Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Anode Rod on my water heater and what does it do?
- Why does my toilet start running all by itself?
- Do water pipes ever freeze here in Palm Beach County?
- My hot water takes forever to get to my bathroom. Is there anything I can do?
- Are plumbing permits required when changing a water heater?
- Can estimates for plumbing services be given over the phone?
- Should water heaters be flushed and drained regularly?
- Does bottled water ever go bad?
- Are Instantaneous Water Heaters adequate for my whole house?
What is the Anode Rod on my water heater and what does it do?
First of all, don't feel bad if you don't know the answer—most people don't. From the top of your water heater, you will notice a plug fitting screwed into the top of the tank. Suspended from that fitting is a solid metal rod of magnesium, aluminum or zinc. The sole purpose of these rods is to slowly corrode away so the tank will not. Also referred to as sacrificial anodes, the rods sacrifice themselves to protect the steel tank from rusting. When the anode is no longer able to give sufficient protection, the steel tank will begin to rust. Anode rods can be changed to aluminum in cases where certain chemicals in your water supply cause undesirable odors. Depending on your water conditions, you should have your rods checked every 2 to 4 years to insure tank's longevity and your peace of mind.
Why does my toilet start running all by itself?
Your toilet is in need of a repair. Water is slowly seeping past the rubber flapper in the bottom of the toilet tank. This piece is supposed to be closed except when flushing. When this happens, the water level in the tank slowly drops until it reaches the same point in the tank as when you flush it, and the water comes on and starts to refill the tank. Replacing the flapper will take care of this problem.
Do water pipes ever freeze here in Palm Beach County?
Yes, they can, but usually do not. Although there have been isolated incidents of pipes freezing here, it is not something to become overly alarmed about. But you should know if you have any pipes that may be susceptible in the case of a hard freeze. Pipes that have frozen in the past are often attributed to solar panels installed on rooftops with faulty freeze protection valves. The pipes would burst in the early morning hours when it is the coldest and when there is no water moving through them because members of the household are asleep.
My hot water takes forever to get to my bathroom. Is there anything I can do?
Actually, there is! There are products available that will allow us to drastically reduce the amount of time and water that you waste while waiting for hot water. Even if you don't value your time, the water going down the drain is costing you money. When we add a little pump at your water heater and a special valve under your sink in the bathroom furthest away from the water heater, you will have your hot water when you want it. This process is non-invasive and involves no mess, no patching—just results. Give us a call and your plumbing technician will explain how this process will help you.
Are plumbing permits required when changing a water heater?
I keep getting asked this question, which makes me wonder if someone out there is telling customers you can save money by not getting a permit. Yes, most municipalities require permits. Permits are for your benefit, ensuring that the proper safety and technical requirements have been met in the installation of your water heater. Your water heater is not only connected to water, but also either gas or electricity. If it's gas, there are venting issues to handle so that carbon monoxide does not become a threat. By having your local plumbing official inspect the installation, you can be assured it complies with all the necessary standards.
Can estimates for plumbing services be given over the phone?
In most cases, no. Many clients don't recognize conditions that may affect the work. As a result, the plumbing company most likely would quote a price that is either too low or too high. Either way, you have not been served properly, as you are then misinformed as to what the work will cost.
Should water heaters be flushed and drained regularly?
Yes. Annual flushing and draining of your water heater is recommended to promote a long, useful life. Removing sediment that accumulates in the bottom of the water heater improves the water quality, as well as the heating efficiency. Clean water decreases the amount of energy required to heat the water, resulting in lower energy costs. Also, the flushing and draining gives a qualified technician a chance to inspect the heater while the cleaning process is taking place, spotting any impending problems before they become an emergency.
Does bottled water ever go bad?
The American Red Cross recommends that all households store at least 3 gallons of bottled water per person. Water that has been bottled and stored properly should last indefinitely, according to the International Bottled Water Association. Assuming it has been treated by the bottler according to guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration, bottled water should contain nothing to attract and grow pathogens that could pose a threat to human health. To preserve taste, the Bottled Water Association recommends storing bottles in a cool, dry place, away from odors or toxic substances.
Are Instantaneous Water Heaters adequate for my whole house?
Instantaneous water heaters are compact water heating units that heat the water as it passes through the vessel. There's no storage tank, so hot water is made only on demand. While there are many different makes and manufacturers, all have a common disadvantage. They are only adequate if you require a small volume of hot water. Some models have a larger volume capability, but also have a very high energy requirement. Before committing to installation of one of these, be sure to consult with your professional plumber to ensure it's right for you.
