3 Tips for Cutting Down Water Costs

Avoid Getting Pinched by Rising Water Bills This Spring!

Homeowners can make their homes greener while saving green by reducing their plumbing's water waste. Saving water at home doesn’t have to mean inconveniences or sacrificing comfort. So, to help homeowners reduce their household’s water use and save money on their water bills, here are a few easy tips for water conservation. 

Implement Water Saving Habits 

save water The first way to save water is simple. Household residents can change some water usage habits to save water and money. Just turning off the faucet when possible like when shaving or brushing teeth, can add up to significant savings over time. Many people know not to leave the water running when brushing their teeth, but some people and kids may need a reminder. Additionally, people should try to avoid hand-washing dishes when possible, as filling up and running the dishwasher uses less water.

Along these lines, homeowners can also save water by sticking to a stricter watering schedule for their lawns and gardens. It’s typically best to water lawns, shrubs, and greenery in the morning to avoid having to use more water to compensate for evaporation. By watering in the early morning, less water will be lost to evaporation. Installing an irrigation controller allows homeowners to set a schedule for their sprinkler system so they don’t have to manage it constantly. However, they should avoid using the sprinklers in periods of rain to save water.

Install Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures

Making a conscious effort to use less water is a big step, but it can only go so far if the home’s plumbing fixtures are outdated and use more water than necessary. Many older toilets, for instance, used around 3.5 gallons of water per flush. Today’s water-saving toilets use less than 1.6 gallons per flush, saving significant amounts of water and money. There are many water-saving toilets, and upgrading can significantly impact the water bill.

Faucets and showerheads are no different. Switching from standard models to low-flow showerheads and faucets can significantly reduce water usage from those fixtures. There are also many types to choose from, many of which use aerating technology that injects air into the water so the water pressure and comfort won’t suffer. 

Find and Fix Water Leaks

leak Even after upgrading to water-saving plumbing fixtures and implementing habits to reduce water usage, water leaks may still undermine homeowners’ efforts to conserve water and save money since leaks waste water and raise water costs. Unfortunately, not all leaks are as easy to spot as a leaky faucet. Homeowners should be on the lookout for the signs of a leak, including: 

  • The sound of running water when no water is in use
  • Lower water pressure from fixtures
  • Musty smells or mold growth
  • Visible water damage or water stains 
  • Unusually high water bills 

If homeowners notice any signs of a water leak, they should call a plumber for leak detection and repair. Professionals can use specialized tools to pinpoint leaks and fix them with minimal inconvenience, which will stop the water waste and reduce water bills.

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc has been serving Denville and the surrounding areas since 1990. They provide convenient scheduling, personal attention, and extended warranties. Call them for plumbing services in Denville, NJ

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Signs That Homeowners Need Sewer Line Replacement or Repair

When Is It Time to Call for Sewer Line Service?

Sewer lines are present on every single property, but since they are buried underneath concrete work, foundations, and the surrounding yard, they are a mystery to most people. This means when they start to have trouble, homeowners may continue ignoring the problem since they don’t know the signs that problems exist. 

Luckily, learning about sewer lines is easy, particularly when people take the time to learn and understand the signs that sewer line repair or replacement is needed. Here is a quick guide from local professionals to help people know when it's time to call a plumber to inspect the sewer line

Slow Draining or Frequent Clogging 

drain clog Sewer lines deal with waste that a home will generate. In a single day, a sewer line will be expected to flush away wastewater, some food waste, and human waste without any problems. Under certain circumstances, a sewer line can fail to transport waste to the municipal sewer effectively, caused by a buildup of grime in the pipes or damage to the sewer line. If these problems occur, one of the first things that will be noticeable in the home is slow draining. 

Slow draining occurs any time the flow of waste is impeded. It is often accompanied by gurgling noises or water that doesn’t drain or flush fast enough. Sewer line repair or replacement can address the underlying issue of slow draining, such as clogging or damaged or crushed pipes, and restore reliable drainage. 

Another complication that can point to the need for sewer line repair or replacement is frequent clogging. Sometimes, frequent clogs can be caused by improper waste disposal habits, causing things like grease or non-flushable items to find their way into the lines. However, if the line clogs often, it could also be due to an underlying issue like tree roots that have grown into the sewer line or a line that is broken, crushed, or otherwise damaged and needs repair or replacement. 

Sewage Smells Are Noticed

Another sign that sewer line repairs or replacement is needed is when foul odors like the smell of sewage are noticed around the property. A distinct sewage smell is more than just an unpleasant nuisance. It's a telltale sign of sewer line problems that warrant immediate attention. 

Often, this odor is symptomatic of a deeper issue, such as a sewage leak from a cracked or damaged sewer line. If left unaddressed, it can lead to significant property damage and even health hazards due to the escape of waste and pathogens that can cause illness.

An Area of the Yard Where Grass Grows Faster 

home yard The sewer line is full of nutrients that plants love, which is why it’s not uncommon for tree roots to grow into underground sewer lines and cause damage and blockages. However, when the sewer line leaks, it can also fertilize the surrounding grass and greenery, causing it to grow faster and appear more lush than the surrounding yard. 

So, if homeowners notice an area of their yard where the grass or plants look lush, green, and fast-growing compared to the rest, it’s a sign that the sewer line under it is damaged and requires professional repair or replacement. The location of this patch of grass can also help plumbers narrow down the location of the damage. However, they can get a more precise location and understanding of the issue with sewer video inspection, allowing them to make a more accurate diagnosis.  

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc has been serving Denville, NJ, and the surrounding areas since 1990. They provide convenient scheduling, personal attention, and extended warranties. Call them today for a sewer video inspection in Denville, NJ

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Do You Need a New Heating System for the New Year?

Start 2024 With a New Heater if Necessary

With the new year, many homeowners will begin looking for new goals and projects to accomplish this year. One essential part of home comfort is the heating system, and especially during winter, it’s vital to have a working heater. Understanding the right time to replace the heater and how to pick the right one is crucial for home comfort. 

Here is an article from local experts to help homeowners know when heater replacement may be needed, different heating systems to choose from, and why professional heating maintenance is vital for every heating system. 

When to Consider Heater Replacement

cold house A heater may last for two decades under the right conditions. This means it can be difficult for homeowners to know when to replace it. But often, a heater will show signs that it can’t keep up. Noticing these signs can tip homeowners off that they may need a new heater. Some of the signs are: 

  • Higher heating bills
  • Loss of comfort with inconsistent heating or a lack of heat
  • New, unusual noises during its operation
  • Frequent repairs or increasingly costly repair bills
  • The heating system is nearing the end of its life expectancy, which depends on the type of heater

When noticing these signs, a professional can be called to inspect the heater and determine if a new heater installation is needed. 

Comparing Heating Systems

Installing a new heater can seem daunting, but this step is easy with the right professional help. In some cases, experts will recommend sticking with the same type of system that is currently installed but getting a newer, more efficient version. New, more efficient furnaces can be a good decision for replacing an old or faulty electric or gas furnace. 

However, if homeowners are looking for a more energy-efficient heating system that often costs less to run, they can consider a boiler installation. A boiler heating system uses hot water or steam to distribute heat evenly throughout a building. Boilers can be used with various heat emitters, including radiators, baseboards, and radiant floor heating, while furnaces use air ducts to distribute heat. Boiler systems are also generally quieter and better for cold climates than a furnace. 

Always Remember Heating Maintenance 

filterWhether the heater in the home is brand new or has been in service for a while, heating maintenance is essential to keep it running well and efficiently. Routine maintenance also allows technicians to catch and fix problems with heating systems before they cause additional problems. Some of the main advantages of heater maintenance are: 

  • Efficiency: A well-maintained heater will work more efficiently, which reduces energy bills and saves homeowners money. 
  • Longevity: Well-maintained heaters last longer and won’t need to be replaced as often. 
  • Fewer Issues: Professional maintenance allows experts to catch problems before they cause more damage and perform tasks that can prevent issues. So not only does maintenance reduce the likelihood of problems, but it also allows issues to be caught sooner when they arise. 

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc. has been serving Denville, NJ, and the surrounding areas since 1990. They offer personal attention, great value, and convenient scheduling. Call them today for heating services in Denville, NJ

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Why You Should Add a Sump Pump to Your Holiday List?

Sump Pump Installation May Be the Best Gift This Holiday Season

When homeowners create their holiday lists this year, they might fill them with the latest electronic gadgets, tools, jewelry, and other items. However, sump pumps provide numerous benefits for New Jersey households, including preventing homes from flooding during major storms. This post will discuss why households should install a sump pump and what types of sump pump systems are available.

Why Install a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are an essential piece of equipment for homes at risk of flooding or with a high water table. They are designed to remove excess water from basements, crawl spaces, and other low-lying areas in a home. Sump pump systems collect water in a sump pit and then pump it out through a discharge pipe to prevent water from accumulating and causing water damage to a home's foundation or belongings. Additionally, sump pumps can help prevent mold and mildew growth. Excess moisture is a breeding ground for these fungi, which can cause unpleasant odors and pose health risks.

One of the main benefits of having a sump pump is its ability to prevent flooding in a home. Heavy rainfall and burst pipes can lead to excess water entering the house. Without a sump pump, this water can quickly accumulate and cause significant water damage to a property. However, with a sump pump in place, the excess water is quickly removed, and the cost of repairing water damage can be avoided. Another advantage of having a sump pump is its ability to protect the home's foundation. When water builds up around a house, it exerts pressure on the foundation walls, leading to cracks and other structural damage. 

Different Kinds of Sump Pumpssump pumps

There are numerous types of sump pumps available to protect homes from flooding. When homeowners select a system for their house, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of each before making a purchase. The two most common types of primary sump pumps are:

  • Submersible Sump Pumps: This type of sump pump is quieter during operation and more powerful than the other, but it is more expensive to install and has a shorter lifespan.  
  • Pedestal Sump Pumps: This sump pump is less expensive and has a longer lifespan than the other type, but it is less powerful and noisier during operation. 

Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps

backup sump pumpsIf homes experience frequent power outages or storms or are at risk of flooding, homeowners should consider sump pump backup options. They take over to remove water from a house if their primary system fails or they lose power. These backup options include:

  • Battery-Operated Backup Sump Pumps: These pumps have a backup power source and take over automatically during a power outage or if the primary sump pump fails. They are the most popular backup option, partly because they are more affordable. 
  • Water-Powered Sump Pump Backups: Instead of relying on electricity, these pumps are powered by water pressure from a home's water supply. They have a longer lifespan than the battery backup.

Homeowners should work with a local plumber to determine what type of sump pump is best for their budget and household and if a secondary pump is needed.

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc has been serving Denville, NJ, and the surrounding areas since 1990. They provide convenient scheduling, personal attention, and extended warranties. Call them today for sump pump repair or installation in Denville, NJ. 

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How to Troubleshoot a Heater That Isn't Working

What Homeowners Should Check First When Their Heater Doesn’t Work 

When the crisp, cold air arrives, homeowners need a functioning heater to keep their houses warm and comfortable. This protects their family from freezing temperatures, keeps their other home systems - like their plumbing system - working correctly, and prevents frozen pipes. 

It can be alarming if a heater suddenly stops working or isn’t working well. Homeowners should call for heating repair to restore comfort to their house as soon as possible, but there are a few simple things they can check first that may help solve the problem. 

Check the Thermostat

thermostatOne possible cause of heating problems is a thermostat issue. Homeowners should check the settings to ensure the thermostat is set to heating. Sometimes, it can accidentally be switched to cooling, or homeowners forget to change it back after using the air conditioning, preventing the heating system from working correctly. 

Property owners should also check the thermostat’s batteries. If the batteries are dead or on their last legs, it can prevent the heater from turning on when needed, and the house will not reach the ideal temperature. Other potential issues with thermostats, like faulty wiring or a malfunctioning sensor, may also be causing the problem, but they will need to be fixed by a  professional.  

Check the Air Filters

air filter A clogged or dirty air filter is another possible cause of poor heating or airflow. If an air filter is clogged, air cannot flow through as well, which could lead to many issues, including:

  • An inefficient system: Dirty air filters can reduce a system's energy efficiency, causing it to work harder to maintain the temperature in a house. This can lead to higher utility bills.
  • An overheating system: A clogged air filter can cause the heater to overheat, which can damage components and require costly repairs or replacements. The heater may also shut down to protect itself.
  • A shortened lifespan: The increased wear and tear on the system from a dirty air filter can force the heater to be replaced sooner than expected. 
  • A decrease in indoor air quality: Dirty air filters can prevent more particles in the air from being captured, allowing dust, allergens, pet dander, and pollutants to circulate throughout the house. 
  • Inconsistent heating: A clogged filter can cause uneven heating throughout a house, leaving some rooms warmer than others. 

To avoid these problems, homeowners must schedule or perform regular air filter replacements about every three months. This will keep the air flowing through the filters appropriately and help reduce risks of heating problems. 

Check the Power Sources

If a heater stops working, it could also be due to an issue with a power source instead of the heater itself. To determine if this is the cause, property owners should check the heating unit and ensure the power switch hasn’t been turned off. Homeowners should also check the electrical panel. If a circuit breaker is tripped or a fuse is blown, it can cause the heater to lose power and stop working, leaving the house cold and uncomfortable. 

If none of the issues mentioned are the cause, then property owners should schedule heating repairs with a heating contractor. A technician can inspect the system, diagnose the problem with the heating system, and make the necessary heater repairs to restore warmth and comfort to the home.

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc has been serving Denville and Northern New Jersey since 1990. They offer convenient scheduling, personal attention, and extended warranties. Call them today for heater repair in Denville, NJ

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This Halloween, Avoid a Frightening Plumbing Emergency

How to Prevent Potentially Scary Plumbing Problems

When it comes to scary stories for homeowners this Halloween, the scariest could be plumbing issues that cause high water costs, flooding, and water damage. Leaking pipes, aging water heaters, and clogged sewer lines can lead to additional plumbing problems that must be repaired quickly before they cause more damage and major inconveniences to households. This blog post will provide tips to help homeowners prevent plumbing problems and their effects.  

Tips to Avoid Clogs

drain Sewer line clogs are a common plumbing problem homeowners may encounter. A blocked sewer line can cause inconveniences like slow draining, sewage backups, and frequently clogged toilets. Luckily, there are many ways for people to prevent clogs. One way to prevent clogged sewer lines is scheduling hydro jet drain cleaning, the drain cleaning method best for preventing clogs.

Families should also be careful about what items they flush down the toilet. Only waste and toilet paper should be flushed. Additionally, people should be careful about what they put down the drain. Letting food go down the kitchen sink drain can lead to tough clogs. Some of the most problematic food waste for the plumbing are:

  • Cooking oils, fats, and grease
  • Eggshells
  • Pasta and other starches
  • Coffee grounds
  • Stringy foods and vegetables

Get Plumbing Maintenance 

To prevent emergency plumbing problems, plumbers also recommend that homeowners get routine maintenance on their plumbing systems. Ideally, these services should be performed by a plumber every year to keep the pipes flowing properly and identify issues with the system that need repair before they lead to worse problems. 

During these maintenance appointments, plumbers will perform important tasks and inspections of the fixtures and piping that help prevent future problems, help the plumbing last longer, and save homeowners money by preventing and catching issues early. 

Get Water Heater Maintenance 

water heater If a home’s water heater malfunctions, it can quickly lead to high water heating costs, water damage, or leave a household without hot water. Fortunately, scheduling routine maintenance on the water heater can prevent problems from occurring, extend the water heater’s lifespan, improve its efficiency, and save homeowners money on repair and energy costs. During water heater maintenance, a plumber can perform the following tasks:

  • Check for the system for leaks and corrosion
  • Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment and mineral buildup 
  • Check the pressure relief valve 
  • Inspect the anode rod and replace it if it’s in bad condition 
  • Check the temperature settings

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc. is a plumbing and heating company with more than 30 years of experience serving Denville and the surrounding areas. They offer personal attention, convenient scheduling, and a hassle-free experience. Call them today for plumbing services in Denville, NJ.

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Schedule Fall Heater Maintenance Now

How to Get Heating Systems Ready for Fall and Winter 

It might not be too cold in New Jersey now, but the warmer temperatures will soon be replaced with cool temperatures as fall and winter arrive. In order to ensure their heating system is up to the challenge of keeping the house warm and comfortable all winter, it’s essential for homeowners to schedule heater maintenance services, and now is the best time. 

In this post, heating contractors provide expertise on why now is the best time to schedule heater maintenance, why routine tune-ups are beneficial, and what happens during an inspection.

Benefits of Maintaining the Heater

saveHVAC contractors recommend routine heater maintenance as the best way for households to keep their heating running throughout the fall and winter. Some of the advantages these heating maintenance services provide include:

  • Lower energy bills due to improving energy efficiency
  • Keep the unit running correctly for longer with fewer issues and repairs
  • More even and consistent heating throughout the house
  • Increased indoor air quality
  • Extends the heater’s life expectancy

What Does Heater Maintenance Entail?

filterWhen a homeowner schedules heating system maintenance, it involves a complete system inspection. During these services, a property owner can expect a contractor to perform essential tasks like:

  • Examine the system and look for defects, damage, or signs of wear and tear that must be addressed.
  • Apply lubrication to components as needed, and ensure they are clean and free of debris and dirt.
  • Check and adjust the thermostat if needed.
  • Check the gas connections and gas pressure. 
  • Replace the air filters, if needed, or instruct homeowners how to replace them.

While these heating tune-ups are recommended at least once a year, homeowners should typically change their system’s air filters at least every three months. This will improve the indoor air quality in a home and allow the heating system to operate more efficiently.

Isn’t It Too Early to Worry About the Heater?

If it seems too early to schedule heater maintenance services - it’s not. Heating technicians recommend early fall for these services, as scheduling an appointment now allows professionals to inspect the unit before the cold weather arrives and gives contractors time to make any needed repairs. 

Scheduling heating maintenance in the fall also allows property owners to enjoy more flexible scheduling options, as summer and winter are the busiest times for HVAC contractors. If homeowners wait too long to schedule inspections, there will be many more property owners who are also trying to schedule maintenance and heating repair services. 

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc. has over three decades of experience serving Denville and Northern New Jersey. They offer convenient scheduling, live answers, and personal attention. Call them today for heater maintenance or repairs in Denville, NJ.

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Plumbing Basics Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Going Back to School With Plumbing 101

There are countless issues homeowners can encounter at their property. However, plumbing issues require immediate attention as they can lead to worse problems, spikes in utility bills, and costly water damage. To prevent plumbing emergencies and save homeowners money, plumbers break down some basics every homeowner needs to know about their plumbing system, including that fixtures can be installed to save water and money, how to identify potential problems, and why scheduling routine maintenance is essential. 

Plumbing Fixture Upgrades Can Save Water

tubWhile homeowners might focus on their piping systems and larger appliances - like water heaters - wasting water, plumbing fixtures that households use daily, like faucets, shower heads, and toilets, can be just as problematic. These can form leaks that cause water bills to increase. 

To prevent these problems, experts recommend watching for signs of a leak, having them inspected regularly to identify issues, and scheduling a plumbing fixture installation to replace faulty fixtures with more water-efficient ones that can reduce water usage and save on water bills. 

Some examples of these water-saving fixtures are:

  • Water-saving toilets: These water-efficient toilets use less water with each flush and come in many types, such as gravity-assist toilets and dual-flush toilets.
  • Water-saving showerheads: Low-flow showerheads use less water than standard ones while providing good water pressure.
  • Water-saving faucets: Water-efficient faucets with aerators use less water and still provide good water pressure by using air.

Common Signs of Plumbing Problems

billHomeowners must recognize the signs of plumbing problems as fast as possible to prevent water damage and expensive repairs and utility bills. Some of the signs to watch for indicating professional plumbing services are needed are:

  • Low water pressure due to leaks, clogs, or other issues that need to be fixed by professionals
  • Odd sounds like banging metal, rumbling, or crackling, and the sound of running water when no fixture is on can indicate plumbing issues that need to be solved by a plumber. 
  • Foul odors coming from the plumbing can signal a clog or another problem with a sewer line. 
  • Slow drains in sinks or showers can indicate a clog or blockage that needs to be removed.
  • Higher than normal water bills can indicate a leak in the plumbing. 

The Importance of Maintenance

One of the most important pieces of advice plumbers give homeowners is to schedule routine plumbing maintenance services. During these appointments, the plumber can perform the following tasks to prevent problems, help the plumbing last longer, and help homeowners save money on their utility bills:

  • Check for signs of leaks or corrosion in the pipes
  • Check the home’s water pressure to ensure it’s at the correct setting
  • Look for evidence of water damage around the house, including mold and mildew
  • Inspect the faucets, shower heads, bathtubs, and sinks for malfunctioning parts and damage
  • Perform drain cleaning services to remove buildups and prevent clogs and blockages
  • Examine the water heater for leaks or corrosion and ensure it operates correctly.
  • Drain and flush the hot water tank to remove sediment and improve energy efficiency
  • Inspect the water heater’s valves and anode rod to ensure they don’t need replacing

Scheduling routine maintenance allows plumbers to identify and repair minor issues in plumbing systems before they get larger and require emergency repairs. 

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc. has over 30 years of experience serving Denville and the surrounding North Jersey cities. They offer convenient scheduling, great value, and personal attention. Call them today for plumbing services in Denville, NJ.

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Symptoms to Get Repiping Homeowners Need to Know

Common Signs You Need Repiping

Aging or malfunctioning pipes can cause many issues for homeowners, including leaks, burst pipes, and water damage. It’s essential for property owners to recognize the signs they need repiping services to help avoid these costly problems by getting their old and decaying pipes replaced with strong new ones. 

Home repiping can assure homeowners that their pipes are functioning correctly and that they won’t need to deal with leaks, rusty water, or reduced water pressure anytime soon. In this post, plumbing experts provide tips on what symptoms property owners can watch for that signal they may need repiping services as soon as possible.

Leaks and Pipe Repairs Are Common

When determining if a home needs to be repiped, homeowners should ask themselves if they’ve had multiple leaks or pipe repairs recently. Leaking pipes can be extremely costly for property owners. They waste water, raise water bills, and can create a mess of water damage that needs cleaning and repairing. In addition to paying high water costs and paying to restore their home, homeowners must also pay to repair the leak. 

If a home starts to experience frequent leaks or needs frequent repairs on the pipes, it indicates the piping may be old, damaged, or corroded. It can be more cost-effective to replace the entire piping system when this is the case to avoid future leaks and pipe repairs. Plumbers will advise homeowners on the best solution for their homes after inspecting the condition of the pipes. 

Low Water Pressure

showerIf a homeowner steps into the shower or turns on the faucet and notices the water pressure is much lower than it should be, it can raise a flag that something’s wrong. They might initially run through a checklist of what could be causing the problem. Is there a leak or clog in the system? Numerous issues can cause reduced water pressure, including leaks, corrosion, clogs, and blockages. A plumber will inspect the piping to determine the reason behind the water pressure problems and how to fix them. 

They will also check the pipes to determine their age and condition. If pipes are older and corroded, and that’s what’s causing poor water pressure, the plumber will likely recommend repiping. If leaks reduce the water pressure, plumbers will determine if they can be repaired or need replacement. Most blockages can be repaired, but the plumber might recommend replacing the pipes if they are severe enough and in many places. 

Water Has a Strange Color or Smell

sinkWhen homeowners look at the water coming out of their tap and think, “Hmm, that looks a little cloudy or orange,” it can signal they need plumbing help immediately. Discolored water - or water with a strange odor - can indicate issues like pipe corrosion or bacteria in the water. 

When pipes corrode, rust can enter the water. This often results in a weird smell and cloudy, brown, orange, or yellow-tinted water. Bacteria or contaminants can also cause odd smells in water. To resolve these problems, plumbers will inspect the system to determine the cause and may recommend repiping a house. 

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc has over three decades of experience serving Denville, NJ, and the surrounding communities. They provide great value, extended warranties, and personal attention. Call them today for repiping services in Denville, NJ.

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3 Possible Causes of Poor Shower Pressure

What Is Causing the Low Water Pressure in the Shower?

When a person steps into the shower, they expect to be greeted by hot water and decent water pressure that can help relax sore muscles. But what happens if the water pressure is lower than expected? This will not only leave the homeowner annoyed but also signal an issue with the home’s plumbing system. This post will provide three possible causes of low shower water pressure, including a problem with the water heater, a leak in the water line, or an issue with the showerhead itself.

Water Heater 

water heaterWhen the hot water pressure in the shower drops or when using hot water from other fixtures, a possible cause is an issue with the water heater. Plumbers will inspect the water heating system for problems, including sediment buildup, as one of the most common reasons for a change in water pressure is a buildup of sediment in the hot water tank. When this is the issue, water heater maintenance must be done to drain and flush the sediment from the tank.

Plumbers will also look for clogs in the pipes connected to the hot water tank. If the system was recently cleaned, it’s possible some of the debris and sediment caused a blockage in the pipes. Other potential problems experts will look for are problems with the pressure valve. If it’s not open all the way, it can cause a sudden drop in the water pressure. Plumbers will also inspect if there are any leaks in the water heating system. If this happens, it can also result in lower water pressure.

Leaks

Another potential cause of low water pressure is a leak in the water line. To determine if this is the problem, plumbers will ask the homeowners questions when they arrive. They will likely first ask if the water pressure is only low in the shower or if they’ve noticed it throughout the house. This will indicate if there may be a leak in the main water line or a smaller branch line. 

Plumbers can use expert equipment to identify and locate a leak to ensure plumbing leaks are causing water pressure issues. One technique is video camera inspections. This involves sending a camera down the water line to look for signs of damage like cracks or leaks. It will also reveal the location of the damage so the professionals know where the line needs to be repaired. Another piece of equipment used for leak detection is an acoustic leak detector, which can amplify sounds caused by a leak to help identify and locate it. These techniques can be done quickly and non-invasively.

Showerhead

showerWhile low water pressure in the shower can be caused by a problem with the water heater, or a leak, it can also be caused by an issue with the showerhead itself. Before looking for larger defects, experts will examine the showerhead and look for any blockages in it that could be causing the low water pressure. They will also look to see if the showerhead is older and malfunctioning and if it needs to be replaced. 

Showerheads can get clogged with mineral residue and sediments found in the water. When this occurs, less water can come out. So if the water pressure is low just from the showerhead and no other fixtures, an issue with the showerhead may be the cause. If it’s not the showerhead itself, plumbers can also check the pipes leading to the shower to look for any clogs or leaks that could be limiting the water flow. 

About PHD Mechanical Inc

PHD Mechanical Inc has over three decades of experience serving Denville, NJ, and the surrounding areas. They provide great value, personal attention, and extended warranties on replacements. Call them today for plumbing services in Denville, NJ.