Categories Plumber

Hard Water Treatment Options: What Works Best for Your Home?

hard water treatment

Hard water can cause a range of problems in your home, from scale buildup in pipes to dull laundry and spotty dishes. Finding the right hard water treatment is essential for protecting your plumbing and improving water quality. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, explains the best hard water treatment options and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water contains high levels of minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, about 85% of U.S. homes have hard water.

  • Causes scale buildup in pipes and appliances
  • Reduces the effectiveness of soap and detergent
  • Leads to dry skin and hair
  • Can shorten the lifespan of water-using appliances

Popular Hard Water Treatment Options

There are several effective hard water treatment solutions available:

  • Water Softeners: The most common solution, using ion exchange to remove minerals. These systems replace calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, providing the most comprehensive solution for hard water problems throughout your entire home.
  • Salt-Free Conditioners: Use a physical process to prevent minerals from sticking to surfaces. While they don’t actually remove the minerals from the water, they crystallize them so they won’t form scale buildup in your pipes and appliances.
  • Reverse Osmosis Systems: Filter out minerals and other contaminants. These systems are typically installed at individual faucets or as whole-house units and provide exceptionally pure water by forcing it through a semi-permeable membrane.
  • Magnetic or Electronic Descalers: Alter the properties of minerals to reduce scale. These devices claim to change the structure of mineral crystals as water passes through magnetic or electronic fields, though their effectiveness remains debated among water treatment professionals.

According to Angi, water softeners are the most effective and widely used hard water treatment in the U.S.

How to Choose the Best Hard Water Treatment

Consider these factors when selecting a hard water treatment:

  • Water hardness level in your area
  • Household size and water usage
  • Budget and maintenance requirements
  • Local plumbing codes and restrictions

For more information on water treatment solutions, visit Beis Plumbing’s Water Filtration Services page.

Benefits of Hard Water Treatment

  • Protects plumbing and appliances from scale buildup
  • Improves soap and detergent performance
  • Leads to softer skin and hair
  • Reduces energy bills by improving appliance efficiency

According to ENERGY STAR, water heaters with less scale buildup operate up to 30% more efficiently.

Contact Beis Plumbing for Hard Water Solutions

Ready to improve your water quality? Contact Beis Plumbing for expert advice and installation of hard water treatment systems in the St. Louis area.

Categories Plumber

How to Choose the Best Local Plumber Near Me

local plumber near me

Finding a reliable local plumber near me is essential for homeowners who want fast, trustworthy service. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know who to trust with your home’s plumbing needs. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, shares expert tips on how to choose the best local plumber near me for any job.

Why Choosing the Right Plumber Matters

A skilled local plumber near me can save you time, money, and stress. According to the Angi, hiring a licensed and insured plumber reduces the risk of costly mistakes and ensures quality work.

  • Proper licensing and insurance
  • Experience with a variety of plumbing issues
  • Positive customer reviews and ratings
  • Transparent pricing and warranties

The best local plumbers also offer emergency services for urgent situations like burst pipes or severe leaks that can’t wait for regular business hours. They should provide upfront estimates before beginning work and be willing to explain the problem and solution in terms you can understand. Additionally, reputable plumbers stand behind their work with solid warranties and maintain clean, professional appearances when working in your home. Building a relationship with a trusted local plumber means you’ll have reliable help whenever plumbing issues arise, often with priority scheduling for established customers.

What to Look for in a Local Plumber Near Me

When searching for a local plumber near me, consider these factors:

  • 24/7 emergency service availability
  • Same-day appointments for urgent repairs
  • Up-to-date with the latest plumbing technologies
  • Membership in professional organizations

According to the Better Business Bureau, checking for BBB accreditation and an A+ rating is a good indicator of a reputable plumber.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

  • Are you licensed and insured?
  • Can you provide references or reviews?
  • What is your pricing structure?
  • Do you offer warranties on your work?

For more information on Beis Plumbing’s credentials and services, visit their About Us page.

Benefits of Choosing Beis Plumbing

Beis Plumbing stands out as a top choice for a local plumber near me in St. Louis. They offer:

  • Same-day service and 24/7 live answering
  • Flexible financing options
  • Military and senior discounts
  • Hundreds of positive reviews and an A+ BBB rating

Contact Beis Plumbing for Reliable Service

If you’re searching for a local plumber near me, contact Beis Plumbing for fast, professional service in the St. Louis area.

Categories Plumber

Broken Water Heater? Here’s What to Check First

broken water heater

A broken water heater can disrupt your daily routine and leave you without hot water when you need it most. Knowing what to check first can help you identify the problem and decide whether you need professional help. Beis Plumbing, serving the St. Louis area, shares expert tips on troubleshooting a broken water heater and when to call a plumber.

Common Signs of a Broken Water Heater

If you suspect you have a broken water heater, look for these warning signs:

  • No hot water or inconsistent temperatures
  • Strange noises coming from the tank
  • Water leaks around the base of the heater
  • Rusty or discolored water
  • Low water pressure

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 18% of a home’s energy use, making it important to address issues promptly. A malfunctioning water heater not only affects your daily comfort but can also lead to significantly higher energy bills and potential water damage if left unrepaired.

What to Check First

Before calling a plumber, try these troubleshooting steps for a broken water heater:

  • Check the power supply (circuit breaker or fuse)
  • Inspect the thermostat settings
  • Look for visible leaks or corrosion
  • Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup
  • Test the pressure relief valve

According to Angi, sediment buildup is a leading cause of water heater problems and can reduce efficiency. 

When to Call a Professional

If your broken water heater still isn’t working after basic checks, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. Beis Plumbing can diagnose and repair complex issues, including faulty heating elements, gas supply problems, or tank corrosion. For more information, visit their Water Heater Services page.

Preventing Future Water Heater Problems

To avoid a broken water heater in the future, Beis Plumbing recommends:

  • Scheduling annual maintenance and inspections
  • Flushing the tank regularly to remove sediment
  • Replacing old or worn-out parts promptly
  • Installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup

Contact Beis Plumbing for Water Heater Repairs

If you have a broken water heater and need fast, reliable repairs, contact Beis Plumbing for expert service in the St. Louis area. Our team is committed to providing top-notch plumbing services that meet the unique needs of every customer. Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a major plumbing emergency, Beis Plumbing is your go-to solution.

Watch Charlie's Video Discussing Everything You Need to Know About Water Heaters!

Categories Plumber

Comparing Tankless vs Traditional Water Heater Options for Your Home

tankless vs traditional water heater

Choosing between a tankless vs traditional water heater is a major decision for homeowners looking to upgrade their hot water system. Each option has unique benefits and considerations, and understanding the differences can help you select the best fit for your household.

How Do Tankless and Traditional Water Heaters Work?

Traditional water heaters store a large volume of water in a tank and keep it heated at all times, ready for use. In contrast, tankless water heaters heat water on demand, providing hot water only when you need it. This fundamental difference impacts energy use, space requirements, and long-term costs.

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

  • Energy Efficiency – Tankless models are typically 24%-34% more energy efficient for homes using less than 41 gallons of hot water daily, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
  • Endless Hot Water – You’ll never run out of hot water, even during back-to-back showers.
  • Space Saving – Tankless units are compact and wall-mounted, freeing up floor space.
  • Longer Lifespan – Most last over 20 years, compared to 10-15 years for tank models.
  • Higher Upfront Cost – Installation and equipment costs are generally higher than traditional units.
  • May Require Upgrades – Some homes need electrical or gas line upgrades for installation.

Pros and Cons of Traditional Water Heaters

  • Lower Initial Cost – Traditional tank water heaters are less expensive to purchase and install.
  • Simple Installation – Most homes are already set up for tank water heaters, making replacement easy.
  • Limited Hot Water Supply – Once the tank is empty, you must wait for it to refill and reheat.
  • Higher Energy Bills – Keeping water hot 24/7 uses more energy, especially in larger households.
  • Shorter Lifespan – Typically last 10-15 years before needing replacement.

Which Is More Cost-Effective?

While tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money over time. According to Consumer Reports, tankless models can be 22% more energy efficient on average, potentially saving hundreds of dollars in utility bills over their lifespan.

However, the payback period depends on your household’s hot water usage and local energy rates. For families with high hot water demand, a traditional tank may be more practical.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Tankless water heaters require professional installation and may need upgrades to your home’s gas or electrical systems. They also benefit from annual maintenance to prevent mineral buildup. Traditional water heaters are easier to install and maintain but may require more frequent repairs as they age.

Environmental Impact

Tankless water heaters are generally more environmentally friendly due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan. Reducing energy consumption helps lower your home’s carbon footprint.

Which Option Is Right for You?

When deciding between a tankless vs traditional water heater, consider:

  • Your household’s daily hot water usage
  • Available installation space
  • Budget for upfront costs and long-term savings
  • Willingness to upgrade home systems if needed

Consulting a professional plumber can help you assess your needs and choose the best system.

For more details on water heater options and installation, visit our Water Heaters page.

Why Choose Beis Plumbing?

Beis Plumbing offers expert advice and installation for both tankless and traditional water heaters. Our licensed technicians provide personalized recommendations, same-day service, and flexible financing options to make your upgrade easy.

Ready to Upgrade Your Water Heater?

Contact Beis Plumbing today to schedule a consultation or book your installation. We’ll help you find the perfect solution for your home’s hot water needs.

Categories Plumber

Why More Homeowners Are Installing a Tankless Water Heater

installing a tankless water heater

Tankless water heaters are rapidly gaining popularity among homeowners seeking energy efficiency, convenience, and long-term savings. If you’re considering installing a tankless water heater, you’re not alone—this innovative technology is transforming how families access hot water and manage utility costs.

What Is a Tankless Water Heater?

Unlike traditional water heaters that store and constantly heat a large tank of water, tankless models heat water on demand. This means you only use energy when you need hot water, resulting in significant savings and a virtually endless supply.

Key Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater

  • Energy Efficiency – According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily can achieve 24%-34% more energy efficiency with tankless water heaters compared to traditional storage tank models.
  • Endless Hot Water – Never worry about running out of hot water during showers or laundry again.
  • Space Savings – Tankless units are compact and can be mounted on walls, freeing up valuable storage space.
  • Longer Lifespan – Most tankless water heaters last over 20 years, compared to 10-15 years for tank models.
  • Lower Utility Bills – By only heating water when needed, you can reduce monthly energy costs.

Why Are More Homeowners Making the Switch?

Rising energy prices and a growing focus on sustainability are driving the trend toward installing a tankless water heater. In fact, the global tankless water heater market is projected to reach $4.3 billion by 2027, according to MarketsandMarkets.

Homeowners are also attracted to the convenience and reliability of tankless systems. With proper installation and maintenance, these units deliver consistent hot water and require fewer repairs over their lifespan.

Is Installing a Tankless Water Heater Right for Your Home?

While the benefits are substantial, it’s important to consider your household’s hot water needs and plumbing setup. Tankless water heaters work best in homes with moderate to high hot water demand and can be installed for whole-house or point-of-use applications.

  • Evaluate your daily hot water usage
  • Consider the number of bathrooms and appliances
  • Consult a professional plumber for sizing and installation recommendations

Professional Installation Matters

Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the efficiency and lifespan of your tankless water heater. Beis Plumbing’s licensed and insured technicians have extensive experience with all major brands and models. We ensure your system is sized correctly and installed to code, so you enjoy reliable hot water for years to come.

For more information on our water heater services, visit our Water Heaters page.

Maintenance Tips for Tankless Water Heaters

To keep your system running efficiently:

  • Schedule annual maintenance to remove mineral buildup
  • Check for error codes and address issues promptly
  • Use a water softener if you have hard water

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your unit and prevent costly repairs.

Why Choose Beis Plumbing?

As a trusted St. Louis plumber, Beis Plumbing offers:

  • Same-day service and 24/7 live answering
  • Flexible financing options
  • Fully licensed and insured technicians
  • Military and senior discounts
  • Personalized recommendations for your home

We’re committed to providing top-notch service and expert advice for all your plumbing needs.

Ready to Upgrade? Book Your Tankless Water Heater Installation Today

Don’t wait to start saving energy and enjoying endless hot water. Contact Beis Plumbing to schedule your installation or request a free assessment. Our team is here to help you choose the best solution for your home.