When you own a home, you may prefer buying appliances and products that are environmentally friendly. To conserve water, you can follow several tips for green plumbing solutions. Some of these eco-friendly options will also help you conserve energy.

Learn more about the benefits of water conservation at home with innovative plumbing solutions.

High-Efficiency Fixtures

Low-flow fixtures on showers and sinks are designed to cut down on water usage. A new low-flow fixture, also called a high-efficiency fixture, may use two-thirds as much water as a standard fixture. It uses increased water pressure and other techniques to reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.

Low-Flow and Dual-Flush Toilets

Low-flow toilets cut down on the water you use with each flush. A modern water-efficient toilet uses less than half of the water per flush of a typical older toilet. For a particularly inefficient older toilet, new toilets could require less than a quarter of the water per flush.

A dual-flush toilet is another green plumbing solution for conserving water. If you are flushing solid waste, select extra water for the flush. If you are flushing liquid waste, use a low-flow flush.

Advantages of Switching to Tankless Water Heaters

A modern tankless water heater delivers an energy-efficient plumbing option. Unlike a traditional water heater that heats a large tank of water, a tankless model heats water on demand, saving energy and space

However, the tankless model is an on-demand system that heats the water as needed. It doesn’t store and heat water in a large tank.

Innovative Ways to Recycle Water and Conserve Resources

You can install systems that recycle certain types of water you use at your home. This reduces water usage significantly, saving money on your water bill. Additionally, consider water purification systems to ensure the recycled water is safe for use in irrigation or other applications

One option is to collect rainwater from your home’s gutters with rain barrels. You can then use this collected water for gardens, lawns, and car washing.

Graywater recycling is another option. The system collects greywater from sinks and showers. It then recycles this water inside toilets or for a lawn irrigation system. The system separates greywater from your drinking, cooking, and bathing water.

The Benefits of Scheduling Annual Plumbing Inspections

One of the most useful green plumbing solutions doesn’t involve buying new appliances. Instead, set up a maintenance contract with your local plumber for annual system inspections. Additionally, consider hydrojetting to clear out any buildup in your pipes, ensuring they operate efficiently and reducing the risk of leaks

A plumber will visit your home to check the system for leaks. Even small leaks waste far more water over time than you may realize. The plumber will also look for other inefficiencies, such as loose pipe insulation materials.

Repairing these problems results in a more efficient plumbing system, which is a popular way to conserve water and energy.

Submit An Inquiry For Services Today

It only takes a few steps to make your home’s plumbing system more eco-friendly. HomeX Plumbing Heating & Air can help. We can advise you on which sustainable plumbing products will yield the best results and inspect your current plumbing system for potential areas of improvement.

For help installing your new eco-friendly green plumbing solutions, call us at (714) 426-9207.

Residents in Anaheim and the surrounding areas have to take flood prevention seriously. Keep reading to learn how a basement sump pump functions, and why it is crucial to flood prevention in your basement.

The Positioning and Function of a Basement Sump Pump 

A sump pump goes into the lowest point in the basement. It’s in a constructed pit called a basin. Water always flows in that direction.

The pump activates the moment it detects water. It moves the water into a pipe that leads to a drain outside. You want to put the drain in an area that isn’t going to turn into a stagnate pond that becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes or other pesky creatures.

Standing water like that can also smell foul, so it’s crucial that your drain empties into an area that soaks up the flow.

For most people, draining the water into the lawn is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way to water the yard.

A Basement Sump Pump Protects Against Flooding 24/7

The way a basement sump pump functions provides cost-effective, efficient basement waterproofing. A basement flood is a common entry point for water. However, people don’t have the time and don’t want to stand guard in the basement waiting for signs of a flood.

A basement sump pump provides you with that coverage 24/7.

A sump pump installation will prevent flooding and water damage, which:

• Protects your home’s foundation
• Eliminates the need for professional mold and mildew cleaning
• Keeps your family safe from mold and mildew side effects

Foundational repairs, mold and mildew cleaning, and healthcare prices add up. Even worse, none of these problems have an easy fix. Therefore, you will get caught in treatment cycles for each, all costing a fortune. 

A sump pump protects furniture, paintings, collectibles, and holiday decoration storage. A flood will cost you mementos and money.

Use Your Basement to the Fullest

When you don’t have to worry about flooding, you can change the basement into a stylish, practical room. A sump pump lets you use the basement as an:

• Office
• Gym
• Whatever suits your needs

Buyers will appreciate this functional space if you ever plan to sell.

Additionally, a sump pump shows you’ve taken flooding and water threats seriously. That shows prospective buyers the home more than likely has a strong foundation. They won’t need to worry about setting up a flood prevention system.

Now that you see how a basement sump pump functions and what it provides, what are you waiting for?

Contact HomeX Plumbing & Rooter for Basement Sump Installation and Other Plumbing Services

HomeX Plumbing & Rooter has earned a regional reputation as the premier water drainage system installation team. Friendly customer service, fair pricing, and efficient services mean we are the team that should handle your basement sump installation. 

We’ll explain the basement sump pump functions in more detail. We can also provide sump pump maintenance and repair. Call us soon to install your elite basement water control solution: 714-426-9207.

Last Modified On 7/17/24

Feeling worried, frustrated, or confused about annoying popping sounds coming from your water heater? Don’t worry, these sounds usually mean something needs a little attention. Lowe’s estimates, “that most water heaters have a good long life, lasting around 8-12 years”, especially if they get some regular maintenance. How long your home’s gas or electric water heater lasts depends on how much it gets used and if a plumber takes a look at it every year. It is time for a checkup when your water heater makes crackling noises! HomeX knows all the strange water heater sounds, what they mean, and how to get yours working quietly again.

What Do Those Water Heater Noises Mean?

If you hear popping or crackling noises coming from your water heater, chances are there’s a buildup of mineral deposits in the tank – kind of like tiny rocks at the bottom. Water gets trapped under those deposits, and when it heats up, it makes those popping noises. This isn’t just annoying, it can also limit your hot water and even damage your water heater over time. The best way to fix this is a good flush of the tank, something a professional plumber can do for you. Don’t ignore that popping, if left alone, it could lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the road.

Keep reading to see if these are 3 scary sounds you may be hearing from your hot water heater.

What Do Screeching Sounds Indicate?

Screeching noises from your water heater are a cause for concern. A high-pitched screech could mean a few things, including problems with the inlet control valve. This valve regulates water flowing into your tank, and if it gets partially stuck closed, it can cause high pressure and annoying noises. Other times, the issue might be with your pressure relief valve or even your home’s water supply. Whatever the cause, it’s best to have a plumber take a look as high pressure could damage your water heater or even be dangerous.

Does Condensation Produce Crackling Noises?

If your water heater is making crackling or sizzling sounds, and you notice some water around the base, it might be dealing with excess condensation. This happens especially with gas water heaters, where the burner flame can cause water droplets to form on the outside of the tank. When those water droplets hit the hot burner, they sizzle and pop – causing those strange noises. While the sound itself might not be dangerous, excess condensation can signal other problems, like leaks or improper venting, that need to be addressed by a plumber.

How About Humming Sounds?

Bob Villa suggests, “A low humming sound from your electric water heater often points to issues with the heating element”. These elements are responsible for actually heating your water, and over time they can get coated with mineral deposits. This makes it harder for them to work, and that can cause a vibrating or humming noise. Sometimes, a simple tightening of the heating element can fix the hum. Other times, the element may be failing and need replacement. A plumber can diagnose the exact issue and provide the right fix.

DIY Fix: Flushing the Tank

Based on our provided information, your finances, and your situation you could be willing to be brave and feel confident about fixing this issue yourself. We will try and give you a couple of pointers, but if you become frustrated or made the problem worse yourself, it would be best to call a plumber from HomeX for flushing a water heater.

• DIY Procedure:
  1. Turn off power to the water heater. (Safety first!)
  2. Shut off the cold water supply.
  3. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and direct the other end to a suitable drain.
  4. Open a hot water faucet elsewhere in the house for pressure relief.
  5. Open the drain valve and let the tank flush. Continue for about 5 minutes or until the water runs clear.
  6. Close the drain valve, refill the tank, and restore power.

When DIY Isn’t Enough: How Home X Plumbing Can Help

We understand that some homeowners like to tackle problems themselves, and a water heater flush can sometimes be a successful DIY fix. But sometimes, the problem is more complicated or requires special tools that the average homeowner doesn’t have. That’s where HomeX Plumbing comes in! Here’s how we can help

• Accurate Diagnosis: While sediment buildup is a common cause of crackling, other things can make your water heater noisy. We’ll pinpoint the exact issue so you get the right solution.
• Beyond Flushing: Sometimes, flushing alone might not suffice. We offer thorough repairs, part replacements, and expert solutions for a wide range of water heater problems.
• New Water Heaters: If your water heater is older or has extensive damage, replacement might be the most cost-effective option. We can recommend and install the right water heater for your home’s needs.
• Reliable Service, Reliable Results: Water heater issues can be stressful. Let us handle the problem so you can relax and enjoy reliable hot water again!

Remember, unusual noises from your water heater are often a sign that something needs attention. While DIY flushing can sometimes fix sediment-related crackling or popping, other issues may require professional diagnosis and repair. Don’t let those noises linger! Ignoring them can lead to decreased efficiency, bigger problems, and even premature failure of your water heater. Whether you attempt a DIY fix first or choose to call the experts at HomeX Plumbing right away, taking action is the best way to protect your investment and ensure reliable hot water for your home.

As you wash your hands after a long day at work or run a load of laundry after your child’s baseball game, you expect the wastewater to flow down your drain and away from your house. Drains are an essential part of your household that you often forget about until something goes wrong. 

Drain clogs are always frustrating, and they can even be messy or dangerous, depending on the specific drain. Let’s explore how to unclog a drain using some simple supplies at home. 

Kitchen Drain Clogs 

Kitchen drains put up with a lot. Whether you have a garbage disposal or not, food particles wind up in your kitchen sink drain as you wash dishes and prepare meals.

Over time, these particles build up and can lead to a serious clog. Grease and oil can also be troublesome, so avoid pouring liquified grease into your drains to prevent blockages. 

Bathroom Drain Clogs 

Bathrooms are one of the most used spaces in a family home, so clogs are common in bathroom sinks and shower drains. A buildup of hair is one of the most common causes of bathroom drain clogs. Soap scum can also build up along your drain, slowing water flow and corroding your pipes. 

How Do You Get Rid of a Clog? 

Be very careful if you are going to attempt to unclog a drain yourself. Check the area thoroughly to make sure there are no hidden hazards like sharp objects or small spaces that your hands or fingers could get stuck in while you work. 

To start, if you see a visible obstruction, remove it carefully and use a flashlight to ensure you removed the entire blockage. If you can’t see the reason for the clog, try using a drain snake. This long, toothed tool is a great way to pull out flexible obstructions like hair. 

If you still aren’t finding success, concoct a homemade drain cleaner to pour down the affected drain. Pour one cup of baking soda into the drain and then follow that with one cup of vinegar. Seal your drain with your stopper if you can, and wait about an hour to see if the mixture breaks down the clog itself. 

After the hour is up, run boiling water down your drain to wash away the remnants of the cleaner and the clog. If you’re still struggling with a clogged drain after all of that, then it’s time to call in a professional. 

Utilizing a Professional Plumber To Unclog a Drain 

Not all drain clogs are easy fixes, which is why relying on a professional plumber is essential. If you aren’t careful, you can do more harm than good to your drain lines while trying to clear the clog.

You can even make the clog worse in your DIY attempts or cause further damage. A professional plumber has the tools and plumbing knowledge to assess the situation, clear the clog, and offer tips to prevent it from happening again.

Are you ready to unclog a drain in your home? Call HomeX Plumbing & Rooter today at (714) 426-9207.

Homeowners don’t need to be experts in plumbing, but they should at least have a basic familiarity with how their plumbing systems work. Your home’s plumbing consists of several components working together to bring your house clean water while taking waste water away. Among these many useful parts are residential water valves. 

Water valves control the flow and temperature of water within your plumbing system, but they’re not all the same. Each has a unique job that helps control your home’s water supply.

The Different Types of Water Valves for Residential Plumbing Systems

Not all water valves operate the same way. Here are a few types you might see around your home and what they do:

Pressure Relief Valves

Pressure relief valves control the water pressure in your plumbing system. Since water from the municipal supply tends to have a higher pressure, these valves lower the water pressure for your home. That way, the water won’t damage your plumbing fixtures by exerting too much force. 

Faucet Valves

As their name implies, faucet valves help control water flow from your bathroom and kitchen faucets. They also come in a few different forms, depending on their function:

• Cartridge valves: Two-handle sinks tend to have separate cartridge valves for hot and cold water. These valves have a moveable stem that makes it easy to control the flow of water from the faucet. 
• Ceramic disc valves: These valves offer a more durable seal to prevent leaks and consist of two discs, one on top of the other. 
• Compression valves: These are common in older sinks and more prone to leaks since they use rubber washers. 

Ball Valves

Newer homes are more likely to have ball valves than older homes. You can typically find these residential water valves by the main water line, and they’re easy to spot thanks to their lever handles. 

A lever handle stops the flow of water completely when you close it. You can tell when the valve is opened or closed by looking at the handle placement. If it’s parallel to the pipes, the valve is open; if it’s perpendicular, it’s closed. 

FAQs About Residential Water Valves

Below are some of the most frequent questions we hear from homeowners about their water valves.

What Materials Do Water Valves Use?

Most homes have brass, stainless steel, plastic, bronze, galvanized pipe, or cast iron water valves. 

Are There Other Types of Water Valves in Your Home’s Plumbing?

Yes, your home also has stop valves, shut-off valves, gate valves, and many others that help control water flow.

HomeX Plumbing & Rooter Has Your Residential Plumbing Solutions

Each type of water valve plays an important role in your home’s plumbing system. If you have more questions about residential water valves or need a timely, reliable service, call our HomeX Plumbing & Rooter team. 

We proudly offer top-rated plumbing repair, installation, leak detection, and more. Call HomeX Plumbing & Rooter at (714) 426-9207 for service today!

Stepping into an icy shower or facing the sting of cold water when you expect a warm embrace can be a jarring wake-up call that something’s amiss with your water heater. Like a silent guardian, the water heater is often overlooked until its warmth fades, plunging your daily routines into chilly disarray.

Diagnosing the root causes requires a blend of detective work and knowledge, with signs pointing toward issues ranging from simple to complex.

Identifying the Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention

Embarking on a journey to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your home’s water heater requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of common indicators of malfunction.

Whether you’re greeted by a blast of cold water, find yourself adjusting the shower knob far too often in search of the perfect temperature, or your senses are assaulted by foul odors and discolored water, your water heater is crying out for help. Recognizing these signs as sentinel events pointing towards a need for intervention can transform you from a distressed homeowner to a proactive guardian of your abode’s warmth and comfort.

No Hot Water at All

Encountering a situation where your water heater fails to deliver any hot water transforms an expected comfort into an inconvenient chill. This absence of warmth often signals a deeper issue within your system – it could be as straightforward as a tripped circuit breaker or as complex as a malfunctioning heating element. Addressing this symptom promptly can restore the equilibrium of your domestic harmony, turning icy showers into a forgotten memory.

Water Temperature Inconsistency

Water temperature inconsistency, a mercurial tyrant within the realm of home comfort, often betrays a hidden quandary within the depths of your water heating system. This capricious behavior, where the water veers between scalding and icy with no apparent rhyme or reason, can point to thermostat malfunctions or the sinister encroachment of sediment within the tank. Such fluctuations are not merely inconvenient; they stand as harbingers of the necessity for a closer look beneath the surface of your water heating apparatus.

Discolored Water or Bad Odor

When your water heater begins to emit foul odors or your tap dispenses discolored water, it’s akin to your appliance sounding the alarm: something’s amiss internally. This scenario often stems from bacteria thriving in the tank or sediment build-up, both of which compromise water quality and the system’s efficiency. Recognizing these unwelcome changes as your water heater’s cry for help ensures you take timely action to shield your home from the subtle threat lurking within.

Strange Noises Coming From the Heater

When your water heater begins to serenade you with a symphony of pops, knocks, or rumbling tones, it’s not attempting to channel its inner musician; rather, it’s signaling distress. These auditory anomalies often stem from sediment rolling over the heating element or the unsettling dance of boiling water within sediment layers, warning of inefficiencies, and the potential for heating element doom. Heeding these sounds as the clarion call they are could save you from a cold morning shower’s embrace.

Leaks Around the Water Heater

Discovering a puddle around your water heater is akin to finding an unexpected oasis that, unfortunately, signals trouble in paradise rather than relief. This unwelcome wetness typically heralds a leak, either from the tank itself, indicating potential corrosion or a breach, or from the connections and fittings that bind your heater’s intricate dance of heat and water. 

Troubleshooting Gas Water Heaters

Transitioning to the domain of gas water heaters unveils a new set of characters instrumental in the narrative of your home’s warmth.

As the custodian of this crucial appliance, your introduction to three pivotal acts – inspecting the gas supply and pilot light, cleaning the gas burner and intake, and checking the thermocouple – sets the stage for understanding and rectifying the reasons behind a malfunctioning heater.

Each step is a chapter in the broader saga of troubleshooting, designed with precision to guide you through the labyrinth of potential setbacks your water heater faces, ensuring the flame of functionality remains ignited.

Inspecting the Gas Supply and Pilot Light

Peering into the heart of your gas water heater, a critical eye on the gas supply and pilot light unveils the initial elements vital to its operation. Ensuring the valve that ushers gas into your heater stands fully open becomes a paramount step, akin to unlocking the gate to warmth’s flow. Observing the pilot light, that tiny sentry of flame, should flicker with life, signifying the readiness of your system to combat the cold; a dim or absent flame whispers the need for immediate attention, beckoning a reignition to restore your home’s comfort.

Cleaning the Gas Burner and Intake

Initiating the task of cleaning the gas burner and intake on your water heater is akin to clearing the throat of a vocalist before a performance: it ensures the steady, uninterrupted flow of gas and air essential for an optimal flame. This maintenance step, often overshadowed by more immediate repairs, plays a critical role in preventing the erratic heating and inefficiency that plague neglected systems. By removing the grime and debris that accumulate over time, you not only enhance the efficiency of your gas water heater but also extend its life, making this task a cornerstone of proactive home appliance care.

Checking the Thermocouple

Exploring the domain of gas water heaters further, the thermocouple emerges as a pivotal character amidst the tangle of potential issues. This slender guardian, tasked with sensing the presence of the pilot flame, can veto the gas supply when it suspects the flame’s absence, a safety measure designed to prevent uncontrolled releases of gas. Should your water heater falter in its mission to deliver warmth, turning your gaze towards the thermocouple’s function and integrity offers a crucial checkpoint in the troubleshooting procession, urging a careful examination or replacement to reignite the steady stream of comfort to your home.

Troubleshooting Electric Water Heaters

Wading through the waters of electric water heater troubleshooting requires a targeted approach to uncover and rectify issues that leave you in the cold. Central to restoring the warmth to your waters are three critical investigations: a thorough examination of the heating elements, the imperative reset of the high-temperature cutoff switch, and a meticulous inspection of the thermostat.

Each step is a beacon in the fog, guiding you towards not just understanding but solving the enigma of a water heater that refuses to perform its essential function.

Checking the Heating Elements

Delving into the heart of your electric water heater’s woes often leads to the heating elements, those stalwart soldiers responsible for transforming electrical energy into the heat that warms your water. If your showers have turned icy, it’s crucial to inspect these components for signs of corrosion or damage. A heating element veiled in mineral deposits or marred by wear no longer sings in harmony with electricity, reducing its capability to heat water efficiently and signaling the need for a swift replacement.

Inspecting the Thermostat

Turning your investigative gaze towards the thermostat, you enter into a dialogue with the very nerve center of your water heater’s operation. This essential component, acting as the maestro conducting the symphony of heat within your appliance, might fall out of tune, misinterpreting the demands for warmth as invitations for silence. By ensuring the thermostat is accurately calibrated and free from the shackles of electrical malfunction, you safeguard the continuous flow of hot water, reinstating the comfort and convenience your home deserves.

When to Seek Professional Help or Consider Replacement

Navigating the labyrinth of your water heater’s inconsistencies might lead you to a critical juncture: deciphering whether to enlist professional assistance or weigh the anchor in favor of replacement.

This crucial decision hinges not merely on troubleshooting the current dilemma but on a broader analysis that spans evaluating the age and condition of your water heater, juxtaposing the financial implications of repair against replacement, and charting a course toward finding a technician whose qualifications align with the task at hand.

Insufficient water pressure can be a frustrating issue in any household, affecting daily tasks like showering, dishwashing, and laundry. Fortunately, several methods can help boost it and improve the overall efficiency of your plumbing system.

1. Check for Obstructions:

Start by inspecting faucets, showerheads, and aerators for mineral buildup or debris that may be obstructing water flow. Clean or replace these components as needed to restore proper pressure.

2. Adjust Pressure Regulator:

Locate the pressure regulator near the main water supply valve and adjust it to increase pressure. Be cautious not to exceed recommended pressure levels to avoid damaging pipes and appliances.

3. Unblock Pipes:

Clogged or narrow pipes can restrict water flow, leading to low pressure. Consider professional pipe cleaning or replacement to remove obstructions and improve water flow throughout your home.

4. Install a Pressure-Boosting Pump:

A pressure-boosting pump can significantly increase pressure in your home by actively pumping water through the plumbing system. Consult with a plumber to determine the appropriate pump size and installation method for your needs.

5. Upgrade Plumbing Fixtures:

Old or inefficient plumbing fixtures may contribute to low water pressure. Upgrade to high-pressure showerheads, faucets, and appliances designed to optimize water flow and pressure.

6. Address Leaks:

Even minor leaks can reduce pressure in your home. Inspect pipes, fixtures, and appliances for leaks and repair them promptly to prevent water waste and improve pressure.

7. Install a Water Softener:

Hard water can cause mineral buildup in pipes, reducing pressure over time. Installing a water softener can remove mineral deposits and improve water flow throughout your plumbing system.

8. Consult a Professional:

If DIY methods fail to raise water pressure or if you suspect underlying issues with your plumbing system, consult a licensed plumber. They can perform a thorough inspection and recommend appropriate solutions tailored to your home’s needs.