Water Heater Regulations Are Coming

We let you know in December of last year that new water heater regulations would increase your prices while decreasing your options.  While of course the government justifies these changes by siting environmental benefits, there will be a cost and for some it will be large.  Heaters will be required to have more insulation making them larger which will make it harder to place them in tight spaces.  The addition of venting and condensation drains will also be required in some cases and that may make it impossible to put a new heater in its existing place.  More skill and knowledge will be required to replace the water heaters of the future limiting the homeowner’s ability to install his own heater.  If you would like to learn more you can visit the Department of Energy’s site: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/product.aspx/productid/27.

These regulations go into affect April 16, 2015.  We will educate you throughout the year on the different regulations and how they will affect you.

How’s Your Plumbing?

During the holidays any flaws in your plumbing system become evident.  Did your water heater keep up when you had guests?  Did your tubs and showers and sinks drain quickly and efficiently?  How did your garbage disposal perform?  Was it able to digest the extra food your family and friends left on their plates?  Did any of your leaking faucets become a problem?  Now that the holidays are behind us, it may be time to repair or replace your faulty plumbing!