant consequences on your home, causing damage to your plumbing system. In this blog, we’ll uncover the hard truth about hard water, the problems it can cause, and the solution you need to protect your home.

Is Your Water Hard Enough to Cause These Problems?

Water Heater Damage

One of the most common issues from hard water is its damage to your water heater. The minerals in hard water, like calcium and magnesium, gradually accumulate inside the water heater tank, forming a stubborn layer known as limescale. This buildup occurs more rapidly due to the elevated temperature within the tank, creating a perfect environment for mineral dissolution.

As this limescale thickens, it acts as an insulating barrier that prevents heat from escaping the tank. The result? An overheated tank, increased pressure, leaks, and potential damage to the pressure expansion tank. The life of your water heater can be significantly shortened by this process, leading to untimely replacements and avoidable expenses.

Furthermore, hard water leaves behind a sediment layer at the bottom of the tank, lowering the efficiency of your water heater. The more sediment accumulates, the harder your water heater has to work to provide hot water, leading to higher energy bills. While periodic tank flushing helps, it’s not a long-term solution. You deserve a water heater that performs efficiently and doesn’t strain your finances.

Appliance Damage and Failure

Hard water isn’t just hard on your water heater—it also wreaks havoc on other appliances. For instance, ever wondered why your washing machine sometimes fails to deliver clean, soft laundry? It’s the minerals in hard water interfering with the cleaning action of soaps and detergents. You might find yourself using excessive detergent to combat this issue, only to be disappointed with the results.

The hard minerals also react with detergents, leaving clothes stiff, rough, and prone to fading colors. If that wasn’t enough, scale buildup in washing machines reduces performance and efficiency over time. Critical components, such as the pump and other moving parts, are not immune to the damage caused by mineral buildup, leading to early appliance failure.

Dishwashers don’t escape this issue either. The presence of hard water is a primary culprit behind the lack of cleanliness in your tableware. The effectiveness of dishwasher detergents takes a hit when faced with the minerals in hard water, leading to unsightly spots, persistent stains, and an overall subpar cleaning outcome. This chemical interaction, coupled with the drying water droplets, has the potential to etch lasting hard water marks onto glassware, leaving behind a lackluster, cloudy look that defies correction. And the long-term consequences? You might have to replace your expensive dishwasher much sooner than expected.

Plumbing Issues

Hard water might not make you sick, but it can certainly make your plumbing system feel unwell. If you’ve noticed white or yellow flaky buildup on your faucets, sinks, and showerheads, you’ve seen the visible consequences of calcium deposits left behind by hard water. It’s unsightly and a constant hassle to clean as the buildup returns rapidly.

Now, consider what’s happening inside your plumbing system, where you can’t see or easily clean. Those calcium deposits accumulate within the pipes, slowly narrowing the openings and reducing water flow. While it may not fully block a pipe, it decreases water pressure and increases the likelihood of developing clogs over time.

Hard water can even cause corrosion in your water heater tank, leading to the ultimate failure of this essential appliance. The minerals present in hard water contribute to this corrosion, effectively shortening the lifespan of your water heater. 

Call Custom Plumbing to Find a Solution

When it comes to dealing with the troublesome effects of hard water, trust the experts at Custom Plumbing of Arizona. Our skilled emergency plumbers are ready to help you, no matter where you are—whether it’s Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Mesa, or any nearby area. Our top-notch services are designed to fit your unique needs. Reach out to us today at 602-866-2665, and let us restore your plumbing system’s full functionality.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Hard WaterTags Leave a comment on Is Your Water Hard? It Could Cause These Problems

When it comes to knowing how to clear a drain, we’ve all been there – the dreaded moment when water starts pooling in the sink, tub, or toilet, indicating a stubborn drain clog. It’s a situation that can quickly escalate from a minor inconvenience to a full-blown plumbing nightmare. But fear not! When it comes to clearing drain clogs, the pros have got your back. 

In this guide, we’ll delve into four tried-and-true methods that plumbing experts employ to unclog drains effectively. Whether it’s a simple blockage or a more complex issue, these methods are the secret weapons in a plumber’s arsenal, and they’re here to help you bid farewell to those bothersome clogs for good.

How to Clear a Drain: 4 Professional Methods

Manual Snaking

The manual drain snake, often referred to as a plumber’s snake or drain auger, is the frontline warrior against everyday drain clogs. This ingenious tool features a corkscrew-shaped hook at its terminal end, which is deftly maneuvered into the depths of a clogged drain or toilet. As the drain snake’s drum handle is turned, the hooked end rotates, effectively breaking down and dislodging the obstruction. Manual augers are especially adept at clearing uncomplicated clogs, dislodging debris, and navigating through the plumbing system. These workhorses excel at tackling minor blockages close to the drain opening, making them the first choice for plumbers dealing with common clogs.

Motorized Snaking

Sometimes, the problem isn’t as close to the surface as we’d like. For those stubborn clogs deeper down the drain line or when dealing with a solid mass that refuses to budge, the pros turn to the motorized drain snake. This impressive device has an extended reach, capable of exploring up to 150 feet down your drain or sewer line, all thanks to its electric motor’s added torque and continuous rotation.

Motorized drain snakes are the heavy artillery in the plumber’s arsenal, particularly effective against tough challenges like tree root infiltration, grease buildup, food waste, and even sewage clogs. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution with this method, as it might worsen the problem in certain situations. The powered drain snake can break off metal fragments for older, corroded pipes, escalating the clog and risking damage to the line. Deploying this tool skillfully is essential, and our pros know when to use it.

HD Cameras

When the manual and motorized methods haven’t delivered the desired results, it’s time to bring in the high-definition snake camera. This advanced piece of technology has revolutionized the plumbing industry, allowing us to peer into the interior of your pipes, identifying the exact nature and location of the blockage. This insight is a game-changer; armed with this information, our plumbers can tailor the best approach for your issue.

Discovering the cause and precise location of a stubborn clog before fixing it is pivotal. It enables us to select the ideal tools and formulate a straightforward plan to tackle the obstruction, ensuring a faster, more efficient resolution. HD cameras have transformed how we diagnose and address drainage problems, improving accuracy and reducing guesswork.

Hydro-Jetting

Now, let’s talk about a method that excites emergency plumbers: the hydro-jetting machine. This technique takes drain clearing to a whole new level. Picture concentrated water jets, powerful enough to dislodge decades of built-up grease, soap scum, and other unsavory residues that cling to your drain and sewer lines. The hydro-jetting machine can perform this miraculous feat in mere seconds, leaving your pipes in a “like-new” condition.

These water jets are no joke, capable of exerting pressure as high as an astonishing 35,000 pounds per square inch (PSI). This method’s sheer force ensures every residue trace is obliterated from your pipe walls. Hydro-jetting is the ultimate solution to thoroughly cleansing your plumbing system, promoting optimal flow, and preventing future clogs. It’s the ace up our sleeves when we encounter those, particularly stubborn or heavy-duty clogs.

Schedule a Visit from One of Our Pros

Now that we’ve covered the various professional methods to effectively clear a drain, it’s time to take action. Grab your phone and call the experts at Custom Plumbing of Arizona. Our team of skilled plumbers is prepared to assist you, no matter where you are. From Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, and Tempe, to Goodyear and beyond, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch services tailored to your specific needs. Don’t let a clogged drain disrupt your life any longer. Contact us today at 602-866-2665 and let us restore your plumbing system to its full functionality.

Posted on Author webdevCategories Drain CleaningTags , Leave a comment on How to Clear a Drain: 4 Ways the Pros Do It

When faced with sudden plumbing issues, knowing when to call for emergency plumber services can make all the difference. Plumbing problems can cause inconvenience and potential damage to your home. In this blog, we will discuss five clear signs that indicate the need for immediate assistance from an emergency plumber. By recognizing these signs early on and promptly reaching out to professionals, you can take swift action, protect your home, and ensure the safety of your household.

5 Clear Signs You Need Emergency Plumber Services

  • Burst Pipe

When pipes become damaged or burst, the potential for flooding becomes a looming threat if left unattended. The consequences of home flooding are severe, as it can jeopardize the structural integrity of your residence. A single burst pipe can release a substantial amount of water within a short period.

The resulting effects are detrimental, weakening not only the ceilings, walls, flooring, and furniture but also compromising the safety of everyone in the household. Moreover, the financial implications can be overwhelming if immediate action is not taken by contacting an emergency plumber. Attempting to resolve the issue independently will only waste valuable time, allowing the damage to escalate and incur greater costs. To mitigate the situation, shutting off the main water supply before reaching out to a plumber is essential. Additionally, salvaging furniture and other belongings is crucial to prevent further water damage.

  • Water Stains or Sagging Ceiling

It’s important to be vigilant for signs of water damage, such as water stains on the ceiling or a sagging ceiling. These indicators typically become visible only after a leak has been present for a considerable period. The presence of water stains suggests that water has been saturating the ceiling or the floor over time. If you have concerns about the extent of the water damage, it is advisable to contact an emergency plumber immediately. Their expertise will help assess the situation and address any underlying plumbing issues promptly.

  • Overflowing Drain

Dealing with clogs in your drains is an inevitable part of maintaining a home. While prevention is key, some factors are beyond your control. Items like wipes, paper towels, and hair can easily clog the pipes, so it’s important to refrain from flushing them down the toilet. Regularly removing hair from the drain can also help prevent blockages.

 

However, there are cases where clogs occur despite your best efforts. For instance, tree roots may infiltrate the pipes through cracks, causing significant blockages that are difficult to detect. In such situations, seeking assistance from a professional drain-cleaning plumbing company becomes essential.

Clogged drains exhibit various signs that indicate the need for a plumber’s intervention. These signs include slow drainage, water bubbling up, and the formation of puddles around the affected area. Recognizing these indications is crucial, as they may signify more serious underlying issues within your plumbing system. Therefore, if you observe any of these signs, it is advisable to promptly contact a plumber for a thorough assessment and appropriate action.

  • Sewage Backing Up

Detecting a sewage backup requires relying on your sense of smell. If your house begins to emit a strong sewage odor, it clearly indicates that the sewer line has backed up. Another sign of a sewage backup is the occurrence of water backup in other drains. For instance, you might observe water rising in the kitchen sink whenever you flush the toilet or water pooling in a different location while taking a shower. Similar to a gas leak, sewage backup poses a severe health hazard and should be treated as an emergency.

  • Water Heater Failure

A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt your daily routine, leaving you without hot water for essential tasks like bathing, laundry, and cleaning. If your water heater stops functioning or produces only cold water, it is a sign that you need immediate assistance from a plumber.

Various factors, including a faulty thermostat, sediment buildup, or a broken heating element, can cause water heater failures. An emergency plumber can diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs or recommend a replacement, ensuring the restoration of hot water in your home.

When Don’t You Need Emergency Plumber Services?

While emergency plumber services are invaluable in critical situations, it is essential to distinguish between emergency and non-emergency plumbing issues. Not all plumbing problems require immediate attention; determining the situation’s urgency can help you make informed decisions.

Minor leaks, dripping faucets, or low water pressure can often wait until regular business hours. However, if you are unsure about the severity of the issue, it is advisable to consult with a professional plumber. They can assess the situation and guide whether the problem can be temporarily addressed or requires immediate attention.

Emergency Plumber Services Are Just a Phone Call Away

At Custom Plumbing, we understand the urgency of plumbing emergencies, and our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist you with your emergency plumbing services. If you find yourself in a plumbing crisis, don’t hesitate to contact us at 602-866-2665. We proudly serve various locations, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, and Goodyear. Regardless of your location, our expert plumbers are committed to delivering top-notch services tailored to your specific needs.

Posted on Author webdevCategories 24 Hour PlumbingTags Leave a comment on Emergency Plumber Services: 5 Signs You Need Help Fast

When it comes to plumbing materials, two popular options often come to mind: copper vs. PEX. Both copper and PEX have their own unique characteristics and benefits, making it important to understand how they compare to each other. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of copper vs. PEX plumbing, examining their costs, lifespan, and environmental impact. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision for your plumbing needs. 

Copper vs. Pex Plumbing: Your Guide to Choosing the Best Solution

Copper vs. Pex Plumbing Cost

PEX pipe has a significant cost advantage over copper, with 1/2-inch PEX tubing being priced at only about one-third of the cost of copper pipes. This considerable price difference alone can substantially impact your overall plumbing budget.

One aspect that sets PEX apart is its fixed cost, as opposed to copper, which fluctuates in cost daily. This stability in pricing enables better financial planning, making it easier to budget for your plumbing projects without worrying about unpredictable price changes.

Another cost-saving benefit of PEX is its remarkable flexibility. The pipe’s flexibility allows you to bend it around corners, eliminating the need for additional 45- or 90-degree elbows in certain situations. By reducing the number of required parts, you not only save money but also simplify the installation process.

However, the financial advantages of PEX over copper are not solely limited to material costs. Labor costs are a crucial consideration too. When using copper pipes, soldering can be time-consuming, resulting in additional labor expenses. On the other hand, PEX systems, especially, offer rapid and efficient connections, significantly reducing labor time and expenses.

Comparing Copper and Pex Lifespan

Regarding the longevity of plumbing materials, PEX pipe not only shines as a cost-effective alternative to copper but also proves its mettle in durability. PEX exhibits remarkable resilience, being completely immune to corrosion and mineral build-up. Unlike copper, which is susceptible to the harmful effects of electrolysis leading to tiny pinhole leaks, PEX remains unaffected, ensuring a leak-free plumbing system.

Copper pipes do have varying lifespans, sometimes lasting throughout a building’s lifetime. However, PEX tubing boasts an impressive predicted life expectancy of 50 years per PPI TR-3 when operating within its recommended pressure and temperature limits. This means you can rely on your PEX plumbing system for decades, providing peace of mind and saving on potential replacement costs.

Environmental Impact

One significant advantage of PEX plumbing is that it utilizes mechanical fittings for joining, eliminating the need for soldering. On the other hand, copper requires soldering during installation, which poses a potential fire hazard. By opting for PEX, you can ensure a safer installation process.

Furthermore, PEX offers an important health benefit. When using PEX, copper traces leaching into the water is not risky due to pipe breakdown. This is significant because copper traces in water have been associated with heart disease and Alzheimer’s. With PEX, you can know that your water supply remains free from harmful copper contamination.

Additionally, all PEX systems are certified to meet the NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 standards, ensuring their approval for potable water applications. This certification guarantees that PEX plumbing meets the necessary requirements for delivering safe and clean drinking water to your household.

PEX also exhibits impressive resistance to leaching, pitting, and mineral buildup. This makes it a reliable choice for maintaining water quality and preventing any potential issues arising from corrosion or pipe deposits.

More: How To Find The Best Emergency Plumber In Arizona

Professional Help for All Your Copper and Pex Plumbing Needs

When it comes to your plumbing requirements, it’s always wise to seek professional help. At Custom Plumbing of Arizona, we specialize in both copper vs.PEX plumbing solutions, ensuring that your needs are met with precision and expertise. With our reliable services, you can rest assured that your plumbing system will function flawlessly for years to come.

Located in the heart of Arizona, we proudly serve a wide range of locations, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Buckeye, Cave Creek, Chandler, Avondale, Gilbert, Peoria, Surprise, El Mirage, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, and Goodyear. No matter where you are in these areas, our team is dedicated to providing top-notch plumbing services tailored to your specific needs.

Posted on Author adminCategories Plumbing Service & Repair Phoenix AZTags Leave a comment on Copper vs. Pex Plumbing: How Do They Compare?