Water heating systems are easy to ignore until they develop symptoms. An ailing unit should receive immediate attention. A broken unit can cause indoor flooding and damage your home. Leaks are a common symptom, but there are others.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety says that broken water heaters are one of the primary causes of residential water damage.

The lifespan of a Florida water heating unit can vary significantly from one unit to the next. Upscale models may last longer than cheap ones, but not always. The type of water in your area also plays a role.

Hard water that’s high in minerals can cause an excessive buildup of mineral content that can accumulate on the heating elements. That, in turn, makes the unit overwork, reduces its lifespan, and increases your energy costs.

The average lifespan of a Florida water heater is about 8-25 years.

Types of Water Heating Systems

Conventional storage tanks

These tank-type units can be found in most American homes. They consist of a large metal storage tank filled with hot water. They provide hot water when someone turns on the faucet. As the hot water is used, fresh cold water fills the bottom of the tank to be heated and to replace what was used.

Conventional heaters can last from 8-12 years depending on frequency of use, water quality, and type of unit. An older unit that still works well may continue to do so indefinitely.

Nevertheless, it gradually loses efficiency, and its performance begins to decline. Parts can wear out, and sediment may collect inside the unit. It might still provide plenty of hot water, but it might take some time for the unit to replenish the hot water supply.

Tankless water heating

These newer units require no bulky metal tanks and typically last longer than storage units. Rather than keep a large tank full of hot water around the clock, tankless systems deliver only what you need.

When you want to shower, you turn on the tap, and cold water passes through a pipe where it’s instantly heated, delivered through the faucet, and released. Tankless systems are extremely efficient. Nothing is wasted. Tankless units can last for 20 years or more simply because there are fewer mechanical parts.

Heat pump water heating

Besides being one of the most energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, heat pumps can give you hot water as well. Rather than producing heat directly, heat pumps move heat from one place to another.

Heat pump water heating is more efficient than tanks. Their life expectancy is from 13-15 years.

What Makes Water Heating Systems Last Longer?

Setting the temperature as low as possible will extend the lifespan of a Florida water heater. Professional plumbers recommend a setting of 120 degrees. The lower the temperature setting, the more efficient the unit will be.

Adding a water softener or a water filtration system can counteract the effects of hard water.

How to Identify a Problem?

• There are leaks, drips or puddles forming at the base of the unit.
• Your tap water is cloudy or has a rusty color. The steel lining in the tank is corroding, and the corrosion is mixing with the household water supply.
• The unit makes a racket while heating cold water. You might hear hissing noises or what sounds like corn popping.
• Your water is tepid, lukewarm or cold.
• There’s not enough hot water. The water gets hot, but it doesn’t stay that way. It only lasts for a few minutes.
• There’s not enough hot water to go around. Only some family members get to take showers.
• Your water smells foul or has a disagreeable metallic taste.
• There are unexplained spikes in your water or electric bills.
• There is rust on the outside of the unit.

These symptoms are all signs that you need a water heating replacement, especially if you have leaks or puddles.

Metal tanks expand and contract while they heat water. This constant pressure can, over time, cause small fissures and hairline fractures inside the metal tank.

Eventually, these fissures become leaks. You might also find leaks around the cold water inlet or the hot water outlet valves on top.

Prevent Water Heating Mishaps and Maximize Equipment Lifespan

Although tankless water heaters last the longest in Florida, that type of unit will not be right for every household. If you already have a heat pump for heating and cooling, consider adding a water heater to the system. Heat pumps are high-efficiency units, and the water heating they provide lasts about 13-15 years.

If you’re in the market for a new water heater, you may be wondering how tank and tankless models compare. We’ll discuss the two types of heaters so you can discover which might be best for you.

Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters

Traditional tank water heaters and tankless water heaters both heat water for your home, but a tank heater stores hot water in a cylindrical storage tank, while a tankless heater draws cold water from the main supply and heats it on demand. Both types of heaters use natural gas, propane, or electricity to power their heating elements.

What Is a Tank Water Heater, and How Does It Work?

Tank water heaters are America’s most common type of water heater. They continuously heat water in an insulated 40- to 120-gallon tank. This keeps a full supply of hot water ready for use when the tank is full (and hasn’t been recently emptied). The tank is connected to a cold water supply, and when water flows into the container, its inner elements heat it up as the tank fills. The hot water rises to the top of the tank and flows out of a pipe that connects to the faucets and showerheads in your home.

What Are the Types of Tank Water Heaters?

All tank water heaters heat water and keep it hot as they store it. Their size is proportional to their capacity; the smallest tank heaters are usually about five feet tall by two feet wide. They typically stand on the floor of a closet or a basement.

How Long Do Tank Water Heaters Last?

Properly serviced tank water heaters typically last 10 to 15 years. You should clean them periodically to flush away sediment and mineral buildup that can clog valves and lead to corrosion. Poorly maintained heaters can leak and have a shorter lifespan.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Tank Water Heaters?

Pros:

• are less expensive to purchase, install, and repair than tankless heaters.
• keep large volumes of water hot and ready for immediate use when the tank is full.
• hold enough water for a series of uses.
• can supply hot water to different areas of the house at the same time.

Cons:

• are less efficient and more expensive to operate than tankless heaters.
• can take a few minutes to heat water.
• are large, heavy machines that need to be kept in a dedicated space.
• can develop leaks that could cause major damage to your home.

What Is a Tankless Water Heater, and How Does It Work?

Tankless water heaters, also called on-demand water heaters, are connected to a cold water supply. Their elements heat up water in minutes when you turn on the tap. The units don’t store water, so they only burn fuel when you turn the hot water on. As the water passes through a heat exchanger, it quickly comes up to temperature, runs through your water pipes, and flows out of your showerhead or faucet.

What Are the Types of Tankless Water Heaters?

Tankless heaters can be small point-of-use or larger whole-house heaters. Point-of-use heaters heat water for a single area, like a bathroom, while whole-house heaters can send hot water to several showers, sinks, and appliances. Both versions can be wall mounted, and larger units are usually about two feet tall by one foot wide.

Tankless water heaters may use condensing or non-condensing technology. Condensing water heaters reuse their exhaust to add heat to the water and reduce overall heat loss, but they can be susceptible to corrosion. Non-condensing tankless water heaters vent most of their surplus heat outside your house, but they are less efficient.

How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?

A well-maintained tankless water heater can last up to 20 years. Removing hard water and mineral buildup from the heating elements is key to the heater’s longevity.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters?

Pros:

• are smaller, more efficient, cheaper to operate, and longer-lasting than tank water heaters.
• can heat up as much water as you need whenever you need it.
• take up less space than tank water heaters.

Cons:

• are less common and more expensive to purchase and install than tank heaters.
• may require making changes to your plumbing, electric, or gas systems.
• take a few minutes to heat up cold water.
• may be more difficult and costly to maintain than tank heaters.

Which Type of Water Heater Is Right for You?

Choosing the right type of water heater depends on your needs, goals, and values. Consider the size of your space and how long you plan to live there, your average water consumption, and your budget. Next, rank the benefits of the heaters you like and make an informed decision. If energy efficiency and lower utility bills are a top priority, you may prefer a tankless heater. If you require a reliable, low-maintenance heater with a lower up-front cost, a tank heater may be the best choice. Whichever type you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the everyday luxury of having hot water when you need it.

When replacing your home’s hot water heater, choosing the right size is imperative. The size of your hot water heater impacts the cost of the unit, your access to heated water, and even energy costs. With tank sizes that range from 30 to 75 gallons, however, how do you know what size of unit is best for your home? Four key factors should be reviewed before making your selection. These include the size of your household, your hot water needs, the first hour rating, and the available space in your home.

The Size of Your Household

Each person in your home has specific needs for hot water. These include bathing, cleaning, washing laundry, and more. Generally, a 40-gallon water heater is suitable for a family of four, and a 30-gallon unit will suffice for one or two people. While this estimation will get you in the ballpark, you should consider other factors as well to more accurately determine the size you need.

Your Hot Water Needs

When estimating your needs by the number of people in your home, you are not taking into account things like how often you run the dishwasher or washing machine. Everything from how frequently you wash your hands to how long your showers are requires attention. For example, the average 15-minute shower uses roughly 20 gallons of water. Do you bathe twice a day or every other day? Do you enjoy or require longer showers? These factors could skew your estimate.

In addition, review how much water your dishwasher and washing machine use per cycle. Then, consider how frequently you use these appliances. An average dishwasher uses 14 gallons of heated water, and a washing machine uses 30 gallons on average.

The First Hour Rating (FHR)

Every hot water heater has a first hour rating. The FHR describes how much time is required to reheat water in the tank. You may not want to time showers around loads of laundry and washing dishes. The FHR helps you determine how much hot water you have access to over the course of an hour. For example, a water heater with an FHR of 80 produces 80 gallons of heated water per hour.

The Available Space

While water heaters are generally cylindrical units, you cannot assume that your new water heater will have the same dimensions as your old unit. Measure the available space, and review the dimensions of the top water heaters that you are considering. This important factor can help you finalize your selection after the other factors have been taken into consideration.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, our experts in Fort Myers are available to answer your questions and aid in your selection. With fast installation service available, we can quickly complete the project and get hot water flowing through your pipes. Contact us today to schedule service with our plumbers.

If not properly maintained, a water heater has the potential to explode, which renders it inoperable. It will also likely cause structural damage to your home and may also cause bodily injury if you are located too close to the water heater when an explosion occurs. Fortunately, there are signs that an explosion might be imminent, which allows you to take action before such a terrifying event can occur.

Why Might a Water Heater Explode?

There are several reasons why a water heater might explode. First, an old tank may not be able to handle the pressure that builds up inside of it over time. Pressure can build up inside of older units because of a sediment buildup that prevents the proper flow of hot and cold water.

Furthermore, an older unit may be weaker, which means that it will have a difficult time maintaining its structural integrity as pressure builds. It’s also possible that the water temperature setting is too high or that there are other issues that can only be diagnosed by inspecting the unit.

What Are Some Clues That Your Water Heater Might Explode?

Typically, the T&P valve on the side of the unit will open if excess pressure builds up inside of it. You may also notice that water has drained out of the valve when it opened. Therefore, if you see water pooling near your water heater, have it checked for pressure issues.

Scheduling an inspection may be even more important if the water has a brown or reddish hue. This is an indication that it is clogged with sediment or some other foreign material. The unit may make an unusual amount of noise caused by excess pressure. When working properly, your water heater should make little or no noise while in operation.

Finally, you may notice a rotten egg smell coming from your unit when pressure builds up inside of it. This is typically caused by sulfur or other gasses leaking from the tank, which are highly flammable. It could also be a sign of a nearby gas line leak, which can also be problematic.

Potential Consequences of an Explosion

A water heater that is not properly strapped to the ground could go airborne in an explosion. This means that it could cause damage to several levels of your home or potentially escape your home and land on someone else’s property. However, more likely, it will likely result in a lot of hot water and steam being sprayed throughout your basement or garage. It may also result in a natural gas leak or electrical issues as it rips through walls or floors that hide important pipes and wires.

How to Avoid a Water Heater Explosion

Perhaps the easiest way to avoid a water heater explosion is to have it flushed every couple of years. This will help to remove sediment buildup and allow for proper water cycling. You’ll also want to be sure that you have the unit inspected regularly to ensure that any issues with the T&P valve or other components can be quickly fixed. In many cases, water heaters last for anywhere between 10 and 15 years. Therefore, if you have an older unit, it may be best to replace it. Finally, make sure that the heater is properly secured to the floor or wall to reduce the odds of it moving if an explosion does occur.

If you are worried about the condition of your water heater, it’s important to act fast. Acting now may mean that you spend just a few dollars on repair work as opposed to thousands of dollars replacing your water heater and the damage caused by an explosion.

In the United States, most households spend more money heating water than they spend on refrigeration, cooking, and drying clothes combined. Water heaters account for about 18% to 20% of household energy use; however, switching to an energy-efficient water heater can lower this percentage and help you cut costs.

If you’re looking for an energy-efficient water heater right now, chances are you’ll be looking to install a heat pump, tankless, or solar water heater at home. These appliances minimize heat loss and fuel waste, and some take advantage of renewable energy sources to offset the need to use gas or on-grid electric power, which can help you use less energy and lower your utility bills at home.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters, which are often designed as hybrid water heaters, use a compressor to capture existing heat from the air and ground and transfer it to an insulated water storage tank, where it heats the water inside. These appliances can be three to four times more efficient than standard water heaters, which burn fuel or draw power from the grid to activate an electric resistance element that transfers heat into the water in the tank.

Heat pump water heaters are reliable, efficient, and high-performance appliances that tend to be technologically advanced and user-friendly, with control panels that enable you to customize your temperature and operational settings to minimize energy waste. Some systems integrate with smart home systems to adjust your settings automatically according to your usage patterns. By using ambient heat, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making them more eco-friendly than propane and gas water heaters, which directly release harmful nitrogen oxides and greenhouse gases into the air.

Using a heat pump water heater will also reduce your utility bills. Switching from a standard tank hot water heater to an Energy Star-certified heat pump water heater can help a family of four save up to $550 annually on its electric bills and pay back the difference in the water heater’s upfront cost in about three years in many areas. State and local tax credits, store and utility rebates, and other incentives can help offset the cost of installation.

Tankless Water Heaters

For people who are short on space, electric- or gas-powered tankless or on-demand water heaters can be a viable and energy-efficient alternative to other kinds of water heaters. These small appliances superheat water as it passes through coils or a heat exchanger on the way to your tap. They save energy by heating water as needed instead of storing it in a tank. This means that they only burn fuel when they are in use, instead of burning fuel constantly to keep water hot.

Some tankless heaters are able to recycle excess heat, which also increases their efficiency. Because they use about 14% to 34% less energy than a standard water heater, they can also lower utility costs at home. According to Energy Star, a household of four that switches from a conventional gas-powered water heater to an Energy Star-certified gas tankless water heater can save about $95 per year on energy bills.

Solar Water Heaters

For homeowners with plenty of roof space that receive several days worth of continuous direct sunlight throughout the year, solar water heaters can be a viable, energy-efficient option. These systems use energy from the sun to heat water, which means that they are free to use; however, they can be expensive and cumbersome to install. Many of these systems will not work under cloudy skies or in freezing temperatures, and they may not be suitable for locations that have long winter nights. This means that solar water heaters may not be practical for everyone, but it’s possible to configure hybrid systems that use fossil fuels or electricity when solar energy is not available.

Solar water heaters convert about 80% of the sun’s radiation into heat, making them one of the most energy-efficient water heating systems around. Over time, households that use solar water heaters can cut their water heating bills by 50% to 80%, and some solar water heating systems may qualify for state or federal tax credits.

How to Choose the Right Energy-Efficient Water Heater for Your Home

When you’re comparing new water models for your home, take a look at their uniform energy factor (UEF). This rating measures the heater’s energy efficiency, and higher numbers indicate higher efficiencies, which correlate to lower energy costs. Heat pump water heaters may have UEF ratings of 2.75 to 3.50 or higher, while gas-powered tankless water heaters have a UEF rating of 0.85 to 0.96. Solar water heaters use a solar uniform energy factor (SUEF) specification to compare the performance of solar water heaters to other types of water heaters.

No water heater is one-size-fits-all. To get the most energy-efficient water heater you can for your needs and budget, seek the advice of skilled professionals. Licensed plumbers and contractors can help you choose and install the right energy-efficient water heater for your home, so you can lower your energy costs, contribute to environmental health, and enjoy the luxury of hot water every day.

With the current inflation rate of 3.3%, consumers have to spend more of their hard-earned dollars on nearly everything. That’s especially true for homeowners. According to one study published by Reuters, U.S. home energy bills are on track to increase by almost 8% this summer. While that is primarily attributable to higher cooling costs, other factors are at play. Because of higher natural gas costs, supply chain issues, operational costs, and so on, utility companies across the U.S. have raised their rates. As a result, homeowners are paying more to power their homes. And that includes the power necessary to heat their water.

Why Hot Water in Your Home Is Important

Hot water is essential for cleaning, cooking, and heating the home. There are also health benefits that come from showering or bathing with hot water. Studies show that hot water acts as a natural vasodilator. In other words, it expands blood vessels and improves oxygen and blood circulation, which, in turn, relaxes muscles and reduces pain. Neither is achievable with cold water.

What Is the Best Temperature Setting for Your Water Heater?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating accounts for an estimated 18% of the energy used in a home. And that includes the energy used to heat the water in both tank and tankless water heaters. Even with that in mind, most homeowners are not interested in forgoing hot water altogether. In their view, lowering the water temperature on these appliances is an excellent compromise. Of course, choosing the right temperature can be a tricky proposition, especially if anyone living in the home has health problems.

The default on most tank and tankless water heaters is 140 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature high enough to destroy bacteria, fungi, amebas, and other water-borne germs. This temperature is perfect for water heaters in homes occupied by immuno-compromised individuals or anyone with a severe health problem that might be complicated if exposed to such germs. But there is a downside. Along with high energy bills, water temperatures set at 140 degrees and over can increase the risk of scalding injuries, especially among young children. To keep energy costs low and to prevent scalding while also destroying water-borne germs, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting the water heater in one’s home to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

How Much Can You Save on Your Energy Bill by Reducing Your Water Heater Temperature?

Studies show that homeowners can save 3% to 5% on their water heating costs for every 10 degrees they reduce their water temperature by. Some homeowners cite these studies to justify reducing their water heater temperature below the U.S. Department of Energy’s recommended 120 degrees Fahrenheit. While that might save them some money, it may not be worth it. That is especially true for homes that use a traditional water tank to heat water.

One of the many bacteria that can survive and even thrive in a traditional water tank with a temperature set below 120 degrees is Legionella. Exposure to Legionella bacteria can increase the risk of developing Legionnaires disease, a severe form of pneumonia. People can develop Legionnaires disease by merely inhaling water droplets that contain the bacteria responsible for Legionella. Those droplets can come from showers, faucets, dishwashers, and other water sources in the home. Symptoms of Legionnaires disease typically present 14 days after someone is exposed to Legionella bacteria and can include the following:

• Abdominal pain
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Dry cough
• Fever
• Headache
• Hemoptysis
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath

Several studies show that older adults and anyone who is immuno-compromised due to HIV, diabetes, cancer, kidney or liver disease, for example, are highly susceptible to developing Legionnaires disease if exposed to Legionella bacteria. The best way to minimize the risk of Legionella bacteria, not to mention other water-borne bacteria and germs, is to keep your water heater temperature between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

When Should You Consider Having Your Water Heater Inspected?

Figuring out something is wrong with a tankless water heater is easy since most have a display panel that shows the temperature. If you notice that your water is too hot, too cold, or no longer maintains its set temperature, you should have it looked at by a plumber as soon as possible. The same applies if you notice these issues with a traditional tank water heater.

While it is easy to tell something is wrong with the water tank in your home if the water never gets hot, noticing temperature fluctuations requires some effort. The best way to see whether or not your water tank is maintaining a set temperature is to stop using any water in your home for at least one hour. After that, you will want to turn on a faucet and let the water run for 1 to 2 minutes. Doing so allows the water ample time to heat up. From there, fill up a cup with the water from the faucet and use a kitchen thermostat to measure the temperature of the water. If the temperature on the thermostat is different from the temperature set on the water tank, you should have it inspected.

In summary, 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for water heaters in most homes. Temperatures in this range not only help fend off harmful bacteria but also allow you to save on your monthly energy bills.

Two of the most common types of pipes used for plumbing are PEX and copper. In some applications, they can be used interchangeably, but there are many differences between the two. Let’s take a look at some of these, and then you can decide which one will work best for you.

What is PEX? What is Copper Piping?

PEX stands for “cross-linked polyethylene” and refers to a special type of plastic pipe used for residential or commercial plumbing. Although it was invented in the 1930s, it took nearly 50 years before it was used for domestic plumbing.

Copper piping has existed for roughly 6,000 years but has only been used for plumbing purposes for about 100 years. At one point, it was used in nearly 90% of home plumbing systems.

Differences Between PEX and Copper Piping

There are several differences between the two, including origin, uses, and costs.

First, cross-linked polyethylene is derived from a natural byproduct when drilling for oil and natural gas, while copper has to be mined. Because of that increased cost of production, PEX is significantly less expensive, running less than half the price per linear square foot.

Second, traditional metal piping holds up better against sunlight. Polyethylene will deteriorate in as few as 30 days when subjected to the sun’s rays, whereas the more traditional method can last for decades.

Next, polyethylene is more flexible and therefore often easier to install. Instead of using a soldering iron to connect pieces, PEX uses connecting pieces of the same material. It can maneuver around tight spaces much more easily than the hardened metal of its predecessor.

However, polyethylene also has a shorter expected lifespan, usually only lasting between 25 and 40 years. Copper, on the other hand, can easily last 50 years or more. PEX is also more susceptible to damage from chemicals or solvents, although the alternative also requires regular maintenance to prevent buildup, rust, and corrosion.

Finally, metal pipes can withstand higher temperatures than their plastic-based counterparts. Polyethylene doesn’t “melt,” strictly speaking, but the structural integrity of the pipe can still be compromised over time.

Which is Better?

As both copper and cross-linked polyethylene pipes have different strengths and weaknesses, the best fit for you will depend on your specific situation. Let’s look at the benefits that each one provides over the alternative, and then you can decide which one is right for you.

Modern PEX pipes work best when:

• Water temperature is more moderate
• Cost is a factor
• The path of the pipe is not a straight line and requires bends or curves
• Chemicals or solvents aren’t used frequently
• It’s a DIY operation and you’d rather avoid using a soldering iron
• All pipes are underground or otherwise outside of the path of direct sunlight
• Lower levels of maintenance are desired
• You’d prefer a modern look

On the other hand, traditional copper pipes are preferred if:

• Large amounts of hot water will be flowing through the pipes regularly
• Any part of the piping system will be outside or in direct sunlight
• Chemicals, solvents, or cleaners are frequently used
• Price is not an object
• The pipes will be installed in a linear fashion with little or no curvature needed
• You’re willing to put in a little extra time for proper upkeep
• The pipes will be installed by professionals who can handle the soldering
• You’d like a more traditional look for your pipes

Additional Notes and Final Thoughts

For a home’s resale value, the material used for pipes may not matter to most buyers, but among those who have a preference, some may rather have the modern polyethylene variety, while others may prefer the traditional metal. The style and age of your home may play a role in this as well, as potential buyers looking at modern homes may not prefer traditional plumbing materials and vice versa.

If you still aren’t sure which option is better for your home, it’s always a good idea to check with the experts. They can perform a comprehensive assessment of the area where the pipe will be installed, tell you which type will work best for your situation (or if one type won’t work at all), and give you an estimate on how much each one will cost.

Whether you prefer the modern look of polyethylene or a traditional brass metal in your Fort Myers-area home, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has the solutions you’ll need! We’ve repiped many homes in the area, and we’re excited to make your house the next on our list. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment, click the link at the top of your screen or give us a call! Don’t wait around, contact The Punctual Plumbers today!

The quality and the state of the pipes in your home ultimately determine your plumbing experience. If you have a quality plumbing system, you enjoy consistent water pressure and desirable water quality in your daily life. If, on the other hand, your piping is old or degraded, you’re likely dealing with a wide range of issues you need to address immediately.

The problem? Not every homeowner knows the signs that it’s time to replace their piping, but there are plenty of indications that the time has come to do just that.

Let’s take a closer look at how you know it’s time to get new piping for your home and how you can get the quality support you need to repipe your home safely and efficiently.

Determining Replacement Schedules by Plumbing System Materials

Much like with any other element of your home from your roof to your appliances, you likely have an idea of how long things tend to last before they need to be repaired or, in this case, replaced entirely.

It comes as no surprise that this applies to your pipes as well.

The material that your pipes are made of can give you a solid estimate as to how long they’ll last before you need to repipe your home.

Let’s say, for example, that you live in a home that has a plumbing system featuring pipes made from galvanized steel. Galvanized steel is one of the least durable materials to use in plumbing, with these pipes lasting anywhere from 20 to around 50 years.

Brass can last anywhere from 40 years to over 70, with cast iron and copper lasting well over 50 years or up to 100 years.

The most durable material is plastic, which can last until it encounters a serious issue that impacts its functionality.

Put simply, what your pipes are made out of can better help you determine whether or not it’s time to repipe your home.

If your pipes are reaching the end of their lifespan and you’re noticing some of the issues we discuss below, it may be time to get new pipes.

Major Signs That Your Pipes Are Compromised

Issues with your pipes are generally easy to identify.

This is good news for homeowners who want to make sure that they’re ready in case anything drastic happens to their plumbing. This way, they can tackle the issue as soon as it arises to prevent any further damage or problems.

Some of the most common plumbing issues caused by old and damaged pipes include:

• Rattling and Banging Sounds: Pipes that make loud noises when you go to use the water in your home are often caused by problems with various connections or even the introduction of air to pipes. If your pipes creak, rattle, bang, or make any other sounds they’re not supposed to, it’s time to replace them.
• Changes in Water Pressure: Changes in water pressure are not only frustrating but often a sign that pipes have become corroded and clogged. If your water pressure has left more to be desired recently, this could be an indication the pipes are at fault.
• Leaks That Appear Throughout the Home: A leak here or there may not immediately raise alarm bells, but leaks throughout the home that are popping up everywhere are symptoms of something more serious happening with your plumbing system.
• Changes in the Smell, Appearance, or Texture of the Water: While not always a sign that the pipes are at fault, issues with pipes can often cause your water quality to change. This often results in water that smells different due to various bacteria or chemicals making their way into the water from the pipes, water that tastes bad as a result, and water that has sediment either coming from damaged pipes that are letting sediment in or sediment being shed by the pipes themselves.
• Difficulty Maintaining Correct Temperatures: Is it a struggle to get the right temperature when you use your shower or your faucets? Is it taking longer for your water to heat up? If there’s any issue with temperature regulation, it could point to issues with insulation or water flow caused by your pipes.

Start Your Home Repiping Project With Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

Have you noticed any of the issues with your plumbing listed above? Do you know that you have pipes made from older materials that need to be replaced in your home? If so, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is here to help!

We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service, comprehensive diagnostics, and our repiping approach that outfits your home with pipes made from much more durable and long-lasting materials. Book an appointment with us today to get started!

The short answer is: It depends. For example, different pipes have different lifespans. Plastic pipes from the year 2000 up until today will last forever most of the time. Cast-iron pipes last up to 100 years. Pipes of other materials last anywhere from 20 years up to 75 years.

These materials include galvanized steel, copper, and brass. Fortunately, lead pipes are a thing of the past, and the only time you have to repipe your house immediately is if it’s older than 1986 and has lead pipes. From 1986 onward, lead pipes became illegal, so any home built after that won’t have them. Lead pipes create poisonous water, and that’s why, if you have them, they must be replaced right away.

The Problem With Galvanized Steel Pipes

Despite these pipes’ tough-sounding name, they are among the shortest lasting pipes in use from the end of World War Two until today. They’re also dangerous because they’re coated inside with zinc, and most of the time, the coating isn’t pure and doesn’t last that long. If the coating flakes off, then other contaminants can enter your water, including lead. Therefore, while they’re not as emergent as lead pipes themselves, they should also be changed as soon as you can.

The Issue With Polybutylene Pipes

While today’s plastic pipes, which include PVC, PEX, and CPVC, are tough and long-lasting, the polybutylene pipes from the 1970s are prone to breakage. While they’re not poisonous, they are troublesome and will eventually need replacement anyway. Therefore, it’s a good idea to replace them now before they break and possibly cause water damage to parts of your home.

Other Signs That You Need to Repipe

Other than replacing pipes at the end of their life cycles, the following are occurrences that indicate the need for repiping:

• Leaky Pipes: If you notice pipes leaking, then you have to replace those pipes. Most of the time, however, you won’t actually see the leaks. It’s one thing to see water trickling out from under the sink, but it’s quite another to see through walls to notice leaks in dark spaces. Often, your first clue will be water damage to the wall itself.
• Low Water Pressure: If you turn on your faucet on full, and only a few drops or a very weak stream comes out, then there is likely a leak somewhere. Also, the answer might be a clog in the pipes somewhere. In either case, the offending pieces of pipe must be replaced to restore the correct water pressure to your faucets.
• Visible Corrosion: If you have pipes fashioned from metal, and you notice that they’re becoming corroded, then it’s time to replace them. Corrosion weakens the structure of the pipes, which can lead to bursting, creating a water damage disaster.
• Rust in the Water: Metal pipes shouldn’t rust inside. If you notice a brownish red tinge to your water, then that indicates rust therein. Pipes that are rusting on the inside are weakening themselves in the same way as those pipes that have corrosion on the outside. They may not fail as catastrophically or suddenly as corroded pipes, but rusty pipes putting iron and/or other heavy metals into your drinking water isn’t good from either a safety or “taste-of-water” standpoint.
• Different Temperatures at Different Faucets: If you don’t live alone, and you notice wildly different temperatures when you and someone else use faucets at the same time, then that might indicate a need for repiping. Something could have blocked one or more of the pipes in your home, or one or more of your pipes could have sprung leaks.
• Ominous Noises From Your Plumbing System: Plumbing systems make noises naturally, and some of them can be pretty weird. However, loud bubbling, gurgling, or heavy vibrations aren’t normal. These out-of-the-ordinary noises indicate a need for repiping. They could show anything from a potential burst to a clog or series of clogs.
• Displeasing Odors: Water shouldn’t smell. If it does, then something is wrong. A smell like dirty socks could be because of unwanted biological substances on the inside of pipes. A smell of sulfur or decaying fish indicates a different kind of disagreeable biological substance. In any of these cases, you should repipe the house as soon as possible.

What to Expect When Repiping

First, the professional contractor whom you hire will assess the job, match your home to the right kind of new pipes it needs, and provide you with a written estimate. With your approval, the contractor will then proceed. While the job is progressing, you won’t have any water in your home, so you’ll need to make arrangements for about a week or more. These would include bathing elsewhere, budgeting for ordering food in, and other things that you won’t be able to do without water.