Who needs a water leak detector? Well, as it turns out, you might. This may seem like an unnecessary purchase, but spending a little bit of money now can save you five, ten, or twenty times that amount later down the road. It may be hard to predict the future, but it doesn't have to be hard (or expensive!) to prepare for it. Here are a few reasons you might need a water leak detector.

Pipes Leak

It's a fact of life: Pipes, connections, and fixtures get old, and as they do, they can spring leaks, particularly in areas such as under sinks, where they connect to fixtures, and in bathrooms and basements. Clogged or blocked pipes, or those that lead to a sewer blockage farther down, are especially likely to leak, as that water backing up in your pipes has to go somewhere. Homes with higher water pressure or malfunctioning water pressure regulators are also more likely to suffer from leaking pipes. An undetected small leak that's left unattended can over time do a lot of damage and become a lot bigger, so it's important to catch these leaks as quickly as possible.

Water Heaters Can Fail Unexpectedly

One of the top reasons for water damage in the home is a failed water heater. When water heaters fail, they often do so spectacularly, opening up a leak and spilling their contents onto the floor. If your water heater is in an unfinished basement or crawl space, this may not seem like a big deal, but many people have their water heaters on the main floor or higher. Water runs downhill, which means everything underneath your water heater is bound to get wet if you don't catch the problem quickly -- and the quickest way is with a water leak detector.

Basements Leak, Too

When you think about it, it's more amazing when basements don't leak. There are so many ways that water can end up in your basement: pipes bursting, sewer lines backing up, windows leaking or cracks in the foundation letting in water during a rainstorm or flooding, water heater failures, or sump pump failures can all lead to water in your basement. Whatever the reason, having a water leak detector will notify you of the leak immediately, so that you can shut off the water, clean up the mess, and protect your home from damage.

Water Damage Can Be Hidden

What's the big deal about a leaky water heater or pipe, you might wonder? Surely you'll see the damage and be able to take care of it right away. Unfortunately, though, that is not always true. Frequently the source of the water damage is a leaky pipe within the walls, or a roof dripping water into the attic where you don't normally go. Even somewhere you'd think would be more obvious, like in the basement or in the cabinet under the sink, might not be noticed right away. A water leak detector is the only sure way to catch a leak in one of these hidden places before it does a lot of damage.

How a Water Leak Detector Works

So what is this miracle device that can help you prevent water damage by catching leaks early? A water leak detector can be as simple as a sensor and a device that makes noise when water is detected, or as complex as multiple smart devices that network and an app that sends notifications directly to your phone in case you aren't at home. There is a range of leak detectors available on the market, and which is best for you may depend on your budget, your home, and your lifestyle. Not sure which to choose? Call Maeser today and one of our experienced technicians will be happy to help you make an appropriate choice.

So, you've discovered a leaking pipe in your home, and probably at what feels like the worst possible time too, as emergencies never have convenient timing. What to do next? Even if your first move is to call a plumber, chances are you'd like to know what you're in for. Here are the top causes of a leaking pipe, and what you or your plumber will likely need to do about them.

A Clog in the Lines

When faced with a leak, most people assume the site of the leak is the problem, but often the root of the problem lies deeper -- quite literally. Tree roots, grease, inorganic materials, or a combination of things can create a major problem in your sewage pipe. Unfortunately, the water in your pipes has to go somewhere, and as a rule it will take the path of least resistance.

The water forcing itself out through a weak link may have damaged a joint or a seal, requiring the leak to be repaired, but the clog still needs to be addressed. Your plumber will need to inspect your sewage lines for clogs, and clear the line if he finds one.

Deteriorating Seals

If you're finding signs of a leaking pipe near an appliance, the culprit may be the seal between the pipes and the appliance. Seals deteriorate over time, hardening and forming cracks or gaps that let water through. If an issue with a seal is suspected, a technician will inspect the seals and replace them as needed.

Loose Connections

Whether it's from shifting pipes, movement such as a shaking washing machine, or mistakes made by an inexperienced DIYer, a leaking pipe can be caused by nothing more than a loose connection. The solution could be as simple as tightening everything back up again, but that is sometimes easier said than done, especially if you already thought you got it tight enough the first time. The connection could also be loose because something needs to be replaced.

Corrosion

Anything metal will corrode over time, but pipes are especially susceptible to corrosion if they were built more than about 30 years ago, before modern piping materials were available. Pipes today are less vulnerable to corrosion, but even they will need to be replaced eventually. If your leaking pipe is accompanied with discoloration or warping, corrosion may be the culprit. The corroded pipe will need to be replaced, and the rest of the system may need to be assessed, as well.

Shifting Pipes

Houses naturally shift as they settle over the years. While this is normal and expected, uneven settling can put pressure on the plumbing, especially the joints and connections. To resolve your leaking pipe, your plumber will inspect your system, tightening connections, replacing joints, and even updating the plumbing as necessary.

Excessively High Pressure

While high water pressure may seem like a good thing, especially when you're running a lot of water at once, but it can actually be quite damaging to your plumbing system. Extremely high-water pressure can force its way past connections and even crack pipes and cause damage to appliances. If you suspect your water pressure may be too high, have a professional test the pressure to confirm. You may need to have a water pressure regulator installed or a malfunctioning one replaced.

Act Fast to Resolve a Leaking Pipe

There are many potential causes for a leaking pipe, and usually the solution to the plumbing predicament isn't difficult or expensive. It's the secondary damage that can get you in big trouble. Leaking pipes can cause tremendous water damage, especially if the leak isn't caught right away, such as when it starts inside a wall. Call Maeser right away if you see signs of a leak. In addition to obvious signs such as dripping or pooling water, watch out for stains on the walls or ceilings, softened drywall or flooring, or a musty or mildew odor.

Your furnace plays a big role in maintaining the comfort in your home. So when a problem arises, it's important to address it quickly. Most homeowners are going to have to deal with replacing their furnace and investing in a new system. So let's take a look at a few important steps that need to be done prior to furnace installation.

Decide between replacement and repairing: When something goes wrong with your furnace, you may be tempted to scrap the whole system and go for furnace replacement right off the bat. However, there may be a chance at repairing the furnace and saving you a ton of money on new furnace installation. So before you go out and buy a new furnace, invest in heating services -- having an HVAC technician look at the system will help you determine if heating repair can be done or if you really do need a new furnace.

Do your research: Homeowners have a wide selection when it comes to new furnaces. And because of this, it's important to do some research before you make a purchase. There are a lot of different factors you should consider when selecting a new furnace: efficiency, size, and cost are all important factors to keep in mind. All in all, you need to take some time to compare your options and choose the right system for your needs.

Have the whole system inspected: Before you schedule your furnace installation, it may be a good idea to have your entire heating and cooling system inspected. While HVAC systems should have maintenance inspections twice a year for maximum efficiency, it's always a good idea to ensure there are no problems before installing new equipment. An HVAC technician will be able to check out your ductwork, vents, and the overall circulation of the system to make sure everything is in working condition.

Hopefully, this article will help you choose the best furnace for your needs. Following these steps will help prepare you to invest in a new furnace. Make sure to schedule your heating services with a reputable HVAC company for the best results possible.

With the number of storms rolling through the United States these days, you may be considering a whole house generator in case your power goes out. Torrential summer rains, hurricanes, and winter storms have all been known to knock out electricity, sometimes for days at a time, so many people have installed backup sources of power for the sake of their peace of mind. Here is everything you need to know about a whole house generator before you take the plunge.

Do You Need a Generator?

The vast majority of the time, you may not need a backup source of power, but it's important to consider what's at stake should your power go out. For almost everyone, there is the risk of food spoiling, but that alone might not be reason enough to invest in a whole house generator. If you run a home-based business, on the other hand, one that requires WIFI to function, that might be enough incentive to install a backup generator. If your area is prone to power outages during winter storms, you might want a generator to keep your house comfortable during periods of extreme cold and to prevent pipes from freezing

What Kind of Generator Should You Get?

If you're in the market for a generator, there are a few different options available to you. Your needs will determine which works best for you.

• Portable generator: Portable generators are the smallest, so they won't run much more than a few essentials, but they are the cheapest to buy and operate, and you can use them wherever power is needed.
• Standby generator: A standby generator is part of a permanent addition to your home's power systems, and will turn on automatically when the power goes out.  However, it still isn't powerful enough to run an entire household for long periods of time.  It can be used to power critical items such as your air conditioner, furnace, sump pump refrigerator and some lighting.
• Whole house generator: If you want enough power to run all of the important stuff without having to pick and choose, you need a whole house generator. These powerful systems are also permanent additions and will automatically pick up where city power leaves off in case of an outage.  They offer peace of mind knowing that you'll be able to carry on with your life as usual during the power outage.

How It Works

When you choose a standby or whole house generator, you're making a permanent addition to your home's power systems. These systems use a built-in transfer switch to transfer your home to generator power once the city power goes out. The generator automatically turns on and runs until the power comes back on, in which case the generator turns off and your home starts drawing power from the utility company again. If you go with a standby generator, your power allowance will be more limited and you'll have to choose which things are a necessity, but true to its name, a whole house generator should provide enough power to run your entire household for several days.

Deciding What Is Best for Your Household

Choosing which type of backup power system is best for you might not be easy. The ones that provide the least power are also the least expensive, which forces you to weigh need against affordability.

If you have further questions about generators and which system would be best for you, contact Maeser today. Our experienced technicians will help you assess your power needs and provide guidance in choosing the most appropriate system for your situation. (*Note - Maeser only does repairs for generator systems installed by us)

Much like your car, your air conditioner needs regular preventative checkups and maintenance to keep it running smoothly. An AC tune up basically just involves cleaning and inspecting the system to make sure everything is operating safely and efficiently. For instance, the technician will clean the condenser coils and fins to ensure proper air flow through the unit, inspect the ductwork and electrical connections, and check the coolant levels, blower motor operation and the belt.

It may seem like an AC tune up doesn't serve much purpose other than ensuring eyes on your AC unit at regular intervals, but there are some good reasons to have this done once a year at the start of the season. Here are five good reasons to schedule your annual AC tune up.

Better Energy Efficiency

Regular AC tune ups ensure that your air conditioner continues to run as efficiently as possible, simultaneously maximizing your comfort and minimizing your utility bill. For example, cleaning out the coils and cleaning and straightening fins enables the heat transfer process, which your AC depends on, to work as efficiently as it was designed to. The technician will also inspect the outside of the condenser and make sure there is enough space around it for sufficient airflow for the heat transfer process. In addition, he'll check your ductwork to make sure you aren't inadvertently leaking energy somewhere with a leak in the ducts or insufficient insulation around it, since that could cause the air coming out of your vents not to be as cold as it would be with a well-sealed and insulated system.

Longer Life

An annual AC tune up means that your system will run more efficiently, but that has advantages too. A more efficient system doesn't have to work as hard and won't have as many problems. Any potential problems will be caught early when you have eyes on the system at the start of every season, which will minimize any strain on the system that could be worsened by a failing part or a strangled ventilation system. All of these advantages combine to keep your system running longer than it would have been otherwise, saving you time, money and hassle by putting off your AC replacement for a year, two years, or even longer.

Warranty

A little-known fact is that sometimes regular maintenance is actually required in order to maintain your system's warranty. Be sure to check the warranty paperwork! And even if regular tune ups are not required, they provide a paper trail to prove that you have been taking good care of the system.

Fewer Repairs and Emergencies

Nothing is worse than having your AC go out during a heat wave and suffering until you can get it fixed. The peak of summer is a high-demand time for technicians, and an emergency appointment can be difficult and expensive to schedule. Having your air conditioning checked out at the start of the season enables you to catch and fix issues before they become a major problem. In addition, sometimes a part failing completely can put strain on other parts of the system, or even cause them to fail, too. Doing an AC tune up and catching problems early may therefore actively prevent some repairs further down the line.

A More Comfortable Home

Maybe you don't care too much about conserving energy or prolonging the life of your air conditioner, but there is one good reason for doing regular tune ups that we can all get behind: increased comfort at home. An AC unit running in tip-top shape cools better than one that is struggling to keep up, so having your AC unit checked out at the start of the hot season ensures you'll be comfortable all season long.

The Importance of a Professional AC Tune Up

There are some things, like replacing your air filter and clearing the landscaping around your outdoor condensing unit, that you can do yourself, but for the inner workings of a well-tuned AC system, it's important to have a professional set of eyes on it once a year. To schedule an AC tune up with a professional you can trust, call Maeser today.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that Americans waste more than 1 trillion gallons of water nationwide each year due to leaky faucets, malfunctioning toilets, bad sprinkler systems, and other issues. Water heater issues can not only cause all kinds of household problems, but plenty of financial concerns, as well. It's time to improve on how you handle your home's water heaters.

Here are some great tips for better handling your home's water heater repair needs:

• Know how to find your water heater -- First, you need to know how to properly identify your home's water heater and know exactly where it is located. It sounds simple enough, but many homeowners aren't aware of this important step. Additionally, make sure you have clear access to your water heater and ensure it's not blocked off in the attic or basement.
• Learn how to turn your water heater off -- No matter what issue you're dealing with, if it's related to your water heater, you need to shut off the water and power supply. This is important in the event of an emergency or if your water heater is leaking or your home smells like gas. There is a gas valve and water shut-off valve located nearby and above the water heater.
• Consult with professionals -- When it comes to water heater repair and maintenance, unless you're properly trained on how to deal with these issues, it's best to let a professional handle everything. Simply contact a plumbing professional and have them determine what your next step should be and what repairs are necessary.
• Perform a mini-flush -- Over time, sediment can build up inside your water heater tank, which can corrode the tank and decrees your water heater's efficiency. To avoid these issues, you need to regularly flush your water heater. Simply place a bucket over the drain valve, empty between one to two gallons, and turn the power back on.

If you want to learn more about the importance of quality water heater repairs and work with contractors who are experienced in various plumbing services, give Maeser Master Services a call today.

There are many reasons you might be considering upgrading to an on demand water heater, also known as a tankless water heater. Maybe you want to reduce your carbon footprint or enjoy longer showers and fuller baths. Or perhaps it's just time to upgrade. Whatever your reasoning, it's important to realize that tankless hot water isn't right for every home. To help you determine whether an on demand water heater is right for your home, here are the biggest benefits and drawbacks to tankless hot water.

Benefits to an On Demand Water Heater

Considering tankless hot water? These systems have a lot of things going for them. Here are some of the top reasons people like them.

• Instant and unlimited hot water. One of the biggest advantages to on demand hot water is the convenience. Because the hot water is heated when and as you need it, instead of coming from a tank that has a limited capacity, it will theoretically never run out.
• Smaller size. If you have a small house or just not a lot of space for a huge water heater, tankless hot water is your friend. These water heaters take up considerably less room, and are usually mounted on the wall someplace inconspicuous.
• More energy efficient. For a smaller household with a lower hot water demand, tankless water heaters are 24 to 34 percent more energy efficient. This means not just savings on your monthly utility bill, but also a reduction in your carbon footprint.
• Longer lasting units. Another significant advantage is how much longer an on demand water heater will last over a conventional storage water heater. Your typical water heater only lasts 8 to 10 years, but tankless models typically last 15 to 20 years.

Drawbacks to Tankless Hot Water

This may all sound perfect to you, but don't get too excited yet. There are several significant drawbacks that make an on demand hot water heater less than ideal for some households. Here are a few reasons why a tankless water heater might not be right for your home.

• It's not really "instant." Yes, on demand hot water heats up very quickly, since it's only heating the water in the pipes as it passes through. That doesn't really mean instant hot water, though. The water in the pipes has already cooled, which means you'll have to run it down the drain to get to the hot. If the thought of the delay or the wasted water doesn't appeal to you, there are some workarounds, such as a circulation system that will get the hot water to you faster, but that will add to the upfront expense.
• Can't serve as many faucets at once. With a standard hot water heater, you can run that hot water out as many faucets as you want until it runs out. But because tankless water heaters are only heating the water in the pipe, they can't serve as many faucets at once. The solution? Either limit your hot water usage to only one faucet at a time, or install multiple tankless heaters to serve individual faucets.
• More expensive initially. An on demand water heater may present significant energy savings, but you'll have to pay more up front. Tankless water heaters are more expensive to both buy and install.
• More maintenance required. .A tankless water heater may last longer, but it will also need more maintenance to keep it running smoothly. For instance, on demand water heaters are extremely susceptible to hard water deposits, so you'll need to run a water softener and flush the heater about once a year.

Is Tankless Hot Water Right for Your Home?

An on demand water heater isn't the ideal solution for everyone, but if you have a small house, don't use much hot water, or prioritize an eco-friendly lifestyle, it may be perfect for you. To determine whether tankless hot water is right for you, call Maeser today, and one of our expert technicians can help you decide.

If it's time to replace your water heater, you might be wondering how you can save money on energy costs going forward. Whether you have a busy family that uses a lot of hot water, or you just want to lower your carbon footprint, you can save money and live a little greener by installing a high efficiency gas water heater. Here's everything you need to know before you make your purchase.

Regular vs. High Efficiency: What's the Difference?

If you've never given your water heater much thought, chances are you probably have a traditional storage-style water heater, in which water is heated in a tank and then held until it is needed. Since the temperature needs to be maintained until that time, and since a lot of hot water use will mean frequently getting the entire tank up to temperature, storage water heaters can be a huge source of energy loss in your home.
There are quite a few different upgrade options if you want to cut back on your energy costs and/or footprint. You've probably heard of tankless water heaters, which are much more energy efficient than traditional water heaters but can also be a much more expensive upgrade. If you're looking for a more affordable way to cut your energy usage, you should consider upgrading your regular water heater to a high efficiency gas water heater.

How It Works

When it comes to traditional storage-style water heaters, gas is already a more efficient option than electric water heaters, as gas heats the water quickly and more efficiently. Gas is also currently an inexpensive choice of energy when compared to electricity. However your regular gas water heater can be even better if you upgrade to a high efficiency model.

A high efficiency gas water heater achieves at least 90 percent efficiency via better utilization of the principles of heat transfer. First of all, the heating element is designed to heat the water from the inside out instead of the bottom up, spreading the heat faster. The combustion chamber is also sealed to prevent heat from escaping, which requires exhaust gases to be vented from the water heater. Finally, the water heater is designed so that as those exhaust gases are vented, they exit the tank through a condenser, which uses the principles of heat transfer to utilize even the heat of the exhaust gases. In short, almost no heat is wasted in the entire process, from beginning to end.

What This Means for You

Even if you don't understand the more technical aspects of how a high efficiency gas water heater works, what it all boils down to is that the energy used to heat the tank is used more efficiently, achieving the same amount (or more) of hot water at less of a cost to you. This might mean that you can save money on the hot water you use, or that you can use more without increased cost. It even means that you'll get hot water faster, since the more efficient design means that your tank will heat up more quickly after all the hot water has been depleted.

How Much Will It Save?

A high efficiency gas water heater is the next step up from a traditional water heater, so its savings aren't as pronounced, but the new system and installation are also significantly more affordable than, say, a tankless water heater. In general, a high efficiency gas water heater should save you around $500 over the life of the water heater, which is about ten years.

What Next?

If you are considering a high efficiency gas water heater, it's important to get a professional assessment of your home. Any upgrade will likely need some extra work during the install, so be sure to get a quote so there are no surprises. To find out about the more energy efficient options available to you, contact Maeser today.

Your main sewer line is responsible for draining all of the waste water that goes down the drains, so if it clogs you could pretty quickly find yourself in hot water, so to speak. Here is everything you need to know about how to tell if you have a main sewer line clog, what to do about it if you do, and how to avoid them in the future.

Signs You May Have a Main Sewer Line Clog

Worried you might have a main sewer line clog, but wanting a little more information before you start making phone calls? Here are a few signs that it's your main line that's clogged.

• Multiple slow-running drains. If more than one drain is running slow, it's probably not a coincidence, but an indication that one clog is causing issues for all of them. You'll usually see them start running slowly on the first floor first, where they're the closest to the blockage, and as the situation worsens, second-floor drains will start being affected too.
• Water backing up into other drains. If water starts coming out of the drain in a main floor tub or shower, or if the toilets start filling up when you use a drain or run the washing machine, most likely you have a main sewer line clog. The water has to go somewhere, and since it's can't flow out of the house the way it usually does, it'll find another opening.
• Gurgling sounds. If you hear gurgling when you run water down the drain, flush the toilet, or run the washing machine, that's a sign that the water is having trouble draining. The noises are the glug-glug sounds of water passing with difficulty past a blockage.
• Sewage odors coming from the drains. If your drains smell foul, especially on the lower levels, it's a pretty good indication that sewage water is backing up into them.

It's the Main Sewer Line! What Now?

If you have the symptoms of a main sewer line clog, don't panic! It's usually an easy fix for someone with the right equipment and experience. Here's what to do.

• Stop using water! With nowhere else to go, the water is just going to keep backing up into your home. Remember, this isn't clean water, so stop adding to it if at all possible.
• Find your sewer clean out line. If you're comfortable with a little DIY, you may be able to release the pressure and get the water to drain by opening the cap on the sewer clean out line. Sometimes they are located in the yard, but if yours is in your basement or crawl space, you might want to wait for the plumber to avoid causing water damage to your home.
• Clear the clog. If you're a dedicated do-it-yourselfer with a frequent flyer card to the hardware rental store, you might be knowledgeable and experienced enough to clear a main sewer line clog yourself. It'll entail running a professional-grade plumbing snake, also known as an auger, down your main line until the blockage has been cleared. Alternatively, you can call a professional such as Maeser and we'll do the dirty work (literally) for you.

Avoiding Future Clogs

Dealing with a blocked main sewer line is no fun, even if you let the professionals handle clearing it for you. Here are a few tips for avoiding another one in the future.

• Keep grease, coffee grounds, paint, etc. out of your drain. These substances all tend to clump and solidify, and could cause or contribute to a future blockage.
• Watch what you flush. Don't flush anything like facial tissue or paper towels, which won't dissolve quickly or completely enough in the pipes.
• Use toilet paper that dissolves. Not all toilet tissue is created equal. To make sure your toilet paper will dissolve in the pipes, leave a square of it in the toilet bowl for an hour. If it's still intact after an hour, think what it's doing in your pipes!

If you think you have a main sewer line clog, acting quickly is key. Call Maeser today and we'll get you back up and running again in no time!