Tag: water heater installation

Common Plumbing Problems You May Encounter Before Winter Ends 

Jan 27, 2021

Common Plumbing Problems You May Encounter Before Winter Ends 

  • Plumbing
winter plumbing problems

Winter is in full swing here in Lake, Cook, and McHenry County and there are plenty of issues that can arise with your home’s plumbing if you’re not careful. From frozen pipes to water heater issues, no one wants to have a plumbing problem when the temperature is freezing. Make sure you avoid winter plumbing problems with scheduled service from Lake Cook Plumbing!

Frozen and Burst Pipes

When the temperature drops in Lake County and the surrounding area, the chance of your pipes freezing goes up. Anytime the temperature drops below freezing for an extended period of time, you are at risk of pipes freezing, too.

The pipes in the most danger are those in basements and attics. These spaces are typically less insulated than other rooms in your home and can freeze more easily. These spaces are also the least visible in your home, so you may not notice the frozen pipe immediately. 

A frozen pipe left alone can easily turn into a burst pipe. A burst pipe causes flooding damage and loss of water to parts of your home. In order to prevent these problems, it is critical to have a functioning heating system. This is your first defense to frozen pipes. Insulating those exposed areas, such as attics and basements, will reduce the chance of frozen pipes along with a warm home. 

If your pipes do freeze- don’t panic. Your local technicians at Lake Cook Plumbing are here to help. We can assist with repairing your burst pipes. 

Water Line Leaks

If you’ve had small water leaks in the past, leaving them to get worse during the winter can spell disaster. The freezing temperatures put strain on pipes and can turn a small leak into a burst water line. Before the cold weather sets in, you should inspect any faucets and pipes in your home for leaks. Calling a local plumber from Lake Cook Plumbing will ensure that your home will stay dry and damage-free  this winter. 

Water Heater Issues 

Imagine waking up on a cold morning, ready to take a relaxing, hot shower- only to find upon entering it that your water heater isn’t working. 

A water heater malfunction during the coldest months of year is the last thing you and your family need. However, if you have an older model or have not maintained the current unit, a breakdown may be just around the corner. 

It is crucial to have your water heater regularly serviced in order to prevent early heater breakdown. If your model is more than 10-12 years old, it’s probably time to get a full replacement. Call a professional technician at Lake Cook Plumbing today to schedule your water heater replacement! 

Clogged Drains

The winter months bring increased demand onto your drains and pipes. When food particles and grease enter your pipes, they can stick to the side of your pipes and block drainage. In the winter the colder temperatures may stiffen grease and food particles making them more likely to block water flow to drains.

This kitchen problem is in addition to the shower and bath with increased hair and soap scum flowing down your drains. The last thing you want is clogged drains with a full house. If you notice any of your pipes becoming slow to drain, call Lake Cook Plumbing to help you out before a full blown clog forms. Once a clog forms, it becomes a much larger job to fix than a partial blockage. Let us help you sail through winter with no issues!

Schedule Service Today With Lake Cook Plumbing & Avoid Winter Plumbing Problems!

By zachadmachinescom

Winter Guide to Gas Hot Water Heater Maintenance

Nov 12, 2020

Winter Guide to Gas Hot Water Heater Maintenance

  • Plumbing
  • Water Heaters
A Winter Guide to gas Hot Water Heater Maintenance

Winter Guide to Gas Hot Water Heater Maintenance

The winter season is almost here, which means it’s time to prepare your home for the snow and frigid temperatures. You’ve insulated your plumbing, cleared your gutters, and prepped the standby generator, but there’s one appliance you can’t forget. Just like the furnace, homeowners will rely on their gas water heater during the winter season, but your gas water heater is just as strained from use due to the drop in temperature. Proper maintenance for your gas water heater not only ensures you can enjoy heated water throughout the holiday season, it prevents a plumbing catastrophe. Check out our winter guide to gas hot water heater maintenance.

How You Can Prepare Your Gas Water Heater this Winter

A damaged gas water heater poses a lot of problems beyond the frustration of a lack of hot water. Over time and use, your gas water heater can wear down, especially for homes that run on hard water. Pipes can rust and contaminate your drinking and bathing water, a leak can cause costly water damage, and even worse, your gas water heater tank can explode. Luckily with proper maintenance, you can enjoy your heated water without a plumbing catastrophe. Here’s how you can stay warm and dry this winter season.

  • Flush your gas water heater. Your water heater works the hardest during the winter season, and over time mineral deposits can settle at the bottom of the tank and break down the water heater. Mineral deposits prevent your gas water heater from operating efficiently and it can clog your water lines. That’s why it’s important to flush your gas water heater at least twice a year to clean out the mineral deposits.
  • Check the pressure valve. Your gas water heater has a pressure valve called the TPR valve that releases pressure whenever the tank becomes over pressured. To test your TPR valve, life the trip lever on the valve and release it again. You should see some water exit or hear a faint hint of air exiting the valve. If you don’t see anything exit the valve or water just keeps flowing out, you might need to replace the TPR valve. It’s a good idea to check your gas water heater’s pressure valve every six months to check for clogs or leaks.
  • Check the filters. Some gas water heaters have a filter to catch any problematic debris. Your water heater works best when it’s clear and clean of sediment and debris, which is why it’s important to routinely clean or replace your filters if your gas water heater has one.
  • Inspect the thermostat. Some heating problems aren’t caused by the appliances themselves, but a malfunctioning thermostat. A functional thermostat is important for all your heating appliances, as it prevents your gas water heater from overworking itself to keep up with inconsistent temperature settings.
  • Check the anode rod. The anode rod is another important component of your gas water heater that works to capture any corrosive material in the water. Your gas water heater tank is susceptible to rust and corrosion, which is why it’s important to occasionally check the anode rod. Watch for any calcium deposits, missing parts, or if the rod itself has dissolved to less than half inch thick. Anode rods can last up to 5-10 years, but they can last longer if routinely cleaned.
  • Adjust the temperature. The winter season makes it difficult to be energy efficient, especially when you heavily rely on your heating appliances. Adjusting the temperature setting on your gas water heater, however, can save in energy costs and prevents your gas water heater from overheating.
  • Insulate your tank and pipes. Just like the rest of your plumbing this winter season, a little insulation can go a long way. Covering the tank and attached pipes with an insulated material can help to keep the hot water in the pipes warmer for an extended period of time.
  • Clean out air intake and exhaust vents. Like your furnace, your gas water heater needs proper ventilation in order to function. Snow is a common issue for your gas water heater’s air intake and exhaust vents during the winter season. Snow and other debris can clog inside the vents and cause damages to your gas water heater. Fencing off snow and installing a metal mesh to keep pests out helps to keep your vents clear and water heater running efficiently.

Stay Warm this Winter by Taking Care of Your Gas Water Heater

A home with a damaged gas water heater makes for a miserable holiday season. A poorly maintained gas water heater is more than a nuisance, but a costly plumbing problem. Luckily you can stay warm and dry thing winter with routine maintenance. Proper maintenance however, can only help so much; sometimes you’ll need professional help. A licensed plumber can help guarantee your gas water heater is fully functional and prepared for the incoming winter season. Don’t wait until there’s water in the basement, call a plumber today.

Now that you’ve read our winter guide to gas water heater maintenance, what do you do next?

Call Lake Cook Plumbing Today to Have Your Water Heater Serviced!

By zachadmachinescom

5 Signs That a Tankless Water Heater Is Exactly What You Need

May 28, 2020

5 Signs That a Tankless Water Heater Is Exactly What You Need

  • Water Heaters
Get a tankless water heater in Lake Zurich by Lake Cook Plumbing

Are you thinking about installing a new tankless water heater in Lake Zurich? Then maybe it’s time to replace your old tank model with an efficient tankless water heater. Here’s what you need to know about tankless water heaters- and the signs that it’s the right choice for you. 

Traditional VS. Tankless Water Heaters

A traditional water heater has a tank that stores hot water, which is delivered to the tap when you turn it on. When the water supply runs low, the tank has to fill itself and heat the water before it can deliver hot water again. Until then, it can only send cold water to the faucet.

In contrast, a tankless water heater doesn’t have a storage tank at all. Instead, the water runs over a heating element when hot water is requested at your shower or sink. Because it doesn’t rely on a tank, a tankless water heater provides a nearly endless supply of hot water for your family.

While many people still use their traditional tank water heater, most homeowners are switching to a tankless water heater in Lake Zurich. There are many benefits to switching over to a tankless unit besides the unlimited hot water in your home.

Reasons to Get a Tankless Water Heater in Lake Zurich

  1. You Want Constant Hot Showers. Some people like cold showers, but they’re few and far between. Most of us prefer a hot shower regardless of whether it’s the middle of summer or a chilly winter day. If you find your family running out of hot water before everyone has their turn, then a tankless model is your solution. 
  2. You Want a Water Heater That Will Last. While a conventional model lasts approximately 15 years, a tankless water heater has a lifespan of 20 years. While the initial price of a tankless heater is more, it pays for itself in longevity alone.
  3. You are Looking to Lower Your Energy Bills. Constantly storing hot water in a tank wastes energy. The tank must be kept warm at all times in order for hot water to be delivered. And it must heat up ice cold water each time it runs out. With a tankless heater, you will not lose energy heating a massive tank. You will only heat what you need which is more efficient.
  4. You are trying to be Environmentally Friendly. Because an on-demand model is more energy-efficient, it’s a more environmentally friendly option. It uses less energy and produces fewer emissions than a tank water heater. 
  5. You Want More Space in Your Home. A tank style water heater is about the size of a refrigerator. It takes up a huge corner in your basement or utility closet upstairs. In comparison, a tankless water heater is mounted on the wall and is about the size of a desktop computer. It will give you more room for storage or whatever you need for your home.  

Ask for Lake Cook Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

If you decide that a tankless water heater in Lake Zurich is an option for you, then it’s time to call Lake Cook Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. Our team of professionals is ready to advise on the model and size tankless water heater to give your family the best hot water service.  At Lake Cook, we take pride in offering the most updated and efficient plumbing services available since 1954. We offer a worry-free guarantee and promise to work around your schedule. Plumbing problems can be stressful enough, so we look to ease your worries and make the experience as seamless as possible. 

 

If you need a tankless water heater in Lake Zurich installed, call Lake Cook Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today! 

By zachadmachinescom