Author: Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Go Green and Save Green on Air Conditioning and Heating

Whether the weather is hot or cold outside, homeowners want to ensure their homes are comfortable while also ensuring their utility bills don’t go through the roof. There are many ways for people to help keep their homes comfortable without overworking their heating and cooling systems. This post will share a few easy ways to reduce the energy used by heaters and air conditioners. 

Ceiling Fans Can Make a Difference

Ceiling fans are not just used with cooling systems. They can also help when the heating system is on by helping circulate warm air. However, it’s important to note that the direction in which ceiling fans rotate is crucial. They can make both heating and cooling systems more efficient by improving comfort and allowing homeowners to change the temperature on the thermostat to save energy.  

Ceiling fans spinning in a clockwise direction is best for use with the heating system to help recirculate warm air. In contrast, a counterclockwise direction is best for summer and the warmer months, along with the air conditioning, since it creates a downdraft for a cooling breeze.   

Clean Air Filters Help Efficiency

Air filters can easily be cleaned or changed by a property owner, making a big difference in the energy efficiency of heating and cooling systems. When the filters are dirty and clogged, it negatively impacts airflow and efficiency, raising utility costs. So, air filter replacement should occur before the filter gets too dirty and clogged. Whether it is an AC filter or a furnace filter, here are some reasons to change them on time:

• Improved indoor air quality
• Better energy efficiency
• Reduced utility costs
• Extends the life of heating and air conditioning systems

Invest in a Smart Thermostat Installation

Installing a smart thermostat is a savvy move for homeowners looking to boost their home’s energy efficiency and enjoy significant savings on utility bills. Unlike traditional thermostats, smart thermostats can be adjusted from a smartphone app and learn heating and cooling preferences, adjusting automatically to ensure the home is comfortable when people are there and conserving energy when they are not. 

Additionally, smart thermostats have many other features, including geofencing, which is a feature that can track when residents leave, saving energy and then returning to a more comfortable temperature before people return home. Additionally, many smart thermostats provide detailed energy usage reports, allowing homeowners to make more informed decisions about their heating and cooling habits. Reducing energy consumption from the heater and AC lowers utility bills. 

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a local family-owned and operated business that has been serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas since 2011. They provide straightforward prices, on-time service, and the latest technology. Call them for heating and air conditioning services in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

How to Catch a Water Leak Before It Wreaks Havoc in Your Home

A water leak at home is one problem nobody wants to face as a homeowner. They may seem harmless, but water leaks can create a lot of issues and damage at home that can become worse the longer they stay unresolved. It’s important to catch a leak as early as possible so a plumber can be called for water leak repair. Here are a few ways to help people determine if they have a leak at home. 

Common Signs of a Leak

Homeowners should be observant and watch out for common signs of a water leak to catch them before they create immense water damage at home. Here are a few of the most common signs that a leak is present:

• Low water pressure from fixtures
• Water stains on the ceiling, walls, or floor 
• Puddles or damp spots
• Mold and mildew growth
• Musty smell
• The sound of water dripping or running when no water is being used 

Your Water Bill Is Too High 

Another indication that a water leak is present at home is if the home’s water bill is higher than it normally is, but the household hasn’t been using more water than usual. So homeowners who notice that their water bill increases can’t go wrong in scheduling leak detection services.

A spike in the water bills is a common sign of a water leak, so they should not be ignored. If a leak is not detected and fixed as soon as possible, not only will water bills continue to rise and cost more, but any water damage will only get worse, increasing the costs to repair any damage.

Water Meter Test

Homeowners can also use their water meters as a valuable tool to detect leaks. To test for a leak using a water meter, ensure that everything that uses water inside and outside the home is turned off. Then, locate the water meter, which is typically found in a concrete box near the curb or along the side of the house, and note the current reading. 

Wait for at least one to two hours without using any water, then recheck the meter. If the reading has changed, this indicates a potential leak in the system, wasting water. This simple process can be the first step in leak detection, allowing homeowners to address issues promptly before they escalate.

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned and operated company serving Saratoga Springs, NY, and the surrounding areas since 2011. They provide straightforward prices, on-time service, and state-of-the-art solutions. Call them today for water leak detection and repair services in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

Heater Installation Can Make for a Comfortable New Year!

In a cold state like New York, heaters are essential for the winter months. A properly working heater provides comfort for a household and safety and security from problems associated with the cold. When a heater isn’t working correctly, it can be more than an inconvenience. It can be a risk. Proper attention to warning signs and maintenance can help prevent a complete heater breakdown and allow for a smoother transition with a heating replacement.

Don’t Miss These Warning Signs of Heater Failure

Homeowners should pay attention to unusual behavior from the heating system. Never ignore a sign that a home’s heater is failing. Instead, have a technician inspect it to determine whether heater repair or replacement is needed. Some of the common symptoms of heater failure that indicate replacement may be required include: 

• A loss of efficiency is showing itself in higher utility bills.
• The inability to reach the correct temperature or limited airflow.
• Short cycling or constantly turning on and off in short periods.
• The heating system makes strange noises. 
• The heater is too old and nearing the end of its life expectancy.
• The heating system needs repair too often. 

Choosing a Heating System

There are many different options for heating systems when it comes to heater installation. All of them have pros and cons, but professionals can help homeowners choose one that is the best fit for an individual’s home and budget. Some of the available options include: 

• Boilers: Boilers have been around for a very long time. They are basically the original type of central heating. Boilers heat water, providing radiant heat throughout the house via radiator units or underfloor radiant heating. They are good for indoor air quality and quieter than furnaces, but they are more expensive to install, and if there is a problem with the piping, such as a leak, it can cause other damage.
• Furnaces:  Furnaces are a central heating system used with air ducts that distribute the heated air throughout the home. There are newer, more energy-efficient furnaces that can be installed and cost less to install, but failure of a furnace can result in dangers like fire or carbon monoxide leaks.
• Heat Pumps: Heat pumps are energy-efficient alternatives to installing furnaces and air conditioners and can be used for both heating and cooling. They collect heat from the outside to heat the home and can be used in reverse to cool the house. They are typically more expensive to install but cost less to operate and can be used in ducted and ductless systems. 

Remember Heating Maintenance 

Whether homeowners have gotten a new heating system installation or have an older heater, it’s essential not to overlook the importance of maintaining the heating system annualy. Heating maintenance has numerous benefits that make it worth the time, cost, and effort. Some of these benefits include:

• Increased Energy Efficiency: Regular heater maintenance can improve the efficiency of a heating system, resulting in lower utility bills.
• Longer Lifespan: Proper maintenance can extend the heating system’s lifespan, saving homeowners from expensive replacements too soon.
• Improved Air Quality: A well-maintained heating system means cleaner air for the home, reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
• Reduced Chance of Breakdowns: Routine heating maintenance also allows technicians to catch small issues before they become significant problems, preventing unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned and operated company serving Saratoga Springs, NY, and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward prices, on-time service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for heater replacement and installation services in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

Tips to Prevent Wreaking Havoc on Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals can handle some food waste, including cooked meat, citrus rinds, and fruits and vegetables, with some exceptions. However, most food scraps should never go down the disposal to prevent issues. Knowing what food should not go down garbage disposals, along with some other tips, can help prevent problems with it and help avoid clogged pipes. Here are some crucial things to know to help the garbage disposal avoid issues this winter.

Items That Should Never Go Down Garbage Disposals

Most food waste shouldn’t go down the garbage disposal except the things already mentioned, so if homeowners are wondering if something can go down the disposal, it’s best to throw it in the garbage instead. When the wrong foods go down disposals, it can damage or clog the garbage disposal or lead to clogs in the piping. Some examples of items that should never be put in garbage disposals include:

• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Bones
• Nuts and fruit pits
• Grease and cooking oil
• Stringy foods and vegetables
• Potato peels
• Foods that retain water (bread, pasta, rice, etc.)

More Preventative Tips

Running cold water through the garbage disposal system while it’s operating and for a short period afterward plays a critical role in maintaining its longevity and efficiency. The water flow helps keep the blades clean, reducing the potential for a buildup of food waste, which can blunt the blades over time. Additionally, the continuous flow of cold water aids in preventing items from becoming lodged within the system, which can lead to malfunctions or even damage, and helps prevent the motor from overheating.

An occasional practice is to run ice cubes through the disposal, as the shards of ice can help dislodge any stubborn food particles that have become stuck. However, it’s integral to avoid overloading the system by putting too many food items down the disposal at once, as this could strain the mechanism and lead to blockages or damage. Feed waste gradually and always ensure there is sufficient water flow to assist the disposal and to keep the device running smoothly.

Professional Garbage Disposal Repair and Replacement

Another vital tip to keep garbage disposals in the best condition and operating safely is to let a trained plumber handle all garbage disposal installation, repair, and replacement. Some signs that a garbage disposal needs service include:

• Strange sounds like humming and rattling
• Poor performance
• Foul smells
• Frequent clogs
• Water leaks from the garbage disposal unit
• The garbage disposal reset button is used too often

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a local family-owned and operated business serving Saratoga Springs, NY, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward prices, on-time service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for kitchen plumbing and garbage disposal services in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Breathe Easier by Improving Indoor Air Quality During the Holidays

In homeownership, creating a comfy, healthy space is vital, which means maintaining good indoor air quality. But it’s common for people not to know where to start. Sometimes, they’re unaware it even needs a boost, suffering from less-than-ideal air quality for years before they make a change. Here, readers can get the lowdown on easy ways to enhance their homes’ air quality and improve the health of those in the house.

Replace Dirty Air Filters

EnergyStar suggests checking on air filters monthly and replacing them when they look dirty. But usually, they should be changed at least every three months. But what do they do? They capture dust, pet fur, and other allergens and contaminants from the air, which protects the heating and cooling system but also helps improve the air quality.

Not only does replacing AC or furnace filters as soon as they get dirty improve a home’s air quality, but it also improves the heating and cooling system’s energy efficiency, which can lower energy bills. Replacing clogged filters can also extend the system’s lifespan by preventing problems.

Clean Evaporator Coils

HVAC systems have a component called an evaporator coil, which holds refrigerant and absorbs heat from the home to be transferred outside to help cool the house. However, when they get dirty, they can affect the system’s function and create an uncomfortable indoor environment.

When they get dirty, it can affect the home’s humidity and become a breeding ground for allergens and even mold, all of which can reduce the quality of indoor air. So cleaning evaporator coils once they get dirty is one way to maintain good indoor air quality in the home.

Schedule Indoor Air Quality Testing

An indoor air quality assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of the air inside a home or building. It involves measuring the levels of various pollutants such as carbon monoxide, radon, mold, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter. The assessment also includes identifying potential sources of poor air quality, such as inadequate ventilation systems, mold growth, and building materials. The results of the assessment can be used to develop strategies for improving indoor air quality, which can lead to a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Overall, an indoor air quality assessment can provide valuable information about the air and help take necessary measures to improve indoor air quality. So, whether someone is experiencing symptoms related to poor indoor air quality or simply wants to ensure a healthy living space for themselves and their loved ones, getting an indoor air quality assessment is highly recommended. It can also benefit individuals suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions, as it can help identify potential triggers and sources of air pollution that may worsen their symptoms and narrow down what they should do to improve them.

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned and operated business serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, always on-time service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for evaporator coil services in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Don’t Be Haunted by a Potential Plumbing Problem

For homeowners, one of the scariest situations they can encounter is an unexpected plumbing issue. The consequences can be severe, whether they have a clogged drain, a leaking pipe, or a malfunctioning water heater. The effects can be significant- and expensive- from causing an inconvenience to the household to causing water damage. This post will provide tips on how to avoid frightening plumbing problems.

Tips to Prevent Clogs

One of the most common plumbing issues households may encounter is clogs. Blocked drains and clogged sewer lines can lead to slow-draining sinks, sewage backups, and other problems. Fortunately, these issues can be prevented. Families should avoid putting risky items in the drains and toilets. Some things that should never go down the kitchen sink, even if it has a garbage disposal, are:

• Cooking oil or grease
• Eggshells
• Starchy foods
• Fruit pits and nuts
• Coffee grounds

To be safe, plumbers recommend putting all food items in the trash and not down the drain. Household residents should also only flush toilet paper and waste down the toilet. Any other items, including wipes, cotton swabs, cotton balls, and other things, should be thrown in the trash to prevent sewer line clogs. 

Scheduling regular drain and cleaning services can also help homeowners avoid blockages in their drain and sewer lines. During these appointments, plumbers remove residue and other buildups to keep wastewater in the pipes flowing properly. Hydro jetting is often used for preventing clogs, as it can clean the entire pipe using water shot out of a nozzle at high pressure. 

Schedule Plumbing Maintenance 

Plumbers recommend that homeowners schedule routine plumbing maintenance to keep their plumbing system working correctly, prevent problems, and extend the life of the plumbing. In most cases, plumbing maintenance services should be performed once a year. Some tasks plumbers can perform during a maintenance visit include checking the water pressure, water shutoff valves, and plumbing fixtures. 

Scheduling a plumbing maintenance appointment allows plumbers to check the plumbing system and identify issues that need to be repaired before the problem gets bigger and causes more significant problems for the household. For example, they can adjust the water pressure if it’s too high to avoid the pressure leading to cracked or burst pipes and water damage. 

The Water Heater Needs Maintenance Too

Routine water heater maintenance, typically at least once a year, also has many benefits, such as preventing problems with the water heater, working more efficiently, saving on energy bills, and extending the water heater’s life. Some water heater maintenance tasks are:

• Checking for problems: If any issues like corrosion or leaks are detected, the plumber must repair them before they lead to larger problems.
• Drain and flush the tank: This will remove sediment or residue from the tank, allowing the water heater to operate better and more efficiently. 
• Examine the pressure relief valve: The plumber will ensure the safety feature works correctly to prevent problems. 
• Inspect the anode rod: This prevents corrosion inside the tank. Plumbers will check the condition of the anode rod and replace it if needed.  

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating has more than ten years of expertise serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward prices, on-time service, and the latest technology. Call them today for plumbing services in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

Signs You May Need to Replace the Thermostat

A thermostat malfunction can prevent a home’s air conditioner or heater from working correctly. The HVAC system may not know when to turn on or off, running continuously, raising energy costs and increasing wear and tear on the system, or they might not heat or cool the house to the desired temperature. 

To prevent these problems and keep the heating and air conditioning working, homeowners should call a professional for a thermostat replacement if they notice signs of a faulty thermostat. Some signs property owners should watch for that can indicate they need to install a new device include increased energy bills, incorrect temperature readings, and if the unit is short cycling.

Spike in Energy Bills

A high energy bill is one of the first signs homeowners might notice indicating they could have a broken thermostat. If there’s a sudden increase in energy bills or they keep getting higher each month, the HVAC system may be overworking due to a malfunctioning thermostat, which results in more energy being used.

Some problems with a thermostat that can waste energy and money are:

• Not correctly reading the temperature in a home or failing to communicate with the HVAC system that it needs to turn on or off 
• Getting stuck in the “on” position, leaving the air conditioner or heating running continuously
• Taking too long to respond to temperature fluctuations in a house, causing family members to adjust the thermostat
• Failing to follow the programmed settings on a smart thermostat which causes the HVAC system to run when it’s not supposed to

Wrong Temperature Readings

If thermostats start to show incorrect temperature readings, it can be another symptom of a broken thermostat. Homeowners can check the accuracy of the temperature on the thermostat using an indoor thermometer. 

Some issues family members might notice that can alert them that the thermostat may be reading the wrong temperature include:

• Differences between the reading on the thermostat and the actual temperature in the house
• Drastic temperature changes in a house
• Failure to heat or cool the home to the temperature setting on the thermostat or the house feels like it doesn’t match the desired temperature.
• Errors are shown on the thermostat screen or malfunctioning buttons
• If the HVAC system is running too long or short-cycling, turning on and off too quickly 

Short Cycling

Another issue homeowners should be aware of that can indicate a malfunctioning thermostat is if the air conditioner or heater starts to short cycle. Short cycling is when an HVAC system turns on and off quickly and doesn’t run for its normal heating or cooling cycle length. 

Some thermostat issues that can cause the heater or air conditioner to short cycle are:

• A problem with the sensors that is preventing the thermostat from detecting the right temperature
• A wiring issue that is causing a poor connection between the thermostat and the system
• A buildup of dirt, dust, or debris inside the thermostat can interfere with its ability to function correctly 

If homeowners notice any signs of a faulty thermostat, they should contact an HVAC contractor to inspect it and determine if thermostat replacement or repair is needed. 

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned and operated business serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas since 2011. They offer straightforward pricing, on-time service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for smart thermostat repair and installation services in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

What to Know About Your Home’s Plumbing

Homeowners don’t need to know much about their home’s systems since they can hire experts to perform repairs. However, they need to have some knowledge of their plumbing system. By knowing some basics about how their plumbing system works, homeowners can help their households avoid significant water damage, water costs, and other consequences of a plumbing emergency. This blog can help homeowners learn how to spot the signs of a plumbing problem, understand the importance of maintenance, and how to save money with plumbing fixture replacements. 

Plumbing Fixtures

Plumbing fixtures can be problematic for homeowners. Older faucets, shower heads, toilets, and water heaters can be inefficient and malfunction or experience leaks. This can result in excessive water use, higher utility bills, and other issues. However, homeowners can save on their utility bills by replacing old fixtures with new, efficient ones. 

Here are examples of plumbing fixture installations that can save money:

• Water-Saving Toilets: There are many types of water-saving toilets, such as dual-flush toilets, which can save homeowners a significant amount of water.
• Water-Saving Showerheads: Low-flow showerheads can provide households adequate water pressure while using less water.
• Low-Flow Faucets: Plumbers recommend installing water-saving faucets to reduce water bills. Aerators can also reduce water flow from the taps.
• Tankless Water Heater: Tankless water heaters only heat water when needed, conserving energy and saving money. 

Common Signs of Plumbing Problems

One of the biggest lessons homeowners need to learn about plumbing is how to identify the signs of a problem with their plumbing system. Failing to identify an issue soon enough can result in major water damage to a house and wasted money. 

To avoid this, professionals recommend calling a plumber if homeowners notice the following symptoms:

• Low water pressure: This can be due to leaks, clogs, or other issues that need to be diagnosed by a plumber.
• Odd sounds: Sounds coming from the piping, water heater, or other part of the system can indicate a plumbing issue that needs to be inspected by an expert.
• Foul odors: Bad smells coming from pipes or drains can indicate an issue like a clog or backup. 
• Slow drains: If sinks or showers start draining slowly, it can indicate a clog or blockage in the pipe below or sewer line.
• High water bills: An unexplained spike in water costs most likely indicates a leak in the plumbing system.

Plumbing Maintenance

An essential task homeowners need to do each year for their plumbing system is scheduling routine maintenance. These services are crucial in identifying problems with a plumbing system early before the issue worsens and causes more problems. Additionally, routine plumbing maintenance helps the plumbing last longer, prevents problems, and can save homeowners money.

Plumbers will complete numerous tasks during plumbing maintenance services, including the following:

• Examine pipes for leaks or corrosion
• Look for water damage or signs of mold or mildew
• Inspect the toilets, faucets, shower heads, bathtubs, and sinks for issues
• Run tests to determine if there are blockages or water pressure problems in the piping system
• Remove buildup of pipes with drain cleaning services
• Inspect the water heater, flush its tank, and replace its anode rod when needed

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a local family-owned and operated company serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas since 2011. They offer straightforward prices, on-time service, and the latest technology and techniques. Call them today for plumbing services in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Why Is Refrigerant Vital to Air Conditioners?

Refrigerant is critical to the performance of an air conditioner. But while it’s an essential substance in a system, many homeowners do not know what it does. This vital substance is in the coils of an air conditioner. It absorbs the heat to help cool the air.  The AC unit needs the right amount of a specific refrigerant or coolant to properly cool the house to the desired temperature. 

This blog post will answer commonly asked questions homeowners have about refrigerants, including what type is needed for their system, what symptoms of a leak to watch for, and when they need to call a professional for leak repairs. 

Which Refrigerant Does the AC Use?

When HVAC technicians inspect air conditioners for a refrigerant leak, they often share with homeowners the type of refrigerant needed for an AC system. This is essential to know because refrigerant is not interchangeable. Putting the wrong refrigerant in a system will cause damage.

To locate the type of refrigerant needed for an AC, homeowners can also check the owner’s manual that came with the system or look on the outside of the outdoor AC unit for a label that will list the type of refrigerant required. If a home’s air conditioning system was built before 2010, it may use R-22 or freon. This type of refrigerant is banned from use in new air conditioner models because it can harm the environment. 

What Causes Refrigerant Leaks?

If homeowners discover their air conditioner is not cooling their house to the desired temperature on the thermostat, it could be due to several factors, including a refrigerant leak. 

There are many possible causes of refrigerant leaks, including: 

• Age and corrosion: Systems can corrode and rust over time, causing holes to form in the tubing and leading to refrigerant leaks.
• Damaged components: Poor installation or mishandling of the unit can cause damage to the coils, valves, and other components, leading to leaks.
• Poor maintenance: Failing to have AC units inspected and maintained regularly can lead to leaks forming, as professionals cannot clean the evaporator coil and look for signs of a refrigerant leak early enough to repair it before the problem worsens. 

When Is It Time to Call For Refrigerant Leak Repair?

It’s essential for homeowners to call in HVAC professionals to repair their air conditioner’s refrigerant leak at the first signs of a leak. They can use refrigerant leak detectors to spot a leak and then fix it to restore comfort to a house quickly. One of the most obvious signs of insufficient refrigerant in an AC system due to a leak is if the house is not cooling to the temperature on the thermostat. Another sign to watch for is if the AC runs continuously. 

Homeowners should also listen for hissing or gurgling sounds. These can indicate a small hole in the tubing that the refrigerant is leaking through. Another sign to watch for is ice on the refrigerant line and frozen AC coils. This can happen if the refrigerant levels are too low because of a leak. 

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding communities since 2011. They provide honest, straightforward prices, on-time service, and the latest technology. Call them today for refrigerant leak repair services in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

Causes of Low Water Pressure in the Shower

There’s a reason hotels often list good water pressure in the shower as an amenity. People want water pressure that’s high enough to work out sore muscles and let them relax while they shower. If a homeowner expects to have normal water pressure in their home’s shower and then finds it has suddenly dropped, it’s essential to get to the bottom of the cause of the low shower water pressure. This blog post will share some of the most common causes of low water pressure in the shower.

Water Heater 

When a home’s water pressure drops, one place plumbers will check is the hot water heater to see if it’s causing the problem. If the water pressure issues occur only with the hot water, this is likely the cause. Three common problems with water heaters that can impact the water pressure are sediment buildup, clogs, and problems with the valves.

If the water pressure has decreased over time, it may be from a buildup of minerals in the tank. This sediment can take up space in the tank, leaving less space for water storage. To resolve this issue, plumbers will drain and flush the tank to remove the debris. If the water pressure suddenly drops, it can be due to the shut-off valve being closed or partially closed. This issue can be corrected easily, and proper water flow should be restored. Another problem plumbers will check for is a clog in the pipes connected to the water heater. This blockage can restrict water flow and cause low pressure in the shower. 

Leaks

Low water pressure in the shower may also indicate a leak in the water line. Upon arriving at a house, the plumber might start their inspection by asking the homeowners questions to see if there is evidence of plumbing leaks. If the low water pressure occurs with multiple plumbing fixtures, this is a likely cause.

After talking to the homeowners, plumbers will then perform leak detection. They have various tools to check for leaks, including video cameras, infrared leak detectors, and ultrasonic leak detectors. These devices allow plumbers to quickly and non-invasively check the water lines for cracks and leaks that could be causing water pressure problems. 

Showerhead

If the low water pressure is limited to the shower alone and with both hot and cold water, the showerhead is likely the cause. Plumbers and homeowners may start by looking for buildup on the showerhead that can clog the tiny holes and restrict the water flow. The minerals and sediment that can cause issues for the water heater without proper maintenance can also get stuck in the showerhead.  

If it is a newer showerhead, plumbers may also check the installation to ensure it was installed correctly. Clogged showerheads can be cleaned by soaking them in vinegar, but if the showerhead is already old, it may be time to replace it altogether. Installing new showerheads can be beneficial as many new low-flow showerheads save water without sacrificing good water pressure. 

About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating

Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a local family-owned and operated business serving Saratoga Springs, NY, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and high-quality service and expertise. Call them today for plumbing services in Saratoga Springs, NY.