Blog

Can a water heater explode?

While most modern water heaters are designed with safety features to prevent possible explosions, there are times when improper maintenance or malfunctioning parts can lead to these situations. Should you be worried about your water heater? While rare, these instances can happen. Let’s look at the signs that may cause a possible explosion and how to prevent it from happening in your home. What Causes a Hot Water Heater to Explode? For the water heater

Read More »

What Are the Most Energy Efficient Water Heaters?

In all cases, water heaters with the Energy Star rating are the most efficient of their class. There are many different kinds of water heaters available, including those that use gas, electricity, geothermal, or even solar power to heat the water that you’ll need to use in your home. Keep reading to find out which might be the best for you. Water Heaters With Tanks When most people think of a water heater, this is

Read More »

What is the best temperature setting for my water heater?

For many Americans, it seems like hot water at the turn of a tap has always been available. The truth is as startling as a cold shower. The modern water heater was invented in 1889 by Edwin Ruud. However, the device got off to a slow start. As Sense explains, only 1% of U.S. homes had indoor plumbing and electricity by 1920. Standardized plumbing codes in the 1940s finally helped make indoor plumbing an expectation,

Read More »

Pex vs. Copper Piping

Copper has long been the material of choice for plumbing pipes because it is extremely durable and can withstand high temperatures, but more affordable PEX piping has become a popular alternative in recent years. PEX piping costs less to buy and is easier to install, but is it as good as copper? That’s a question that you will likely ask yourself sooner or later, so let’s break it down. What Is PEX Piping Cross-linked polyethylene,

Read More »

Do Your Home’s Pipes Need to Be Replaced?

Like anything else in your home, its pipes will need to be replaced every so often. Ideally, you’ll have them checked every year or two, and they will often need to be replaced every few decades for best results. Of course, it can be difficult to tell exactly when they need to be replaced. How Old Are Your Current Pipes? A typical pipe will last for 50 to 70 years assuming that they are properly

Read More »

How often do homes need to be repiped?

Homeowners have to deal with a wide variety of costly projects on a regular basis. One of these is plumbing. It seems as though homes are always dealing with leaks, lost pressure, or broken toilets. These issues are sometimes an example of a home that needs to be repiped. Some plumbing systems may be decades old and may lose thousands of gallons of water every year through costly leaks and breaking fixtures. It is important

Read More »

Can my pipes be repaired or do I need to replace?

Plumbing emergencies are among the types of household disasters that require immediate attention. Once water begins to leak from a pipe or fixture, your house becomes at risk for further issues such as mold growth and damaged building materials. If the leak or clog involves a sewer line, then you could be facing serious health hazards. While even minor plumbing problems can feel like a disaster, professional plumbers can often correct them with simple repairs.

Read More »

Why does soft water feel slimy in the shower?

Installing a water softener in your Daytona, FL home will extend the lifespan of your pipes, plumbing fixtures, and plumbing-connected appliances. A water softener can increase the health of your skin and hair, make your tap water taste better, and leave your clothes and dishes cleaner. However, adjusting to soft water takes time. Until you acclimate, your shower water could have a slick, slippery, or downright slimy feel. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we’re sharing insights

Read More »

Is the Water in Daytona Hard or Soft?

There are so many things to love about living in Daytona Beach. From the stunning weather to the lively nightlife, this city has cemented its status as a true Floridian icon. However, some residents might argue that Daytona’s hard water can make it a bit challenging to live in the area at times. After all, hard water can be tough on your skin and nails, drying them out. It can also lead to soap scum

Read More »

How often do I have to add salt to my water softener?

Taking care of your water softener means you’ll need to do routine maintenance on it, which includes checking the salt level from time to time. The amount of times that you’ll need to add salt depends on several factors. Some of the most influential include the size of the softener, how much water you use and the level of hardness in your home’s water supply. Why Do Water Softeners Need Salt? Salt is essential for

Read More »