Our Blog

Our Blog

• What’s New in Water Heater Technology? A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Options

  When considering water heaters, conventional tank storage heaters are often the default choice due to their affordability and simplicity. However, newer technologies offer alternatives to address various needs.
  READ MORE

• When Is It Time to Upgrade Your Water Heater? Key Signs and Expert Advice

  If your water heater is over 10 years old, it might be time for a replacement, especially if you're experiencing issues like inadequate hot water, leaks, or erratic performance. However, some problems like sediment buildup or leaky valves can be fixed without replacing the entire unit.
  READ MORE

• When to Replace Your Water Heater: 3 Key Signs and Expert Tips

  Three signs indicating that your water heater needs attention include old age (typically 8-12 years), rusty water coming from faucets, and leaks around the base of the heater. If you notice any of these signs, it's advisable to contact professional plumbers like ABC for assistance and potential replacement.
  READ MORE

• How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater with Routine Maintenance

  Maintaining both tank-style and tankless water heaters is crucial for their efficiency and longevity. Tank-style heaters should be drained annually to remove sediment, checked for leaks and rust, inspected for proper venting (for gas heaters), tested for relief valve functionality, and monitored for thermostat settings and pilot light status. Placing a pan underneath helps detect leaks. Tankless heaters require cleaning of the screen filter and periodic flushing with vinegar to prevent lime and scale buildup. Following manufacturer recommendations and consulting a plumber for assistance ensures proper maintenance and adherence to warranty conditions without risking chemical contamination of the water supply.
  READ MORE

• How to Save on Water Heater Bill

  READ MORE

• How to Inspect and Replace an Anode Rod in a Water Heater Guide

  This blog post talks about how to inspect and replace anode rod in water weater. Water heater tanks are prone to corrosion, but a metal "anode rod" helps extend their lifespan by sacrificially reacting with corrosive elements in the water. Inspecting and replacing the anode rod regularly is crucial to prevent tank rusting.
  READ MORE

• How Tankless Water Heaters Work: Benefits, Costs, and Considerations

  The post explains how tankless water heaters work, heating water only when needed instead of storing it. It highlights their efficiency compared to conventional tank-type water heaters, as they eliminate the energy required to keep a supply of heated water fully heated.
  READ MORE

• Chicago Residents: How to Handle Emergency Toilet Repairs

  Residents can rely on ABC Plumbing’s swift, 24/7 service when a toilet emergency strikes. With experienced ABC technicians who respond quickly to resolve issues and provide a thorough cleanup, ABC ensures prompt and professional solutions for plumbing crises.
  READ MORE

• Can Tankless Water Heaters Get as Hot as Conventional Tank Water Heaters?

  When switching from a conventional tank-style water heater to a tankless one, homeowners often wonder if the tankless system can provide water as hot as the tank water heater. The answer is yes, as most tankless water heaters can be adjusted between 100° to 140°. However, it's crucial to size the tankless water heater properly based on household needs, considering factors like climate and the number of water sources it will supply simultaneously. For guidance on choosing the right water heater for your home, contact ABC Plumbing for assistance.
  READ MORE

• What Causes Pink Stains and Rings in Toilets and Bathtubs: Bacteria, Solutions, and Prevention

  The blog explains that pink stains commonly found in bathrooms are caused by a bacteria called Serratia marcescens, which thrives in moist environments. When diluted by water, this bacteria produces a red-orange pigment that results in pinkish stains on surfaces like bathtubs, toilets, and showers.
  READ MORE