Tips from the most trusted Raleigh NC Plumbers to Avoid Winter Plumbing Issues

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Raleigh NC PlumbersWith the temperature in the area beginning to drop as the fall months wind down and the cold of winter approaches, the most trusted Raleigh NC Plumbers at Poole’s Plumbing have some tips that can help you to not only conserve but also to be sure to avoid issues that are somewhat common in the colder weather.

Some of the more frequent plumbing issues that come about in the winter months are running out of or having no hot water for showers, flooding, leaks, broken radiators, and frozen or cracked pipes. In this first of two parts on avoiding winter plumbing issues, you can follow the easy tips listed below by the Raleigh NC Plumbers at Poole’s, to help avoid and at minimum make these problems less likely to occur as the temperature outside drops.

Clogged Drain Prevention

There are a few ways to help avoid your drains getting clogged and thus avoid extra strain on them as the winter months bring about the possibility of freezing. The first way is to treat your tub and sink drains using a mixture that can easily be made at home on a regular basis. Use 1 cup of baking soda, mixed with 1 cup of salt, and a ¼ cup of cream of tartar. Follow this mixture by pouring two cups of boiling water in each drain. Another thing to remember in keeping drains unclogged, especially around the holidays with all the extra cooking around the house is to avoid the dumping of any oils and grease or stringy object down your drain or into the garbage disposal. Likewise, run cold water through the disposal for 15-20 second both before and after using it and always turn it on before putting any food or debris in.

Insulate your Pipes

Using foam padding sleeves or insulation tape, this is a simple way to help avoid both your hot and cold water pipes from freezing up. Using a space heater that is set at a safe distance from any exposed fixtures or pipes to keep them warm is another way to avoid them from freezing up. Also, check basement and not often used pipes throughout your home regularly for ice or frost accumulation once the temperature has hit freezing to be sure they have not started cracking.

Running Water

This one is very simple. Be sure to run water from all valves and spigots in your home regularly throughout the winter. Especially in the case of those not used so often, this can avoid the issue of them freezing up.

Unattach Outdoor Hoses

Remember to unattach garden hoses that are outdoors before the temperature drops to freezing levels. Also, be certain to drain any residual water from the outside spigots and hoses and close the shut-off valve on any pipes leading to these.

Spreading out Showers

This is somewhat self explanatory, but having at least 10-15 minutes between showers helps to maintain proper pressure and consistent hot water levels. When the temperature outside drops, you may want to increase the temperature level on your water heater as well, but never put it higher than 125 degrees Fahrenheit.

These simple tips from the Raleigh NC Plumbers at Poole’s Plumbing are ones that you can do personally in your own home to help stay away from plumbing issues and possible disaster this upcoming winter. In the follow up to this post, we will continue to discuss how to protect your pipes as the cold weather hits, in addition to the steps to take in the case that your pipes do freeze, burst, or crack this winter. To view that post, check back here to the blog section at www.poolesplumbing.com.

 

 

Tankless Water Heaters : Pros and Cons

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Tankless Water HeatersThe Raleigh water heater specialists at Poole’s Plumbing specialize in an array of services, with one being installation and servicing of your water heater. With a wide selection of both Tankless Water Heaters and conventional model water heaters from all of the most trusted name in plumbing products at your disposal with our Raleigh water heater specialists at Poole’s, deciding whether or not  Tankless Water Heaters are the right fit for you is one that should be weighed out carefully.

The website, howstuffworks.com recently did an in depth analysis that can help you to properly analyze whether Tankless Water Heaters would be the most cost effective and best fit in your home or place of business, detailing both the benefits and drawbacks as follows:

Benefits:

  • Most Tankless Water Heaters come with a federal tax rebate of $300.
  • They never run out of hot water.
  • They last five to 10 years longer than tank heaters.
  • They’re more efficient with no standby heat loss.
  • Tankless Water Heaters take up less space and can even be installed on walls or outdoors with an anti-freeze kit.
  • Smaller units can be installed under cabinets or in a closet, closer to the point of use.
  • They only need enough power to heat the amount of water necessary at any given moment.
  • You can shave as much as 20 percent from your water heating bill.
  • Electric models don’t produce greenhouse gases.
  • Most units are operated by remote control and have up to four separate settings available.
  • There’s no possibility of flooding due to a ruptured tank.

Drawbacks:

  • They cost up to three times as much as a tank water heater.
  • Your hot water output is split among all your household fixtures.
  • You may need to add a larger natural gas line to supply the unit with enough fuel.
  • Venting gas and propane units requires expensive stainless steel tubing.
  • Electric models may require an additional circuit.
  • Gas-powered units produce greenhouse gases.
  • Gas units require the additional expense of an annual servicing.
  • Electric models require a lot of energy.
  • They need a minimum flow rate of .5 GPM in order to activate the heat exchanger.
  • Lag time can require you to run your water in order to get to the hot water, increasing water waste.

Other Considerations:

  • Water heating accounts for about 20 percent of your home energy budget.
  • A whole-house electric model costs $500-$700.
  • A whole-house gas model costs $1,000-$2,000.
  • Electric models are generally cheaper to install than gas.
  • Natural gas is less expensive now, but expected to surpass electricity in the coming years.
  • A standard bathtub holds about 35 gallons, soaking tubs hold between 45-80 gallons.

In addition to these points, there are many other valid points to consider when looking into the possibility of going with Tankless Water Heaters. The entire analysis can be seen at this link, home.howstuffworks.com .

Water Heater technology : The future has arrived with iCOMM Elite

Water Heater technology : The future has arrived with iCOMM Elite

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The expert Raleigh NC plumbers at Poole’s Plumbing specialize in water heater installation, offering you the latest technology in the field from the best names in the industry, including State Water Heaters, who with their iCOMM Elite models give you the latest in innovative Water Heater technology. Water Heater technology : The future has arrived with iCOMM Elite The iCOM Elite featurs an interactive remote monitoring system unique to the State brand units. According to their website, “It’s the latest technology in commercial water heating that allows you to interact with, privately manage, and monitor your State water heaters or boilers from anywhere in the world via the internet.”OMM Elite features an interactive remote monitoring system unique to the State brand units.

According to their website, “It’s the latest technology in commercial water heating that allows you to interact with, privately manage, and monitor your State water heaters or boilers from anywhere in the world via the internet.”

A few of the innovations the iCOMM Elite afford to you as a customer are the ability to access current and historical water heater data, monitor “live” water heater status using a web browser, respond instantly to leak detection notifications, manage fault alerts sent by text or email, and monitor your fleet of water heaters from anywhere you night be.

For more information on the iComm Elite and all the latest products available through the Raleigh NC plumbers at Poole’s Plumbing you can check out the State website at www.stateconnect.com.    

Knowing When Your Water Heater Needs Replacement: An Interview with Poole’s Plumbing

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raleigh-plumber-interview By Kristen Bosse
Please describe a little bit about your company and the services you offer?
Poole’s Plumbing, Inc. is a fully licensed and insured residential and commercial Raleigh plumbing contracting company created in 1999 by Robert K. Poole. With two men, a truck, and a dream, Robert started this journey by doing new construction and renovation work. By 2007, Poole’s Plumbing had 60+ employees and plumbed approximately 1,300 new homes per year. Poole’s Plumbing, Inc. maintains a client portfolio that includes some of the largest national tract home building companies as well as some of the most well-respected custom home builders in the triangle area. We offer full-service turn-key new construction, remodeling, & repair services. The moral/ethical position of Poole’s Plumbing is to create an environment of Honesty and Integrity and to maintain a high level of service without compromising quality or craftsmanship. Our desired public image is “plumbing done right the first time” at the best possible cost.


What is your position at Poole’s Plumbing?Robert (Bob) K. Poole
Owner/President

Joseph Favara
Operations Manager

What are some eco-friendly services you offer?
Tankless Water Heaters, High Efficient Tank Type Water Heaters, Electric Heat Pump Hybrid Water Heaters, Low-Flow Faucets & Fixtures, Dual-Flush & High Efficient Toilets.

What are the dangers of hard water?
Hard water, unlike softened water, features a buildup of mineral content. This buildup usually consists of magnesium and calcium ions as well as a collection of other dissolved compounds. This high mineral count in hard water leads to a number of potential negative effects.

Film. Hard water affects the quality of your shower or bath. Hard water and soap can make removing body cleansers more difficult, leaving a film on your skin called soap curd. Soap curd is responsible for dull looking hair and can also cause irritation to your skin. Further, soap curd collects as a film on shower walls and along with your bathtub.

Washing Problems. Other problems can occur when washing dishes or clothing as a result of hard water. Hard water often makes clothes feel rougher and more irritable following a wash than they may normally due to the mineral density of the water. Hard water can also cause your clothes to wear out more quickly over repeated washes. These same minerals in hard water also leave a residue when washing dishes, making it more difficult to clean your plates, cups, and utensils in just one normal wash.

Efficiency and Limescale. Hard water can impact the efficiency of hot water heaters. There is a greater amount of sediment in hard water, and this can build up inside water heaters and make it more difficult for the device to heat the water. This causes a greater amount of energy usage, leading to higher energy bills over time. Additionally, other appliances that are used to heat water can become clogged with minerals that are found in abundance in hard water. This limescale buildup will also cause the devices in question to suffer from poor energy usage.

How do I know if it is time to receive maintenance on my water heater?
Performing maintenance on your water heater is highly unlikely to be on the top of your weekend to-do list, but proper maintenance at critical junctures in the life of your water heater can often save the headache of complete replacement- not to mention spare you the task of some serious water cleanup.

Signs your water heater is “under the weather”:

    • Water coming from the heater that appears rusty or brown is typically an indicator of impending water heater failure. Similarly, if the water smells unusual or “metallic” it is another giveaway that your water heater has seen better days. Check the water emerging from your water heater and determine whether its quality has been affected in the aforementioned ways. If you’re wary of tasting the water, a sniff test should suffice.
    • Sediment within your water heater’s water is another indicator your heater’s condition is rapidly deteriorating. This often occurs from mineral build up over time on the bottom of the heater’s tank.
    • Loud pops coming from your water heater are not normal. Also, be sure to monitor for any sounds that crop up that did not previously emanate from the device. Such sounds should be treated as anomalies and may be a symptom of the aforementioned mineral buildup. This buildup will usually lead to failure in the short-term.
    • A symptom of internal water heater failures is leaking water. If water begins noticeably leaking from your heater, disconnect the unit and consider immediate replacement. Do not hesitate to replace your heater in the event of leaking water, as any delay will likely lead not only to a cessation in its operation but also a serious mess that can impact other aspects of your home’s interior, causing associated repair costs to spiral upward.

What areas of my home should I look out for when it comes to plumbing issues?
Plumbing runs throughout the entirety of your home, and where there is plumbing, the potential for plumbing problems arises. The four main areas of the house that often encounter plumbing issues include the kitchen, bathroom, hot water heater and septic system. A licensed plumber provides professional service that can extend the life of your home’s plumbing system.

Kitchen: As one of the most used areas of the home, the kitchen plumbing sees a great deal of wear and tear every single day. This includes everything from leaky faucets to busted pipes. Appliances, such as dishwashers and ice-makers, can pose all kinds of threats that may not be noticed until water damage has already occurred. Keeping up with regular maintenance and repairs is critical to preventing such disasters. Always have a licensed plumber do renovation, remodel and repair work to ensure that the job is done right the first time.

Bathroom: As another commonly used room that is full of pipes and fixtures, plumbers often get called upon to service this area of the home. Clogged drains and toilets are among the more minor repairs. However, small problems can grow into larger ones posing a new set of problems, such as mold and mildew.

Hot Water Heaters: This metal tank cycles through a large amount of water each day and is rather prone to leaks due to corrosion over time. Six to eight years is the general lifespan before the unit begins to deteriorate or experience electrical problems. Even things as simple as the heating element or thermostat can wear out rather quickly. If extensive repairs are needed, consider installing a tankless or solar water heater as a replacement.

Septic System: This crucial but often overlooked component is responsible for carting waste products away from your home. Regular maintenance is essential, and a licensed plumber can inspect the system as needed. Repairs and remodeling projects serve as a perfect opportunity for your plumber to assess the overall function of your septic system.

Please describe a water softener and how it works.
Water softeners perform an “ion swap” procedure within the water in order to achieve softening. The harmful excess calcium and magnesium ions that create water hardness are swapped out with sodium ions, restoring the quality of the water. Sodium most often works for this purpose because sodium “plays nice” with soap and doesn’t react poorly when other elements are introduced. Generally, the amount of sodium that accumulates within your water as a result of this softening process is of no concern and lies far below the FDA’s “very low sodium” classification.

How Ion Swapping Works: A tank full of negatively charged polystyrene beads are bonded to the positively charged sodium ions. The sodium ions “swap” with the harmful magnesium and calcium ions as the water rushes by the beads. Eventually and after numerous cycles however, the sodium within the polystyrene beads is completely replaced by the calcium and magnesium, and the water softening unit can no longer perform its duties without a regeneration cycle. Salt is added back into the water softener to begin this cycle, and the beads are soaked in this solution of salt and water. The beads are regenerated with the proper levels of sodium and any excess solution flows out of the water softener through a drainpipe.

While most home water softeners utilize polystyrene beads, not all determine when it’s necessary to regenerate in the same way. Some water softeners utilize a mechanical water meter that begins the regeneration cycle only when the ratio of existing water to sodium requires activation. Other water softeners operate on a regular, timed schedule due to electric timers, and some instead simply use a computer that begins the regeneration cycle when it deems enough water use has transpired.

What are the advantages/disadvantages to tankless water heater systems?
Traditional water heaters consume large amounts of electricity or natural gas and can only supply enough hot water for two or three showers. Because of these issues, many energy conscious homeowners are making the switch to tankless water heaters to save money and avoid headaches.

    • Unlimited Hot Water: With a tankless water heater, you will enjoy an unlimited supply of hot water. Instead of heating dozens of gallons of water in a large tank and maintaining it at a certain temperature, a tankless water heater simply heats water as it passes through the heating elements. You’ll receive water at your desired temperature within seconds, and you could leave the hot water running for a whole week without running out.
    • Size: A water heater tank can fill up an entire closet by itself, which limits where it can be placed in the house. A tankless water heater is small by comparison, often measuring as tiny as two cubic feet. Because it doesn’t store water, it is lightweight and can easily be mounted to the wall. Even if you place it inside of a closet, you will still be able to use most of the closet for storage however it must be placed on an outside wall so that it can be properly vented to the outside.
    • Energy Savings: Tankless water heaters are incredibly energy efficient. Although they can use 15 to 30 kW of electricity, they actually end up using less energy than water heat tanks. Remember that tankless water heater only turns on when you need them, but water heater tanks can take hours to warm 50 gallons of water to the target temperature.

Manufacturing processes have improved over the past few years as tankless water heaters have become more popular, and they now cost little more than some traditional models. However, the energy savings will quickly make up for any extra installation costs. Depending on your family’s hot water usage, you will save 25 to 40 percent off of your hot water heating costs every year.

Disadvantages: The only disadvantage that we could see is that if you lose power, you will have no hot water. But then again you could invest in a whole house generator to solve that problem.
What’s the best way for people to get in contact with you?

There are many ways to contact us. You can simply call us at 919-661-6334 or use our contact form located at: https://www.poolesplumbing.com/contact-us

GeoSpring™ Hybrid Water Heater

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GeoSpring-water-heater-featured-imageGeoSpring-water-heater

The GeoSpring hybrid water heater from General Electric features a 50-gallon unit capacity that has been designed to provide the same hot water recovery as a standard 50-gallon electric water heater with a 65 gallons first hour rating. Not surprisingly, GE’s device also features an ease of install that mimics the electrical and water connections standard electric water heaters offer. However, this is where the similarities end and the benefits begin.

Unlike standard electric water heaters in the 50-gallon range, GE’s GeoSpring hybrid water heater uses as much as 62% less energy. DOE (Department of Energy) test procedures reveal the unit can save as much as $325 each year in expenses in comparison to these standard 50-gallon tanks (4879 kWh per year vs. the GeoSpring’s 1830 kWh per year). Additionally, the GeoSpring hybrid water heater features a 3 to 14 day “vacation setting.” Vacation settings are only found in newer, modern water heaters and allow for further energy savings by allowing the operator to activate the special energy-saving setting when they plan on leaving the house for an extended stay.

GeoSpring-panel
The free-standing GeoSpring hybrid water heater is ENERGY STAR Qualified and also features a First Hour Rate (FHR) of 65 gallons, a LED control panel, washable air filter, and a 10-year limited parts warranty and 1-year limited labor warranty. The GeoSpring hybrid water heater operates at a quiet 55 DBA Average and bears dimensions (HxWxD) of 60 1/2 in x 21 3/4 in x 22 1/4 in. It is assembled in the USA.

Recirculating Systems for Instant Hot Water: How It Works

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How a recirculating systems for Instant Hot Water Works

reduce-time-and-water-waste

The plumbing systems in American homes waste fathomless gallons of cold water during the wait for hot water. In most homes, cold water rests in plumbing pipes when water is not in use, and it requires purging before hot water can flow out. Two types of recirculating systems, however, eliminate waiting and wasted water by promptly providing hot water.

Demand-Controlled System

Initiated by a button, motion sensor or switch, a circulation pump returns the water standing in the pipes to the water heater and sends hot water through the pipes to the taps. Once hot water reaches the tap, a temperature-controlled switch signals the pump to stop.

Compared with other systems, a demand-controlled system uses less energy because the pump works only when hot water is wanted, but the process of returning the cold water to the water heater means a slightly longer wait time than gravity-fed systems offer.

Gravity-Fed System

Gravity-fed systems require a loop of plumbing lines: The first half of the loop carries hot water to the faucets, and the second half returns cold water to the water heater. Gravity brings cold water, which is denser and heavier than hot water, down to be reheated, and the lighter, reheated water rises back up the loop. Basically, gravity-fed systems are a continuous circuit of water.

This system only works in a home with the water heater placed lower than the hot water lines. Hot water is immediately available, but gravity-fed systems consume more energy than demand-controlled systems because the water heater is in continuous use.

If a home’s hot water heater is not located below the hot water lines, a pump can take the place of gravity in generating a continuous circuit. Again, hot water is instant, but energy use rises.

Installing a timer will reduce the amount of energy this type of system uses.

The system to choose depends upon the home, the budget and personal preference regarding energy, but both recirculating systems perform well the job for which they were created: reducing the time and water waste associated with waiting for hot water.

To learn more about Recirculating Systems and guidelines in the Raleigh area, call Poole’s Plumbing today and let one of our Plumbing Specialists help you choose the system that works best for your home.

Renting vs. Buying a Water Heater: Debunking a New Fad

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Renting vs. Buying a Water Heater

Many people currently rent or lease their water heaters instead of buying them. Homeowners find the idea of worry-free maintenance and repairs, free installation and low monthly fees appealing. However, if you plan to live in your home for many years, purchasing a water heater is clearly a wiser financial decision.

 

Water Heater Rental Cost Over Time
Most hot water heaters can be expected to last about 10 to 12 years. Over the life of the appliance, renters will pay far more than what the heater would have cost if purchased and installed. For example, if a homeowner paid $25 per month in rental fees, the total rental cost for 10 years would be $3000. The same water heater may have only cost around $800-$1000 fully installed.

Water heater rental fees often increase as time goes by. This can leave renters locked into an agreement to pay more and more every year for their aging unit. Some long-term rental agreements even require an expensive buy-out if you decide to switch suppliers or no longer need the water heater.

Understand Your Options
Renting may offer a convenient or even necessary option to those who will only be living in their current residence for a short time. It may also be beneficial for people living in areas of hard water where the heater’s lifespan will be compromised and repairs are more likely, but for most homeowners, the savings over time would more than cover any repair or replacement cost.

New hot water heaters are generally covered under a warranty for a limited period of time. After warranties run out, owners are responsible for all repairs, but this does not necessarily mean that the cost of repair will be unaffordable, especially when compared to paying more than four times the worth of their appliance in rental fees. Buying your hot water heater also gives you a wider variety of choices. Eco-friendly options, favored brands and high-end models may not be available as rentals.

Spend Wisely, Save More
The decision to purchase a hot water heater rather than renting it is a clear example of spending money to save money. For financially stable homeowners who plan to use their water heater for several years, buying the appliance offers more benefits in the long run.

Water Heater and Water Heater Plumbing Services

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Plumbing Services Raleigh NC

Water Heater Trouble? Call 919-661-6334

Water heaters are dependable appliances that can last up to 10 years. We can help you extend the life of your equipment and receive optimal performance by establishing a regular schedule of care, maintenance and other Raleigh water heater services. Like other major systems, water heaters send distress signals when there is a problem. One sign that your unit may be failing is that it quickly runs out of hot water. This issue could be due to excess sediment, inadequate insulation or malfunctioning parts, such as thermostats or heating elements. Improperly sized equipment can cause you to run out of hot water as well.

Hard water deposits make it difficult for your equipment to heat the water. They reduce the capacity of the tank and make your water heater work harder. Insufficient insulation causes the tank to lose heat, wastes energy and increases utility bills. Worn out or defective parts can prevent your equipment from heating the water. Changes in schedules or routines make it difficult for smaller water heaters to meet the increased demand. Your household may need a larger model.

A small leak can quickly become a major leak at the worst possible time. The solution will depend upon whether the water is coming from the pipe or the tank. This problem requires immediate attention because excess moisture increases the risk of mold and property damage, which are expensive and difficult to repair.

A gas leak and improperly vented carbon monoxide can endanger your home and family. We can repair your pipes after the utility company identifies and stops the leak. Our trained technicians can inspect and service your unit. Inspecting the connection fittings every six months is essential if you have a gas-fired system. We can replace worn out or defective equipment and repair water and gas pipes.

Our team can help you incorporate energy conservation measures, such as installing a timer on your water heater. If your equipment is reaching the end of its serviceable life, we can help you select an energy-efficient model. Give us a call to learn more about Raleigh water heater services.

Ways to Save Money When Hiring a Plumber

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Raleigh Plumbing Staff Members

Many homeowners feel comfortable tackling small plumbing issues such as minor clogs and leaks and do a good job of resolving them. Larger problems, installation and inspections, however, require the services of a professional plumber. When you hire a plumber, you want to know that you are getting quality work at a fair price. Though the services of a reputable plumber do cost money, there are ways to protect your pocketbook by hiring an experienced professional who addresses plumbing issues correctly the first time.

Educate yourself
If you do not know much about plumbing basics, look online or check out a plumbing how-to book from the library. You will learn something about the major plumbing components and feel more comfortable talking to a professional about your plumbing problem.

You should also get a rough idea of the costs of various plumbing fixes. A reputable plumber will appreciate your knowledge and should be happy to answer any questions you have about your plumbing issue. You, in turn, will feel more comfortable that you are getting value for your money. If you should disagree with the plumber’s assessment of the issue and proposed course of action, feel free to say so or consult another company.

Ask family and friends
There is nothing like a referral from someone you trust. One of your family members, friends or coworkers has probably had a plumbing issue and will share their experience with you. They can let you know how satisfied they were with the work and how much they paid. This can make a great starting place in your search for a plumber, but you will want to consider more than one bid.

Ask for a written quote
Request bids in writing from three to five plumbers. If one is more expensive than the others, ask for an explanation. Avoid companies that offer minimum service for the lowest price. You will spend more in the long run than if you had chosen a well-qualified plumber at the start. Your aim is to save money, but not at the expense of quality work.

Stay local
You will probably pay for the plumber’s travel time, so save money by choosing a Raleigh plumber. Savings can add up when a job requires more than one day of work.

Plan ahead before you require plumbing service. Cost is important, but it is not the only issue to consider. Take into account the importance of experience, reputation and the availability of 24-hour emergency service. Consider that you are likely to experience more than one plumbing issue over time. Establishing a relationship with a qualified plumber who offers good value will pay off financially and in peace of mind.

Tankless Water Heater: Is it Worth the Extra Cost?

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Tankless-water-heater-is-the-extra-cost-worth-it
When making the important decision of choosing which type of water heater to install, whether you are building a new home or simply replacing an old unit, the cost and potential savings are always a big factor in the final choice. While the cost to install a tankless water heater is higher than that of the standard gas storage, or “tank type” models, there are significant savings throughout the life of the unit that may make the tankless water heater more cost effective throughout its life span.

In addition to providing the benefit of a flow of endless hot water, tankless water heaters are more energy efficient and thus, can help to lower your energy costs. Unlike the tank type storage water heaters, by going “tankless,” the water is only heated when needed, rather than consuming energy 24 hours a day. According to energystar.gov, “tankless water heaters save the typical family more than $100 per year on gas bills compared to a standard storage model.” These savings would increase with families that are of larger size, as ENERGY STAR also estimates that the tankless units can save a family of three about $130 annually, with those savings doubling for a six person household with an estimated $260 in savings.

In addition to saving on energy costs at about 30 percent annually, another thing that would make tankless water heaters more cost effective in the long run is that they have a much longer life span than that of the storage tank water heaters. An average tankless water heater unit is estimated to last around 20 years as opposed to about 8-10 year expected life span with a tank type water heater. In the long run you will certainly save on the frequency of having to replace your water heater.

So if you’re on the fence regarding which type of water heater to install and the research is just too overwhelming, contact a Certified Poole’s Plumbing Water Heater Specialist today. Not only can we help you make the right choice, we can provide a turn-key installation for either a Tankless Water Heater or a Tank Type Water Heater. And in addition to getting a professionally installed Water Heater, we also offer a best price in town guarantee.

Top 5 Reasons Why Homeowners Switch To A Tankless Water Heater:

  1. Save Money! – Energy Savings
  2. Endless Hot Water! – Heats the Water as Needed
  3. Saves Space! – Fraction of the Size of a Tank Type Water Heater
  4. Longevity! – Lasts up to Twice as Long as a Tank Type Water Heater
  5. Green! – ENERGY STAR Rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy.

 

Tank Water Heater vs. Tankless Water Heater: Which is Right for Me?

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Tank water heater or Tankless Water Heater Learn which is right for your home.There are many questions that consumers are posed with when deciding on a water heater. Is a high efficiency gas storage tank for me? Or would the whole-home gas tankless water heater better serve me and my home? Depending on your current water heater situation, your skill level in maintaining your water heater, and in some cases just your own preference, many things can factor into your final decision making process. Anyway you choose to go however it is best to know the facts and the pros and cons of either type when making your final decision.

A very helpful spot to learn more about both the “tank water heater” and “tankless water heater” is the Energy Star website (www.energystar.gov) which details each very thoroughly. According to the site, one should give serious consideration to the whole-home gas tankless water heater model if you are in the process of building a new home or taking on a significant remodeling project at your home. In choosing the tankless water heater route, it is essential that you first be sure that there is a large enough gas line at your home (this would typically need to be a ¾” line) in addition to having enough space to install the proper venting.

Energy Star also suggests the tankless water heater model for those who are looking to replace their existing water heater before it actually breaks down or if you presently find yourself running out of hot water often. The tankless heaters would more than likely require that you be willing to either take on the responsibility of some additional maintenance tasks or be sure to schedule a regular check on the unit every few years, and while you will have to pay a bit more upfront when choosing to go this route, in the long run this type of  heater will reduce your heating bill by an estimated 30 percent. Another plus in “going “tankless” is that the water heater will have a longer lifetime than the other options available to you.


The high-efficiency gas storage water heaters or the “tank” heaters also are a viable option in many cases, especially for those looking for more routine installation and maintenance of their water heater, Energy Star recommends this type to consumers who are satisfied with the style of water heater that they currently have and for those not looking to make a major change. These are also ideal for those who currently have a “tank” heater that is no , longer functioning and needs to be replaced. Much like the “tankless” option, the gas storage heater can lower heating bills in the long run for those willing to pay a little more up front, as on average these models of heaters will reduce one’s water heating bills by around 7 percent.

For an in-depth look at estimated savings and other information that can help you to decide whether the “tankless water heater” or “tank water heater” is for you, a great resource is the aforementioned www.energystar.gov, under the section titled “products.”

 

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

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Here is a great source for learning about Tankless Water Heaters, and helping you decide if it’s really the right choice for your lifestyle and needs. Poole’s Plumbing is your Raleigh Rinnai Authorized Service Provider and Tankless Water Heater Specialist.

Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters
What is a Tankless Water Heater?

We offer a best price in town guarantee on water heaters. We are a certified Raleigh NC Plumber since 1999. But don’t just take our word for it. See what our customers have to say about the many types of plumbing services we provide. When you’re ready for questions or a free in-home proposal, just give one of our friendly and knowledgeable certified plumbing experts a call and Get Plumbing Done Right the First Time.

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Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters

Rinnai Authorized Service Provider

Raleigh Spring Home Show

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Poole’s Plumbing a Full Service Raleigh Plumbing Company, will be attending the ACS Spring Home Show at the Raleigh Convention Center from February 24, 25, 26 2012. Stop by booth 507 to check out the latest innovations in the Plumbing industry and talk with one of our plumbing experts about a Tankless Water Heater System.

 

Visit the Poole’s Plumbing Exhibit:

February 24, 25, 26, 2012
Booth 507
Admission is FREE!

Show Address:
Raleigh Convention Center
500 South Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27601

Show Hours:

Friday, February 24, 11:00am – 9:00pm
Saturday, February 25, 10:00am – 8:00pm
Sunday, February 26, 10:00am – 6:00pm

Learn more about the ACS Spring Home Show by visiting their website at www.acshomeshow.com

 

 

Raleigh Plumbing Best Price in Town Guarantee!

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Are you looking for a certified Raleigh plumber that’s honest and trust worthy? Poole’s Plumbing is one of the only plumbers in Raleigh that offers the Best Price in Town Guarantee. So if your water heater needs to be replaced or upgraded to a new efficient tankless water heater, don’t pay too much for plumbing services or repairs. Call Poole’s plumbing today and get the best price in town, Guaranteed! Don’t just take our word for it… check out what our customers have to say about our plumbing professionals and second to none services.

ACS Fall Home Show at Raleigh Convention Center September 9th-11th 2011

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Poole’s Plumbing will be attending the ACS Fall Home Show at the Raleigh Convention Center from 9/9/11 – 9/11/11 come out and check out the latest innovations in the Plumbing industry and talk with one of our plumbing experts about a Tankless Water Heater System.

To learn more about the ACS Fall Home Show visit their website at www.acshomeshow.com

Visit Poole’s Plumbing at Booth 1015 9/9—9/11

 

 


Southern Ideal Home Show at The Fairgrounds September 23rd-25th 2011

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Poole’s Plumbing will be attending the Southern Ideal Home Show Raleigh at The Fairgrounds on 9/23/11 thru 9/25/11. Come out and talk with one of our plumbing experts to learn more about the latest plumbing innovations or learn more about our Innovative Tankless Hot Water Heaters.

To learn more about the Triangles Largest Home & Garden Event visit Southern Ideal Home Show Raleigh at www.southernshows.com

Visit Poole’s Plumbing at Booth 2328 9/23—9/25