You’re ready to renovate part (or all) of your home. Don't forget about plumbing upgrades while looking at walls, spaces, electricity, etc. Pipes are like a body’s veins. They transport water to your faucets. Afterward, their job is to carry waste away. 

There isn’t a day that goes by without you interacting with your plumbing system. So, it stands to reason that if you are renovating your home, you should upgrade or change your pipes and ensure they’re functional. Nonetheless, you probably have no idea where to begin. The experts at Barner Murphy can give you tips and considerations, outlining them clearly for your consideration.

Key Points for Plumbing Upgrades During Home Renovation

Several focus points come into play when changing your piping.

1. The pipes need to be the right ones for handling water pressure

2. The pipe locations need to be away from any potential contaminating source

3. Drains need proper sizing so they remain clear

4. The Editors of Home Energy Magazine stress that faucets can be aesthetically pleasing while providing water efficiency.

5. Check local codes, obtain permits, and schedule inspections. Most often, your contractor handles this point.

6. Work within your budget

7. Plan for future needs. For example, if you plan to extend your kitchen at a later date, the current plumbing work can be laid out to accommodate these forthcoming changes.

8. Provide the contractor with any existing plumbing blueprints if you have them. 

9. Get a complete inspection of your current system. Barner Murphy will look for leaks, water stains, and corrosion, and consider the age of your plumbing focusing on safety, economy, and performance. 

A successful home renovation depends on these four elements, as well as quality products like those we offer at Barner Murphy for long-term efficiency. 

TIP: Always plan your system before choosing fixtures. 

The Role of a Professional Plumber

In our work with plumbing in home renovations, we use cameras to look at drains. This helps us assess sediment buildup. We also perform pressure tests. A detailed inspection of your system helps in making sound decisions for the work ahead. The goal is long-term functionality. So, adding smart home technology that monitors the system can catch small issues before they become large ones. 

Tip: Ask about available technology that will help save money and identify issues

Communicate with your plumber about your vision for the home’s layout and fixtures. This helps in the planning. Not all pipes connect to all fixtures. 

Watch the Bottom Line

Renovations often have hidden costs (10%-20% higher than anticipated). That means planning for your plumbing upgrade should include a little wiggle room. To help with this, Barner Murphy will provide detailed estimates for any necessary work, and discuss any questions you may have. 

Why Barner Murphy?

Two master plumbers created Barner Murphy. Their goal was (and continues to be) a personalized, professional service you can trust. “Reliability” is our middle name.

Barner Murphy values client relationships. We focus on customer satisfaction based on clear communication. When you have a question, our professionals are happy to answer. Quality work is guaranteed!

Located in Bucks County, Levittown, PA, you can call us at 215-945-8560 or use our online contact form for further information.

There is no question that the quality of your water matters. Did you know your body is made up of 50-70% water? In fact, water has unique properties that allow our body to use minerals and nutrients for basic functions. At Barner Murphy, we cannot emphasize enough how important it is to remain aware of potential home water quality issues.

Signs It’s Time to Test Water Quality in Your Home

• Colors: When people call Barner Murphy reporting their water looks odd, even muddy, it’s time for an inspection. Note these colors may appear on laundry, or even on the water fixtures, looking reddish.

• Itchy or rashing skin. If everyone in the family breaks out in skin irritation after the last load of laundry or a shower, this is a sign of water quality issues.

• Odors: Does your water have a funny smell that you’re not accustomed to? Many people describe it as rotten eggs. The presence of surfer or bacteria can result in nasty smells. There may, alternatively, be an earthy or metallic odor, which is a sign of copper, lead, mercury, or iron in the water.

• Soap that doesn’t bubble. If you notice you have tub or sink rings or grey streaks, these spots are warning signs. You may notice your dishwasher isn’t performing as well, leaving a film, too.

• Stomach problems. Contaminated water can create nasty digestive issues. If you notice diarrhea or pains shortly after drinking some water, you have a prime suspect.

Potential Sources of Water Quality Problems In Your Home

• Agricultural work, landfills, and industrial sites can all impact your home’s water quality. If you live in an area like this, get your water tested regularly. 

• Old plumbing: Unless you have a newer home, there’s a chance that old plumbing lurks somewhere. Time for a healthier alternative: Get an upgrade!

• Private Wells: Private wells are not regulated. They are more prone to contamination.

Remedial Action

Before you get really worried, call the local health department. They can tell you if something is amiss in your area. You can buy home water testing kits online or in hardware stores, but they’re not always as accurate as possible.

There’s certainly the option of sending out a water sample to a certified lab. The problem here is time. You want to fix this as soon as possible to protect your family’s health.

That’s where Barner Murphy comes in. If you’re in the Levittown area of PA (Buck’s County), we can reach you swiftly and give you dependable information. If anything needs to be done, our master plumbers provide detailed estimates. There are no surprises. We guarantee not only our work but your satisfaction. 

Over the last 30 years, we provided reliable service to many homes in this area. More importantly, our goal is to keep your home healthy going forward. So, we may suggest a regular testing schedule.

There are two ways to contact us. There’s our online form. Or, just pick up the phone and talk to one of our professionals at 215-945-8560. We look forward to being of service.

Many of us look forward to cool showers during the summer. They help us cool down and beat the heat. Unfortunately, the hot weather can damage our plumbing systems. The water may not be there when we need it most.

So how can you prevent summer-related problems from damaging your plumbing system? Read on to find out.

What are Common Summer-Related Plumbing Issues?

Leaks

Leaks are prone to occur when hot weather causes pipes to expand. You can avoid leaks with the following practices:

·  Wrap Exterior Pipes: Wrap rags and towels around exterior pipes and secure them with duct tape. Doing so will support them during the summer. Leaks will be less likely to occur. It will also protect them from cold in the winter.

·  Limit Water Use: Summer is when we use more water, but increased water use can put pressure on your pipes and increase leak risk. Be mindful of the water you use. Avoid using multiple water sources at the same time.

·  Check for Leaks: Look for signs of leaks to prevent a small problem from getting worse. Damp spots, stains, bulges in the walls and ceilings, mold, high water bills, and low water pressure are common leak indications. If you suspect a leak, shut off all water sources in your home and check the water meter. If it’s running, your pipes may be leaking.

Low Water Pressure

A leak can cause low water pressure, but it can also be caused by excessive water use during the summer. This is another reason to be mindful of your water use.

Tree Root Infiltration

The summer is the time when plants and trees grow the most. They often grow towards plumbing systems when they seek out water. They can wrap around or grow into underground pipes and cause damage.

There are several ways to prevent trees from growing into pipes. Here are some tips:

·  Pipe Liners: Pipe liners can support pipes. Installation does not require underground digging. They will deflect roots away from your pipes to prevent damage.

·  Root Barrier: Root barriers act as a barrier between tree roots and underground pipes. They will contain the roots so they don’t grow into your plumbing system.

·  Remove Trees Near Plumbing Systems: No one likes to cut down trees, but if a tree is about to grow into your plumbing system, it may be the best option.

·  Trim Tree Roots: A professional tree trimmer can trim your tree roots so they don’t interfere with your pipes.

·  Install PVC Pipes: PVC pipes are strong and resistant to tree root growth. If you don’t have PVC pipes, consider an upgrade.

·  Install an Air Gap Filtration System: These systems can break up sediment, dirt, rust, and tree roots to prevent blockages in your system.

Call Barner Murphy Plumbing

Barner Murphy can help you solve many of the plumbing issues that occur when temperatures rise. We have been serving New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas since 1996. We are a plumber you can trust.

Contact us for a free estimate today.

Plumbing problems can arise at any time. Somehow, however, it seems it’s always the worst possible moment. You have company. You’re heading out of the house. Truthfully, there isn’t really a great time for plumbing to go awry. The best way of dealing with emergency plumbing situations is to have a good idea of your next best steps.

Making That Call

At Barner Murphy, we repeatedly get calls in which the first words are, “I need help!”. After all, minimizing the damage is your priority. Absolutely reach out to a plumbing professional immediately. But try to use one you trust. Some companies are more than happy to overcharge you because it’s an emergency, and they can play on your worries. 

Our professionals at Barner Murphy will respond quickly to your problems. After they arrive, they will inspect your property and give you an estimate before any work begins. Throughout the process, we will also offer information on keeping things safe in the future. One of our missions is maintaining a strong foundation of trust with all our clients.

Should you Do it Yourself?

The internet is replete with self-help guides on plumbing problems. That’s all well and good, but you probably don’t have time to wade through instructions at the moment. This is doubly true if you have no experience with plumbing other than your hot water tank! Take care, as trying to repair the issue completely yourself may create more damage.

It’s worth noting that some aspects of plumbing require a Licensed individual and/or permits from your town. 

Common Emergency Plumbing Situations: What to Do

No matter the situation, it’s important to think about safety. There are some hazards, like slick floors, that plumbing problems can create. Keep your eyes peeled.

Clogged Pipes

One of the most common problems people face is clogged pipes. While this might not sound like an emergency, when your toilet backs up, it quickly becomes one. Turn off your water valve to avoid overflowing. Lay down towels to soak up excess water. Before using any chemicals (some of which can damage your pipes), try hot water and a plunger. When the clog refuses to budge, it’s time to seek experienced help. 

Sewer

Sewer backups are worse than clogs because they pose a health hazard. This is considered a high-priority emergency plumbing situation. Contact an expert. Depending on the severity, you may also have to contact whatever company handles the public sewers in your area.

Water Leaks

Then there are leaks. Leaks can be sneaky. You may not know about them until some damage is done. When you do discover a leak, make sure to unplug any nearby appliances. If items are easily damaged by water, move them to a dry space. Grab some towels to keep lingering water to a minimum. Then, give Barner Murphy a call, and we’ll come out to appraise the situation and fix it properly.

Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are worse than leaks. This creates the scenario for far more potential water. So, your first best step is to turn off the water supply. Call a professional plumber. While you wait for their arrival, clean up as much of the water as you can.

Barner Murphy: Fast, Efficient, Dependable

Our master plumbers at Barner Muphy are no strangers to dealing with emergency plumbing situations. We pride ourselves on quality work you can depend on. Give us a call at our Levittown, PA office (215-945-8650). We have an online contact form, too, but a phone call yields a swift response.

Garbage disposals offer a convenient way to break down food waste, but just like any other plumbing unit, they can get clogged. Clogs can occur if you grind too much food at once if you grind the wrong foods, if you run hot water through the disposal, or if you don’t use enough water. Your garbage disposal may also become blocked if you don’t clean it frequently enough.

Fortunately, in most instances, garbage disposals can be unblocked through DIY methods. Here are some you can try.

Manual Unclogging

1. Disconnect the power.

2. Look for what’s causing the clog: Use a flashlight to see if you can spot debris that may be clogging your drain. Use pliers to clear the debris. Do not use your hands as they may get cut on the disposal blades.

3. Plunge the Disposal: A plunge may be necessary if there is standing water in your garbage disposal. If you have a double sink, remove your dishwasher before you begin. Cover the drain and plunge up and down until the clog clears. Then, run cold water through the drain.

4. Use a Cleaner Tablet:  A cleaner tablet will wash away the remaining debris and ensure your drain is clear.

5. Remove and Clean the P-trap: If your disposal is still clogged, you may need to remove and clean the P-trap. Place a bucket under the pipe to catch water and food waste. Use channel-lock pliers to disconnect the fittings. Use a scrub brush, wire, or straightened clothes hanger to clear the clog. Dump the debris in the bucket. Replace the pipe.

6. Clean the Trap Arm: You may also clean out the trap arm, which connects the P-trap to the wall. Disconnect the trap arm with your channel lock pliers. Clean out any debris, then reconnect the piping.

How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal That Won’t Spin

·  Reset the Disposal: If your garbage disposal doesn’t spin, you may correct the issue by hitting the reset button. Turn off or disconnect the garbage disposal. Then, press the reset button.

·  Manually Unjam it with an Allen Wrench: If the unit still doesn’t spin, you may have to use an Allen wrench. Disconnect or power down the unit. Insert the wrench into a hexagonal slot on the bottom of your unit. Turn it clockwise and counterclockwise until the jam clears.

·  Use A Wooden Handle: If your garbage disposal does not have a reset button or hexagon slot, you can use a wooden handle to reset it. Place the wooden handle into or next to the drain. Move the handle back and forth until items are unstuck. Use pliers or tongs to remove them.

Call a Professional

If you have tried everything and the disposal is still clogged, you may need to call a professional. Barner Murphy offers professional plumbing services in Bucks County, PA. We are fully licensed, bonded, and ensured. We guarantee quality workmanship for various residential and commercial plumbing needs.

Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive services.

Most people don’t think much about the ins and outs of their plumbing systems, that is, until something goes wrong. The drip-drip-drip begins, the toilet backs up, etc. What you don’t know is that you can use plumbing safety measures to protect your home and family. Why protection? At Barner Murphy we know from experience that plumbing issues can impact the functionality of your home.

More importantly, faulty plumbing can prove to be a risk to your property. Always think about safety first. If you think there’s a problem, call a professional. DYI is fine for small things, but plumbing is a complex system. You want a professional to get to the heart of things and ensure everything is fixed correctly the first time. 

What Hazards Can Plumbing Problems Create?

The most common hazard from plumbing problems is mold. If you have leaks, mold loves that environment. One example is black mold. You’ll know it when you see it. Black mold is true to its name. Many people have allergic reactions to this fungus. Because of the spores, it’s always suggested you find an expert to alleviate this problem. 

Then, there’s the potential of structural damage. Depending on the types of materials in your home, exposure to water can weaken them to the point of failing. You know the stories of someone’s tub falling from the apartment above? Things like this can happen. You definitely need a professional now, and potentially permits, too!

For your family, water leaks create slippery surfaces. People may slip and fall, particularly the elderly and young children. If it’s outdoors, your delivery people are at risk, likewise.

Depending on where the problem occurs, faulty plumbing can decrease the integrity of your water. Or it may leak toward electrical wiring. So, what’s the best bet? Putting into place safety measures as professionals, like ours at Barney Murphy, suggest.

Plumbing Safety Tips:

• Move quickly: If you discover a problem, repair any small leaks immediately. You’d be amazed at how much water you lose annually just by those annoying drips.

• Consider installing leak detection equipment. If you know you have ongoing problems in a specific area, like your toilet, this type of device is a lifesaver. It alerts you, and you, in turn, can alert your plumber. 

• Do you know where your water shut-off valve is? If not, have your plumber show you and your entire family. In a water emergency, step one is turning off that valve.

• Insulate, insulate, insulate. If pipes are exposed to the cold, wrap them in insulation.

• When practicable, replace outdated plumbing. 

• Remove connections to your outdoor water supplies (your hose, for example). Drain the faucet.

• Be kind to your drains. Use guards that capture things like food debris and hair. This deters clogs.

What Can Barner Murphy Do For You?

If you want to keep your house plumbing running smoothly without any hazards, schedule regular inspections with us. We’re licensed and can spot issues before they become far worse. In the end, this saves money because things are in tip-top shape. During our inspections, we can clean the drains to avoid clogs. 

If you want more plumbing safety tips or want to protect your family and home from plumbing hazards, contact us. We service Bucks and Montgomery, PA. 

Phone:  215-945-8560

Some folk want to be experts on everything, and that is how myths spread.  At Barner Murphy, we’ve run into our fair share of myths while serving our customers. There are misconceptions about the best way in which to maintain your plumbing systems. Some of these myths can actually damage your plumbing. So let’s take a look at plumbing myths and separating fact from fiction. Here are 9 Plumbing Myths Debunked.

• All Plumbers are Alike: Hardly. Some have specialties. Some have certifications. Most importantly, they need credentials that you can verify. BTW, once you find a good plumber, stick with them. It’s peace of mind.

• Cause of Slow Drain: It’s understandable why you would think immediately of a clog. But there are other issues that may create slow drainage including a damaged pipe. You can’t see these without specialized tools, which are readily in the plumber’s kit. 

• Citrus Scents: Lemon peels may smell good, but they dull the blades.

• DYI is a Breeze: There is always the temptation to try and fix things yourself. Watch 10 YouTube videos, make notes, and get started. Sadly, many people know little about the idiosyncrasies of plumbing. Fix-it projects can create even more problems. 

• Frozen Pipes: Surprise, pipes can freeze even when the heat is on. If you have pipes in an uninsulated area, it’s time to correct the problem. 

• Little Leaks: No Problem. That is absolutely NOT true. Have a dripping faucet? Getting it fixed by professional plumbers avoids water loss and increasing damage. DYI is not the way to go. Did you know such leaks can add up to hundreds of gallons of wasted water that shows up on your bill?

• Save Water with Toilet Tank Bricks: The idea of putting a brick in your toilet tank has been floating around for many years. The brick can damage the interior parts of your toilet and create leaks when it disrupts flushing. Your better option is a water-saving toilet. And we at Barner Murphy have tried-n-true products for your perusal. 

• Snake it! You can alleviate some minor clogs with a snake. However, you need to find out the source if water backup continues. A professional plumber can diagnose the problem and fix it quickly. BTW, any time you have your professional in the house, talk to them about any updates you may want to make. Plan ahead!

• Toilet Troubles: Toilets were not designed for garbage. Don’t toss those paper towels, baby wipes, etc. down your toilet. Take them to the trash to avoid clogs and blockages. Pouring grease down the drain or toilet is also a no-no. In the kitchen, hot water helps somewhat, but the fat will solidify further down the system.

As you can see, Debunking Plumbing Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction can help you make informed decisions about the details in your contract. 

The Barner Murphy Difference

At Barner Murphy, we commit ourselves to quality work, and we guarantee it. Our company services Bucks and Montgomery Counties, PA. If you have questions about what is true and what is not in plumbing, our staff stands ready to help you. 

Our Address is 

7204 Hibbs Lane,

Levittown, PA 19057

Phone: 215-945-8560

Feel free to use our online form as well. 

You may have friends or family members with water filtration systems and wonder why they’re important. After all, you can go buy a little pitcher for filtering your water. A quality home water filtration system is vastly different. Having one offers several benefits, not the least of which is clean, safe water. 

What’s in Your Water?

Nearly everyone goes to get a glass of water from the sink with little thought. The reality is that your water contains chemicals, chlorine, bacteria, and pesticides, any of which could affect your health or that of infants, immune-compromised family members, or older adults. Some illnesses triggered by contaminated water include kidney stones, colds, and hepatitis A. In fact, the importance of quality water filtration systems inspired an information page on the Centers for Disease Control site regarding water treatment technologies for the home, like those we offer at Barner Murphy.

Not everyone’s water is the same, meaning you need to choose the right filtration system for your home. You can begin by getting a water quality report from the local water authority. If you have a private well, you may want to reach out to a nearby cooperative for assistance. With your report tightly in your hands, you can determine what contaminants are most important to reduce. Filtration systems vary on what they remove.

Many people opt for a point-of-use system. In other words, it treats water from where you use water. By comparison, a whole-house treatment includes UV microbiological systems. The filter is adjacent to your water meter or storage tank.

Tastes Great?

Water filtration systems transform tap water, improving its flavor and smell (yes, water has a flavor!). This, in turn, encourages more water consumption, something that contributes to personal hydration and better health. Having filtered water for boiling or cooking can improve the overall flavor profile of what you eat, too.

Going Green: 

Water filtration systems reduce plastic waste by providing sustainable water without bottles. Single-use bottles contribute significantly to landfill waste. The production of bottled water is energy-hungry compared to quality water filtration systems. And there are more environmental benefits as well. 

For example, because filtered water comes right out of your tap, you’re less likely to go out to buy bottled water from natural water resources. It’s less expensive, too. It’s noteworthy that some bottled water brands do nothing more than re-bottle plain water. 

An investment in a quality filtration system reduces your carbon footprint. It’s an eco-friendly (and user-friendly) alternative that provides clean water instead of buying it.

Barner Murphy’s Help in Choosing and Installing Your Water Filtration System

Barner Murphy offers the best service system in Buck’s County, PA. We can review the importance of quality water filtration systems and then go on to review what’s best for your home. With a team of master plumbers, we guarantee the quality of our workmanship.

Don't hesitate to call our office at 215-945-8560 or use our online contact form for more information.

Here at Barner Murphy, we know that protecting your plumbing during colder seasons is crucial to prevent freezing and potential damage. There are some simple steps to help alleviate this possibility:

• Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, or attics. You can use pipe insulation sleeves or wrap the pipes with heat tape to provide an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures.

• Seal air leaks: Inspect your home for any air leaks near pipes and seal them. Use caulk or insulation and fill gaps or cracks in walls, windows, or doors where cold air may enter and come into contact with your plumbing.

• Ensure that your home's heating system is in good working condition. Before the start of the season, have the professionals at Barner Murphy check your furnace.

• Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature to prevent freezing. If you are away from home, set the temperature at no lower than 55 degrees F.

• Allow for faucet drip: On extremely cold nights, let a faucet near exterior walls drip slowly. This allows a constant flow of water, reducing the risk of freezing.

• Disconnect outdoor hoses: Before the frost sets in, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Close the outdoor water valves and store the hoses indoors. If you have a sprinkler system, make sure to drain it properly.

• Consider pipe insulation: For extreme cold climates, consider using foam pipe insulation or heating cables on vulnerable pipes. These can be useful for pipes in garages or other unheated areas.

• Open cabinet doors: To allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks, open cabinet doors during colder periods. 

• Protect outdoor faucets: Install freeze-proof outdoor faucets or use insulated faucet covers. 

• Winterize vacant properties: If you have a vacant property during the winter, ensure that the plumbing system is properly winterized. Drain all the water from the pipes and consider adding antifreeze to prevent frozen pipes.

• Educate household members: Make sure everyone in your household knows how to shut off the main water supply in case of an emergency. This can minimize potential damage if a pipe does freeze and burst.

Signs of a Frozen Pipe

Even the best efforts to protect your plumbing in colder seasons may not work. Frozen pipes can significantly damage a home, so you want to catch the problem as soon as possible. Take Note if you’re having trouble in any of these areas, make a list. Then, call on Barner Murphy’s master plumbers for remediation. 

• No water flow: One of the first signs of a frozen pipe is a lack of water flow from faucets or fixtures. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle or no water comes out, it could be a sign that the pipe leading to that fixture is frozen.

• Uneven water temperature: If you notice that the water coming out of your faucets is significantly colder than usual, it may be because of a frozen pipe or one that is beginning to freeze. Pay attention to any sudden drops in water temperature throughout your plumbing system.

• Frost on visible pipes: Inspect any exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, or garages. If you see frost or ice accumulation on the pipes, it is likely a sign of freezing.

• Strange odors: Frozen pipes can sometimes cause strange odors to occur, such as a sewage-like smell. 

• Strange noises: If you hear peculiar noises, such as banging, clanking, or cracking sounds coming from your plumbing system, it could be a sign of a frozen pipe expanding or contracting.

• Water leaks after thawing: When a frozen pipe begins to thaw, it may leak from the affected area. Look out for signs of water damage, such as water stains on ceilings or walls.

If you suspect a frozen pipe, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. Turn off the main water supply to your home, and apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hairdryer or heating pad. These are make-shift fixes until you have a plumber on site. We provide quality work and guarantee the results. If something needs to be replaced, Barner Murphy has selected excellent products we use regularly. Call us at 215-945-8650 or use our online contact form for more information.

If you’ve started your search for a new water heater, you’ll come in contact with the possibility of a tankless system. When you buy, it’s important you choose the right product for your home. Tankless systems are popular because they eliminate the need for a tank, freeing up space in your cellar. They are also more energy-efficient.

On the downside, tankless systems have a higher up-front cost. You’ll need services from a company like Barner Murphy to wire things and put in appropriate plumbing changes. Tank water heaters store water and keep it heated for ready use. They are less expensive but eat up more energy. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as you compare the two.

Comparing Pros and Cons

Tanked

Tanked water heaters are the traditional way to go. You can rely on them; they are budget-friendly, and they are simple to maintain. On the downside, you have a limited hot water supply based on the capacity of your tank. Tanked water heaters use more energy than tankless ones 

Tankless

Also called on-demand water heaters, tankless systems have become more popular. You have an endless hot water supply. No more moments of having your shower water go cold! Tankless water heaters don’t store water. They simply warm it up as needed. 

For people with a limited amount of floor space in the cellar, tankless systems mount on the wall! If need be, they can even go outside. Plus, tankless models last longer than traditional tanked ones. 

Energy efficiency is a big plus with tankless systems. According to the Department of Energy, if you use less than 41 gallons of hot water daily, on-demand hot water systems can significantly reduce energy usage by between 24-34%. On average, you can save about $100 a year for a gas-fired model. 

The main downfall of tankless heaters is the upfront cost. Over time, you will make that back in energy savings. Also, be aware that if you are using several outlets at the same time, the flow rate may be slower. 

Considerations

Few people are plumbing savvy. Give Barner Murphy a call to help you review your options. We will walk you through specific points including

• Your budget

• The hot water demand in your home

• Available space in the cellar

• Installation specifics

• Warranties 

We can also go over the option of retrofitting a tankless water heater and replacing the tank. This takes a little more time to complete the task. However, you have the peace of mind in knowing the tankless system lasts nearly twice as long as traditional water heaters.

Summary:

If you can afford a tankless system, it has more advantages than a tanked one, in our opinion, as professional plumbers. In Barner Murphy’s years of service, our goal has always been to provide customers with the best products and choices based on their lifestyles. If you’re on a fixed income, we’ll find a tank system suited to your home. 

Barner Murphy Plumbing and Heating is in Levittown, PA. We guarantee quality work. Give us a call at 215-945-8560. Or use our online contact form to send us your questions or make an appointment.