The Perks of Upgrading to Energy-efficient Plumbing and Heating Systems

Improving your Ponca City home’s efficiency is a great way to save money. While there are many ways to improve efficiency, two systems that are important to focus on are your heating and plumbing systems. By upgrading these systems with in a wise and measured way, you can expect to receive multiple benefits that last for many years. Longer Lasting Upgrading your home’s mechanical systems is only truly worth it if you can recoup some or all of the cost of the upgrade from performance improvements. Luckily, energy-efficient systems often last longer than their standard counterparts. For example, a geothermal heat pump can be expected to last two to three times longer than a standard HVAC system. A geothermal system’s higher cost is spread over many more years, making the higher initial investment more than worth it. Fewer Repairs If you’re getting tired of your plumbing and heating systems having problems every time you turn around, it may be time to upgrade. The great news is that many energy-efficient fixtures achieve their efficiency by having fewer moving parts. As a homeowner, this results in less maintenance, fewer repairs, and more time spent enjoying your home. Better Resale Value To help...

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Causes of Low Water Pressure at Home

Thanks to water pressure, you can wash dishes and take showers. Local governments pressurize water supply lines to help water flow. Like many things, you might not think about water pressure until it becomes a problem. The following reasons account for most homes’ low water pressure issues. Corroded Steel Water Supply Lines Several decades ago, plastic plumbing lines replaced their steel counterparts. Although steel is sturdy, steel water supply lines are prone to several issues not seen in PVC pipes. One of these problems is corrosion. Over time, usually over several decades, minerals like calcium latch on to steel pipes. This calcium, including other compounds like lime and rust, quickly hardens. These tightly constricted pipes stifle the flow of water, causing poor water pressure. You Might Have Leaky Plumbing Joints Steel and PVC plumbing lines are both prone to leaks. Plumbers or contractors use special adhesives to form tight bonds. Although these bonds typically last many years, they eventually break down. While everyone wants high water pressure, this pressure naturally strains pipe joints, potentially causing leaks. If you find leaky plumbing joints, you should fix them immediately. Your Water Provider Might Be Experiencing Difficulties Although municipal water networks are built...

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How to Prep Your Plumbing for the Colder Months

By taking a few simple steps before the cold weather arrives, you could prevent outdoor pipes from freezing. Being proactive long before temperatures drop is a smart strategy. Here are a few preventative practices to follow. Check for Leaks Now Leaky pipes can freeze more readily, so get them repaired right away. It can save you money on your utility costs and reduce the odds of the pipe freezing. If you suspect you have a hidden leak, contact a plumbing expert to locate the issue and get it repaired. Properly Protect Exposed Pipes Insulating pipes in unheated locations can slow the freezing process, but it cannot stop it. Wrapping them with fiberglass pipe insulation as well as plastic insulation wrap is a good start. Before insulating in this way, add a second layer of protection by installing a heat cable first. Attach the heat cable to the pipe to keep the pipes warm inside, and then insulate and wrap. The heat cable has a thermostat that knows when to turn the heat on to protect the pipe. Maintain Plumbing Year-Round Keeping up with seasonal plumbing maintenance on your home is vital. It’s particularly important if you notice changes in your...

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