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Pipes aren’t something you should think about replacing, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need it after some time. Every type of pipe has a different lifespan and here are a few signs for when you should call an expert plumber to replace them. Obvious Signs Your Pipes Need Replacing There are a few obvious signs you should look for if your house is old and has older piping. One of the most obvious things are cracks and leaks. A cracked pipe should be pretty easy to spot — look for a crack in the pipe itself or leaks. If you notice a leak, follow it as much as you can (or call a plumber to check out the pipe from the inside), and you’ll likely find a crack. If you do notice a leak, call a professional immediately. It doesn’t take long for water to damage your floor or walls! A plumber might be able to repair a plumbing leak without replacing pipes. But they might also suggest pipe replacement if the pipes are in especially bad shape. Corrosion Corrosion is a natural process that destroys the material it affects. It usually occurs in refined metals. Corrosion isn’t that common with modern piping materials, but is possible in older homes. This is why the answer to “how often should you replace your pipes” isn’t as straightforward as saying “once every X years.” Galvanized steel pipes, which aren’t as common nowadays, are known to corrode. Once corrosion sets in, it’s only a matter of time before you’re going to need to replace your plumbing pipes to allow water to flow through them freely again. Less Obvious Signs that Your Pipes Need Replacing There are times when your pipes won’t be clogged due to corrosion, where they will be as dry as the Arizona desert, and where no cracks are visible. But that doesn’t necessarily mean your pipes don’t need replacing. Be on the lookout for these less obvious signs. Water Discoloration Discolored water is not always a sign that you need new pipes, especially if you live in an area with a “boil order” in place, if you have well water, or live in a rural area. But if you filter your water and none of the above is true, it’s possible the discoloration is due to corrosion. This puts rust in your water, thus resulting in the brownish tint. Though rusty water may look and taste unpleasant, it is not a health concern. It is a concern to your pipes, though. The rust can cause minerals to build up, which in turn either clogs your pipe or slowly builds pressure in it. The pressure, if left unchecked, can cause the pipe to burst. A burst pipe can cause catastrophic damage to your wiring and insulation, and may even lead to a house fire. If you suspect rust or corrosion, call a professional plumber immediately. Lifespan Just like how technology goes in and out of style as new and better models are released, so does plumbing. Pipes have drastically changed in the past century to become more reliable and safe. Depending on when your home was built, you may want to consider replacing your pipes to modernize your home before any problems arise. Most modern systems use brass, copper, or PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes. However, older buildings used cast iron, lead, and galvanized steel. Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a lifespan of 80-00 years, copper lasts 70-80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24-45 years. Lead pipes are a huge concern if they’re in your home. Lead is highly toxic and should not be consumed in any quantity, no matter how small. It can be found in brass pipes too, as it is an alloy. Tests can reveal how much lead is in each pipe, and if it’s above the federally suggested level, you should cease water usage immediately. Pex pipes are the newest thing in piping. Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing is a plastic material that has several advantages over previous materials like copper and PVC. It’s flexible, much easier to install, and has an estimated 100 year lifespan. It is also highly durable and heat resistant. So, Do You Need to Replace Your Pipes? If you haven’t noticed anything unusual with your pipes, you probably don’t need to replace them. Be sure to keep an eye out for any of the signs mentioned above. If you’re looking to buy a house, ensure that the pipes are good to go by having them inspected (especially if the home is older). If you need prompt and reliable service to either replace a pipe or just check them out to be sure, contact Economy Plumbing. Their business is family owned and operated and is a member of the Registrar of Contractors (ROC) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Give them a call today!

Breakdown of Water and Sewer Pipe Materials Not all pipes are made from the same material. There are various types of both metal and nonmetal piping used in modern plumbing systems, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some older materials, like galvanized steel, are being phased out, while others, like brass and PEX piping, are gaining popularity for their durability and cost-effectiveness. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common water and sewer pipe materials, helping you understand the best options for your home. Brass Sewer Pipes Brass was a popular material for older homes due to its long lifespan (80-100 years) and resistance to rust, especially if it contains 67-85% copper. Brass pipes are still a reliable choice for: Water supply lines Water removal drains Certain gas line applications (check local building codes) However, older brass pipes can contain lead, a toxic substance that can leach into your water supply. If you have brass pipes, have them tested for lead regularly. Modern brass pipes are generally lead-free, making them a safer option for today’s plumbing needs. Cast Iron Pipes Cast iron pipes were commonly used in homes built before the 1950s. They are extremely durable, resistant to sound and heat, and often used in: Water distribution systems Underground installations for sewer lines Despite their strength, cast iron pipes are prone to rust over time. Regular inspections are necessary, and sections of the pipe can be replaced as needed. While cast iron is no longer commonly used for new installations due to its weight, it remains a reliable material for existing structures. Galvanized Steel Galvanized steel pipes were popular in homes built after the 1950s. Their average lifespan is 80-100 years, but they are highly prone to rust and corrosion over time. As galvanized pipes age, they may cause issues such as: Discolored water Reduced water pressure Frequent leaks If you suspect you have galvanized steel pipes, you can confirm by scratching the surface and checking if a magnet sticks to it. Due to corrosion risks, galvanized pipes should be replaced with more modern materials like PEX or copper. Copper Piping Copper piping is a top choice for homes built after the 1970s, with nearly 98% of modern homes using copper. Copper pipes are long-lasting (up to 80 years) and can be used for both indoor and outdoor installations. However, copper piping has some drawbacks: It can corrode in homes with acidic water, leading to leaks and high copper levels in drinking water, which poses health risks. Copper pipes are also more expensive compared to other materials. Despite these downsides, copper remains a popular option due to its durability and recyclability. PVC Piping PVC piping is a lightweight, flexible option commonly used for short-term sewer and water drainage systems. It has a lifespan of 24-45 years, so it requires more frequent replacements compared to other materials. However, PVC pipes offer several advantages: Flexible and easy to install Fracture-resistant Secure joints for tight connections PVC is a non-toxic and safe material that has been extensively tested. It remains a common choice for drainage systems due to its cost-effectiveness and reliability. PEX Piping PEX piping has become a preferred choice for water supply systems since its introduction in the 1960s. PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene tubing, is durable, flexible, and can last up to 100 years. Key benefits of PEX piping include: Easy installation compared to rigid pipes High heat resistance Flexibility, making it ideal for retrofitting existing plumbing systems While PEX is ideal for indoor plumbing, it is not suitable for outdoor use due to UV sensitivity, and it cannot be recycled. However, it is a cost-effective and long-lasting choice for most residential plumbing needs. Choosing the Right Material for Your Plumbing System When choosing the right pipe material for your water or sewer system, consider factors like longevity, cost, installation complexity, and resistance to corrosion. Materials like PEX and copper offer excellent durability and performance, while PVC is a great option for drainage systems. At Economy Plumbing Service, LLC, we help homeowners in Tucson, AZ, and the surrounding areas, make informed decisions about their piping systems. Whether you're looking to repipe your entire home or replace aging pipes, we offer expert guidance and installation services. Contact Economy Plumbing Service, LLC for Your Piping Needs If you’re experiencing plumbing issues or need to replace your existing pipes, our team at Economy Plumbing Service, LLC is here to help. We provide comprehensive piping and repiping services in Tucson, AZ, and surrounding areas like Oro Valley, Rita Ranch, and Vail. Contact us today for an assessment or to schedule a service. Call us at 520-885-3510 or fill out our online form to get started!

One of the most important appliances in your home is something you don’t think about is your water heater. While that’s a good thing, once a decade passes, you’re going to want to start thinking about replacing it before your water heater fails. Nowadays, there are many choices, but it all boils down to gas water heaters or electric ones. For some, the choice is simple: if your house isn’t hooked up to gas, then you have to choose electric. But for most, you do have the ability to choose between the two. So, what’s the difference? Both gas water heaters and electric ones are rated by their input, which is the measurement of gas or electricity used per hour to heat the water in the tank. Gas is measured in BTUs and electric heaters are measured in watts. The average input ratings for a gas water heater range from around 30,000 to 180,000 BTUs, depending on size. Generally speaking, the more BTUs, the faster the unit will heat water. For Electric water heaters, the average input ranges 1,440 to 5,500 watts, and the same principle applies—the higher the wattage, the more quickly the unit will heat water. The Cost of Gas vs. Electric Like with any home appliance, the cost depends on how big, new, efficient, and high-quality the water heater is. The more expensive unit, the more likely it is to have a longer lifespan, be more efficient, and save you more money in the long term. Gas and electric water heaters differ greatly in cost, though you’ll have to think beyond the initial payment to get a fair comparison. Gas water heaters are more expensive than electric, but they cost less to run (as gas is generally cheaper than electricity), while electric water heaters have a cheaper price tag, but often cost more in monthly electric bills. Which One is More Efficient? This one is not as easy to answer, as some electric water heaters are more efficient than gas, and vice versa. Efficiency is measured by EF ratings — the higher the EF rating, the more efficient the water heater is. Many will be comparable, especially models made by the same manufacturer and ones that are similar sizes. However, certain types of electric-powered models—including heat pump and hybrid heat pump units, described below—have the efficiency advantage. Though if you’re looking at a gas and electric unit of vastly different qualities and age, always go for the newer model that is higher quality. Which One Heats Up Faster? If you’re looking for a unit that heats up faster, gas is the way to go. This is because electric heaters often rely on drawing heat from the surrounding air to get going. If you’re in a warmer climate, you may not notice the difference, but if you experience cold winters or mild climates, you may want to consider a gas water heater. The pinnacle of efficiency in an electric water heater is the heat pump unit. Before you buy, do some research to see if the unit can withstand what you need it for. There are also hybrid options available for heat pumps. Hybrid heat pumps allow the consumer to choose different operating modes for different situations to increase the appliance’s efficiency. For example, most hybrid heat pump units have a vacation mode that reduces operating costs when no one is at home. Depending on the model, you could save up to 80 percent on hot water costs by choosing a hybrid heat pump over a standard water heater. There is a downside to hybrid units though. Most of them must be installed in a large area — at least 1,000 square feet — and are not appropriate for small utility closets. What About Tankless Water Heaters? Tankless water heaters come in both gas and electric options. They heat water as you use it, opposed to storing it in a tank, which means they can be up to 35% more energy efficient. These are an entirely different breed and rely on “flow rate” measurements, so be sure to consult with an expert before purchasing one. Lifespan The style of water heater, not what fuels it, determines how long it lasts. For both gas and electric, tank water heaters last an average of 10 to 13 years, and tankless units last up to 20 years or longer. The average for electric heat pump water heaters is 12 to 15 years. When in Doubt, Call The Experts Get peace of mind and great service by hiring trained plumbers and technicians. They are highly knowledgeable on plumbing, building codes and technology innovations. Need a job done as soon as possible? Economy Plumbing Service will always answer the phone. They provide comprehensive, first-rate service on every call. Their work is done on time, exactly to specifications, no matter the task. If you need a new heater heater, they have your back too. Call them today.

It might surprise you to talk about now, but this month on the Economy Plumbing Services blog we are talking about pipe insulation and winter prep for your plumbing. “It’s September! Fall isn’t even here yet!” We hear you, but when it comes to pipe insulation and other winter prep, getting it done before winter is the whole point, it’s a proactive measure you need to take to make sure your plumbing doesn’t breakdown come the colder months. Let’s start with pipe insulation! Pipe Insulation – What is It Good For? You might be surprised to hear it, pipe insulation is good for keeping your pipes, more specifically what is flowing through them, the temperature they need to be for them to work like they are supposed to! You might think ‘Hey, the pipes are in the walls, that’s insulated! Nothing to worry about here,’ and while in most cases, sure, the pipes might not need that extra help to keep their temp. Those interior walls keep the temperature regulated, but in unheated portions of your home there can be there can be unseen problems caused by the lack of insulation. For instance, cold water pipes might sweat, increasing the humidity in your home. Hot water pipes leaving the heater might lose some of their heat as they flow, making you crank the hot water handle to get it where you want and causing the cost to rise in turn! For those pipes that are on the exterior of your home, or in the outer walls, they may be exposed to more extreme temperatures such as freezing cold putting them at risk to freeze, burst, and flood your home! So, you want to prevent freezing pipes, you want to prevent loss of heat and energy inefficiency. That means its time to insulate! Ways to Insulate Pipes There are a few different methods for installing pipe insulation. You can: Use foam pipe sleeves Add wall insulation Use pipe wrap Installing Foam Pipe Sleeves These work best when long, straight stretches of pipe need insulating. Installing them is surprisingly easy, all you’ll need are the sleeves, maybe some duct tape, and something to cut the foam with! Simply lay the sleeve along the pipe, pry up the slit in the side of the sleeve and slide over the pipe. The slit may have a self-adhesive strip attached, may not, but either way it wouldn’t hurt to double dip and seal using duct tape after the fact. When you get to a point where the pipe bends or ends, simply cut the remaining length of foam and use it elsewhere. You may end up with some bends or places that aren’t as well insulated. If you’re handy enough, you can cut and wrangle the foam sleeves to cover the exposed  areas decently enough. Adding Wall Insulation If you’re in a place that gets freezing temps (and believe it or not, that includes us desert dwellers in Tucson!) you know that the exterior walls get cold. If you have any pipes in the exterior walls, you’ll need to make sure they are adequately insulated. This requires a bit more work than the pipe sleeves, including opening up your walls and placing new, better insulating materials into the space. If you have another remodeling project on the docket, now is the time to double dip and get a plan made for insulation. Using Pipe Wrap Pipe wrap is available in a bunch of different materials – flexible foam, bubble-film, foam-and-foil, foil-backed cotton, or rubber pipe tape. It’s easy to install and works well for small stretches pipe, or where there are so many bends it isn’t feasible to use something bigger. Whichever wrap material you go with, installation is dead simple. Tape one end on the pipe and get wrapping, spiraling the strip around the pipe overlapping each loop by about a half an inch. Tape the other end of the insulating strip into place and bing-bang-boom you’re in business! If you combine both the pipe wrap and sleeve methods you can cover your exposed pipes with the necessary insulation fairly painlessly! Not up to snuff when it comes to handy stuff? Worried you might make the problem worse, or just want to have the peace of mind that comes with professional installation? You know who to call! Next time, on the blog we’ll take a look at winter prep for all your plumbing including winterizing your pipes!

Thankfully, a clog sink is relatively easy to deal with, but the cause of it can be triggered by many things. To avoid a clog in the future, here’s a list of what probably caused it in the first place. The most common things to a clog a sink are hair, food, soap scum, or grease. What Clogs a Bathroom Sink If your bathroom sink is draining slowly, or not draining at all, the culprit is likely hair. It’s the perfect material to clog drains: it clumps, is stringy, and easily sticks to surfaces. Pipe walls often catch hair clumps as they travel down the drain, so the hair sticks and gathers more and more hair as time goes on. This is also what causes your shower or bath to slowly drain. All hair clogs drains: from men’s hair, to women’s hair, from thin hair to thick, and even pat hair — it’s all a culprit. To reduce the number of clogs in the future, try to catch the hair before it goes down the drain using a drain straining device, or pick up the hair manually instead of flushing it away with water. Soap Scum Soap scum can clog any sink, but is particularly common in the bathroom and laundry room. Soap scum occurs when chemicals in the soap react with calcium and magnesium ions in water. It looks like a filmy substance that clings to the bottom of the sink and the walls of pipes. Overtime, it can cause clogs and build ups. Like hair, it catches itself and other falling materials, creating a clog over time. Soap scum can create particularly frustrating clogs because it’s sticky. It’s not easy to clean away with a pipe snake or professional tool, or chemical to dissolve it. Having a water softener helps tremendously with reducing soap scum build up. The filter cleans out the calcium and magnesium ions, making it harder for the chemical reaction with the soap to occur. Heavier chunks of soap may also catch in the p-trap, so having a drain strainer will help with that too. What Clogs a Kitchen Sink? The biggest thing that stops up a kitchen sink is food. It seems obvious, but certain foods aren’t meant to go down the drain, especially if it’s larger chunks. Any food that’s washed down the drain can get trapped in the P- or J-trap in the pipe system. Overtime, anything that’s caught in the pipes will catch other things, thus causing the build up to grow. To remove them you’ll need to use a drain cleaner or plumbing snake, or a drain friendly cleaner. To avoid getting food stuck in the drain, avoid putting it down there in the first place or installing a garbage disposal. Grease Grease kills pipes and drains because it is notorious for causing clogs. Grease creates sticky sediment that acts as glue in your pipes. It catches and traps other things and they get stuck for a very long time. A garbage disposal can’t dissolve grease either, so there is little you can do without chemical cleaners, professional tools, or new pipes all together. To avoid these clogs, don’t pour grease, fat, or oils down the sink. They should always go in the garbage. If you do put fat down the drain, run the garbage disposal and use cold water to help chop the fat up and move it through your piping system. Damaged Pipes All kinds of pipe damage can cause clogs. When pipes corrode, the rust built up on the inner pipe walls can constrict water flow. Dented pipes will constrict or completely block off water flow if they’re damaged significantly enough. Even pipe joints can wear out or come apart, which could cause pipes to sag and block water flow. If pipes aren’t securely fastened, they could shift over time until they become displaced or disconnected. Pipe damage is difficult to avoid because all pipes get worn down over time. Need a Plumber? Some clogs are just too stubborn to get out on your own, or you may need new pipes. If that’s the case, call a reliable plumbing service. If you’re in Tucson, give Economy Plumbing Service a call. Their plumbers are experienced and can get into any space to repair your pipes or unclog a sink. Economy Plumbing Service trucks are fully stocked and ready to repair all kinds of plumbing leaks and issues. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, stems, or cartridges, and all makes and materials of piping and fittings. They will always answer the phone to help. Contact them today.

When it comes to a sink or a toilet, it’s not always obvious they need to be replaced. At Economy Plumbing Service, we often get calls to repair sinks and toilets. In many cases, a replacement would better suit the homeowners needs than a repair, but it is often hard to spot the difference between a need for a repair and a replacement. So we compiled a helpful guide to explain just that: when you should replace a toilet or a sink. When to Replace a Toilet There are a few obvious signs that should get you thinking about a replacement toilet, such as cracked porcelain that leads to a leak, or deep scratches that you just can’t clean out. If you notice a pool of water, you should replace your toilet right away instead of trying to repair it. Call a plumber to get their advice on what is causing the leak and get their advice to take appropriate action before mold or water damage forms. Besides cracked porcelain, scratches that are becoming increasingly difficult to clean, a leak, or a broken exterior, there are a couple of obvious signs for when you should replace a toilet. It Frequently Clogs Does your toilet require plunging more than once a week? Or does it need more than one flush most of the time? This indicates that your toilet is probably old, or there is something not working right within it. Both are signs that you should be looking for a replacement. While frequent clogging isn’t necessarily a sign of a broken toilet, it can be cumbersome to have to use a plunger on a regular basis. The problem may be solved by replacing the inner workings of the toilet, but this can be a challenging task for someone who isn’t trained. It Needs Too Many Repairs As mentioned above, repairing a toilet isn’t the most straightforward — it can require replacing quite a few things in the tank, such as its handle, flapper, and fill valve. Some repairs are simple, like replacing the flushing mechanism or untangling the chain that connects the handle to the flapper. Others can be as complicated as sealing a crack, replacing piping underneath the toilet, or resealing it all together. If you find yourself repairing your toilet often, it’s probably time to replace the entire unit. To Save Water and Money Older toilet models often use too much water and are not as efficient as newer models. If you do not have a low-flush toilet, it may be beneficial to replace your toilet to save money on your water bill. An efficient toilet uses less than 2 gallons of water per flush, while older models can use between 3-5 gallons. Think of it this way: you can use 15 gallons of water per day for 3 toilet flushes, or you can use 6 gallons for the same amount of flushes. This will not only save you money on your utility bill each month, but is better for the planet. When to Replace a Sink Like toilets, sinks have quite a few working parts that shouldn’t need constant repair or replacement. It’s not always easy to notice when a replacement is needed, save for a leak, a broken faucet, or a large crack. The first thing you should be looking for in older sinks are leaks. If you hear dripping water, investigate immediately. It could be the sound of a broken sink. Leaks can cause extensive damage to your home if not found and repaired quickly. If you’re not sure where to look, start by searching for any visible wear and tear on the sink itself, the faucet, and the pipes underneath. Damage could range from a chipped basin to a crack forming up the side. No matter how big or small the damage could be, it’s important to assess it as quickly as possible. You Are Constantly Repairing Your Sink A general rule is that anything that consistently needs to be repaired should be replaced. If your sink isn’t able to retain any water or it’s clogged continuously, those are a telltale sign that your sink or the pipes underneath it will need to be replaced. If the repair isn’t a simple fix, call a plumber. They may be able to help patch the problem, or can install your new sink for you. Your Sink Is Outdated There was an era where pink, blue, and yellow bathrooms were all the rage. If you’re not into that, or are looking to sell your home, you should probably modernize your bathroom, including the sink. The sink may still be functional, but if it’s not aesthetically pleasing, then you should swap it out with something you like. An outdated sink and faucet can also waste water and not be as efficient as newer models. If any of this sounds familiar, consider getting a replacement and calling a plumber to help install it for you.

Tankless water heaters are a hot new option for creating an energy-efficient home. Unlike traditional water heaters that continuously heat and reheat water as they store them in their tanks, keeping them always hot, tankless water heaters instead focus on warming just the water that’s being used. Sounds great right? It is if that’s all you’re after. But when it comes to installing a water heater system, it’s important to understand all facets of it. This time on the Economy Plumbing Services blog, we’re asking what is the downside to a tankless water heater, what are the benefits? Tankless Water Heaters As we started to discuss, tankless water heaters heat just the water that’s being used, rather than keeping an entire 55gallon tank warm and at the ready. It does this by using electric coils or high-powered gas burners to superheat the water instantly as it’s needed. At that moment the unit sure uses more power but because it’s only doing it once that used power isn’t lost while the water sits and cools waiting for reheating, meaning the tankless water heater will use less energy overall, making it more energy-efficient…in the right situation. Some units might in fact use more energy, it depends. So with that laid out let’s dive into the pros and cons of these systems. The Upsides of Tankless Water Heaters Instant Hot Water On the most basic level, tankless water heaters deliver what you want – instant hot water. After the initial cold water is flushed of course, all without a storage tank filling up your basement, closet, or laundry room. Longer Lifespan A huge benefit to going with a tankless unit is that it’ll still be there for you years down the road! While a standard water heater can last a decade or more, a tankless one can live double that! Just stay on top of your regular maintenance and this investment will be paying off for a long time to come. Lower Month-to-Month Costs and No Standby Loss While these systems are expensive to install initially (more on that later) they are also leagues more energy efficient. Some consumer reports put them at being 22% more efficient than standard units. This means every month your bill will be lower and you’ll save potentially hundreds of dollars a year. The key way that tankless water heaters keep usage low is by eliminating standby loss. Traditional units reheat water repeatedly, using energy (and raising your bill) every time it does so. More often than not that water isn’t being warmed because it’s new and needs to be, but because the tank has sat for a bit and cooled down. Tankless systems don’t have to reheat anything. Save Space Tankless water heaters are much smaller than their traditional cousins and can be installed in inconspicuous places. If your home is smaller, that saved space will be huge! Speaking of Smaller Homes… In addition to the space-saving wonder, tankless water heaters are great if you don’t have a huge demand for hot water. If your household is made up of just two or even three people, these more efficient units will put out enough hot water without the need for a tank (and the standby loss that comes with it). Never Run Out of Hot Water Perhaps the biggest pro of them all, you’ll never run out of hot water! Some people experience a loss of hot water, say after two or three really long showers in a row. This is because the tank is drained empty and needs time to refill and reheat.  Not so when it comes to tankless heaters! Since they don’t rely on a storage unit of reserved hot water, the tankless heater will keep pumping out equally hot water as it’s needed so those three showers are no issue (so long as they are taken one at a time of course). Options Available Tankless water heaters are often powered by natural gas, but electric models are also available. Depending on what your home is set up with in regards to electricity and gas, there’s a tankless water heater option for you. The Downsides of Tankless Water Heaters Inconsistent Temperatures, Limited Water One of the more common complaints about tankless water heaters is inconsistent heating. Some heaters don’t turn on when a faucet is only slightly opened meaning the hot water that comes out is never actually heated, making for seemingly ‘spotty’ heating performance. Another reason for it is that and it has to do with the ability for a heater to instantly heat and send water to multiple different fixtures or outlets at the same time. That brings up their limited supply. Tankless water heaters can supply a steady stream of hot water as needed, but it won’t last forever. If one person is taking a shower, or doing the dishes it’ll do just fine. But if another person in the home jumps into the shower while another runs a load of laundry the tankless water heater will struggle to keep up. These are downsides of usage really, so long as everything is done in a certain manner, for example, the faucet all the way opened when in use, only one person showering at a time, etc. you should be able to avoid this downside. Higher Installation Cost and Potential Extra Equipment No getting around this one, tankless water heaters cost more to install than traditional heaters. Just the way of it. For the time being. In addition to the higher cost of just the water heater, there is often more equipment needed to make sure the heater works as it should. A water softener is usually necessary for instance. Of course, all this extra equipment adds to the initial installation price tag. One of the hidden costs that many don’t realize is the need to reroute gas lines (if it’s a gas water heater). Tankless water heaters require a non-traditional setup and a contractor might have to reroute lines or add venting to make sure it works safely. Recouping That Price Tage Takes Time While month-to-month water heating costs are cheaper with a tankless unit, it takes time for that savings to make up the cost of the initial installation. Depending on usage of course. Over time you’ll end up ahead but it can take a few years to get there. There are Other Options Out There Tankless water heaters are not the only efficient option; solar water heating is a huge potential area, especially here in Arizona (thanks 350+ days of sunshine!) New Energy Star certified traditional storage water heaters are also available and these are energy efficient as well. If your goal is to be as energy-efficient as possible, it might make more sense to go with one of those for the time being. Chances are your home is already set up with the right gas lines and or electrical needed for it operate making it an easy purchase. Changing Water Usage Habits A tankless water heater is not the only way to make your home water use more efficient.  home’s water system more efficient. By changing your showering habits your family could lower your water use (and bill) drastically. Installing low-flow plumbing fixtures will save you more every day. And in Arizona, we know about water conservation – we rely on it! So, What’ll It Be? You know the positive and the negatives of this new energy-efficient appliance, which way you going to go with it? Need to talk to a professional? Give us a call and we’ll talk you through the models and options we have available and what will be the best option for you! If Water Goes Through It Or To It, We Do It!

When it comes to plumbing, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing has gained significant popularity due to its affordability, flexibility, and ease of installation. However, despite its widespread use, concerns have been raised regarding its safety and durability. So, is PEX plumbing really bad? In this post, we'll address these concerns, dispel common myths, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about using PEX in your home. What is PEX Plumbing? PEX tubing has been a game-changer in the plumbing industry. Unlike traditional copper piping, PEX is resistant to corrosion, doesn’t require soldering, and can be easily installed in tight spaces due to its flexibility. It’s commonly used for residential water supply lines and is known for its longevity and cost-effectiveness. Common Concerns About PEX Plumbing Safety Concerns: Is PEX Tubing Safe for Drinking Water? Myth: Some people believe that PEX tubing is unsafe because it’s made of plastic, which might leach harmful chemicals into the water. Fact: PEX tubing is BPA-free and does not contain other harmful chemicals that could leach into your water supply. Numerous studies, including a comprehensive Norwegian study, have shown that PEX is safe for drinking water and poses no health risks. Taste Issues: Does PEX Affect Water Taste? Myth: Water from PEX pipes may have a strange taste, leading some to believe that the tubing is contaminating their water. Fact: In rare cases, PEX tubing can impart a temporary taste to the water, especially if it’s new or if water has been sitting in the pipes for an extended period. However, this is not a safety issue, and the taste typically dissipates after a few uses or by letting the water run for a minute before consumption. Durability Concerns: Is PEX as Reliable as Copper? Myth: PEX is less durable than copper and more prone to leaks or failures. Fact: PEX is highly resistant to scale, chlorine, and corrosion, which makes it a durable choice for plumbing. While it is more permeable than copper, proper installation and use in suitable environments ensure that PEX can last as long as copper piping, often up to 50 years or more. To learn more, check out our " PEX vs Copper Pipes - Which Pipe to Use and Why " blog post! Advantages of PEX Plumbing Cost-Effective: PEX is significantly cheaper than copper, both in terms of materials and installation labor. Flexibility: PEX can bend around corners and run through walls easily, reducing the need for fittings and joints that can leak over time. Freeze Resistance: PEX is more resistant to bursting in freezing temperatures due to its flexibility. When to Consider Alternatives to PEX While PEX is a great option for many plumbing situations, there are cases where copper or other materials might be more suitable: High-Temperature Applications: In areas where extremely high temperatures are common, copper may be a better choice due to its higher heat tolerance. Historical Homes: For homes where preserving the original building materials is important, copper may be preferred for aesthetic or structural reasons. Should You Choose PEX for Your Home? The decision to use PEX or another material depends on your specific needs, budget, and the environment in which it will be used. However, for most homeowners, PEX offers a reliable, safe, and cost-effective solution for plumbing needs. Need Expert Advice on PEX Plumbing in Tucson, AZ? At Economy Plumbing Service, LLC, we stand by PEX as a high-quality material for both new installations and repiping projects. Serving Tucson, AZ, and surrounding areas, our experienced team is here to help you decide the best plumbing solution for your home. Whether you’re considering PEX or traditional copper pipes, we have the expertise to ensure your plumbing system is safe, efficient, and long-lasting. Contact us online, call us at (520) 885-3510, or request a service appointment online to schedule your next Tucson repiping service with the best!

Unfortunately for most of our customers, when they need a plumber they need a plumber stat! A toilet might be overflowing, drains clogged and causing a mess, or a leaking water heater. All of these are problems you want to act on quick, and are worth knowing their potential causes. The sooner you recognize the problem, the sooner it can be fixed, the less damage and cost falls to you! To that end, this time on the Economy Plumbing Services blog, we are looking at what to do in the case of a leaking water heater, how to diagnose the source of the leak and more in this double sized entry! Handling a Leaking Water Heater WARNING: Believe it or not, water heaters get water HOT! Most heaters at factory settings heat water to around 125 degrees. That’s hot enough to cause first degree burns, some heaters run hotter and even indirect contact can burn. Be safe here! Step One – Find the Source There are a few possible reasons for water to be spotted pooling under a water heater. It could be a leak, yes, or it could just be condensation from pipes, nearby appliances, and the like. If you have a basement or the weather is particularly damp this might be the cause. It could also be from water softener or furnace drain lines, or other sections of your plumbing could be leaking instead of the water heater. Here’s how to find the source! Dry the area completely and then inspect the plumbing and water heater fittings. Wherever the pipes and appliances join, look for water beading. If no water is spotted, look at possible nearby sources. Look above to where it may drip from. If there is still no obvious source, lay down some towels and check every so often for any additional leaks. If they don’t appear – hey! There’s nothing to be worried about! If water does reappear, and there isn’t any other obvious source, it very well could be the water heater. Step Two – Turn Off the Power Now that you know the water heater is the likely culprit, you need to turn the power OFF! Electricity and water are a rough mix. If you have an electric water heater go to your circuit breaker box and look for the breaker for your water heater (if these aren’t labelled, make a note and take care of those when this is settled!) Is your water heater running off natural gas? Look for a dial or switch on the tank itself, often near the bottom. Be sure it is set to OFF. Step Three – Turn Off the Water Most water heaters have a valve right at the top that supplies the cold water to the tank. Turn that off. Sometimes it’s necessary to shut off the water to the house but if you are still unsure of the leak location that can make it hard to diagnose. Step Four – Where’s the Leak?! Looking over your water heater with a closer eye for detail can help you identify the problem before calling in a professional, ensuring that they know as much as they can going into it. Common Places for Leaks -Cold Water Inlet/Hot Water Outlet The water inlet/outlet connections take the cold water to the tank to get heated before it is sent out to the feature needing hot water. These should be on the top of the water heater and if the leak is coming from these connections it might be as simple a fix as getting a pipe wrench and tightening a few connections. Not too bad! -Drain Valve At the bottom of the tank is something called the drain valve, bet you can guess what this one does! Check to see if the valve is closed completely. Check where the valve connects, there shouldn’t be any moisture. If the drain valve has a leak it can be fixed, it isn’t too serious. -Temp/Pressure Relief Valve Also located on the top (or side) of the tank is the temperature and pressure release valve and pipe. This safety device helps ensure that the water in the tank doesn’t get too hot and that the pressure being built up inside is not to the point of bursting. This lets water out of the tank, relieving pressure and bringing the temp down.  If the valve is closed and water is still flowing through the pipe then the valve is defective and in need of replacing. If the valve is open and the water coming then it’s a good bet the leak is fixable. Call a professional! -Internal Tank Now, here’s where it gets tricky. The internal tank of a hot water heater is completely enclosed in insulation and the outer shell. A leak inside the internal tank won’t be visible from the outside and the water will leak through the bottom. It is not an uncommon thing for the internal tank to start leaking. With age comes use, with use comes deterioration – when comes to fixing the internal tank the only real fix is to replace the entire unit. Repair Yourself or Hire a Professional? Now, with this information you have the know how to figure out where and what the malfunction might be. For some of these the fixes might well be within your own capabilities! Like we said with the inlet and outlets, simply tightening the fittings might be all that’s needed to settle the problem. For others, like the internal tank, replacing the whole unit is the only option or a fix. Be honest with your own abilities and ask “Is this something I can handle or will it just end up costing more?” Ready to call in the professionals? Give Economy Plumbing Services a call for prompt, dependable plumbing service. Our professionals can have your problem sorted out before you know it, whether it’s repairing or replacing a leaky water heater, repiping a home or anything else you may need. REMEMBER, IF WATER GOES THROUGH IT OR TO IT – WE DO IT! CALL 520 -214-2149!

Alright so we might have made up the term “plumbing herpetology” but it was too good to pass up. The plumbing snake is one of our key tools here at Economy Plumbing Services and it’s often the first thing people go to when they’re having clogged line troubles. “Can you snake it?” Might just be one of your most common questions. This time on the blog we want to tell you all about the plumbing snake, when we use it and when we’re best off going with something else. Knowing is, after all, half the battle! The Plumber’s Snake, or Plumbing Snake It has a few names, the plumber’s snake, plumbing snake, or drain snake, but they all refer to the same thing: a long, flexible drill-like device called an auger. The long and short of it is this, the snake is inserted into a drain line to handle serious clogs that just won’t budge with a plunger. There are a few different varieties of snakes including hand augers, closet augers, or the suped-up drum auger. Hand auger The hand auger style of plumbing snake is mostly useful when it comes to clearing sink and bathtub drains. It isn’t suitable for toilets because of it’s narrow size and the potential for damaging the porcelain. For those, you’d want a toilet auger. Toilet auger The toilet auger (also known as a closet auger ((as in water closet))) feeds a relatively shorter auger through a hook-shaped length of metal tubing. It has a hook shape that makes it easier to maneuver into a toilet and has a plastic boot to it that will protect the porcelain. Since most toilet clogs occur in the trap built into the toilet itself, the short cable is usually enough to break up and remove the clog. Drum augers This heavy duty option is motorized and outfitted with blades, designed for all sorts of pipes. These are powerful enough to clear through tree roots that may have grown into the line and blocked off the flow. They can also just as easily damage or destroy plastic pipework like nobodies business, they are best left to professionals. All of these work on the same principle so let’s get to that. How the Snake Works Every snake is made up of a length of wire that has a helix shaped component at the end. This helix has varying space in the coil, so that it can grab ahold and firmly lodge itself into whatever obstruction it finds. Essentially, a plumber will insert the snake (or auger) into the pipe or drain pushing it until the end of the snake comes into contact with the blockage. The snake is then manipulated and pressure applied to either break or clear the obstruction. Here’s the process step by step. Push the end of the snake into the drain opening and turn the handle on the drum that contains the coiled-up snake, pushing until you feel resistance. You may have to apply pressure, when cranking the handle to get it to bend around the tight curve in the trap under the sink for instance. After turning the curve, the snake usually slides through easily until you hit the clog. Rotate the snake against the blockage until you feel it feed freely into the pipe. The rotating action enables the tip of the snake to attach to the clog and spin it away or chop it up. If the clog is a solid object, the auger head entangles the object. If you don’t feel the auger breaking through and twisting getting easier, pull the auger out of the drain — you’ll likely pull the clog out with it. Run water full force for a few minutes to be sure that the drain is unclogged and clear of obstructions. Sometimes, the clog flushes right down the drain no fuss at all. Others we’ll bring the snake out and with it the prize. There you have it! Everything you need to know about a plumbing snake and when we use it. Want to know how you can clear a clog without having to call in an expert and their snake? We got you covered with this blog on just that. If you’re having any sort of plumbing problem, any at all, don’t hesitate to reach out! After all… If water goes through it or to it, we do it!

Water heaters are a crucial part of the home plumbing system that many folks might not think about.  Water heaters, as you may have guessed, are the appliance responsible for heating up your water for your baths, showers, fixtures, and other appliances. That’s right, the water heater is tied into so many other critical systems in your home that you rely on it every day. And everyday use is bound to build up some heavy wear and tear. That’s why giving your water heater the proper maintenance it needs is crucial! This time on the Economy Plumbing Service blog, tuning up your water heater! Water Heater Maintenance and You Real quick, let’s go over the four main types of water heaters. They can roughly be broken down into four categories: tank, tankless, hybrid, and point-of-use water heaters. The most common are tank and tankless, while hybrid heaters are build for energy efficiency. Point-of-use heaters are a perfect solution for fixtures or appliances that are a distance away from the main heater itself, supplying hot water, faster. Regardless of which of the four kinds of water heaters you have, good maintenance is essential Why Regular Water Heater Maintenance is Important Regular maintenance is important for just about everything, from cars to computers so it should come as no surprise that even plumbing systems need regular looking after. Maintenance will increase the lifespan of your water heater, ensuring its long use and efficient performance for as long as possible. Not only that, but regular maintenance will also save you money on your utility bills! Nice! Here’s what to look out for! Increased Sediment Reduces Efficiency Sediment is any natural material that ends up sitting at the bottom of a liquid. That’s the dictionary definition at least, for us that means any of the dirt or material that ends up building at the bottom of your tank. Sediment can be anything from dust, dirt, calcium, and other metals found in the water. This the worst enemy of your hot water heater tank. Sediment can cause all of the following: Corrosion Decreased efficiency Decreased water volume Shorter life Sediment shortens the lifespan of your water heater, making it work harder for less and burning itself out. Sediment builds up naturally, that part is totally normal but over time it will get to a point where it will severely damage your system. In a gas water heater, sediment can create hot spots that will cause damage. In an electric water heater, these minerals can cause the heating element to fail. Flushing and maintaining your water heater regularly will help. Regularly flushing your hot water heater will get rid of any sediments that built up over time. The flush will empty out the tank of the current sediment build up, putting it in the perfect place to keep working as it should for another year or so. Flushing your water heater will save you money and help your system heat the water faster! It also allows your hot water heater to maintain full volume. Tips for Flushing Out Your Water Heater You can flush out your water heater without the help of a professional, if you know where all the water valves are and have access to a drain. Once you know how it’s surprisingly simple and this is a job you should look at doing every six months to a year, depending on the quality of your local water lines. Corrosion Causes Catastrophic Failure Check for signs of corrosion at least once a year Corrosion is the gradual destruction of metal due to a chemical reaction to the environment. We’ve talked about it before, it’s the low level electrical current running through the soil and dirt that changes the chemical composition  of the lines, depending on their make. More simply, it’s rust. If you find rust on the outside of your tank or on your waterline, it’s definitely a cause for concern. Contact a professional immediately, we can decide if repairs can fix the problem or if you need a replacement. Ignoring the damage won’t make it go away! In fact, it could lead to the line or heater failing, leaking, pipes bursting, or flooding your home causing catastrophic damage. One way to know if there’s any rust in your plumbing is to look at your water. Rust can have a number of effects on the quality of your water,  including a metallic flavor and discoloration. Watch out! This can stain your sink, appliances, and skin. Check the Temperature Relief Valve The temperature relief valve protects your water heater from problems if the temperature or pressure inside your tank gets too high. It is basically the unit’s failsafe switch. If you notice that it seems damaged, or are worried that it’s not working properly, a professional can check it out to ensure it’s letting out pressure and keeping everything in check. Test the valve at least once a year to make sure it’s working as it should. And of course… Schedule Regular Inspections and Tune Ups The best thing you can do to keep your water heater in order is to have regular inspections and repair work handled by professionals on a yearly basis. A qualified plumber like Economy Plumbing Service will check all wiring, plumbing connections, fixtures, and appliances for signs of corrosion to ensure everything is working like it should. If somethings wrong, we’re already on the scene to get it repaired or replaced in no time. Worried your electric water heater isn’t working like it should? Unsure if you have a clog that needs help? Give Economy Plumbing Service a call and we can get you sorted in no time! If water goes through it or to it, we do it!

Welcome back to the Economy Plumbing Service blog where we dish all the tips, info, and know-how you might need to handle your own plumbing problems and to better understand what it is plumbers like us can help with. The more you understand, the better we all can diagnose potential problems and get it sorted. So, without further ado, let’s talk about galvanized plumbing! What is Galvanized Plumbing Galvanized plumbing or piping means that the pipes used in your plumbing system are galvanized. Galvanizing is a process in which a protective zinc coating is added to steel or iron (for plumbing it’s typically iron) to prevent rusting. The most common method is hot-dip galvanizing, in which the parts are submerged in a bath of molten hot zinc. Galvanized pipes became popular in the early 20th century, before that all plumbing pipes were lead or a cast iron. Why Should I Be Concerned About Galvanized Plumbing? Well, there’s a few reasons actually. For one, if you’re trying to sell your home you’re bound to find that the presence of galvanized piping detracts from the appraised value of the house. If you’re looking to purchase it will drive the cost of the home down and for good reason. Galvanized Plumbing Will Fail The galvanization process was meant to make a better pipe, preventing rust but it doesn’t work quite like that. The pipes will rust from the inside out, first building up a layer of plaque on the inside of the pipe which will cut off water supply and mess with the water pressure. The plaque also will flake off into the water leading to rusty color or other visible impurities in the water. The presence of an electrical current in the ground, nearby grids, or the natural electrical charge that exists (though imperceptible to us) also can cause chemical corrosion in the pipe. More importantly than any visible impurities is that these pipes can fail catastrophically and flood your home or cause hundreds of thousands of dollars of water damage. That’s the big problem with these pipes for most Americans right now. In ideal conditions, galvanized pipes have a lifespan of about 70 years at the max. And around the country we have passed that or are fast approaching the end of the line. Thousands of homes, commercial properties, are sitting on piping that might as well be a ticking bomb. What do I do about my galvanized plumbing? That’s easy. You replace it. Since the end of WWII plumbers all around the world have been using newer materials for plumbing, replacing galvanized piping with copper or pex piping! Repiping a whole home is by no means an easy task for most homeowners, but for us in the bizz we’ve been doing it day in day out for years! That’s why Economy Plumbing Service can guarantee a 2 Day repiping for any house. We know what we’re doing, we know how to get it done right, and we know how to get it done fast! If you’re worried your home has galvanized pipes, or know it does and are ready to make the change before disaster strikes, give us a call! If water goes through it or to it, we do it!