At the turn of the 21st century, plumbing is entering its fourth millennium. Invented around 2000 BC, it was fairly common in some ancient cultures but became a lost art during the Dark Ages. Revived during the Renaissance, plumbing is evolving in the 21st century. Our plumbing professionals offer advanced features, modern pipes of metal and plastic, and convenient, durable plumbing repair materials. In addition, technology for locating and diagnosing plumbing problems has made this field more efficient when homeowners call with trouble. Much goes on behind the scenes in our plumbing methods that make advanced building designs possible and provide reliable flow in your home. Our modern plumbers have come a long way over the last 4,000 years. From your kitchen faucet to your home’s hot water heater, you can go very high-tech with My Professional Plumber if you like!
Modern Technology And Fast, Efficient Emergency Plumbing Care
Perhaps the most important role of modern plumbing technologies is taking care of your home when you have a leak, sewer backup, drain problems, or other urgent issues—gathering details to make an accurate diagnosis and proper repair used to take a lot of time that could better be used by making needed quick repairs. Finding leaks involved opening walls to inspect or cutting through concrete to access pipes under the slab, for example. Now, our leak detection equipment can help us find the source of the leak with minimal impact on your property and get to it faster and more accurately than ever before. Combined with the experience our plumbers have gained over the years, we can provide amazing services compared to only a decade before. Video cameras that slip into your drains, sewer line, and water supply pipes help with leak identification and much more and are a staple of our modern plumbing experts. We can check the condition of your pipes from the inside, which can tell us much more than an external visual inspection. Once we’ve located problems, our array of repair techniques includes some amazing materials that provide long-lasting fixes in pipes and sewer lines, targeted using video so pipe replacement is often not needed.
Amazing Faucet Technologies for Kitchen and Bathroom
It’s not too surprising that the trend towards voice-controlled devices in your home can include your kitchen faucet. Some of the more advanced ones can dispense a specific volume of water at the desired temperature, as well. Saying “one gallon” gives you the water you need to cook spaghetti, delivered precisely while preparing the sauce. For many of us who multitask in the kitchen, a simple shutoff command is even more important for getting the faucet under control while your hands are full. Modern, hands-free faucets use various technologies to activate the water flow and can even be programmed to provide a preferred temperature conveniently. Hands-free is helpful for those uncomfortable with twisting or manipulating controls on the faucet. It also saves amazing amounts of water simply because it does for you what you’ve always been told as a kid: turn off the faucet while you’re brushing your teeth. Or shaving as you get older.
Toilet Technology Has Gotten Insane
For water saving, the toilet is an important target in many homes, especially with larger families. Reduced water usage toilets are common and save a lot per flush. Some manufacturers have taken the savings even further, providing a more limited flush option for when solid waste is not involved. During the recent toilet paper shortage, bidets became more popular for homes. They’re available in aftermarket versions that can be installed on many standard models. High-tech toilets, especially those from Japan but now from many manufacturers, have been in the media and on TV shows often enough that you’ve probably heard about them. Costing thousands of dollars, they create an entire experience around going to the bathroom, opening as you approach, providing warm water jets and seat-side controls, and even playing music to relax you and cover up any, well, sounds. That’s just a sample of the creatively imagined features available, which go on to self-cleaning with UV light disinfecting and more.
Don’t Panic; That Flood While You Were Away Didn’t Happen Because Of Technology
When homeowners come home to a flood in the basement, bathroom, or kitchen, it can be a disaster and costly to repair the damage. Modern plumbing equipment includes flood and leak detection, water heaters that know to shut off the flow when they recognize trouble and whole-house systems our plumber can install. Using flow sensors in the line and multiple flood sensors, they’re smart about choosing when to do it. Simple sensors can also alert you via your alarm system, smartphone, or audible alerts so you can place one where needed. You’ll know if your water heater springs a leak, a child leaves a faucet on, or your washing machine hoses fail and flood. By the way, we recommend solving that last one with a pair of stainless steel mesh hoses instead, one of many small technology updates we can provide. Water hammer arrestors that reduce damage from that “bang” you hear as automatic valves operate in your washer and dishwasher are another great invention. Ask our friendly plumber for more!
If your home has basic plumbing and you’d like to find out what’s possible, our experts at My Professional Plumber have much to show you! From technology-enhanced faucets to energy-saving water heaters, leak detectors, and water usage analyzers, there are so many new and helpful features of modern plumbing. In addition, our services are now more efficient and effective due to the equipment and repair techniques we bring to your home on every job. Give us a call today for today’s highly effective plumbing services, delivered by your friendly neighborhood professionals!
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Water Heater Issues? Call A Plumber Specializing In Water Heater Repair
You rely on hot water throughout the day for daily tasks, such as showering, cleaning, and cooking. Also, your hot water-based appliances need hot water to work correctly. Your water heater fills with water, heated and stored, so you always have hot water.
Water heater issues can affect the water temperature, quality, and several other issues that can be inconvenient. If your water heater develops a problem, it should be addressed immediately, and allowing the problem to persist could worsen the situation. If your water heater exhibits any of the following signs, you should hire a plumber specializing in water heater repair immediately.
You Don’t Have Hot Water
A lack of hot water may require a call to a plumber. Before making the call, you should check the unit yourself to determine if the problem isn’t due to a problem with the water heater so you don’t waste your money on an unnecessary service call.
- Electric unit: If there’s no power going to the unit, ensure a circuit hasn’t tripped.
- Propane or oil: Make sure the pilot is lit and there’s fuel in the tank.
- Natural gas: Make sure the pilot is lit and call the gas company to ensure they received your payments and there isn’t an outage.
If everything checks out on your end, it’s time to hire a plumber. A broken heating element will prevent the unit from heating the water. A plumber can repair or replace the part to restore the hot water. The water heater may have reached the end of its lifespan if it’s over ten years old and won’t be able to heat the water. A plumber can replace the unit, restoring the hot water.
The Water Doesn’t Get Hot Enough
Does the hot water come out lukewarm, regardless of how long you let it run? If so, check the unit’s thermostat. If it’s set below 120 degrees, a simple adjustment will solve the problem. If the thermostat is set correctly, it’s time to call a plumber specializing in water heater repair.
The thermostat could be faulty, and the unit will get the correct signal, affecting the water temperature. If the unit has two heating elements, one may have failed, and the functional element won’t have enough power to heat the water. If the unit is ten years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan and can no longer heat the water efficiently.
A plumber will inspect the unit to diagnose the problem and determine if it can be fixed or if a replacement is necessary.
Inadequate Hot Water Pressure
Sufficient water pressure is essential to perform daily activities, and if the water pressure is suddenly reduced, you should hire a plumber. Insufficient water pressure can make everyday tasks like washing your hair or the dishes take longer than necessary. Also, your hot water-based appliances won’t function properly.
When a significant amount of sediment accumulates in the tank, it can clog the waterline, affecting the water pressure. A plumber may be able to flush the sediment from the unit to resolve the problem, but if they can’t, the unit must be replaced to prevent further water pressure issues.
Contaminated Water
Brown or discolored water indicates contamination, affecting your ability to use the water. A few issues can contaminate the water, and sediment is one of them. When a significant amount of sediment accumulates in the tank, the hot water can cause it to break down and contaminate the water. If a plumber specializing in water heater repair can’t flush the sediment, the unit must be replaced.
If the unit is over ten years old, the inside of the tank could deteriorate, causing sediment and tiny metal shards to contaminate the water, and the unit must be replaced.
You Run Out of Hot Water Often
Using too much hot water quickly will deplete the water supply causing you to run out. If you often run out of hot water, the water heater could be blamed. If your family size has recently grown, the tank may not be large enough to meet your family’s hot water demand, and installing a unit with a larger tank will solve the problem.
A sediment buildup in the tank can also be the cause. When a significant amount accumulates, there won’t be as much space for water storage, and a plumber can determine if the sediment can be flushed or if it’s best to replace the water heater.
Moisture or Water Pooling Around the Unit
The area around the water heater should be dry, and moisture or water pooling around the unit is a significant cause for concern. Moisture on and around the unit indicates a loose, clogged, or disconnected hose, which is a simple fix but must be addressed immediately to prevent water damage and mold.
Pooling water indicates a crack in the tank that can cause a flood, and you should cut the water going to the unit and call an emergency plumber. A cracked tank cannot be fixed, and the plumber will replace the unit.
Strange Sounds
Your water heater should be whisper quiet when it runs, and a popping or clanging sound indicates a problem. When large pieces of sediment accumulate, they will bang against the side, causing the clanging. Sediment at the bottom of the tank will cause the water trapped beneath to boil, causing a popping sound.
If a plumber cannot flush the sediment from the tank, it must be replaced.
Call My Professional Plumber Today
If you need an appointment for water heater repair, look no further than My Professional Plumber. We’re a full-service plumbing company, proudly serving customers in the Knoxville area for years.
Our plumbers are professionally trained and worked as apprentices before coming to work for us, and their skills and knowledge have allowed them to tackle some of the most challenging jobs in the industry. We also have someone on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, if you need an appointment for emergency service.
If you need to schedule an appointment, call us today.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
How Water Filtration Systems Can Help Ensure Safe and Clean Drinking Water for Your Home or Business
Many life forms depend on water, and it’s crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. Unfortunately, many water sources are contaminated with harmful pollutants, chemicals, and microorganisms that can pose serious health risks. Water filtration systems are needed to remove contaminants and clean water for consumption.
How Water Filters Remove Harmful Contaminants and Improve Water Quality
Water filtration entails the removal of biological and chemical contaminants from water. Here are some insights on how water filtration systems work to improve water quality.
Mechanical Filtration
This process involves using a physical barrier, such as a fine mesh or a porous material, to remove larger particles and debris from the water. Mechanical filters can effectively remove sediment, rust, and other particulate matter, producing clearer and cleaner water.
Activated Carbon
Activated carbon filters are widely used to remove organic compounds, chlorine, and other chemicals that can cause unpleasant tastes and odors in water. By adsorbing these contaminants onto its surface, activated carbon effectively reduces its presence in the water, improving its taste and smell.
Ion Exchange
This method removes specific ions, such as calcium and magnesium, which cause water hardness. By replacing these ions with less harmful ones, such as sodium, ion exchange filters can soften water. Buildup in pipes is thus reduced.
Reverse Osmosis
This advanced filtration method uses a semipermeable membrane to remove many contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, and viruses. By forcing water through the membrane, reverse osmosis filters can produce highly purified water with significantly reduced harmful substances.
Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection
UV filters use ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. By disrupting their DNA, UV filters effectively neutralize these pathogens, ensuring the water is safe to drink.
Ceramic Filters
These filters can remove bacteria, protozoa, and other microorganisms by trapping them in the tiny pores of the ceramic. Ceramic filters are often combined with other filtration methods to provide comprehensive water purification.
Hollow Fiber Membrane Filters
These filters use thin, hollow fibers to remove contaminants from water. As water passes through the fibers, particles and microorganisms are trapped on the surface, resulting in clean, purified water.
Alumina Filters
Activated alumina filters effectively remove fluoride, arsenic, and selenium from water. Activated alumina can significantly reduce its presence in the water by adsorbing these contaminants onto its surface, improving its safety and quality.
Nanofiltration
Similar to reverse osmosis, nanofiltration uses a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. However, nanofiltration membranes have larger pores, allowing them to selectively remove specific contaminants, such as hardness-causing ions and organic compounds, while retaining beneficial minerals.
Many water filtration systems combine different methods to provide comprehensive water purification. This ensures that the water is safe, clean, and high-quality.
Choosing a Water Filter for Your Home or Business
Choosing the right water filter for your home or business ensures clean, safe, and great-tasting water. It’s essential to consider some factors to select the right water filter.
Contaminant Removal
The primary purpose of a water filter is to remove contaminants from your water supply. Different filters target specific contaminants, such as lead or bacteria. Research the contaminants in your local water supply and choose a filter that effectively removes those impurities to ensure your water is safe and clean. My Professional Plumber offers various water filters designed to handle specific contaminants.
Flow Rate
The flow rate of a water filter refers to the amount of water it can process per minute. A filter with a higher flow rate will provide water more quickly, which is especially important in commercial settings or large households. Ensure that the filter you choose can accommodate your water usage needs without causing a significant drop in water pressure. My Professional Plumber will help you identify the water filters suitable for your home’s or business’ water pressure.
Filter Capacity and Lifespan
Filters have a limited capacity and need to be replaced periodically. Consider the filter’s lifespan and the cost of replacement filters when deciding. A longer-lasting filter may be more cost-effective in the long run, even with a higher upfront cost. My Professional Plumber offers consultation services on promoting the longevity of your water filters.
Budget
Water filters come in a wide range of prices, from affordable faucet-mounted filters to more expensive whole-house systems. Select the filter that provides the best value for your money without compromising quality and performance. My Professional Plumber helps clients choose the best water filter for their budget.
Aesthetic Preferences
While functionality should be the primary concern, consider the appearance of the water filter, especially if it will be visible in your kitchen or workspace. Choose a design that complements your decor and does not detract from the overall aesthetic.
Environmental Impact
Some water filters generate wastewater or require frequent filter replacements, which can harm the environment. Opt for eco-friendly options that minimize waste and have a lower environmental footprint. My Professional Plumber cares for the environment and provides eco-friendly filters for clients.
Customer Support and Warranty
Choosing a water filter requires customer support. A good company should offer a warranty to guarantee the product is high-quality. Choose a reputable brand that confides in its products and offers prompt assistance in case of any issues or concerns. My Professional Plumber provides customer support to ensure customer satisfaction.
Space Constraints
Consider the available space in your home or business when selecting a water filter. Some systems, like under-sink or countertop filters, require minimal space, while whole-house systems may need a dedicated area for installation.
At My Professional Plumber, we understand the importance of clean water for health and well-being. We offer water filtration systems to suit your needs and budget. Whether you need a simple activated carbon filter or a more advanced reverse osmosis system, we will help you choose the right filter for your home or business. Contact us to engage with our water filtration experts.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Are You Moving Your Laundry Room? Here are the Plumbing Aspects To Consider By A Plumber
Do you remember your excitement when you were first moving into your home? How you couldn’t wait to decorate? That is the same thing that happens with the rooms of your home. One day you are so excited about the layout and how everything works together, and then after some time, you want a given room to change its location because it would work better in a different area. This is especially the case with the laundry room. The laundry room is one of the least physically used rooms in the house. In addition, due to its activity, you always want it close to your general area of operation. You want easy access, especially when you have many clothes to clean and fold away. Therefore, when renovating or planning a new home, you need the input of a skilled plumber as to where to locate the laundry room since its plumbing is a significant factor that restricts the location of appliances.
Which are the Laundry Room Plumbing Realities?
Before relocating your laundry room to a pre-existing house, you need prior knowledge of the structure of your home. This is because you cannot move your appliances, the dryer and washing machine, everywhere. The designated moving location must be able to accommodate a lot of pipes and wires. It would help to decide which aspect you want to precede the other. Do you want the perfect location and then find a way for the plumber to get the pipes there, or do you want to begin with the pipes and then you are left picking the aesthetics to make it work? The plumbing reality of relocating your laundry room is that you need to know the structural plan of the house and if there is pipe access.
Location
The other thing to consider is the purpose of the location. Which purpose are you looking to fulfill with your laundry room? Before calling in a plumber and a contractor to relocate your laundry area, consider the following three top factors.
Noise
When searching for where to place a laundry area in the house, most homeowners overlook that laundry appliances make a lot of noise during their operation. The washing machine and the drier are some of the nosiest appliances in a household, after the home theatre system and garage door devices. Therefore, place your laundry room where running noise does not affect other rooms’ functionality. For instance, setting a laundry room in the hallway close to the bedrooms is not advisable. This is because it disturbs the area’s peace, and it is harder to focus or sleep in the bedrooms when the laundry is running. If one has to sleep or study, it will be challenging since the walls might cancel out the noise but not the vibrations from the machines.
Accessibility
Your laundry room should be central to reduce travel time to and from the laundry room. When using the laundry room, you will either carry a load of dirty clothes that need washing or clean clothes that need sorting and folding. Therefore, the laundry room should be in a convenient space where you can easily reach it.
On the other hand, you should remember the noise generated by the machines. Therefore, you cannot place the laundry room in the bedrooms area, although that is the most central location. In addition, although you want the most prominent place to avoid moving around with all the clothes, it is best to consider that this is a room you will only spend a little time in. Therefore, an out-of-sight, out-of-mind feel might also work since a laundry room acts independently, no matter where you position it.
Connections
Although the above two factors are essential to your laundry room set-up, they give a lea way and a way to compromise when the need arises. But the connection factor, on the other hand, is unalterable. Your laundry room needs electrical connections and water pipes to function correctly. Therefore, before settling on a specific location, you should consult a plumber and an electrical technician if it is possible to have the connections needed.
On the other hand, having an upstairs laundry room opens up the possibility for a house to flood, a factor that shouldn’t exist. Therefore, if you choose a laundry room upstairs, the floors should be well-reinforced to deal with the machines’ vibrations adequately. The reinforcement will go a long way to prevent the cracking of critical joints on the floor.
Insulation
Another factor to consider before relocating your laundry room is if the new location needs insulation. Insulating a laundry room will help you deal with the noise from the machines, especially if you are adamant about the room being located around bedrooms. However, even though you can insulate your laundry room, it only solves a little since structural vibrations are the main issue.
In addition, insulating your laundry room will help prevent condensation between the heat of the dryer, the moisture of the washer, and the temperature of your home. On the other hand, the water pipes need insulation to protect them from freezing. Notably, the freezing of the lines is a concern in some locations more than others.
Space Required
How big do you want your laundry area to be? Although, in most cases, a laundry area only needs to be big enough to house the appliances, you may want it to be bigger. Your laundry area can be expanded to the size that you have in mind. You can incorporate some storage shelves to hold towels and blankets and add a table for folding.
Choose The Right Professional
Relocating a laundry room is an exciting and scary thing and the same time. Therefore, surround yourself with the right professionals who can take the frightening bit away and let you enjoy remodeling your home. Contact us at My Professional Plumber for any laundry room plumbing services.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
Journey Through the Lifespan of Your Water Heater: Insight Into Water Heater Repair
In case you haven’t heard, water heaters are more than just appliances; they are the lifelines of modern households, providing the comfort of hot water at all times. They are the quiet heroes behind your soothing evening baths, the blessing of a warm shower on a chilly morning, and even your trusted allies in the kitchen. But have you ever paused to ponder what’s really going on in the life of your water heater or considered the need for regular water heater repair? To learn everything you need to know about the source of hot water in your home, read on.
Chapter 1: Birth of a Water Heater – Installation
Like every hero, the story of a water heater begins with its birth, or in other words, the installation. Here, accuracy and precision are the names of the game. An incorrectly installed water heater can lead to problems such as inefficiencies, malfunctions, or even the premature need for water heater repair.
The installation process involves several intricate steps:
- Choosing the right location: It must be easily accessible for future repair and maintenance.
- Ensuring proper ventilation: To prevent the build-up of harmful gases.
- Connecting the water supply lines: A critical step that requires precision to avoid future leaks.
A professional installation ensures your water heater starts its life on the right foot, ready to serve your household for years to come.
Chapter 2: The Prime of Life – Regular Maintenance
As your water heater steps into its prime, it works hard day in and day out to provide you with hot water when you need it. Regular water heater maintenance becomes crucial at this stage.
Regular maintenance includes:
- Checking the pressure relief valve: This important safety feature should be checked annually to ensure it’s working correctly.
- Flushing the tank: Over time, sediment can build up, leading to inefficiency and possible damage.
- Inspecting the sacrificial anode rod: This component protects the tank from rusting. If it’s corroded, it’s time for a replacement.
Scheduling regular maintenance checks can help identify potential issues before they escalate, often saving you from the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns or malfunctioning requiring repair.
Chapter 3: The Bumps Along the Road – Signs You Might Need to Repair Your Water Heater
Even the best of us face challenges, and your water heater is no exception. It might start with subtle signs: a change in the water temperature, strange noises, or even a leak. These are your water heater’s cries for help, signaling that it might be time for a water heater repair. Ignoring these signs could lead to more significant issues, from minor inconveniences to complete system failure.
Chapter 4: Rising From the Ashes – The Repair Process
So, your water heater needs repair. But what does water heater repair truly entail? It’s not just about fixing a component or mending a leak. It’s about restoring your water heater to its former glory to continue serving your household effectively. Depending on the issue, water heater repair might involve replacing a faulty component, fixing a leak, or flushing the system to remove sediment build-up.
In some cases, the thermostat might need recalibrating. If the issue is more complex, it could involve repairing the circuitry of an electric heater or fixing the burner assembly of a gas heater. In cases of severe sediment build-up, a full tank flush might be necessary to improve the heater’s efficiency.
An experienced professional can diagnose the problem and recommend the best action. They not only fix the issue at hand but also scrutinize the entire system to ensure no hidden problems are lurking around the corner. The goal is to ensure your water heater is back up and running quickly, ready to brave the journey ahead.
Chapter 5: Understanding the Different Types of Water Heaters
Understanding the types of water heaters can help you make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repair. Each type has its unique characteristics and maintenance needs.
- Storage Tank Water Heaters: The most common type found in homes. They store and heat water in a tank until it’s needed.
- Tankless Water Heaters: These units heat water on demand, offering energy efficiency and a continuous hot water supply.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: They don’t generate heat directly but use heat in the air or ground to heat water, making them energy-efficient.
- Solar Water Heaters: These systems use the sun’s energy to heat water, making them a sustainable choice.
Chapter 6: The Final Farewell – When to Replace Your Water Heater
There comes a time in every water heater’s life when it must bow out and make way for a newer model. Generally, tank water heaters last between 8-12 years, although tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more. But how can you tell it’s time for a replacement?
Here are a few indicators:
- Your water heater frequently needs repairs.
- Your energy bills are rising due to the heater’s inefficiency.
- The water heater can’t meet your household’s hot water demands.
- The water heater has started to rust or leak.
If your water heater is approaching this age and requires frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to consider a replacement. After all, even the best repair work cannot stave off the inevitable forever.
Epilogue: Your Trusted Guide – My Professional Plumber
Navigating the journey of your water heater can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. My Professional Plumber is here to guide you every step of the way. From professional installation to regular maintenance checks and of course, expert water heater repair, we have you covered. We are committed to helping your water heater live a long and productive life to ensure the comfort of hot water for your household all year round.
Are you ready to embark on a journey with your water heater? Contact My Professional Plumber today. Together, we’ll ensure that you always have hot water when needed, one repair at a time and for many years to come.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.