Exploring Different Types Of Water Heaters (Part-II)
Last week, we started looking into multiple hot water heater options that you can choose from to find the perfect unit that is the ideal fit for your hot water needs in terms of capacity, functionality, energy-efficiency, space, and cost.
Do you need a water heater replacement? Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Wilmette, IL. Click here to get a free estimate.
Previously we covered Tankless Water Heater, Conventional Storage Tank Water Heater, Solar Powered Water Heater, and Condensing Water Heater, so now let us have a look at the remaining options that you are left with.
Heat Pump Water Heater (Hybrid Water Heater)
Hybrid water heaters are costly but offer a great return on investment as they consume 60% less energy than conventional water heaters, which helps lower your utility bills.
These units derive heat from the air or ground around them, making them more energy-efficient but an impractical choice for cold regions. Also, placement is another issue with them. You can’t place heat pump water heaters in the basement or garage or anywhere in the cold, and the spot you choose should have a vertical space of around 8ft.
Combined Space and Water Heating System
The combined space and water heating unit, also known as the ‘combi’ system, is perfect for homes with low requirements.
These specialized units consume the same amount of gas as a gas water heater and forced air furnace, so instead of maintaining two separate systems, you can get a combi. It combines an optimized hydronic air handler with a high-efficiency water heater to offer dual function, which will allow you to cut down on your maintenance expenses.
The air handler has a large fan coil installed in the ductwork to enable quick and efficient space heating. The small pump circulates the water from the boiler and coil via the in-floor piping for radiant or floor heating. This unit also has a direct or powered combustion vent to prevent gas spillage.
Since both operations of the space and water heating system are separate, the functionality of one cannot be used to determine the other’s performance.
Also, the initial cost of this heater can be too much for some people.
Combined Space and Water Heating System with a Hydronic Boiler
Unlike the combi system, this unit comes with a hydronic boiler instead of a water heater and offers different configurations depending on the model. Some systems allow simultaneous heating of water and space, while others enable separate functions.
Also, it has a space-saving, compact design with built-in parts for outdoor reset control, auxiliary pump connections, and recirculation function, so you don’t need to buy and maintain various devices for each function.
This heating system is also known as combi-boilers or segregated heating systems; it directly draws the water from the mains to eliminate storage tanks’ need. The hydronic boiler is the heat source for this system, and a heat exchanger is used to transfer the energy to the water. Additionally, this unit features a flow control valve to maintain a constant temperature level of the water.
This user-friendly, compact, and energy-efficient system is designed to reduce the number of appliances used and the energy consumed. On top of that, you can get the latest combination boiler model with a tankless water heater design and full-energy saving power to stop unnecessary water heating when you are away, allowing you to bring down your power bills by 90%.
However, this system is not a practical option for large households with a high demand for warm water since there is no storage tank or back-up reservoir as the boiler is getting water directly from the mains, meaning it needs more time to heat the water.
Also, in some countries, some laws require you to have a double-wall heat exchanger to use such heating techniques. This ensures there is no cross-contamination between the water in the boiler heating loops and portable water.
We are at the end of the list, and by now, you probably have a good idea about the characteristics of different water heaters. Just keep in mind that now the only factors affecting your choice are the water heater cost and model.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides water heater installation, maintenance, and replacement to residential and commercial projects in Wilmette, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Exploring Different Types Of Water Heaters (Part-I)
Water heaters are a necessary appliance for homes if you want to maintain full-functionality and health during the winter cold.
If you think there might be even a slight hint of exaggeration in our statement, then try showering or doing the dishes in the cold with icy cold water. But aside from the obvious, there is another major advantage of water heaters – hot water can stop your pipes from freezing and bursting or a blockage from occurring in your plumbing due to the freezing temperatures.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides water heater installation, maintenance, and replacement to residential and commercial projects in Morton Grove, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Constant use can wear down your water heater, especially if it does not get proper maintenance, which is why you need to replace it after a few years.
When it comes down to getting a new water heater, there are so many options available in the market you can choose from. But instead of getting intimidated by the multitude of choices, it is best to first find out exactly what kind of water heater you want.
Tankless Water Heater (On-Demand Water Heater)
This type of water heater system functions without a tank. The unit has coils that heat the incoming water almost immediately, so you can access warm water on-demand without having to wait.
A tankless hot water heater is best for infrequent users or small families, as it helps them cut down on energy consumption. However, a larger water heater can raise your gas or electricity bills by a lot, although it is ideal for multiple users as hot water is available throughout the day.
Conventional Storage Tank Water Heater
Storage tank water heaters are common in homes. These reliable appliances can run on various fuel types. It has a tank to hold the water that needs to be heated. Therefore, the hot water tank’s size is critical to the functionality and overall efficiency it provides.
The unit typically has superior insulation that keeps the water warm even after the heater has been turned off. It has two valves, one to control temperature and the other to maintain pressure. The temperature valve opens when the water temperature reaches 120°F to release the heat so the temperature can be moderated. The pressure control valve opens to decrease the pressure once it reaches around 150 PSI.
Solar Powered Water Heater
Solar-powered water heaters are ideal for places with a warm and sunny climate so that the solar panels can get sufficient sunlight throughout the year. The energy stored in the solar cells will be transferred to a closed-loop system with a heat-conductive material (antifreeze fluid), which will warm up the water in the tank. However, you still need an alternative energy source, like electricity or gas, if you want your heater to work during the rainy, cloudy, or cold season.
This is an eco-friendly option that can drastically reduce your household’s carbon footprint and boost energy-efficiency by transforming around 80% of the radiation into heat energy.
Although a solar water heater is economical in the long-run, allowing you to save money on utility bills, the unit itself and its installation are costly. It may even take 20 to 30 years to yield a good return on your investment.
On the brighter side, in some countries, governments offer financial incentives to people using solar-powered water heaters, such as federal and state tax credits and utility rebates.
Condensing Water Heater
Condensing water heaters or condensing boilers are suitable for households that run on natural gas for power and require at least 55 gallons of hot water.
This unit has tank-like traditional boilers, so choose a unit with the capacity to meet your needs. There is a coil at the unit’s base, which is heated using the fumes from the condensing system that traps the hot exhaust gas expelled through the flue. Although this is a highly energy-efficient choice, its large size can pose a problem. Also, it can be utterly useless for homes that do not run on natural gas.
There are a few more types of water heaters that you can consider, which we will cover next week. So do not take any decision just yet. Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Morton Grove, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Common HVAC Problems During The Winter
As the chilly winds start rolling in, marking the start of the winter, along with them come forth unique challenges that we must face to keep our homes warm and cozy. There are some problems with HVAC systems that arise exclusively due to the cold.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides expert HVAC maintenance and repair services to residential and commercial projects in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Are you curious about what issues you are likely to encounter in the winter months? Do you want to know how exactly your HVAC system will start acting up? Have a look for yourself. Below we have listed a few common HVAC problems that arise during the winter season.
Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold and freezing temperatures can cause pipes and coils to freeze, which stops them from function properly. Your hydronic systems like steam radiators and hot water can fail as frozen water impedes the pipes’ flow. The heating can break down due to frozen pipes.
Frozen pipes can also burst due to pressure buildup, which will cause property damage and require plumbing repairs.
Uneven Heat Distribution
During winters, you may come to realize that some rooms of your home are colder than others due to uneven temperature and airflow.
If this happens, the first thing you need to do is to check for cracks, gaps, and opening in your floor, walls, doorways, and window sills to identify where the cold air is entering the room from and fill them up. If the problem is still there, check your ducts and vents for debris and blockages that might hinder the airflow, and clear them out.
Dirty Heater Filters
Overuse can cause your heaters’ filters to get clogged with dust, debris, and dirt, which hinders airflow, subsequently reducing the warmth inside your house unless the issue is with the motor or fan.
Clear any obstructions or blockages in or around the filter. And if your filter is permanently bent or discolored, then replace it with a new one for better functionality and performance.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Homes that have a gas heater are at constant risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is impossible to detect as it is odorless and tasteless. Carbon monoxide leaks can occur due to cracked or rusted heaters, particularly a cracked heat exchanger present inside the heater.
Check the heat exchanger for defects, as well as your home’s ventilation. Inspect your top-range vent or chimney for obstructions that might not be letting this gas escape your home.
Faulty Pilot Light
Some heaters have a pilot light, which needs to be on for them to work. The pilot light is a small blue flame that needs to stay lit at all times for easier access to heat. But if it doesn’t burn brightly or fails to burn at all, then your home will be cold.
The most common reason for a faulty pilot light is a damaged or dirty flame sensor, so clean the sensor and ensure that the pilot light has a steady flame.
Broken Thermostat
The issue doesn’t always lie in an appliance’s hardware. There could be an issue with the thermostat, like faulty wiring that needs repair. If your thermostat cannot be repaired, then consider replacing it with a new one and calibrating it with the heater. A new or fixed thermostat will be able to control the air temperature better and boost energy efficiency.
Malfunctioning Heat Pump
If you rely on exterior heat pumps, you are in for a lot of problems. Other than common issues like a broken fan, icy winds and snowfall can also damage them, resulting in a poor performance in winters. Many heat pumps fail to defrost in the cold months, and for this appliance to work efficiently, its fan and coils need to be clear of frost.
Therefore, it is wiser to get a fixture with automatic defrost settings so the ice on your heat pump can melt away before a thick layer can form, which will be harder to melt. If your heat pump’s defrost settings do not work, you need to remove the frost buildup manually.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Winter season creates innumerable challenges for property managers and owners who have to protect their property against weather damage of all kinds.
One common example of property damage during the cold months is ruptured pipes coupled with the resulting water damage. Frozen and bursting pipes is an expensive cause of frustration for people who have to pay thousands of dollars for repair.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. offers expert plumbing services in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Costly repairs can be avoided by merely undertaking a few steps to ensure that your pipes do not freeze even in the harshest of winters. If you want to find out what they are, just keep reading.
Keep The Heating Constant
If you are leaving for a long time, then do not switch off the heating. Freezing and bursting pipes can cause a lot more damage to your property and possessions as compared to what you will have to pay for heating in your utility bills.
You do not have to keep the heat on high; just maintain the temperature to keep the pipes warms, so the water inside them does not freeze. 50°F is fine.
Open The Interior Doors
Pipes are often kept inside cabinets, so when the temperatures drop, it is good to keep the cabinet doors open so the heat from inside the house can warm up the plumbing pipes and prevent them from freezing.
In fact, keep all doors inside the house open so the heat can warm up all corners of the house.
Also, if you have your plumbing pipes in the attached garage, then consider doing the same. Keep the connecting door between the garage and the house open to allow the heat to pass through and heat the garage. This will also be good for your vehicle. Just be sure that no heat escapes outside from the garage.
Add Extra Insulation
Pipes present in the basement or attic do not have proper insulation, which may lead to freezing. So add extra insulation to avoid ice blockages and bursting pipes, as insulation keeps a pipe at a temperature closer to that of water inside it.
However, it does not have any heating properties, so it cannot prevent freezing if the pipe is exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Fiberglass or foam rubber sleeves can be fitted on the pipes to decrease the chances of freezing. Insulation sleeves are an easy solution for exposed pipes, but they can be costly if the pipes you want to insulate are located inside the walls, floor, or ceiling.
Additional insulation can be added to the ceiling and walls to keep the pipes warm during winters.
Apply Heating Tape
Heating tape is like an electric blanket for pipes. It supplies heat directly to the pipes to keep them warm. A heating tape can be a good solution if there are short sections of pipe (easily accessible) that are at high risk for freezing. You can install the heating tape and monitor for issues as it can be as dangerous as a space heater.
Two types of heating tapes are available in the market – automatic and manual. The automatic one turns on and off by itself after sensing the temperature to determine if the pipes need heat. The manual heating tape needs to be plugged in and out depending on when you think the pipes need heating as there is no on/off switch on it.
Let The Faucet Drip
If you think your pipe will freeze, just slightly open the faucet fed attached to that pipe so it can drip. If the faucet is linked to both hot and cold water pipes, then slightly open both faucet taps, or set a single-handle faucet to warm.
Leaving the faucet to be open so it can drip relieves the pressure in the plumbing system. So if a pipe freezes, it does not burst due to the pressure created between the blockage and the faucet.
Seal Cracks And Holes
Seal gaps and cracks around holes where the pipes run through the floor or walls to avoid freezing cold air from entering.
You can use spray foam or caulk insulation to seal the gaps, if possible, on both the interior and exterior side of the floor or wall, as the cold outdoor air that gets inside can make a cabinet compartment much colder than it already is.
Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides expert services to residential and commercial projects in Northbrook, IL. Click here to get your free estimate.
Unless there’s indoor flooding, property owners tend to put off plumbing maintenance.
They forget repairing a plumbing issue like a clogged drain pipe to save money or simply because they deem it unnecessary.
But you need to hire licensed plumbing professionals at least twice a year for drain and sewer cleaning and maintenance. This is necessary to fix plumbing issues before they escalate and become dangerous and costly.
Homes and businesses in Northbrook, IL, and the surrounding areas can partner with Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. to keep their indoor plumbing in excellent condition. Click here to get a free estimate.
Here we list the top 6 reasons you should give your property a professional plumbing service twice a year.
1. Save Money
Sounds counter-intuitive, but hiring professional plumbers will help you mitigate maintenance and repair costs in the long run.
You may save a few hundred dollars by skipping your quarterly or annual plumbing maintenance. But eventually, you will have to pay thousands of dollars in costly repairs and replacements.
Moreover, the cost of poorly maintained drainage also extends to property damage and higher monthly utility bills. But you can save these hefty expenses by investing in professional plumbing services.
2. Save Time
This follows from what we discussed above. By handling small repairs proactively, you can avoid time-consuming replacements.
Let’s say that pipes in your basement crack and cause flooding. At this point, you will not only have to get new pipes installed but also clear out the flooded water.
As you can see, replacing pipes is a tedious process. For commercial property owners, this also amounts to lost business hours.
3. Maintain Water Quality
You simply can’t compromise on water quality. Even if the water isn’t potable, it should still be safe for washing clothes and bathroom use.
And this is another reason why you need drain and sewer cleaning a couple of times a year.
Otherwise, you’ll have to shower and brush your teeth with rusty and lead-based water!
4. Maintain Hygiene
Besides providing clean water, well-maintained indoor plumbing also keeps your home or business hygienic and improves air quality inside the building. Properly maintained drains and pipes prevent water leaks, which in turn avoid the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
5. Enhance Safety
The quality of plumbing also has a safety aspect. As already mentioned, it is possible to experience minor flooding due to faulty plumbing. Other potential hazards include:
- Backed-up sewage disposal
- Overflowing toilets
- Dirty or contaminated water
- Malfunctioned appliances
In some cases, you may also face a water shortage in your home because of rusty, clogged, or broken plumbing.
6. Benefit From Experience & Expertise
Finally, while property owners would like to handle plumbing jobs on their own, it’s always best to leave it to professionals. Drainage plumbers bring years of experience and the right expertise to handle each project.
That’s about it!
Homeowners and commercial property managers in Northbrook, IL, and the surrounding areas can always reach out to Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer Inc. for licensed and insured professional services. Click here for free estimates.
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