Author Archives: Drainmen Plumbing Inc

Nov '19

Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth the Money?

Upgrading Your Appliances

A water heater is one of the most used household appliances. You will almost surely use hot water every single day that you have a water heating system. This means that your heater needs care and attention, otherwise it could be prone to premature failure. If you are interested in a water heating system that will last longer, work harder, and provide virtually more hot water, look no further than a tankless heating system. For more information about a tankless water heater installation in Pottstown, PA, contact Drainmen Plumbing Inc. We’re available now at 484 366 9362.

completed tankless water heater installation

Tankless Water Heater vs Traditional

Hot water heaters and tanks are big investments. You will likely spend quite a bit of money purchasing, installing and maintaining one over the years. Today, many homeowners are switching from the more traditional option to tankless water heaters. These are high-output, highly-efficient appliances that are worth the investment. They are worth the money if you get the right one for your home.

A tankless water heater installation cost is not cheap, which can turn many consumers away. It is definitely more expensive than a roof flashing repair service, but don’t let that stop you! While a tankless heater is more expensive, the savings you can experience ultimately outweigh that initial expense. However, the only way you’ll experience those savings is with correct installation. When it comes to tankless systems, it is not recommended to attempt any DIY installation yourself. To learn more about these systems, we’d recommend contacting a reliable plumber to ask how is a tankless water heater installed. They will go over the details with you so you can determine what you want to do.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heater Installation

If you have been considering a tankless water heater for your home, there are a few things to consider. You will have more advantages in comparison, but there are also many things that may make this system more challenging. You are always welcome to contact anyone at Drainmen Plumbing Inc to go over your options.

Compact: One of the best advantages of a tankless heater is the fact that it is smaller. This isn’t a large, bulky tank and system, but a compact and efficient one.
Energy-Efficient: Since this system essentially heats water “on-demand”, there is virtually no stand-by loss. Meaning, there is no energy wasted having to keep water hot or to heat it up.
Less Water Waste: Again, since water heats up “on-demand”, there is also less water waste. You aren’t running the tap, letting water drain away, waiting for it to heat up. A few seconds after turning on a faucet, you’ll have hot water.
Unlimited Hot Water: Another great thing about a tankless system is that you basically have unlimited hot water. As long as you are operating within the means of your system, it will never run out of hot water.
Lifespan: Probably the best benefit of a tankless system is the life-expectancy. More traditional water heaters have lifespans between 10-15 years. A tankless heater has about double that lifespan, going 20-years or longer.

Whether you need water heater repair services or you are looking to get a tankless water heater with installation, contact Drainmen Plumbing Inc. We are the experts you need for a project like this. While more traditional units can generally be installed without an expert, we do not recommend that for a tankless system. Instead, rely on us. We can help you have an effortless and efficient system in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a tankless water heater cost with installation?
- The overall cost will depend on a few things. A single unit may cost you about $1,000 while a whole house system could get all the way up to $3,000. On top of that, you need to factor in possible remodel, rewiring in your home, and more, all of which cause the cost to be so much.
Can a homeowner install a tankless water heater?
- While traditional heaters are loved because of how easy they are install, the same isn’t always true for a tankless system. It is not recommended for a homeowner to attempt installation. There are several steps that will likely require a professional plumber for the job.
What is the downside of a tankless water heater?
- One of the biggest drawbacks can be the lack of water. Often, homeowners choose the wrong size tankless heater which means it can’t always keep up with the demand for hot water. You may experience less or reduced hot water time.
Why is tankless water heater installation so expensive?
- For the most part, tankless water heaters are expensive because they do require more for installation than typical heaters. You will likely need to rewire parts of your home, remodel to accommodate a smaller unit, and more. All of this adds up to a higher total cost.
Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?
- Yes, they do! However, because of how effective and efficient they operate, tankless heaters often need less maintenance than a traditional one. That doesn’t mean you won’t ever have to provide maintenance, but it will likely be less than usual.

tankless water heater installation panel

Call Our Team Today for More Information

Connect with Drainmen Plumbing Inc when you need a tankless water heater installation in Pottstown, PA. We are the experts to rely on. Dial 484 366 9362 to get started. 

Sep '19

What Is the Best Water Filtration System?

A Cup of Water With a Water Filter Beside It

Learn More About A Water Filtration System

Water these days have a long way to travel, from municipal treatment facilities where water is treated all the way down the interwinding city pipes you can have contaminants that join the water flow to your humble property. What’s more, certain cities are more prone to certain contaminants than others so it can become even more tricky. In order to remedy this, a water filtration system may be the ticket you need for clean, pure water. If you are wondering, are water filtration systems worth it? Consider the following helpful information.

What is water filtration system?

A water filtration system is a system of filters that incorporates attachments to your water supply be it by a faucet drain or in conjunction with your water lines that will in some way alter the composition and makeup of water for the better. Although filters can stand-alone different types can be combined together to form a system of more in-depth and well-rounded filtration.

How does a whole house water filtration system work?

A water filtration system works by being placed at the point of entry or point of use in a home. Point of entry systems is placed in the main water line at the point where water enters your home so water essential acts as a central filtration system that can send water to all rooms of the house. With point of use filters, a water filtration system is instead placed on the drain/point where water is being used such as under a kitchen sink or wherever else.

What is the best whole house water filtration system?

Typically what’s considered the best water filtration system for home is a three-step system that incorporates three different compartments that build off of one another for water purification. First, a pre-filter will get rid of larger sediments, dirt, and chlorine. Then, a secondary filter (typically reverse-osmosis) will use a film where water is pushed through a semi-permeable membrane where it catches onto smaller particles as small as .0001 microns. This is where viruses, bacteria, and other dangers are caught. Finally, a post-filter will act as a final polish to kill bacteria as seen with UV light.

Why is water filtration important?

A water filtration system is important in that it will get rid of contaminants in water that are hazardous to health. Not only will it help with short term health but it will assist with long term health as well. Take into consideration that certain heavy metals and chemicals can be present in a city’s water supply depending on the location and water source. What’s more, inorganic and organic compounds can be found in water as well. You may find bacteria, pesticides, chlorine in the water that you drink, wash laundry with, or bath in without the addition of a filter to take these particles away. If exposed, digested or absorbed into your skin for a long period of time health problems can emerge. In order to improve the longevity of health, it’s important to take the necessary steps if within your power with a water filtration system.

Three Stage Water Filters Lined Together With Glasses of Clean & Dirty Water to Represent the Process

Water Filtration System Benefits

Healthy Skin & Hair
Less Toxic For the Environment
Balanced pH of Drinking Water
Protect Body From Viruses & Disease
Reduces Risk of Certain Cancers
Safer For Child Development
Costs Less Than Bottled Water

Do I need a water filter or water softener?

Water Filtration System vs Water Softener

Although both can be incorporated into a water filtration system both a water filter and water softener will behave differently when it comes to water treatment. A water softener is often mistaken as a filter yet it doesn’t take away any contaminants as much as a filter. A water softener mainly improves the taste. How this works is that the elements that make up hard water are replaced with sodium to make it taste better. Witha water softener calcium carbonate, magnesium, and limescale can be lessened although not filtered. A water filtration system, however, will get rid of impurities entirely and go further by preventing other bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and heavy metals from being in the water. It’s important to know, a water softener and water filter essentially cost similarly yet one will ultimately do more.

Contact A Professional

When you’re wanting a water filtration system for home or business it’s important to get into contact with your local plumbing contractor in Pottstown, PA. There are many water filtration system benefits like increased health of the occupants of your property. Ultimately a water filtration system will provide both short term and long term health benefits that go beyond more enjoyable drinking water. For any other questions that you may have regarding a water filtration system or help with other areas of your property like roof leak repair be sure to contact a professional for assistance today.

If you’re interested in a water filtration system in Pottstown, PA call 484 366 9362 with Drainmen Plumbing Inc!

Jul '19

Who Fixes Gas Leaks?

What are the signs of a gas leak in your home?

How can you tell if there’s a gas leak? If you have a gas line break in your home, you’ll usually have a gas leak. There are several tell-tale signs you have a gas leak that will require a gas line repair. The most obvious sign you have a gas leak in your home is a foul smell, often described as a rotten-egg smell, usually around a gas appliance like a water heater or stove. The odor comes from mercaptan, a chemical infused into natural gas so leaks can be detected.

If the rotten-egg smell isn’t present or it’s faint, gas leaks also reveal themselves through the lines hissing, the presence of bubbles in the water near the gas line, or the pilot light burns a yellow or orange flame rather than blue. You may also notice dead plants around the area of the leak. You also may feel sick and experience nausea, headaches, eye or throat irritation, trouble breathing, or even memory loss.

If you suspect a gas leak, you need to open your doors and windows, and clear out of the home immediately. Once outside, report the gas leak to the gas company or fire department, so they can shut off the gas. You should then have a professional come to repair the gas line.

Do plumbers work on gas lines?

Who can fix a gas leak? Normally, you have just a few options when it comes to gas line repair in house and who can fix a gas leak:

Gas company technician
A trained plumber
A trained HVAC technician
A homeowner

While the gas company may repair a gas line that’s broken on the street, they might not repair the portion of the gas lines maintained by individual homeowners. This will often depend on the individual gas company. Should you need a gas line repair, it’s usually up to the individual to find a professional to repair the line and stop the leak. While individuals can make the repairs themselves, it’s recommended they hire a specialty plumber or HVAC technician to do the job. Gas line leaks can be dangerous, and a professional natural gas plumber will have the right training and tools to get the job done safely and right. Make sure when hiring a specialty plumber for gas line repair, that person is licensed for work on natural gas lines.

If you have a gas appliance like a or stove or water heater that needs to be repaired, you can rely on the professionals at Drainmen Plumbing Inc. To find out more or schedule services, give us a call at 484 366 9362.

If you have gas appliances like gas furnaces, an HVAC technician will be needed. HVAC technicians will also be needed for air conditioning installation or other heating and cooling services.

Gas line repair DIY

While for safety’s sake it’s not recommended that you take up a gas line repair yourself, it is possible, especially for a smaller leak. Still, no matter the size of the leak, it’s preferable that a professional tend to the repair. The first step when repairing a gas line is to shut off the gas valve to stop the flow of gas into your home. You’ll then want to check for hairline cracks or holes. To seal the line, you’ll need to buy gas-rated pipe sleeves. You’ll also want to check the threads on the pipe. If they are loosened or warped, this may be the cause of the leak. You may just need to tighten the pipe with a wrench, but if this doesn’t work you will need to replace the whole pipe. Once the pipe is replaced, you’ll test it with a bubble solution. If the leak is repaired, there will be no bubbles.

Again, it’s best to save any gas line repair for a professional to avoid any safety issues. DIY repairs should be saved only for minor problems like a loose pipe. A bad repair could lead to serious problems, including explosion.

How much does it cost to repair a gas line?

The gas line repair cost will vary. If you have only one line to a single appliance, you can expect to pay anywhere between $150 to $650, including labor and materials. If the gas line that runs to the house has to be replaced you could spend anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000. You may also have to purchase a new appliance, which could cost anywhere from $400 to $5,000, depending on the type of appliance you are replacing.

How do they fix a gas leak?

No matter how extensive the repair may be, the first thing that’s required is shutting off the gas flow. The plumber will then test each gas line to find the source of the leak. Usually this is done by applying a soap solution to each fitting. When the soap bubbles, the leak has been found. Some plumbers may also perform an air pressure test. After the source of the leak is found, the plumber will then begin repairing the leak. This usually requires the pipe to be replaced.

Gas line repair covered by insurance

Usually homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover the cost of gas line repair. This will depend on the policy and the circumstances of the break. If the line was broken by a contractor while working on another buried pipe or excavating your yard, the policy might cover these damages. Similarly, the repair may be covered if the damage was caused by the utility company. In some cases, gas companies offer gas line insurance that you pay monthly, along with the service. This type of coverage will usually cover the full cost of repair or replacement.

If you’ve discovered you have a gas leak, and need gas line repair in Pottstown, PA, depend on the professionals at Drainmen Plumbing Inc. When you need our services, call us at 484 366 9362.

Jun '19

What Do You Do If You Suspect a Slab Leak?

Are Slab Leaks Covered By Homeowners Insurance?

When broken, leaky pipelines occur in the home’s foundation, it can be a potentially catastrophic circumstance. With high repairs costs and the potential for major water damage to the home and the belongings, it’s important to know whether or not your homeowner’s insurance would cover the resultant damage from slab leaks. Fortunately, there are instances where slab leak damage can be covered in the average homeowner’s insurance policy. For instance, if a slab leak is the result of a covered peril, causing increased damage to the home, the dwelling protection and personal property insurance on the homeowner’s policy may offer financial protection.

What Are the Signs of a Slab Leak?

Early detection is an incredibly important aspect of detecting leaks occurring in a foundation. When slab leaks are left undetected and unrepaired, a slab leak can eventually lead to thousands of dollars in water damage and structural damage to the home. For homeowners, the signs are subtle but necessary for detection. Sudden, unexplained spikes in water bills, water pooling where it shouldn’t, damp carpet or warped hard flooring, and mold and mildew are just some of the signs. A decrease in water pressure and a hot water heater that’s constantly running are also signs of a slab leak.

How Much Do Slab Leaks Cost to Fix?

The average slab leak repair cost — which typically includes hiring a professional to come to the home and find the leak — can cost from $150 dollars to $400 dollars. This cost ultimately depends on how difficult it is to determine where the leak is occurring. Additionally, the cost to remove the concrete and repair the damage to the pipe can cost around $2,000. The overall cost depends on where the leak is and how easy it is to access. Thankfully, many homeowner’s insurance policies cover water damage to carpet, flooring, and cabinets, however, they do not cover costs associated with repairing the damaged pipes.

What Causes a Leak in the Slab?

Slab leaks happen when the pipes in the foundation of a home become corroded. Slab leaks can also occur if a pipe bursts. Usually, these are the two main culprits. Most homeowners are unaware that the home’s piping is funneled through the foundation. Homes are built this way because it’s the most straightforward way to handle the plumbing in a home. Moreover, it is the least expensive way to attain water in the home. When slab leaks happen, it’s because the pipes in the foundation have developed pinhole leaks. These leaks are caused by corrosion and can happen as a symptom of the home settling on the foundation.

What Happens If You Don’t Fix a Slab Leak?

The consequences of slab leaks can be disastrous. Even the smallest leak can lead to substantial issues as the problems associated with the leak worsen over time. Leaks that occur always lead to water damage to the surrounding area, including the structure of the home. The foundation may shift, leading to tiles splitting, doors not closing correctly, and more. Articles of furniture and miscellaneous possessions can develop mold or mildew in cases where slab leaks are left too long untreated. These fungi are to be taken seriously, as they can sicken the inhabitants of the home. Mold develops spores that can travel through the HVAC system of a home, becoming a health issue.

Can Slab Leaks Create A Mold Problem?

Mold is the universally acknowledged name for a vast family of fungi that are capable of growing on any damp surface. The early stages of mold are known as mildew. While mold does play a vital role in the ecology of the health of the planet by breaking down organic material and enriching the soil, it can be a serious indoor hazard. Slab leaks often occur within close proximity to the drywall. Drywall is a very efficient sponge for the moisture released by a leak. When a slab leak reaches the drywall in a home or place of business it can rapidly grow into a spreading mold problem.

Slab Leak in Foundation

While there are no pipes in the concrete slab, there can still be a leak within the foundation of a property. Depending on the symptom, homeowners may be experiencing a sewer leak or multiple leaks (such as freshwater leaks). Evidence of sewer leaks includes cracks in the walls and the foundation, uneven or sloping floors, wall rotation, bowing of walls, separation of doors, windows, and garage doors, and spontaneous mold growth. Determining which specific pipe has erupted is a process that an established plumbing company can uncover. Slab leak service in Pottstown, PA can assist property owners who are experiencing the stressful experience of a slab leak. Slab leak detection can assist homeowners with alleviated water damage and correct and enhance the ultimate function of the home.

Slab Leak in New Home

Purchasing a new home is an extraordinarily exciting experience. New homes present an opportunity for homeowners to possess safety and security within the comfort of their own home. However, this sense of comfort can be compromised with a hidden slab leak. Homeowners should be on the lookout for red flags. The signs and symptoms for slab leaks include damp spots on the floor or carpets, annoyingly low water pressure in the shower, high water bills, and more. Slab leak detection should be initiated as soon as possible in order to maximize water damage resistance. For homeowners seeking a fresh finish for their hardwood flooring after recovering from water damage, select an appropriately qualified hardwood floor company. Hardwood floors can become one of the first victims in a slab leak.

Slab Leak Causes

The causes of slab leaks can be numerous. Please consult the list below to understand more about potential causes for slab leaks.

Improper construction. One of the most common sources for slab leaks is improperly installed or poor-quality pipes. Copper pipes, in particular, can exhibit corrosion at a fairly fast rate. Pipes of the copper variety are invariably softer and offer less resistance to the elements.
Outside pressure. Water pressure is not the only kind of pressure that can create a slab leak. Shifts in the underlying soil of a foundation can cause the home to move, putting increased pressure on pipes.
Poor water quality. In addition to water pressure, it is important for homeowners to keep an eye out for the pH of their water. Water that is excessively acidic (hard_ or excessively alkaline (soft) can corrode pipes, leading to faster pipe deterioration.

Do you require slab leak detection for your home? Our staff at Drainmen Plumbing Inc are ready to take your phone call at __PHONE__. Receive accurate slab leak detection in Pottstown, PA today!

Apr '19

Is a Well-Pump Worth It?

A water pump can guarantee clean drinking water for your home, when installed correctly.

A Reliable Water Source on Your Property

Today there is a lot of speculation regarding water from municipal lines. Is it clean? Is it safe? Generally speaking, yes, any water from a city or municipal county filtration system, is safe to consume though there are a few exceptions. If you are a homeowner wanting a reliable source of water at your home, then maybe a well pump installation is the way to go. When you are ready for one, contact Drainmen Plumbing Inc for a water well pump installation in Pottstown, PA. Call us today at 484 366 9362 to schedule an appointment.

Is it Worth It?

A water well pump is exactly what it sounds like. This is a pump that extracts water from a well. Typically the two are installed around the same time by a plumbing company. There are several types of well pumps including:

Hand pumps
Injector pumps
Solar pumps
And more

If you are considering a well-pump you are probably wondering if it is even worth it. Long answer short, yes, a well-pump is worth it. Depending on your location and needs, a well-pump can be more beneficial and efficient than relying on water from the city.

Talk with us today to discuss a water well pump installation for your home.

Benefits of a Well-Pump

When considering a water well pump, there are several things to think about. What most people want to know are, what are the benefits?

Low Cost: Well water is for all intents and purposes free water. Once the water well is built and the necessary parts are installed, homeowners will no longer have to pay for water bills. Though water fees and bills are relatively cheap in most places, those costs can add up quickly. Water wells and pumps can eliminate that.
Reliability: Everyone takes clean drinking water for granted. More so, we take for granted where our water comes from. With a water well, you can always be sure of where your water comes from – from the water source right below your home! There is peace of mind knowing that you never have to worry about main line issues, boil advisories, and other emergencies.
Clean and Safe: Now, the water from the city is still very clean and healthy to consume. But, the filtration done by municipal water utilities remove a lot, if not all, of the naturally derived minerals in drinking water. Water from a well is naturally filtered, so those minerals are not removed. Plus, well water can make your hair, skin, and clothes softer.
Longevity: There are several factors that play into the length of use. If your well pump is installed above ground you can expect a lifespan of up to 20 years. But well pumps that are installed below ground have a lifespan of around 8-10 years. You also have to consider things like the size of the pump, quality of installation, as well as the type of pump. All of these things can either work to extend the lifespan or cause your unit to fail within a few years.

So is a well-pump worth it? Ultimately it comes down to what you are interested in. Water well pumps allow homeowners to have guaranteed access to safe, clean, and consistent water. These are great investments for people that are further from larger city areas. Your property may have better access to the water just below your home than to the water lines provided by municipal counties. If so, then contact us today at 484 366 9362 to discuss a water well pump installation for your Pottstown, PA property.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years do well pumps last?
- It does depend on the type of pump and the installation, but most pumps will last between 8 and 10 years, sometimes up to 15.
How to tell if your well pump is bad?
- Look for fluctuations in water pressure, high electric bills, scalding water during showers, and spitting faucets.
How much does a well pump cost?
- It costs about $1,000 to replace and install a pump as well as the related parts.
Can a well run dry?
- If there is a drought, yes, a water well can run dry. There are several, easy repairs that can be done to add more water to a well, many of which don’t involve excavation.
How do you clean a well pump?
- There are several things that can be done to clean a well pump. The best bet is to let a professional plumber, like someone from Drainmen Plumbing Inc, to professionally clean the pump and filters.

With a proper well pump installation, you can be sure the water you are consuming is clean and safe.

Contact Us Today for a Water Well Pump Installation

When you are considering a well and well pump for your Pottstown, PA home, rely on Drainmen Plumbing Inc. We have years of experience with all kinds of pumps and the needs for installation, repair, and replacement. To guarantee clean water, invest in a water well pump installation for your Pottstown, PA home. Contact us today, 484 366 9362, to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment.