Plumbing Blog | Modern Plumbing Industries

Is a Hybrid Water Heater in Orlando, FL a Good Fit?

August 12th, 2013

Traditional water heaters use a large tank to warm up the water before distributing it into your home’s plumbing. Some Orlando, FL homes use tankless water heaters instead, which generate hot water according to need instead of maintaining a reservoir the way tanked modes do. Both types have their benefits and drawbacks, but there may be a third option – hybrid water heaters – that successfully provide some of the benefits of both models.

The biggest drawback to a traditional tank water heater is inefficiency; the tank itself loses a great deal of heat over time and the cost of maintaining that hot water can be considerable. Tankless water heaters eliminate that waste, since they heat the water when you need it rather than keeping it heated all the time. Instead of being stored in a tank, cold water passes through a heater that quickly raises the temperature, then passes it on to the faucet, eliminating the need for storage.

On the other hand, tankless water heaters can’t always keep up with a high demand for hot water; according to the U.S. Department of Energy, they work best when you use less than 41 gallons of water a day, and their efficiency drops when you use more than that.

To save energy while giving you plenty of hot water, hybrid water heaters make use of a heat pump, which helps pull the heat from the surrounding air and use it to warm the water stored in the tank. That makes them much more efficient than more conventional water heaters. They are hybrids because they can switch back and forth from the heat pump to a traditional electric water heating. They can be installed fairly easily by a trained professional. Their energy efficiency lets homeowners save money while still taking advantage of standby heated water.

If you’re wondering whether a hybrid water heater is a good fit for you, contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. for a consultation. We can inspect your existing water heating system and determine if you could benefit from the installation of a hybrid heater. Our trained experts are available throughout the Orlando, FL area, so don’t hesitate to call!

How Can I Benefit from Professional Drain Cleaning?

August 6th, 2013

You rely on the plumbing system in your home for countless chores and household duties, including dishwashing, bathing and doing the laundry. Of course, once you have used the water piped into your home to do so, it has to get out somehow. That is where your drain lines come in. Disposing of wastewater in an effective, hygienic manner is one of the most important functions of your plumbing system, and it is vital that you ensure your drainage system is able to operate properly. With professional drain cleaning in Orlando from Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc., you can have confidence that your drains will function reliably.

There is simply no way that you can prevent foreign substances from making their way into your drains. Even when you use drain guards to keep food, hair and other items out of your drains, they cannot be 100% effective. Because of this, it is a common problem for homeowners to deal with slow-moving, clogged and completely backed up drains. All too often, homeowners content themselves with pouring liquid drain cleaner into the bathtub or down the kitchen sink. This is simply not nearly effective or dependable a method. To get a truly outstanding performance from the drains in your home, you need professional drain cleaning.

The problem with liquid cleaners is that they rarely are able to clear away a clog completely. If even a small chunk of the clog is left behind, it is only a matter of time before that clog reforms. Some homeowners attempt to snake out their drains on their own. Again, the likelihood of completing the job thoroughly is just not guaranteed. It is possible for an amateur to simply push the snake through a clog, leaving a ring around the interior of the pipes. This will allow some water through, which may fool you into thinking that you have successfully cleaned the drain. Only a professional, though, has the tools, including video camera pipe inspection equipment, to ensure that the job is completed completely.

For more information about the benefits of professional drain cleaning, or to schedule service with the Orlando drain cleaning pros on our team, give MPI a call today. We will gladly clear out your drains to prevent future problems, including the potential for a pressure imbalance and burst pipes, within your plumbing system. Call now for more details.

Are you a victim of Backflow Preventer theft, Modern Plumbing Inc can help!

July 29th, 2013

Here at Modern Plumbing Inc we see and hear a lot about our local community and trends we are seeing in the area. Recently we have heard a lot about thefts of a crucial part of your plumbing system, the backflow preventer, and we want to educate you on what it is as well as offer some advice with dealing with it if you are targeted.

The backflow preventer in your plumbing system works to prevent the reversal of water flow of waste water leaving your premises and going into the municipal sewer system. When a water main breaks or there is a catastrophic event in the city sewer system the pressure differential can force contaminated water back into your system without a backflow preventer to block the pipe. While this type of event may be an extreme example it is imperative that you have a safety feature in place to prevent even the most minor of issues.

If you have been targeted by local thefts and discover your backflow preventer has been removed then please call us here at Modern Plumbing Inc for help replacing it. We can help you determine which valve is right for your system as well as come out and do an onsite investigation of the plumbing to determine there is no further damage. We want to help you move forward from an event like a theft of your backflow preventer so you can get on with your life and protect your system. Should you find yourself in a situation which requires a backflow preventer replacement then give us a call here at Modern Plumbing Inc and we will help get you back on track!

What You Need to Know About Water Heaters and Pipe Replacement

July 23rd, 2013

Your water heater get s a ton of use every single day. It is probably one of your most-used appliances. While you are probably aware that problems can develop with your water heater itself, did you know that you can also have issues with the pipes that lead into it?

Your water heater uses several different types of pipes in order to deliver cold water to it and to pump heated water into your home. There are probably some copper pipes as well as some plastic pipes as well leading into or out of your system. Here are a few common things that you need to know about these pipes.

Copper pipes – These types of pipes are used to carry water because of their durability and resistance to corrosion. Because your water heater uses so much water it can take a toll on plastic pipes. However, these types of pipes are more difficult to repair because the copper must be cut and soldered in order to replace the pipes.
Plastic PVC – Another common type of pipe you might see near your water heater is PVC. This will usually only be used for fresh water intake as this kind of pipe is not often used with hot water. This is an easier type of pipe to work with because it doesn’t need to be soldered.

Causes of Pipe Replacement

There are a couple common things that can cause your water heater’s pipes to need replacement. One common cause is corrosion. If your home’s water supply is of a certain acidity or if you have hard water, it can cause minerals or corrosion to build up inside the pipes. This will cause huge issues for your water heater. Rust is another issue that can develop and cause the need for pipe replacement. While copper is very resistant to rust, the soldering material used to fit the pipes together (referred to as “flux”) can start to rust. And, of course, there are pipes made of other materials that can be used in your home, such as steel and polybutylene, which can can also have issues with both rust and corrosion. If you are not sure what your water heater pipes are made of, call your local Orlando plumber to examine your system.

If you need water heater repair in Orlando, make sure that you call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) .

Polybutylene Piping in Your Orlando House? Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. Can Help!

July 22nd, 2013

Your plumbing system is a critical part of your home, and it’s important to know what materials are used in its construction. Between 1978 and 1995, a type of piping called polybutylene was used across the country because it was relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Over time, however, it was discovered that these pipes are susceptible to some of the chemicals used to treat water systems, and therefore vulnerable to erosion, leakage and breakage. While structures built since that time have not used this type of piping, there are many homes that should have polybutylene pipes replaced.

At Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc., we have come across this material on numerous occasions, and it may require a complete re-piping to pass inspection or to qualify for insurance. While this can be a major job, it is necessary in order to prevent catastrophic failure of the pipes, and to ensure the safety of your home. Being proactive is the best way to protect yourself from the issues that can arise from polybutylene pipes, so call us today to come take a look at your current system. We can recommend the best solution moving forward.

If you live in the Orlando, FL area and aren’t sure of what type of piping you have in your home, call one of our plumbing experts for professional consultation. We can run you through the steps necessary to move forward with replacing your system. Here at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc., we want our community to be safe from the types of major issues that can arise from a system using polybutylene piping. Let us help you protect your home.

Can Neglecting Drain Cleaning Cause Damage?

July 1st, 2013

Having good, working drains is critical to your home’s proper functioning and also to your daily life. Getting regular drain cleaning is one of the best ways for you to make sure that your drains continue to work well for as long as possible. But what happens if you neglect drain cleaning? Can it really cause damage to your home’s plumbing system? Here at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI), we are dedicated to our customers’ satisfaction and to the quality of work that we do. We anted to help our customers understand the importance of getting regular drain cleaning in Orlando, FL.

The Importance of Regular Drain Cleaning

Your drains get a ton of use every single day from showers, toilets, sinks, dish washers, and laundry machines. All that use can cause your drains to develop small clogs, cracks and leaks. These types of problems usually start small and then end up becoming larger, more costly repairs.

But when you get regular drain cleaning, you might be able to keep those problems from being quite such a hassle. During a drain cleaning visit, your plumber will thoroughly clean out your entire drain system. This will allow them to remove any small clogs that are developing before they completely clog your drain. Your plumber will also inspect your drains for any leaks and cracks that could be happening. This is probably the best way for you to potentially avoid drain leaks. However, if you neglect to get drain cleaning, there’s no way for your to keep those small clogs or cracks from becoming full-blown plumbing repairs.

Call for Drain Cleaning in Orlando, FL

If you’re tired of having your drains clog or if you’d like to potentially avoid plumbing repair, call the friendly experts at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI). We will visit your home on a regular basis and use our specialized tools to thoroughly clean out your entire drain and plumbing system. Contact us today for drain cleaning in Orlando, FL.

Ask a Plumber: Reasons for Shower Backup

June 26th, 2013

It is difficult for most homeowners to imagine living without the incredible convenience of running water in their homes. Thankfully, most of us will never have to experience such issues. Even so, it is very likely that you will experience some sort of problems with the plumbing system in your home eventually. When that time comes, it is important to contact a professional plumber in Orlando, FL immediately. The longer you wait to do so, the greater the risk for serious damage to your plumbing system. Even seemingly minor problems, such as a backed up shower drain, may result in real trouble if given the time. Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today to learn more.

Shower Backup

There are a number of different reasons why your shower may back up. The good news is that most of them can be easily avoided with just a little bit of extra care. One of the most important things that you can do to keep your bathtub draining properly is to simply use drain covers when showering. It is inevitable that some hair is going to wind up being shed in the shower, and hair buildup in shower drains may be the most common cause of shower backups. If you shave in the shower then your drains are at an even greater risk. A good drain cover will help to keep that hair out of the drain as the water passes through.

Even when being careful to use drain covers and clean any hair out of the shower when you’re done, you will probably still have to deal with a shower backup at some point. Dirt, grime and even soap and shampoo residue can build up over time. Regular drain cleaning is a great way to ensure that your drains are clear and that they will function properly. A slow moving drain is certainly inconvenient, but many homeowners fail to realize that such issues can lead to an imbalance of pressure, creating a risk for the condition of your pipes.

To learn more about shower backups and how to avoid them, speak with an Orlando, FL plumber you can count on at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. Our team is happy to answer any questions that you may have. Contact us any time to discuss all of your plumbing service options and needs.

Plumbing Question: What Does a Drain Vent Do?

June 18th, 2013

At Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI), we have seen a wide variety of plumbing jobs throughout the Orlando area. We believe that an informed customer is a great thing; it allows you to spot any issues or problems with your piping that may cause clogs and leaks. It’s relatively simple to understand that drains needs to be installed at a pitch so that gravity can push your organic waste and gray water into your sewer. But your drain ventilation system is just as critical. In today’s post, we’d like to address what a drain vent does. If you have any issues with your plumbing system that need professional attention, give us a call today.

Your wastewater disposal system cannot work without proper ventilation. Think of your drain as a tube plugged at one end. Without ventilation integrated into the drainpipe, that wastewater cannot move because there is a pressurized vacuum. A drain vent pipe connects your drain to what’s known as the main stack. While its location may vary from home to home, the main stack ventilates your drainpipe system all the way through the roof. This allows for air to flow into your drainpipe, thus relieving the pressure of a closed system, and letting gravity do its job to keep your home a hygienic and pleasant place to live.

As you can imagine, your drain vent is subject to wear and tear and problems just like any other aspect of your piping system. If there are any blockages in your drain vent, whether at the local pipe itself, or within the main stack, then you simply cannot expect effective and efficient waste removal. This may cause odors to develop in the home or might even completely backup your plumbing. It’s critical that any such problems be addressed by a professional plumber so that your home is restored to its normal operation.

Call Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) today for comprehensive plumbing services in Orlando, including drain vent repair.

Benefits of Scheduling Maintenance Service with a Professional Plumber

June 11th, 2013

There are huge benefits to getting your home’s plumbing system regularly maintained. The expert plumbers at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI) have years of experience offering complete plumbing maintenance for all different kinds of plumbing system. Make sure that you take a couple minutes to check out some of the benefits of getting your plumbing system inspected and maintained on a regular basis.

Reduced plumbing repair – Perhaps the most important benefit of regular plumbing maintenance is that it could potentially reduce the need for plumbing repair. When you have a professional plumber regularly cleaning and inspecting your system, they will be able to find the small issues that eventually turn into repair. This could allow you to prevent some plumbing problems from ever occurring.
Increased efficiency – Your drains should be able to quickly drain the water out of your home. If you start to notice that your drains are slowing down it usually means that there is a clog forming somewhere in your plumbing system. During regular maintenance visits your plumber will look for the beginnings of those clogs and remove them which could help all the drains in your home work better.
Extended life – In some cases, clogs in your plumbing system can cause leaks or ruptures in your pipes. Maintaining your pipes and drains can help them last longer.

If you’re interested in scheduling regular maintenance for your home’s plumbing system, just call the Orlando plumbers at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI). We will visit your home several times every year and perform a thorough inspection of your home’s plumbing system.

Common Water Heater Repairs

June 7th, 2013

Photo by Brian Cantoni

Considering all the use that it gets on a daily basis during the course of a year, it’s no wonder that your water heater may sometimes need professional service from an Orlando plumber. While there are numerous types and brands of water heaters on the market, there are some common water heater repairs that are more or less shared by all hot water systems. Let’s take a look at a handful of them. If you’re in need of comprehensive, thorough water heater repair, look no further than Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. (MPI).

Sediment and scale buildup: Over time, your water heater accumulates sediment. Because of the volume of water that it processes, this sediment can accumulate on the bottom of the tank and begin to causes problems. The heat exchanger, which is responsible for safely transferring heat from the combustion chamber (if gas) or coils (if electric), can become inhibited by the amount of sediment buildup, and this can cause it to overwork itself. If you hear a rumbling or boiling sound, this is often the result of this problem.
Sacrificial anode decay: The anode rod in your tank water heater is designed to sacrifice itself to protect the steel of your water heater. The interaction between water and metal can create problems for the integrity of the container; most commonly, the problem of rust, or oxidization. The anode rod is there to absorb this interaction, so that it doesn’t occur to the sides of your tank. But it needs to be monitored periodically and replaced to avoid significant problems.
Leaks: Leaks occur anywhere water is contained. Your water heater is a pressurized cylindrical tank that is susceptible to leaking. If you notice a water leak, make sure you have it checked out by a professional plumber.

Call MPI today for quality plumbing services in Orlando, including water heater repair and replacement.