1.   No Hot Water

When you turn the tap on and nothing but cold water comes out, it’s a pretty obvious sign that something’s wrong with your hot water heater. It might be a one-time issue, such as a tripped circuit breaker. However, if it keeps reoccurring, this is a sign that your tank is starting to wear down, is working overtime to try and compensate, and then shuts down to prevent overheating.

2.   Strange Colors, Smells or Taste

Over time, sediment and minerals will build up inside traditional water heater tanks, which can eat through the inner lining of the unit. Rusty looking water or strange smells or tastes are potential warning signs that the tank is nearing its end. Fortunately, scheduling routine maintenance can help prevent this build-up and add years of life to your water tank.

3.   Leaks and Drips

A water heater that’s leaking, visibly rusting, or showing signs of regular standing water near the base is at the end of its life and will typically require replacement. Leaks can go from small to severe rather quickly and can result in flooding, especially if the tank cracks. Any signs of drips or standing water should be handled right away by contacting an experienced plumbing professional to evaluate the situation.

Get an assessment of your water heater condition by calling the experts at Best Plumbing at (206) 785-2551. You can also visit our website for a full listing of our services. Whether you need a repair or water heater replacement, you can rely on our experienced 24/7 services to get hot water flowing again.

The greater Seattle area enjoys a boisterous growing season, thanks to our more temperate climate, fertile soil, and generous water sources. Great for gardens, this exuberant growth can spell trouble for underground sewer pipes. The coming weeks are the perfect time for homeowners to call a qualified plumber for a sewer inspection to protect their pipes before the weather descends into the endless rain of winter.

What Are the Risks to Sewer Pipes?

Sewer pipes are like magnets for roots in search of sources of water and nutrients, especially during drier summer conditions. Poor installation, small cracks, or worn seals offers these questing roots access to the pipe’s interior. Once roots get into the sewer pipe, they create blockages that, if left unaddressed, can result in sewage backing up into your home.

Why is Prevention the Best Option?

The worst way to discover a sewer problem is by having wastewater back up into your home. Plus, nobody wants to be without hot water or a functional toilet in the middle of winter. Therefore, prevent this messy scenario by getting your sewer pipes inspected and cleared of roots and other blockages early on!

How to Get Help

For savvy Seattle homeowners, hiring a professional is the best way to ensure sewer pipes keep sewage flowing properly away. At Best Plumbing, our expert team will conduct a complete video sewer inspection to assess the condition of your sewer pipes, identify threats, and clear out roots and clogs. When you are ready to secure your sewer pipes, contact Best Plumbing!

Photo credit: Free-Photos, available under Creative Commons CCO.

Smart home technology is transforming how we complete routine tasks and manage utility costs in our homes. Here are three popular trends savvy owners are following to upgrade their home plumbing systems to be safer, more sanitary, and more energy efficient.

1. Smart Pipe Systems

There are a number of smart home automation plumbing systems available on the market that monitor water pressure and will alert you to the exact location of leaks or breakages it detects. Removing the guesswork allows you to quickly call a plumber to get the issue fixed before any permanent damage occurs.

2. Hands-Free Faucets and Fixtures

Motion sensor faucets are a common feature in public spaces because they are more sanitary than traditional ones and help prevent water waste if someone forgets to turn off the tap. An increasing number of homeowners are taking this lesson to heart and are installing touchless faucets in their kitchens and bathrooms. They’re a simple way to help keep your household healthy, as there’s no more struggling to get water flowing when your hands are dirty.

3. Tankless Water Heater Systems

Since water heater tanks from the early 1990’s are reaching the end of their lifespan, many homeowners are choosing to upgrade to a tankless water heater system. These feats of plumbing technology can produce hot water almost instantly on demand and are extremely efficient. In fact, according to energy.gov, tankless heaters can save homeowners 25% or more on annual water expenses.

If you want to learn more about new plumbing options, give Best Plumbing a call today at (206) 785-2551. We can help you upgrade to a modern plumbing system that takes advantage of all the benefits smart technology has to offer!

Image © Brett_Hondow, available under Creative Commons CCO.