By now you've probably heard of the popular tankless water heater (TWH). If not, you may have an interest if going green is an important issue to you. The tankless hot water heater is an efficient alternative to the conventional energy wasting tank type hot water heaters. Let's take a look.
Traditional tank type hot water heaters were designed in a time when energy savings was not a big issue. This is obvious when compared to tankless water heaters. Tank type hot water heaters constantly have to heat and store hot water. This is not a very efficient way to address your hot water needs. But, it is the most widely used form of heating water in America today. The main inefficiency with these types is the constant heating and reheating of hot water when we don't really need it. When were in bed at night, when were away on vacation, or even when were at work during the day our tank type hot water heater is burning energy. This constant energy usage is borderline frivolous. Now, if you have a tankless hot water heater you don't have to worry about this, as they only heat water when we need it.
Tankless hot water heaters do not have to rely on a hot water storage tank. They heat water as it passes through the heater unit. This puts you in a big advantage when compared to traditional ways of heating and storing hot water. It should be noted, however, that there are a few drawbacks at this point in time. Tankless hot water heaters are considerably more expensive than their traditional counterparts. Many will cost double of what a tank water heat would cost. When you look at the efficiency advantage, however, it's really worth the extra cost. If you're in the process of designing a new home, installing the TWH is really a no-brainer. Being that your main costs are just the unit purchase price, the savings to your energy bill will more than make up for this over time. The main cost consideration that we see is that of installation. This is especially true when it comes to replacing a traditional unit. The construction costs associated with replacement can be considerable, so you'll need to consider these when weighing the pros and cons of going with a tankless water heater.
Now, when you go to purchase a TWH you'll find that there are two common choices. The two common types of of these are either electric or gas tankless water heaters. If you're going for a entire house unit the gas tankless water heater is a common choice. Most of the electric units available today just don't have enough power to supply hot water to an entire house. Gas tankless water heaters, on the other hand, have sufficient flow rates, which allow for simultaneous hot water usage. The drawback that comes from utilizing a gas set up, is the cost associated with installation. Installation should be handled by a qualified professional and unless you're highly skilled at construction this project is probably most suitable for an experienced contractor. The reason being is that there are often complications. Setting up a gas unit typically involves the running of gas lines, special combustion requirements, and in the running of exhaust.
Electric units are much more economical to install, because they don't have the complications like their gas brethren. Worst case install scenario is usually the running of additional power or power box changes. Electric units are great when utilized at a point of use hot water location. They can be set up in bathrooms, and kitchens or remote locations. And because they're right at the hot water source, they can be very efficient. The technology of electric units is quickly improving, and it won't be long before they have sufficient electric units for whole house applications.
If you'd like more information on how the new tankless water heater works you can visit the site for a more details. For more on the gas tankless water heaters you can find more specifics on that as well.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Rodriguez
MAUI PLUMBING
808-344-0642
Maui, Hawaii Lic.# C-30979
Showing posts with label repair. Show all posts
Showing posts with label repair. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Basic Plumbing 101 Hawaii Maui
In order to understand how plumbing works, three main components of basic plumbing systems must be understood. The first part includes pipes and pressurized water supply attached to fixtures, which are the second part. These fixtures are things like sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and others. Fixtures allow us to utilize the plumbing system by taking water from part one, using it, and dumping it through part three, which is the drainage. The drainage carries waste water away from your house.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Image Source
Much like with a computer system (a sound card, for example), plumbing has input and output pieces. The input is your water coming in. Cold water is pumped under enough pressure to travel to your floor, and in through a faucet. Warm water, on the other hand, first has to go through a water heater. The optimal heating temperature that's been proven to be cost-effective and warm enough for most appliances like dishwashers is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (certain fixtures like laundry machines, for example, might require temperatures around 150 degrees for optimal performance). If you're planning the piping in a building that's located in an area where you know your water supplier will provide "hard" water - which is water that can leave mineral buildup on the piping - you might want to stick with non-corrosive materials. Copper and galvanized steal, as well as brass or wrought iron are good examples. Pipes with smaller diameters are prone to affecting the performance of your fixtures the most.
Your fixtures, as the name suggests, are fixed outlets that let you use water flowing into your house from the pipes. Fancy examples include pools, Jacuzzis, saunas, and more. Smooth surfaces and secure piping connections are major necessities of fixtures; rough surfaces can be home to bacteria and bad smells, while loose piping will inevitably leak and flood your floor(s) if the problem isn't addressed on time.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Your drainage system not only takes waste water away, but it also includes a venting system within those drain pipes. The air circulation is in place to remove dangerous gases and replace them with plain air that's less combustible. You probably know that a drain pipe is in the shape of a letter N, with water sealing off the fixture from the nasty contents of the waste below. That's why a broken sink can stink up your bathroom very quickly; the water in the bottom part of the N-shaped drain pipe acts like a seal from the stench of the breaking-down waste, because even the venting system can't take care of all the smell. This is called the "Trap." The vents also help the water to pour out and away from the house more quickly.
As a house owner, you need to know where your shutoff valves are in case of an emergency like a toilet overflow or something like that. Fixtures tend to have smaller, pre-installed shutoff valves as well, which stop the flow of the pressurized water supply. Shopping around for a water provider can be beneficial to your plumbing because hard water and improper piping materials can screw up your entire plumbing system with calcium buildup and other deposits. You may have seen those on your bathtub or in the toilet, where there's a rust-brown ring around the edge of the fixture. This is not only unpleasant to the eye, but also damaging to your plumbing. Speak with a representative of your water supplier to see what can be done to address this issue if it exists.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_V_Powell
Hawaii Maui plumber
Much like with a computer system (a sound card, for example), plumbing has input and output pieces. The input is your water coming in. Cold water is pumped under enough pressure to travel to your floor, and in through a faucet. Warm water, on the other hand, first has to go through a water heater. The optimal heating temperature that's been proven to be cost-effective and warm enough for most appliances like dishwashers is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (certain fixtures like laundry machines, for example, might require temperatures around 150 degrees for optimal performance). If you're planning the piping in a building that's located in an area where you know your water supplier will provide "hard" water - which is water that can leave mineral buildup on the piping - you might want to stick with non-corrosive materials. Copper and galvanized steal, as well as brass or wrought iron are good examples. Pipes with smaller diameters are prone to affecting the performance of your fixtures the most.
Your fixtures, as the name suggests, are fixed outlets that let you use water flowing into your house from the pipes. Fancy examples include pools, Jacuzzis, saunas, and more. Smooth surfaces and secure piping connections are major necessities of fixtures; rough surfaces can be home to bacteria and bad smells, while loose piping will inevitably leak and flood your floor(s) if the problem isn't addressed on time.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Your drainage system not only takes waste water away, but it also includes a venting system within those drain pipes. The air circulation is in place to remove dangerous gases and replace them with plain air that's less combustible. You probably know that a drain pipe is in the shape of a letter N, with water sealing off the fixture from the nasty contents of the waste below. That's why a broken sink can stink up your bathroom very quickly; the water in the bottom part of the N-shaped drain pipe acts like a seal from the stench of the breaking-down waste, because even the venting system can't take care of all the smell. This is called the "Trap." The vents also help the water to pour out and away from the house more quickly.
As a house owner, you need to know where your shutoff valves are in case of an emergency like a toilet overflow or something like that. Fixtures tend to have smaller, pre-installed shutoff valves as well, which stop the flow of the pressurized water supply. Shopping around for a water provider can be beneficial to your plumbing because hard water and improper piping materials can screw up your entire plumbing system with calcium buildup and other deposits. You may have seen those on your bathtub or in the toilet, where there's a rust-brown ring around the edge of the fixture. This is not only unpleasant to the eye, but also damaging to your plumbing. Speak with a representative of your water supplier to see what can be done to address this issue if it exists.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_V_Powell
A Primer on Plumbing Pipes Hawaii Maui
Some time in the past 30 or 40 years, I remember an initiative to get truth in advertising. I don't know how successful it was, but one industry that apparently wasn't affected by it is the plumbing industry. I can't think of any other industry that has as many definitions for what a 1/2" or any other size pipes are.
Image Source
One would think that 1/2" copper tubing would be the same, no matter what, but the sad truth is that 1/2" rigid copper pipe has a different outer diameter ( OD), then 1/2" flexible copper pipe. Fittings for one will not work on the other. If you want to use both you would have to purchase an adapter. The same thing can be said for plastic pipe, a piece of 1" black ABS pipe is not the same size as 1" white PVC plastic pipe. Again to use both, a home owner would need a buy an adapter.
Hawaii Maui plumber
To help eliminate some of the confusion, here is a primer on plumbing fittings and connections.
Rigid Copper Pipe:
Used mostly for hot and cold water lines within the house. The best tool to cut rigid copper tubing is a pipe cutter. The pipe is placed in the cutter, and the knob is turned down, which brings the pipe into contact with the cutter wheel. As the cutter is rotated around the pipe, you continue to tighten the wheel, until you have cut through the entire pipe.
There are two ways to connect copper pipes together. The first is to solder or sweat the pipes together. The second is the use of compression fittings. Soldered fittings are much less expensive then the compression, but take a little more work to make a leak free joint.
When you sweat copper pipes, the first thing is to clean the ends that you are going to sweat together. then flux is applied to both the pipe and the fitting you are connecting to it. The pieces are placed together, and heat is applied to the union with a propane torch. When the union is heated enough, solder is applied to the joint, the solder is sucked into the joint, sealing the two pieces together. From experience, I can tell you take to make this work successfully, there must be absolutely NO WATER in the line, if there is the joint will leak. And once a joint leaks , there is no repairs without replacing the fitting and starting over. Professional plumbers tend to use a hotter source of heat, then the propane bottle can provide. But I'm always concerned about using any heat source inside my house. If you choose this method, be very careful with the torch in tight spaces. It might be a good idea to have a fire extinguisher handy.
Compression fittings do not require heat. A common place that compression fittings are used is at the water shut off valves beneath your sink, or toilet. But there are many other places that you can use them. To make up a fitting using a compression fitting, start by cutting the inlet pipe to length, using a pipe cutter. Place the compression nut and compression ring over the end of the pipe, as shown above, then insert the pipe into the compression seat. Then using two wrenches, one to hold the fitting and the other for the compression nut, tighten the compression nut completely. This forces the compression ring unto the pipe, creating a water tight seal.
Compression fittings are not fool proof. If the pipe is not seated all the way onto the seat, the joint will leak, thus it is imperative that the end of the pipe be cut flat. Compression fitting are designed as a one use only device, if it leaks cut out the offending piece and start over again. Also the pipe must be completely cleaned before you start, any dirt or corrosion on the pipe will create leaks. Tightening the compression nut in confined spaces may require to use of special tools like crows feet wrenches.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Flexible Copper Pipe:
This is used mainly to connect natural or propane gas to your house. It is normally connected to the appropriate devices with the use of compression fitting designed for the flexible pipes. Flexible copper pipe is suitable for being installed under ground. Flexible copper pipe may look like a great choice for indoors plumbing runs, but it is not recommended for that use. Also the limited amount of fittings available make this a less then perfect choice. Flexible copper fitting are NOT interchangeable with fittings for rigid copper pipe.
Some professional plumbers are currently installing flexible water pipes, but these require special tools and fittings, that are not available to the DIY'r. Not all municipalities allow for the use of flexible pipes for water delivery with in the home.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Rigid Pipe:
This pipe comes in either black iron or galvanized pipe. Black iron pipe is normally used to run natural gas inside the home, while galvanized is used mainly for water lines. The ends of these pipes are threaded, as are the connecting pieces. You simply screw the pieces together, after applying either plumber's tape or pipe dope.
Plumber's tape is made of Teflon, and is white in color. You should apply it to the male end of the pipe, by running the tape around the pipe several times. Install the tape in the opposite direction, then the male end of the pipe will thread into the female union. Before you thread the two pieces together, be sure to clean out any remaining Teflon tape on the inside of the female threads if you are re using the fitting. There is a Pink Teflon tape, that used solely for making up connection is natural gas lines. Pipe dope, is actually a thick paste that is applied to the threads using a brush. If you are reusing a fitting that has had pipe dope applied before, you must clean both the male and female threads, using a wire brush and a pick, much like the ones that the dentist uses to clean our teeth.
To connect two pieces of pipe together or to install an adapter or fitting, use two pipe wrenches. The first wrench is used to hold the pipe, while the second one is used to turn the fitting or adapter. While you may not use a pipe wrench all that often, this is not the place to go for the bargain priced tool. Sometimes it takes considerable energy to loosen a threaded joint that has been in place for several years. The cheaper wrenches tend to slip, which can cause injury to you or cause damage to you home.
Recently galvanized pipes have gotten some bad press, when used for water delivery. Apparently the insides of the pipes are releasing chemicals into the drinking water, so it is advised that you stick to either copper or the newer flexible pipes for water delivery.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Plastic or PVC/ABS Pipes:
PVC ( Polyvinyl Chloride) pipe is a white plastic pipe that is used to supply both hot and cold water to the interiors of many homes. This product is very flexible and easy to use. There are two ways to cut PVC pipe, either use a hand saw or miter saw to cut large diameter pieces. Smaller diameter pieces can be cut using hand held PVC cutters. To connect PVC pieces, you first cut the pipe to length, then using a cleaning solution designed for the pipe, clean both the ends of the pipe and the connecting piece. A special glue is then applied to both pieces, and the pieces are pushed together. The glue sets, within a minute, so it is vitally important that the pieces be aligned properly when pushed together. There is a very limited amount of time that you can maneuver the pieces. It is a very good idea to use a scribe line to indicate to proper orientation of two mating pieces.
Hawaii Maui plumber
ABS (Arcylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a black plastic pipe that is used for drain, waste and vent (DWV) plumbing in today's homes. This product replaced the cast iron pipes found in many older homes. ABS is worked in much the same manner as the PVC pipe. It can be cut with hand saw or powered miter saw. It uses a cleaner and glue similar to the PVC pipes, only this is designed for the ABS pipes.
When you are gluing either of these products, it is recommended that you use a pair of disposable gloves to protect you hand, unless you like picking dried glue off your hands for several days. Also it is recommended that you work in a well ventilated area.
Generally, you will not see both white and black plastic pipes connected together. One exception to this is maybe found under the sink. A lot of manufacturers are making "P" traps, shown here in black ABS, for the sink drains out of white plastic.
Because of its flexibility you may find homes in earth quake areas plumbed with PVC rather then the conventional rigid copper pipes. There was a lot of bad press in the 90's about PVC pipes breaking within the walls of homes, this was traced to specific manufacturers, and shouldn't be seen as a condemnation of the product.
The PVC and ABS pipes are not sized the same. a 1 " PVC will not connect to a black 1" ABS fitting. This may have been done to keep us from inadvertently using the wrong pipe for the wrong application, but it sure is confusing. I mean a 1" pipe should be a 1" pipe.
I hope this helped clear up some of the confusion about the many options offered to us by the plumbing manufacturers. A word of advice learned the hard way, check to be sure that all your fittings do actually connect before you leave the store or you may find yourself making return trips to your DIY store as I've done many times.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Salow
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2395638
One would think that 1/2" copper tubing would be the same, no matter what, but the sad truth is that 1/2" rigid copper pipe has a different outer diameter ( OD), then 1/2" flexible copper pipe. Fittings for one will not work on the other. If you want to use both you would have to purchase an adapter. The same thing can be said for plastic pipe, a piece of 1" black ABS pipe is not the same size as 1" white PVC plastic pipe. Again to use both, a home owner would need a buy an adapter.
Hawaii Maui plumber
To help eliminate some of the confusion, here is a primer on plumbing fittings and connections.
Rigid Copper Pipe:
Used mostly for hot and cold water lines within the house. The best tool to cut rigid copper tubing is a pipe cutter. The pipe is placed in the cutter, and the knob is turned down, which brings the pipe into contact with the cutter wheel. As the cutter is rotated around the pipe, you continue to tighten the wheel, until you have cut through the entire pipe.
There are two ways to connect copper pipes together. The first is to solder or sweat the pipes together. The second is the use of compression fittings. Soldered fittings are much less expensive then the compression, but take a little more work to make a leak free joint.
When you sweat copper pipes, the first thing is to clean the ends that you are going to sweat together. then flux is applied to both the pipe and the fitting you are connecting to it. The pieces are placed together, and heat is applied to the union with a propane torch. When the union is heated enough, solder is applied to the joint, the solder is sucked into the joint, sealing the two pieces together. From experience, I can tell you take to make this work successfully, there must be absolutely NO WATER in the line, if there is the joint will leak. And once a joint leaks , there is no repairs without replacing the fitting and starting over. Professional plumbers tend to use a hotter source of heat, then the propane bottle can provide. But I'm always concerned about using any heat source inside my house. If you choose this method, be very careful with the torch in tight spaces. It might be a good idea to have a fire extinguisher handy.
Compression fittings do not require heat. A common place that compression fittings are used is at the water shut off valves beneath your sink, or toilet. But there are many other places that you can use them. To make up a fitting using a compression fitting, start by cutting the inlet pipe to length, using a pipe cutter. Place the compression nut and compression ring over the end of the pipe, as shown above, then insert the pipe into the compression seat. Then using two wrenches, one to hold the fitting and the other for the compression nut, tighten the compression nut completely. This forces the compression ring unto the pipe, creating a water tight seal.
Compression fittings are not fool proof. If the pipe is not seated all the way onto the seat, the joint will leak, thus it is imperative that the end of the pipe be cut flat. Compression fitting are designed as a one use only device, if it leaks cut out the offending piece and start over again. Also the pipe must be completely cleaned before you start, any dirt or corrosion on the pipe will create leaks. Tightening the compression nut in confined spaces may require to use of special tools like crows feet wrenches.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Flexible Copper Pipe:
This is used mainly to connect natural or propane gas to your house. It is normally connected to the appropriate devices with the use of compression fitting designed for the flexible pipes. Flexible copper pipe is suitable for being installed under ground. Flexible copper pipe may look like a great choice for indoors plumbing runs, but it is not recommended for that use. Also the limited amount of fittings available make this a less then perfect choice. Flexible copper fitting are NOT interchangeable with fittings for rigid copper pipe.
Some professional plumbers are currently installing flexible water pipes, but these require special tools and fittings, that are not available to the DIY'r. Not all municipalities allow for the use of flexible pipes for water delivery with in the home.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Rigid Pipe:
This pipe comes in either black iron or galvanized pipe. Black iron pipe is normally used to run natural gas inside the home, while galvanized is used mainly for water lines. The ends of these pipes are threaded, as are the connecting pieces. You simply screw the pieces together, after applying either plumber's tape or pipe dope.
Plumber's tape is made of Teflon, and is white in color. You should apply it to the male end of the pipe, by running the tape around the pipe several times. Install the tape in the opposite direction, then the male end of the pipe will thread into the female union. Before you thread the two pieces together, be sure to clean out any remaining Teflon tape on the inside of the female threads if you are re using the fitting. There is a Pink Teflon tape, that used solely for making up connection is natural gas lines. Pipe dope, is actually a thick paste that is applied to the threads using a brush. If you are reusing a fitting that has had pipe dope applied before, you must clean both the male and female threads, using a wire brush and a pick, much like the ones that the dentist uses to clean our teeth.
To connect two pieces of pipe together or to install an adapter or fitting, use two pipe wrenches. The first wrench is used to hold the pipe, while the second one is used to turn the fitting or adapter. While you may not use a pipe wrench all that often, this is not the place to go for the bargain priced tool. Sometimes it takes considerable energy to loosen a threaded joint that has been in place for several years. The cheaper wrenches tend to slip, which can cause injury to you or cause damage to you home.
Recently galvanized pipes have gotten some bad press, when used for water delivery. Apparently the insides of the pipes are releasing chemicals into the drinking water, so it is advised that you stick to either copper or the newer flexible pipes for water delivery.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Plastic or PVC/ABS Pipes:
PVC ( Polyvinyl Chloride) pipe is a white plastic pipe that is used to supply both hot and cold water to the interiors of many homes. This product is very flexible and easy to use. There are two ways to cut PVC pipe, either use a hand saw or miter saw to cut large diameter pieces. Smaller diameter pieces can be cut using hand held PVC cutters. To connect PVC pieces, you first cut the pipe to length, then using a cleaning solution designed for the pipe, clean both the ends of the pipe and the connecting piece. A special glue is then applied to both pieces, and the pieces are pushed together. The glue sets, within a minute, so it is vitally important that the pieces be aligned properly when pushed together. There is a very limited amount of time that you can maneuver the pieces. It is a very good idea to use a scribe line to indicate to proper orientation of two mating pieces.
Hawaii Maui plumber
ABS (Arcylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a black plastic pipe that is used for drain, waste and vent (DWV) plumbing in today's homes. This product replaced the cast iron pipes found in many older homes. ABS is worked in much the same manner as the PVC pipe. It can be cut with hand saw or powered miter saw. It uses a cleaner and glue similar to the PVC pipes, only this is designed for the ABS pipes.
When you are gluing either of these products, it is recommended that you use a pair of disposable gloves to protect you hand, unless you like picking dried glue off your hands for several days. Also it is recommended that you work in a well ventilated area.
Generally, you will not see both white and black plastic pipes connected together. One exception to this is maybe found under the sink. A lot of manufacturers are making "P" traps, shown here in black ABS, for the sink drains out of white plastic.
Because of its flexibility you may find homes in earth quake areas plumbed with PVC rather then the conventional rigid copper pipes. There was a lot of bad press in the 90's about PVC pipes breaking within the walls of homes, this was traced to specific manufacturers, and shouldn't be seen as a condemnation of the product.
The PVC and ABS pipes are not sized the same. a 1 " PVC will not connect to a black 1" ABS fitting. This may have been done to keep us from inadvertently using the wrong pipe for the wrong application, but it sure is confusing. I mean a 1" pipe should be a 1" pipe.
I hope this helped clear up some of the confusion about the many options offered to us by the plumbing manufacturers. A word of advice learned the hard way, check to be sure that all your fittings do actually connect before you leave the store or you may find yourself making return trips to your DIY store as I've done many times.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Salow
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2395638
Friday, June 17, 2011
Why You Should Buy A Tankless Water Heater Hawaii Maui
Every American household spends 25% of each energy dollar producing domestic hot water. Nationwide more residential energy is consumed by domestic hot water than on anything but heating and air conditioning.
You could save up to 60% on your monthly water heating costs by installing a tankless water heater in your home. A tankless water heater is a demand-type unit. This means that it operates ONLY when hot water is drawn in your home. The opposite is true of conventional tank-type heaters. In a conventional heater, water is stored in its tank and kept heated continuously, whether you are asleep, at work or away on a vacation. This is a surprising realization to many homeowners, but it is a fact.
Image Source
Hawaii Maui plumber
Tankless water heaters, also called combination, instantaneous, continuous flow, inline, flash, on-demand or instant-on water heaters, are gaining in popularity. The chief advantages of tankless water heaters are a continuous flow of hot water and the saving of energy, thereby reducing your monthly energy bill. These water heaters heat the water as the water flows through the device. They do not retain any water internally except for what is in the heat exchanger coil.
There are tankless water heater systems that work at the point of use, such as under your kitchen or bathroom sink. Also, there are larger units that serve multiple plumbing fixtures, even your entire house. A tankless water heater can also be used as a booster for dishwashers, washing machines, and as a backup for solar or wood-fired domestic systems.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Although gas-fired demand water heaters tend to have higher flow rates than electric ones, they can waste energy if they have a constantly burning pilot light. This can offset some of the energy savings. Moreover, much of the heat produced by the pilot light of a tank-type model heats the water in the tank, a savings that is just lost with the instantaneous units.
If you purchase a model that uses a standing pilot light, you can always turn it off when it's not in use to save energy. Alternatively, you can purchase a model with an intermittent ignition device. This resembles the spark ignition device on some gas kitchen ranges and ovens. You should check with the manufacturer for models that have this feature.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Tankless water heaters are more efficient than tank water heaters, but reviews say they take some getting used to. If you want to switch to a more efficient tankless water heater, be aware that you'll need some time to adjust, since water delivery is different than with a tank water heater. Since tankless systems don't start heating water until you turn on the tap, there is a delay of about 3/4 gallon before the water runs hot.
Flow rate of hot water from a tankless system is greatly affected by the temperature of your groundwater. The warmer your groundwater, the better the flow rate. Homes in colder climates will need a larger system to get an adequate hot-water flow rate. The average groundwater temperature in the U.S. is about 50° Fahrenheit. Most people like shower temperatures of between 105° and 120°, so your groundwater temperature would need to be raised by 60° to 75°.
Hawaii Maui plumber
You can check online for reviews of tankless water heater systems, and then decide if it is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joyce_Boulan
You could save up to 60% on your monthly water heating costs by installing a tankless water heater in your home. A tankless water heater is a demand-type unit. This means that it operates ONLY when hot water is drawn in your home. The opposite is true of conventional tank-type heaters. In a conventional heater, water is stored in its tank and kept heated continuously, whether you are asleep, at work or away on a vacation. This is a surprising realization to many homeowners, but it is a fact.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Tankless water heaters, also called combination, instantaneous, continuous flow, inline, flash, on-demand or instant-on water heaters, are gaining in popularity. The chief advantages of tankless water heaters are a continuous flow of hot water and the saving of energy, thereby reducing your monthly energy bill. These water heaters heat the water as the water flows through the device. They do not retain any water internally except for what is in the heat exchanger coil.
There are tankless water heater systems that work at the point of use, such as under your kitchen or bathroom sink. Also, there are larger units that serve multiple plumbing fixtures, even your entire house. A tankless water heater can also be used as a booster for dishwashers, washing machines, and as a backup for solar or wood-fired domestic systems.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Although gas-fired demand water heaters tend to have higher flow rates than electric ones, they can waste energy if they have a constantly burning pilot light. This can offset some of the energy savings. Moreover, much of the heat produced by the pilot light of a tank-type model heats the water in the tank, a savings that is just lost with the instantaneous units.
If you purchase a model that uses a standing pilot light, you can always turn it off when it's not in use to save energy. Alternatively, you can purchase a model with an intermittent ignition device. This resembles the spark ignition device on some gas kitchen ranges and ovens. You should check with the manufacturer for models that have this feature.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Tankless water heaters are more efficient than tank water heaters, but reviews say they take some getting used to. If you want to switch to a more efficient tankless water heater, be aware that you'll need some time to adjust, since water delivery is different than with a tank water heater. Since tankless systems don't start heating water until you turn on the tap, there is a delay of about 3/4 gallon before the water runs hot.
Flow rate of hot water from a tankless system is greatly affected by the temperature of your groundwater. The warmer your groundwater, the better the flow rate. Homes in colder climates will need a larger system to get an adequate hot-water flow rate. The average groundwater temperature in the U.S. is about 50° Fahrenheit. Most people like shower temperatures of between 105° and 120°, so your groundwater temperature would need to be raised by 60° to 75°.
Hawaii Maui plumber
You can check online for reviews of tankless water heater systems, and then decide if it is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joyce_Boulan
The Importance of a Well-Designed Plumbing System Maui Hawaii
A house will never be perfect without a well designed plumbing system. You have to check that everything connected in your plumbing system is tightened, and in its proper location. When these things are not in your list, you'll surely end up with lots of problem. When you're just about to build your new home, make sure to have a professional plumber from a reputable plumbing company to take care of the plumbing for you, don't take things for granted.
Hawaii Maui plumber
A poor plumbing design usually turns life horrible. Would you like to have your toilet bowl overflowing? Or have your kitchen sink babbling every time your washing machine drains? Imagine water flowing in your floors during a sunny day, no typhoon nor floods at all. You don't want it to happen for sure. That's why, a well designed plumbing system is important.
When you hire someone to take the job of designing your plumbing system, make sure that he is a professional plumber. Prefer someone known to do the job very well. It will be easy to know, you can either ask friends and family for referrals, check the background of the company he is working for, or ask for his certificate or license proving that he's capable of the job. There are also online solutions on how to find one, like plumbers directory, online yellow pages, classified sites that features a lot of qualified plumbers, from small to large scale providers. Do not hire someone that is not capable to do the job or else, you'll be wasting money. It's like hiring a carpenter to do the cooking.
Hawaii Maui plumber
You shouldn't also rely on some do-it-yourself guides about plumbing that you see online. Though it aims to help you in some ways, having the help of someone professional for the job is always the best thing. These do-it-yourself types of guide mostly provide quick but not lasting solutions for repair problems and not for designing a plumbing system for the house you are building while a professional plumber will be able to give you quality service that will last along with any other parts of your house.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zaldy_Dalisay
Hawaii Maui plumber
A poor plumbing design usually turns life horrible. Would you like to have your toilet bowl overflowing? Or have your kitchen sink babbling every time your washing machine drains? Imagine water flowing in your floors during a sunny day, no typhoon nor floods at all. You don't want it to happen for sure. That's why, a well designed plumbing system is important.
When you hire someone to take the job of designing your plumbing system, make sure that he is a professional plumber. Prefer someone known to do the job very well. It will be easy to know, you can either ask friends and family for referrals, check the background of the company he is working for, or ask for his certificate or license proving that he's capable of the job. There are also online solutions on how to find one, like plumbers directory, online yellow pages, classified sites that features a lot of qualified plumbers, from small to large scale providers. Do not hire someone that is not capable to do the job or else, you'll be wasting money. It's like hiring a carpenter to do the cooking.
Hawaii Maui plumber
You shouldn't also rely on some do-it-yourself guides about plumbing that you see online. Though it aims to help you in some ways, having the help of someone professional for the job is always the best thing. These do-it-yourself types of guide mostly provide quick but not lasting solutions for repair problems and not for designing a plumbing system for the house you are building while a professional plumber will be able to give you quality service that will last along with any other parts of your house.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zaldy_Dalisay
Thursday, June 16, 2011
How Does A Tankless Water Heater Save Money And The Environment? Maui Hawaii
Imagine having and endless supply of hot showers while at the same time saving money and helping the environment. Sound impossible? Not when you consider the fact that the amount of energy wasted in North America each year to simply keep a tank of hot water permanently on standby and ready for our use (even while we sleep)is enough energy to power a small third world nation. Why are we spending our hard-earned dollars to consume fossil fuels in our sleep to heat a tank of hot water that we will never use?
Photo Source
Hawaii Maui plumber
Tankless water heaters only consume energy when you use hot water and instantly heat your water when you turn on the tap. Tankless water heater technology has been a proven solution for over 25 years in Europe and Japan and is just now exploding in demand across North America as homeowners wake up to the benefits of tankless hot water heaters. Let's review some of their benefits:
ENDLESS HOT WATER SUPPLY
No more cold showers! As long as you've selected the correct flow rate model for your home you no longer need to worry about running out of hot water in the shower - even if your teenagers are showering in the other bathroom while your dishwasher and washing machine are on.
Hawaii Maui plumber
SAVE ON HEATING COSTS
The reduced energy consumption of tankless water heaters compared to tank-style water heaters will translate into savings and money in your wallet. The amount you save will vary from household to household and will depend on your water usage patterns and climate. The average homeowner will usually see savings of 15% - 25%, while households that have smaller hot water demands may see savings of up to 48%.
GET PAID TO SWITCH
Under the Energy Tax Incentives Act you can qualify for a $300 Federal rebate by switching your hot water tank to a tankless water heater unit. Act now before these incentives expire!
Hawaii Maui plumber
REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION
A tankless water heater only consumes energy when you are using hot water. It instantly heats the hot water supply to the required temperature "on demand" and does not waste energy maintaining a large tank of hot water 24 hours a day.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLIER
Switching to a tankless water heater will help the environment in 3 ways. Going tankless will reduce the amount of fossil fuels you consume to heat your household water. Secondly, as tankless heaters are typically smaller units than traditional hot water tanks, they require less metal and help reduce the global demand for mining and metal consumption. Thirdly, tankless heaters last 2 - 3 times longer than traditional hot water tanks and will further reduce the demand for metal inputs and lower landfill waste levels.
Hawaii Maui plumber
SPACE SAVING
As an added bonus you will gain storage space in your house due to the simple fact that tankless water heaters are much smaller in size that traditional hot water heaters and can be installed more conveniently in a wide range of locations.
There is a lot to be gained by switching from tank to tankless water heaters, and demand is growing. Why not learn more about tankless heaters and see if they are right for your home. If you act soon, you can still get in on the rebate and get the government to pay you to switch!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S.A._Smith
Hawaii Maui plumber
Tankless water heaters only consume energy when you use hot water and instantly heat your water when you turn on the tap. Tankless water heater technology has been a proven solution for over 25 years in Europe and Japan and is just now exploding in demand across North America as homeowners wake up to the benefits of tankless hot water heaters. Let's review some of their benefits:
ENDLESS HOT WATER SUPPLY
No more cold showers! As long as you've selected the correct flow rate model for your home you no longer need to worry about running out of hot water in the shower - even if your teenagers are showering in the other bathroom while your dishwasher and washing machine are on.
Hawaii Maui plumber
SAVE ON HEATING COSTS
The reduced energy consumption of tankless water heaters compared to tank-style water heaters will translate into savings and money in your wallet. The amount you save will vary from household to household and will depend on your water usage patterns and climate. The average homeowner will usually see savings of 15% - 25%, while households that have smaller hot water demands may see savings of up to 48%.
GET PAID TO SWITCH
Under the Energy Tax Incentives Act you can qualify for a $300 Federal rebate by switching your hot water tank to a tankless water heater unit. Act now before these incentives expire!
Hawaii Maui plumber
REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION
A tankless water heater only consumes energy when you are using hot water. It instantly heats the hot water supply to the required temperature "on demand" and does not waste energy maintaining a large tank of hot water 24 hours a day.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLIER
Switching to a tankless water heater will help the environment in 3 ways. Going tankless will reduce the amount of fossil fuels you consume to heat your household water. Secondly, as tankless heaters are typically smaller units than traditional hot water tanks, they require less metal and help reduce the global demand for mining and metal consumption. Thirdly, tankless heaters last 2 - 3 times longer than traditional hot water tanks and will further reduce the demand for metal inputs and lower landfill waste levels.
Hawaii Maui plumber
SPACE SAVING
As an added bonus you will gain storage space in your house due to the simple fact that tankless water heaters are much smaller in size that traditional hot water heaters and can be installed more conveniently in a wide range of locations.
There is a lot to be gained by switching from tank to tankless water heaters, and demand is growing. Why not learn more about tankless heaters and see if they are right for your home. If you act soon, you can still get in on the rebate and get the government to pay you to switch!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S.A._Smith
The Real Plumbing Cost of Using Liquid Drain Cleaners Maui Hawaii
Many homeowners turn to liquid drain cleaners when they are having drainage or clogging issues with their plumbing. Maui residents may or may not understand what these cleaners are made of or what sort of damage they could potentially cause to their home or business plumbing systems. The first step to recognizing the potential effects of these cleaners is to understand what a clog actually is, and what the cleaners are composed of that makes them seem so effective.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Building Problems
Most clogs found in a kitchen drain are a result of a buildup of food residue, a build up of grease or both. Clogs located in the drains of your bathroom are usually a buildup of hair and soap scum. Both types of clogs usually start developing over a period of time, and gradually get worse with time until they form a complete clog.
The most noticed telltale sign of a potential clog is a slow draining sink located somewhere in the plumbing. El Dorado Hills residents can rest assured that if the problem isn't corrected in a timely manner, a complete clog will develop soon after. Many homeowners turn to liquid drain cleaners as a means to repair the clog. Although, a liquid drain cleaner may seem as if it's the right solution to the problem, there is more to consider than just the immediate removal of the bothersome clog.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Costly And Caustic
Traditional drain cleaners are chemical-based and are extremely caustic in nature. Because of this caustic characteristic, they can quickly damage older systems of plumbing. El Dorado Hills consumers who have older plumbing systems in their homes or businesses should shy away from using a liquid drain cleaner to unclog drains for this reason. Another reason liquid drain cleaners are not always recommended are that the harsh chemicals in them can cause irritation or even severe injuries to people who use them to unclog their plumbing. El Dorado Hills residents should therefore use liquid drain cleaners sparingly, if at all, and it is always in your best interest to at least consult a professional plumber.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Homeowners who have newer versions of plumbing should also shy away from repeated use of liquid drain cleaners when they are dealing with clogged drains. In fact, if you are experiencing a repeated clogging issue, there is probably something more going on with your plumbing system. Always call on the services of a professional plumber if you have continual problems with drainage anywhere in your plumbing system.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Davison
Hawaii Maui plumber
Building Problems
Most clogs found in a kitchen drain are a result of a buildup of food residue, a build up of grease or both. Clogs located in the drains of your bathroom are usually a buildup of hair and soap scum. Both types of clogs usually start developing over a period of time, and gradually get worse with time until they form a complete clog.
The most noticed telltale sign of a potential clog is a slow draining sink located somewhere in the plumbing. El Dorado Hills residents can rest assured that if the problem isn't corrected in a timely manner, a complete clog will develop soon after. Many homeowners turn to liquid drain cleaners as a means to repair the clog. Although, a liquid drain cleaner may seem as if it's the right solution to the problem, there is more to consider than just the immediate removal of the bothersome clog.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Costly And Caustic
Traditional drain cleaners are chemical-based and are extremely caustic in nature. Because of this caustic characteristic, they can quickly damage older systems of plumbing. El Dorado Hills consumers who have older plumbing systems in their homes or businesses should shy away from using a liquid drain cleaner to unclog drains for this reason. Another reason liquid drain cleaners are not always recommended are that the harsh chemicals in them can cause irritation or even severe injuries to people who use them to unclog their plumbing. El Dorado Hills residents should therefore use liquid drain cleaners sparingly, if at all, and it is always in your best interest to at least consult a professional plumber.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Homeowners who have newer versions of plumbing should also shy away from repeated use of liquid drain cleaners when they are dealing with clogged drains. In fact, if you are experiencing a repeated clogging issue, there is probably something more going on with your plumbing system. Always call on the services of a professional plumber if you have continual problems with drainage anywhere in your plumbing system.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Davison
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Roman Plumbing - Why the Roman Plumbing System Was So Advanced Maui Hawaii
You always hear plumbers talking about how good their plumbing expertise is, especially after they have fixed a major problem in your kitchen or in your bathroom area but I think historically there have been many civilizations that have both stated plumbing that even rivals the systems that we use today. The Romans had one of the most successful empires in the history of human civilization and they were known for conquering most of the known world back then. They were not only master warriors and architects but the city of Rome had one of the best plumbing systems ever built. For them to have large and small aqueduct systems, lead pipes that we use even today, floors that were heated according to their liking and drainage systems and dams that are even study by plumbers today.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Each individual home in the city of Rome had water package flow continuously into it through a specialized nozzle that was built by their expert plumbers. Each house owner had a different rate to pay for their water supply according to the size of the nozzle that was built specifically for the. For instance, a home that had a larger nozzle would pay a little more than someone with a smaller nozzle because of the fact that more water could flow into their home at a faster rate. It's incredible to see this technology in action as it was plumbing that was way beyond its time.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Even public baths in Rome were fitted with the latest plumbing technology as they featured faucets that were made of silver. For the rich and famous Romans they often had luxury plumbing that had very advanced four-branch fittings, stop cocks that were made of brass and very elegant bathtubs that were made of bronze. As the Roman Empire declined not only did their power fade but also their care for their plumbing system and as this happened the Standish of the smell from the lack of plumbing contributed later to many diseases that the Roman people picked up. We often neglect to understand how important good plumbing is to not only a home but to a city as a whole until a major crisis happens, so next time you see your favorite neighborhood plumber be sure to shake his hand and thank him for the good job he has always done on your plumbing problems.
Hawaii Maui plumber
We are the top Rated plumbing company in the Maui area.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Randooke
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2042332
Hawaii Maui plumber
Each individual home in the city of Rome had water package flow continuously into it through a specialized nozzle that was built by their expert plumbers. Each house owner had a different rate to pay for their water supply according to the size of the nozzle that was built specifically for the. For instance, a home that had a larger nozzle would pay a little more than someone with a smaller nozzle because of the fact that more water could flow into their home at a faster rate. It's incredible to see this technology in action as it was plumbing that was way beyond its time.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Even public baths in Rome were fitted with the latest plumbing technology as they featured faucets that were made of silver. For the rich and famous Romans they often had luxury plumbing that had very advanced four-branch fittings, stop cocks that were made of brass and very elegant bathtubs that were made of bronze. As the Roman Empire declined not only did their power fade but also their care for their plumbing system and as this happened the Standish of the smell from the lack of plumbing contributed later to many diseases that the Roman people picked up. We often neglect to understand how important good plumbing is to not only a home but to a city as a whole until a major crisis happens, so next time you see your favorite neighborhood plumber be sure to shake his hand and thank him for the good job he has always done on your plumbing problems.
Hawaii Maui plumber
We are the top Rated plumbing company in the Maui area.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Randooke
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2042332
Emergency Plumber - How to Find a Great Plumbing Service Maui Hawaii
One of the great unsung heroes of the modern world is surely the emergency plumber. If you have ever really needed one, you know this to be true. These workers will come to your home or business in your hour of deepest need and fix the things you are lost without. So what makes a good emergency plumber then?
The first thing to know is that these folks can be very hard to find. A good service person is like a needle in the haystack, or so it sometimes seem. Average plumbers, those who install fixtures, are much more common. But the ones who come to fix up the horrifying messes that can be caused by faulty plumbing are almost heroic.
Hawaii Maui plumber
These people are heroes, believe it. They will clean up that mess in your bathroom and put things back in working order, and do it at all hours, as emergencies have no clocks. So here is the first trait to look for in your hired help. When are they available? If they are a twenty four hour operation, that is splendid. Remember, pipes freeze late at night when it gets really cold.
Hawaii Maui plumber
This around the clock availability leads to the second thing to look for in your rescue personnel. Are they available at all hours? Saying you are and actually picking up the telephone are two different matters. Do they offer at least two numbers, one for regular business hours and one for after hours? That is what you are looking for. And if they advertise dispatch vans, all the better for speedy replies.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Now, if you get a live person on the phone, and they are actually coming over to the house, try and get a good look at the truck as it pulls in. Is it clean and orderly? These are signs of a person who takes pride in their business. It is overflowing with tools and fixtures? There are no store runs for a washer at two-o-clock on a Sunday morning, so your help needs to be prepared. Go with the people in the nicest trucks, sounds crazy, but trust me!
Then, when they show up, the most important aspect comes in to play. Are they friendly and professional? Are they smiling even though it is so late and messy? Will they give you straight answers and straight quotes right away, and be willing to put it in writing for you? Honesty is truly the best policy, and a good contractor will always talk to you in a friendly and straightforward manner. If they do not, beware.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Mind you, they may be smiling because of what they are going to charge you for their services. The caveat here is that these folks will be expensive, and that could mean very expensive. Coming to your house or office at all hours to deal with overflowing toilets is not the best idea for a good time. You will be charged accordingly. Still, it will be worth it in the end, if they are good.
Hawaii Maui plumber
So what you are looking for is rather simple. You want a person who is available, and will actually show up ready to fix the problem at hand. They will charge you fairly and talk to you honestly. The cost of a good emergency plumber may be high, but for the good ones it is money well spent.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Don't wait for the worst to happen before you look for an Emergency Plumber in your area. Learn how to find a great emergency plumber now.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Thorpe
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4636668
The first thing to know is that these folks can be very hard to find. A good service person is like a needle in the haystack, or so it sometimes seem. Average plumbers, those who install fixtures, are much more common. But the ones who come to fix up the horrifying messes that can be caused by faulty plumbing are almost heroic.
Hawaii Maui plumber
These people are heroes, believe it. They will clean up that mess in your bathroom and put things back in working order, and do it at all hours, as emergencies have no clocks. So here is the first trait to look for in your hired help. When are they available? If they are a twenty four hour operation, that is splendid. Remember, pipes freeze late at night when it gets really cold.
Hawaii Maui plumber
This around the clock availability leads to the second thing to look for in your rescue personnel. Are they available at all hours? Saying you are and actually picking up the telephone are two different matters. Do they offer at least two numbers, one for regular business hours and one for after hours? That is what you are looking for. And if they advertise dispatch vans, all the better for speedy replies.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Now, if you get a live person on the phone, and they are actually coming over to the house, try and get a good look at the truck as it pulls in. Is it clean and orderly? These are signs of a person who takes pride in their business. It is overflowing with tools and fixtures? There are no store runs for a washer at two-o-clock on a Sunday morning, so your help needs to be prepared. Go with the people in the nicest trucks, sounds crazy, but trust me!
Then, when they show up, the most important aspect comes in to play. Are they friendly and professional? Are they smiling even though it is so late and messy? Will they give you straight answers and straight quotes right away, and be willing to put it in writing for you? Honesty is truly the best policy, and a good contractor will always talk to you in a friendly and straightforward manner. If they do not, beware.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Mind you, they may be smiling because of what they are going to charge you for their services. The caveat here is that these folks will be expensive, and that could mean very expensive. Coming to your house or office at all hours to deal with overflowing toilets is not the best idea for a good time. You will be charged accordingly. Still, it will be worth it in the end, if they are good.
Hawaii Maui plumber
So what you are looking for is rather simple. You want a person who is available, and will actually show up ready to fix the problem at hand. They will charge you fairly and talk to you honestly. The cost of a good emergency plumber may be high, but for the good ones it is money well spent.
Hawaii Maui plumber
Don't wait for the worst to happen before you look for an Emergency Plumber in your area. Learn how to find a great emergency plumber now.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Thorpe
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4636668
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