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White cylindrical water heater with pipe connections, installed by Quahog Plumbing.

Things That Homeowners Should Know About Water Heater Replacement

A Quick Guide to Water Heater Replacement 

Nobody wants to get stuck without hot water. Luckily, there are signs homeowners can watch out for indicating water heater replacement is needed. This water heater replacement guide will share some important basics to know about replacing a water heater, including signs it’s needed, its benefits, and choosing between a gas and electric water heater. 

Signs That Water Heater Replacement Is Needed

Discolored water draining from a sink, indicating potential corrosion in a water heater, relevant to water heater replacement signs.A water heater works hard, providing hot water for the household, until it can't anymore. However, water heaters show signs they need replacing before this point. Recognizing the signs indicating water heater replacement is needed and calling a plumber for a new water heater installation can help prevent unexpected cold showers, leaks, and more problems.

One clear sign to replace a water heater is corrosion. However, besides visible rust and corrosion on the water heater, other signs of a corroded water heater can include rusty or discolored water flowing from hot water taps and hot water with a metallic smell. The deterioration of a water heater due to corrosion not only affects the hot water quality but can also lead to leaks and water damage. 

A water heater’s age can also indicate that replacement is needed. Most conventional water heaters last about 8-12 years, so when the water heater has been in service for over 10 years, it may be time for a replacement. Another sign of an aging water heater that can indicate replacement is needed is high utility costs, as the energy efficiency of a water heater declines over time. Other unmistakable indicators to call for water heater replacement include a leaking water heater, insufficient hot water for the household's needs, and units that need frequent repairs.

Benefits of Water Heater Replacement

Jar filled with rolled cash and assorted coins, symbolizing savings and financial benefits of replacing an old water heater for energy efficiency and cost reduction.Replacing an old water heater and installing a new high-efficiency water heater can deliver immediate advantages. A new, efficient water heater installation improves energy efficiency and reduces water heating costs. According to Energy Star, water heating accounts for around 15% of the energy used in a household, and high-efficiency models can use 10-50% less energy than conventional water heaters. So, replacing an old water heater that has decreased in efficiency due to aging and installing a high-efficiency one can save money on utility bills.

Additionally, with a new water heater that is more reliable and has a lower risk of needing repair, homeowners can also save on repair costs associated with aging systems that can experience more problems. Beyond the monetary advantages, having a more reliable water heater can prevent cold showers and discomfort from water heater problems, and new water heaters can offer faster recovery rates, meaning less waiting between showers when multiple people need hot water. Modern units can also deliver more consistent water temperatures without the fluctuations common in aging systems. 

Choosing Between an Electric and Gas Water Heater

One decision that needs to be made before a new water heater installation is whether to install a gas or electric water heater. Both types offer distinct advantages, so the best choice for a home will depend on what homeowners prefer and factors like the installation cost, monthly operating costs, household size, and more. Plumbers can also help homeowners make an informed decision.

Electric water heaters cost less upfront than gas models and are easier to install. Safety represents another significant advantage of an electric water heater installation. Unlike gas water heaters, electric models don’t use natural gas to heat water, eliminating combustion concerns and carbon monoxide risks. 

Gas water heaters, while more expensive initially, can deliver superior long-term value through lower operational costs, saving homeowners money on monthly water heating costs. A gas water heater installation is also beneficial due to their fast heating times and high heating capacity, making them great for large households. 

About Quahog Plumbing

Quahog Plumbing has more than 15 years of experience serving the Somerset community. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day services, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for water heater installation and repair services in Somerset, MA. 

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High-pressure water jetting tool cleaning gray pipe interior with strong water flow; Quahog Plumbing services.

Answering Questions About Hydro Jetting

Hydro Jetting Explained

When dealing with sewer line clogs, homeowners must have them resolved promptly by calling a plumber for drain cleaning to avoid problems like backed-up drains and the clog causing a sewage leak. Hydro jetting is one method that can be used to clear sewer line clogs and even help prevent clogs in the future. Unfortunately, too many homeowners are in the dark about the benefits of this useful service. Here is a quick guide to answer some basic questions about hydro jetting so homeowners can respond to sewer line clogs quickly and decisively. 

How Does It Work?

High-pressure water jet nozzle spraying water, illustrating hydro jetting for clearing sewer line clogs and preventing future blockages.Any time there are signs of a clogged sewer line, it can indicate hydro jetting may be needed. Some of these signs can include: 

  • Slow draining
  • Noisy draining 
  • Bad odors
  • Water or sewage backups 

Hydro jetting is so effective because it operates in a way that is different from other drain cleaning methods. A hydro jet is a special machine that generates an extremely high-pressure water stream. A long hose is inserted into the clogged sewer line, and the highly pressurized water clears tough clogs while cleaning the walls of the pipes. This makes it the perfect remedy for an active clog and a preventative measure against future sewer line clogs. 

Is It Safe?

The water pressure the hydro jet machine creates is so intense that it can damage pipes in cases where the pipe is already compromised due to being damaged, fragile, and old. The same features that make it a successful tool for unclogging pipes can sometimes make hydro jetting service a liability. The good news is that the plumber who administers the service can decide whether or not to proceed after first inspecting the condition of the pipes. 

They can use sewer video inspection equipment to get a look inside the line, allowing them to determine if the sewer lines can handle the pressure of the hydro jetting process. This ensures hydro jetting will be a safe and effective method for unclogging the pipes.  

What Are the Benefits of Hydro Jetting?

Clogged sewer pipe filled with tree roots and debris, illustrating the need for hydro jetting as an effective drain-cleaning method.Hydro jetting is a beneficial drain-cleaning method for several reasons. Not only is it an effective way to eliminate clogs made from all sorts of materials, from grease to tree roots, but it also helps reduce the risk of future clogs. In the case of plumber’s snakes and drain augers, the clog can be removed or dislodged, but the grime and buildup that lines the sewer pipes are not removed and can form another clog in the future.

With chemical drain cleaners, pipes can be damaged from the chemicals in them and they are not as effective at unclogging pipes. However, hydro jetting uses water rather than harmful chemicals and can cut through even the toughest clogs for a clog-free sewer line. 

About Quahog Plumbing

Quahog Plumbing provides expert plumbing services to the Somerset area. They offer straightforward pricing and same-day services. Call them for drain cleaning services in Somerset, MA. 

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Large tree with roots over an underground pipe system, illustrating Quahog Plumbing's focus on plumbing and infrastructure.

All About Trenchless Pipe Repair

What Are Trenchless Pipe Repairs? 

There are many ways to repair a damaged or broken underground pipe. Traditional methods typically involve digging a trench to access the pipe, which can be disruptive and expensive. Trenchless pipe repairs, on the other hand, are a much more efficient and non-invasive solution.

Trenchless repairs can often be completed in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. This type of repair is also less disruptive to your property, as there is no need to excavate a large trench. In addition, trenchless repairs are often more durable and last longer than traditional repairs.

Types of Trenchless Pipe Repairs 

Corroded pipe section alongside a newly lined pipe, illustrating trenchless pipe repair methods as discussed by Quahog Plumbing.Trenchless repair is what it sounds like. Instead of digging a trench, a plumber may repair or replace pipes using one of the following methods: 

  • Pipe bursting. It requires using a bursting head to break through a corroded pipe and replace it with a new one. With this method, plumbers can dig right to the root of the problem without digging deep trenches. It also allows the installation of a new pipe and destroys the old one. 
  • Slip lining.A plumber slips a liner into the deteriorating pipe. This requires the plumber to dig two modest holes. Not only does this method improve the pipe’s integrity, but it also increases its diameter. 
  • Cured-in-place pipelining (CIPP).CIPP is very similar to slip lining. The plumber uses a liner soaked in epoxy to seal any cracks or leaks. This is a very cost-effective method, and it restores the pipe to its original integrity. 

Trenchless Pipe Repairs Are Ideal in These Situations 

Pipes can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years based on their material. In newer homes, one can live in a house for years without ever having to replace its pipes. This is not the story for older homes, however. If a pipe is old and has undergone several repairs, it may need total replacement rather than trenchless pipe repair. 

However, these situations are ideal for trenchless pipe repair: 

  • A relatively new pipe needs repairs. There is no reason to replace a pipe less than 20 years old if it only has minor damage. 
  • A pipe is under a driveway or swimming pool. A plumber wants to limit secondary damage when rendering repairs. It may be easier to drill a hole than tear up an entire driveway or pool to get to a pipe. 
  • The damaged pipe isn’t very deep. The easier it is to reach a pipe, the more likely the plumber will employ trenchless pipe repairs. 

The Many Benefits of Trenchless Repair 

Clock beside stacked coins representing time and cost savings in trenchless pipe repair services.Rather than resorting to traditional pipe repair methods, a plumber may use trenchless pipe repair methods because: 

  • It’s cost-effective. 
  • It takes less time to complete. 
  • It’s less intrusive, limiting damage to the homeowner’s property. 
  • It fixes the problem. 

A plumber can assess one’s situation and determine what repair methods can get the best possible results. However, time is of the essence when consulting a professional. The longer a homeowner waits to call for help, the more severe the damage could get. 

About Quahog Plumbing 

Quahog Plumbing has over 15 years of experience serving the residents of Somerset, MA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for plumbing services in Somerset, MA.

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