Tag: wishlist!

Add a Sump Pump to the Holiday Wishlist!

Sump Pumps Offer Many Benefits 

Sump pumps are extremely useful appliances. While many homeowners never see these devices up close, they play a vital role in preventing basement flooding and other expensive complications. Still, many homeowners are on the fence about purchasing these items, especially if they’ve never dealt with basement flooding before. 

Here, one can learn about the many benefits of installing a sump pump. Having a sump pump could mean the difference between a stress-free holiday season and one filled with unexpected bills, plumbers’ visits, and other inconveniences. 

Why Install a Sump Pump? pump

When it rains (or snow melts), the area around the home’s foundation can swell with water. This can cause the basement to flood, sustaining water damage and loss of personal property. Sump pumps sense when water threatens a flood relying on sensors and other systems. Then, they direct this excess water away from home, eliminating the risk of severe flooding. 

Benefits of having a sump pump include: 

  • They protect the home’s foundation. If the home’s foundation is constantly waterlogged, this could cause serious problems. Eventually, it could make the home unsafe for residency. 
  • They protect personal property. Some belongings, such as electronics, can’t take water exposure. Sump pumps reduce the likelihood that flooding would ever damage these items. 
  • They reduce mold growth. Imagine this—a basement floods. The homeowner calls a specialized service to drain the water. Still, the water can promote mold and mildew growth, causing serious health concerns. It can also be quite expensive to remediate. 

There Are Different Types of Sump Pumps pumps

There are different types of sump pumps that suit different types of homes. Some common types of sump pumps include: 

  • Submersible sump pumps: When a plumber installs a sump pump, they dig a small pit filled with water, then place the appliance inside. With this type of sump pump, they’ll put the entire device inside the pit, completely submerging it underwater. These devices save space and even use less energy than their above-water counterparts. 
  • Pedestal sump pumps: These are taller than submersible sump pumps. The sensors go underwater while the motor stays above ground. 
  • Battery-operated sump pumps: Some homeowners rely on battery-operated sump pumps. That’s because these devices can still direct water away from the home’s foundation when the electricity goes out. 
  • Combination sump pumps: Many people call combination sump pumps “flood insurance.” That’s because they can use electricity or a battery to work. No matter how serious a weather event is, a homeowner can rest easy knowing this appliance will work. 

What Are Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps? 

As noted, some severe weather events can put electric-powered sump pumps out of commission. This is why many people rely on secondary or backup sump pumps. These devices: 

  • Work even when there’s no power 
  • Direct wastewater away from the basement and prevent flooding
  • Can handle more water than standard sump pumps 
  • Protect the home and homeowners’ property 

A plumber specializing in sump pump installation can help homeowners determine what device best meets a home’s needs. 

About Heidler, Inc. 

Heidler, Inc. has over 70 years of experience serving its neighbors in Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, emergency assistance, and plumbing maintenance plans. Call them today for sump pump services in Annapolis, MD.

Distribution Links +

Put a New Water Heater At the Top of Your Holiday Wishlist!

A New Water Heater Is the Gift Every Homeowner Deserves This Holiday Season!

It’s not uncommon to wish for new appliances during the holidays. Usually, it’s something to beef up the kitchen like a handy breadmaker, a bigger toaster oven, or even a fancy new smart refrigerator. But for some homeowners, it’s a replacement for that old clunker of a water heater that keeps breaking down. 

The water heater is the heart of the home’s plumbing system. Things can get pretty uncomfortable if it’s constantly malfunctioning or failing to provide enough hot water. It’s only a matter of time before the unit gives out completely and leaves the home without hot water. This article will explain how to tell when a water heater is on its last leg, what problems can be solved with repairs, and how a home can benefit from a water heater replacement.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Water Heater

For the most part, it’s usually pretty easy to tell when the water heater isn’t working properly. Some common symptoms include:

  • The water won’t get hot enough
  • The hot water runs out quickly
  • The water temperature keeps fluctuating
  • The hot water is discolored or has a funky smell
  • The hot water pressure is weak compared to the cold
  • The water won’t get hot at all 

Other signs can be observed not through the water but at the point of the water heater itself, such as evidence of leaks on or around the unit, unusual noises such as popping, rumbling, or hissing. Some units even have status indicator lights to alert the owner of an anomaly or problem.

When To Repair & When To Replace

water heater In some cases, replacing the whole water heater may not be the best option. Water heaters aren’t exactly cheap, so if the problem can be solved with repairs, why shell out all that money unnecessarily? Simply cleaning the burners or replacing a faulty thermostat may resolve temperature issues. A partially closed valve could be responsible for low pressure. A loose pipe fitting or worn relief valve could cause a leak.

Of course, some issues are more serious and can lead to further damage if left unchecked. If the tank’s anode rod is depleted, for instance, the tank may begin to rust if a new rod isn’t installed immediately. Delayed ignition due to dirty burners can crack the heat exchanger – a very expensive fix. If sediment buildup in the tank isn’t flushed out in time, it could cause the tank to crack and leak, which cannot be repaired and will necessitate replacing the entire unit.

If the cost to repair the unit is half the cost of a replacement or more, it may make more sense to go for the latter. This is especially true if the unit is more than a few years old, as the average lifespan of a water heater is around 10 years (or closer to 20 for tankless units). 

Key Benefits of Upgrading the Water Heater

water heater Even if a full replacement isn’t strictly necessary, it does carry some major benefits. For one thing, homeowners can upgrade to a new and improved model that better serves their needs. 

Many people find that their old water heater can no longer keep up with the household demand for hot water – particularly if the family has gotten bigger over the years. This may be the perfect opportunity to switch to a larger unit that can handle the load or even to a tankless water heater. These heat water only as needed, reducing standby energy consumption and making it possible to have an endless flow of hot water.

New water heaters, whether traditional or tankless, are also significantly more efficient than their older counterparts, thanks to continuous advancements in water heater technology. In this way, upgrading to a new water heater can end up saving homeowners money in the long run – truly, the gift that keeps giving!

About Heidler, Inc.

The family-owned and operated Heidler, Inc. has been the trusted local plumber in Annapolis, Maryland, since 1947. They offer up-front pricing, 24-hour emergency response, and a range of rewarding maintenance plans. With their award-winning customer service and tailor-made solutions, they are the clear choice for water heater installation in Annapolis, MD.

Distribution Links +