1st Plumbing Services – Your Austin Plumber for Professional Drain Cleaning
Clearing a clogged drain can be as simple as using your plunger. But if a plunger doesn’t clear the drain completely or your drain continues to get clogged, professional drain cleaning is recommended.
Our licensed plumbers clear drains and stoppages in your pipes that are causing continuous plumbing problems. Drain cleaning can be an annoyance or an emergency. Call 1st Plumbing Services if you cannot clear the clogged drain with a plunger and we’ll dispatch a licensed plumber to your home or business.
We provide professional drain cleaning in Austin homes, restaurants, commercial businesses, and apartments.
Tips to Prevent Clogged Drains
Drain cleaning is a routine plumbing service that can sometimes be prevented. Here are some tips to help you prevent your drains from getting clogged.
Prevent Drain Cleaning in the Kitchen Sink
A common plumbing problem at the kitchen sink is a clogged drain or garbage disposal. You can prevent the need for drain cleaning by keeping certain items out of your sink. Coffee grinds, banana peels, bones, egg shells and grease are difficult for your garbage disposal to pulverize and may cause damage to your system.
Prevent Drain Cleaning in the Tub and Shower
The most common cause of a clogged tub or shower is the buildup of hair. Clear your drain after each bath or shower if hair collects in the drain. Check the plate on your drain. If your shower requires drain cleaning regularly, simply buy a replacement drain plate with smaller holes to collect more hair. Prevent the hair from building up in your pipes and prevent the next drain cleaning service.
To maintain your plumbing system, we recommend drain cleaning rather than using harsh chemical products to clear your drain.
Prevent Drain Cleaning in the Toilet
Never dispose of items such as tampons or sanitary napkins in the toilet. Young children may use an excess amount of toilet paper. Preventing toilet stoppages and drain cleaning is easy if everyone in your house understands how to prevent a plumbing problem.
At 1st Plumbing Services, our plumbers are experts at drain cleaning. Call us to clear your drain or for any plumbing problem. Learn more about plumbing repair in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Shopping for a Water Heater in Austin?
Is your water heater causing problems? Are you interested in reducing your utility bills? First let’s explore why you may want to replace your water heater.
Signs that your water heater needs repair or replacement:
• You don’t have enough hot water in your home.
• You notice a leak at your water heater.
• Water is either too hot or not hot enough.
• Your water heater is making strange sounds.
• You smell an odd odor at your faucet or water heater.
Most water heater problems are easy to diagnose. There are many components to a gas or electric water heater that may require adjustment to restore hot water to your home. The licensed plumbers at 1st Plumbing Services repair water heaters and perform routine maintenance, such as flushing your water heater to correct minor issues. We also install new water heaters if your water heater in Austin needs to be replaced.
Reduce your Utility Bills with a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless Water Heaters provide homeowners with hot water on demand. Because it only generates hot water when needed, it uses less energy than a traditional gas or electric water heater that stores hot water in a tank. Tankless water heater configurations depend on the size of your home and your typical hot water usage. 1st Plumbing Services will assess your plumbing system and recommend a tankless water heater solution that meets your needs.
Conserve water and energy by installing a tankless water heater and reduce your utility bills.
Solar Water Heaters
Installing a solar water heater will also help you reduce your utility costs. A solar water heater uses sunlight to heat water and circulate it through your plumbing system through an active or passive system.
A solar water heater is often configured with a conventional water heater to ensure hot water during winter months. Like a traditional water heater, a storage tank is used to provide a reliable source of hot water.
Installing energy efficient appliances, whether you choose a tankless water heater or solar water heater, can help you qualify for federal, state, and local tax credits and rebates.
At 1st Plumbing Services, our plumbers in Austin install energy saving water heaters to help customers reduce utility costs. Learn more about drain cleaning and other routine maintenance to keep your plumbing system working efficiently in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Call 1st Plumbing Services for a reliable plumber in Austin
Whether you have a dripping faucet or a leak in the kitchen or bathroom, our licensed plumbers in Austin will repair plumbing problems efficiently in homes and local businesses. Sometimes the situation seems simple enough and a handyman will attempt to replace a toilet or fix a leak. But those plumbing problems often become plumbing nightmares. Why take the chance on your vital plumbing system? Call an experienced licensed plumber in Austin to make sure the job is done right.
The experienced plumbers in Austin at 1st Plumbing Services will quickly assess the situation and diagnose the plumbing problem. Broken garbage disposal? Leak at your water heater? No hot water? Our plumbers in Austin are equipped with modern plumbing equipment and supplies to perform plumbing repairs efficiently. When a specialized part is needed, our plumber will recommend where to purchase it in Austin or order the part for you.
If the home is less than five years old, our plumbers in Austin may be able to assist the homeowner in obtaining a replacement part from the manufacturer. Depending on the type of plumbing part and warranty, manufacturers will replace certain parts at no cost. Once you receive the replacement part, the plumber will return to your resident in Austin and complete the job.
Energy Efficient Plumbing Upgrades & Appliances
Our plumbers provide expert advice to homeowners, property owners and commercial business owners who want to upgrade to energy efficient plumbing fixtures or appliances. Find out how to reduce your utility bills with appliances like a Tankless Water Heater, Low Flow Toilet, or Hot Water Recirculation System.
Water conservation is critical and our plumbers in Austin can help. Installing energy efficient appliances can help you qualify for federal, state, and local tax credits and rebates.
At 1st Plumbing Services, our plumbers in Austin install energy saving systems to help customers reduce utility costs. Learn more about Backflow Prevention and commercial plumbing maintenance in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Efficiently generate hot water with a Tankless Water Heater
Is your water heater operating efficiently or is it showing signs of age? Signs that your water heater needs to be serviced include inadequate hot water, a high pitched whining, popping or low rumbling noise, water leaking around the base of the water heater, rotten egg odor, or rust colored water.
If you’re considering replacing your water heater, you may want to learn about the benefits of tankless water heaters. Also know as instantaneous or demand water heaters, a tankless water heater generates hot water on demand more quickly than standard water heaters, using less water for washing dishes or an average bath or shower.
Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
In addition to conserving water, a tankless water heater conserves energy used by standard storage water heaters that hold hot water in case you need it. Imagine leaving the air conditioning at your usual setting when you go on a summer vacation. No one wants to waste energy while they are away and we all typically set our unit to a higher temperature if we’re going to be away from home.
A typical hot water heater uses energy to have hot water standing by for individuals to use at will. The tankless water heater system does not include a storage tank. Instead, it generates hot water on demand through an electrical element or gas burner. Besides having instant hot water, a tankless water heater provides you with constant hot water. If you have a large home and several people need to get ready simultaneously, you might consider a “whole house tankless water heater solution”. Or you might consider installing multiple parallel tankless water heaters so you don’t have to worry about running out of hot water when you are running a bath, a shower, the dishwasher, and washing machine simultaneously.
A licensed plumber, like the plumbers in Austin at 1st Plumbing Services, can evaluate your hot water consumption and recommend a tankless water heater system to suit your home and lifestyle. Hire a professional to install your tankless water heater to optimize its energy efficiency.
The licensed plumbers at 1st Plumbing Services install, repair and service all types of water heaters, including standard storage water heaters and tankless water heaters. Click here to learn how plumbing maintenance can extend the lifespan of your plumbing system and appliances. Find water conservation tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Like a Tune Up for Your House
Taking care of your fundamental plumbing system is a vital way to maintain a healthy home. Sediment and minerals naturally collect in your water heater and pipes throughout your house. Drains get clogged or sinks, bathtubs and toilet bowls may drain slowly when buildup in the drain or pipes accumulates.
Preventative plumbing services and periodic maintenance offers homeowners peace of mind and helps to reduce utility costs. 1st Plumbing Services provides comprehensive and affordable plumbing maintenance services. Customers simply purchase a Plumbing Maintenance Agreement for a flat fee of $89.00 and schedule an appointment for a comprehensive plumbing inspection.
A licensed plumber will be dispatched to your home and begin by checking every room with plumbing – from the kitchen and laundry room to bathrooms and the garage. Each sink, drain, faucet, plumbing fixture and appliance is inspected. Toilet seats are tightened, drains cleared and faucets inspected for drips or leaks.
The annual maintenance service includes flushing the water heater. You will see for yourself how much buildup has accumulated in the water heater as it is flushed. Water heaters perform more efficiently when they are flushed annually. Most customers will find that the annual savings in their utility bills will cover the cost of the maintenance service.
Maintenance prevents plumbing problems
Clanking pipes or whining sounds in the bathroom are a sure sign that you need to have your plumbing system inspected.
Signs that your water heater and/or plumbing system needs maintenance
- Water heater or pipe is making noises
- The water is not hot enough
- Clothes fresh from the washer aren’t fresh
- Dishes fresh out of the dishwasher do not sparkle
- Rusty water
- Odor in the water
At 1st Plumbing Services, we clear clogged drains, repair leaks and perform quality plumbing maintenance services to improve energy efficiency, preserve your plumbing system and conserve water. Customers benefit from lower utility costs and extend the lifespan of their plumbing appliances. Learn more about plumbing maintenance for commercial businesses in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Conserve energy and reduce your utility bills
Solar water heaters utilize sunlight to heat water for your home, helping you to reduce energy use and your utility bills. A solar water heating system includes solar collectors and storage tanks. There are two types of solar water heaters; a passive solar water heater and an active solar water heater, which uses circulating pumps and controls. The direct circulation systems utilize a pump to circulate household water through the collectors and into the home.
How the Solar Water Heater works
The solar water heating system works by collecting solar energy and heating a fluid inside a solar collector that then heats the water inside your home’s hot water tank. To generate sufficient solar energy, a solar water heater should be installed where there is southern sky exposure in your yard or on your roof where there is plenty of sunlight.
Since the solar water heater relies on sunlight, a backup system is recommended to ensure that hot water is available on cloudy days. A conventional water heater can be integrated with a solar water heater system as a backup if not enough sunlight is available to heat a sufficient amount of water.
Rebates and tax credits for installing a Solar Water Heater
Federal, state and local tax incentives and rebates are available to help customers save energy.
Click here to learn about the federal tax credit for of up to 30 percent of the cost of qualifying energy-saving projects such as installing a solar water heater. You will find that to qualify for the tax credit, half of your home’s water heating energy must come from the sun. The total cost of the energy saving system can include the cost to purchase and install the system and homeowners may carry any unused portion of the qualifying tax credit to the next tax year. You must obtain a Manufacturer Certification Statement from the equipment manufacturer to qualify for the credit and save the certificate along with all receipts for the purchase and installation with your tax records.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we install energy saving systems to help customers reduce utility costs. Learn more about green plumbing solutions in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Backflow Prevention in Austin
Backflow Prevention devices are designed to prevent water contamination if water pressure is not maintained in a plumbing system. A water main or frozen pipe that bursts could cause significant damage to a plumbing system. The backflow prevention device prevents ground water or water from other sources to contaminate potable water.
At 1st Plumbing Services, our backflow prevention specialists are trained and certified to install all types of backflow prevention devices. We test backflow prevention devices annually or as required by local water municipalities and assure that it is currently performing backflow prevention functions properly. We’ll assess the backflow device and recommend any needed repairs, service or calibration. Contact us if your backflow device is broken or leaking. It is often possible to repair a backflow prevention device at a lower cost than replacing the entire backflow device.
Backflow Prevention Testing
1st Plumbing Services provides comprehensive backflow prevention testing, repair and installation throughout Austin and surrounding areas.
If you have a burst or frozen water pipe, we will quickly identify the source of the problem and repair your water pipes and plumbing fixtures. We install, test and repair backflow prevention devices to maintain your plumbing systems performance. Call 1st Plumbing Services for efficient plumbing service in Austin.
Learn about energy conservation and solar water heaters in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
As you know by now, Austin is experiencing extremely cold weather this week. The temperature is expected to remain below freezing all week.
Frozen Water Pipes?
Many homeowners are unprepared for a sudden drop in temperature in Austin since the winters are typically mild. A cold snap can make water pipes freeze and cause potential damage to your plumbing system.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we recommend insulating all exposed pipes on the exterior of you home during periods of extremely cold weather to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
Indications of a Frozen Water Pipe
If you turn on a faucet and no water comes out or only a trickle of water comes out, we recommend taking immediate action to prevent the pipe from bursting. Identify the frozen pipe and trace the pipe from the faucet to a cold area in your home. A frozen pipe may have frost or ice on the outside, or appear slightly bulged.
Thawing a Frozen Pipe
Several techniques can safely thaw a frozen pipe if it is not hidden behind a wall. First, turn the faucet on so water frozen in the pipe can flow out. Using a high power hair dryer, heat lamp, small portable heater or electric pipe heat tape can thaw ice inside the pipe. If a frozen water pipe is hidden behind the wall, turn up the heat and/or use a small portable heater near the pipe.
Burst water pipe?
Turn off the main water valve, which is usually located near your water meter. Then contact a licensed plumber immediately.
Contact us at 1st Plumbing Services if you have a burst or frozen water pipe. We will quickly identify the source of the problem and repair your water pipes and plumbing fixtures. We’ll also recommend plumbing maintenance and tips to prevent further damage to your plumbing system. Whether you have a frozen water pipe, a burst water pipe, no hot water in your home or want to prevent a future plumbing problem, call 1st Plumbing Services for efficient plumbing service in Austin and surrounding areas.
Preventative Plumbing Tips
- Insulate hose bibbs outside your home to prevent the pipes from freezing
- Remove hoses attached to outdoor faucets
- Insulate exposed pipes in areas of your home that are not heated such as an attic, basement or crawl space
- Wrap electric pipe heat tape around pipes that are exposed in unheated areas of your home
- Leave an interior faucet dripping slightly if the weather is expected to be below freezing for more than a few hours
- Open the cabinet under your kitchen or bathroom sinks to help air circulate
- Open attic doors and use a small space heater to increase the temperature in crawl spaces
Learn about backflow prevention and commercial plumbing maintenance tips in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Brrrrrrr, it’s cold out there.
Are you the first one in the shower on a cold winter morning? How long does it take your faucet to generate hot water?
Why wait when you can have hot water within seconds!
Installing a hot water recirculation system is an ideal way to guarantee hot water on demand in any plumbing fixture in your home. The hot water recirculation system uses a pump to rapidly move water through your plumbing system.
Improve your quality of life and conserve our natural resources
Conserve water – Save energy
Since you have instant access to hot water, the system helps you conserve water. Some systems can also help you save energy.
A hot water recirculation system incorporates a pump, an electronic controller and a zone valve. Systems may be configured with an on/off button or utilize a thermostat or timer to ensure continuous availability of hot water.
If you set up the system through a thermostat or timer, the system is constantly pushing cool water back to the hot water heater and hot water to your fixtures, and is less energy efficient. When your system uses a switch operating system, simply press the button on to activate the pump. These systems save energy when left in the off position, typically overnight. Turning the system on is as simple as pressing one button and the pump rapidly moves hot water from your hot water heater to your plumbing fixtures – within seconds!
Contact us at 1st Plumbing Services to learn more about hot water recirculation systems. Plumbing solutions to keep the chill out and provide hot water in seconds!
Learn more about water conservation and plumbing maintenance in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Hot Water Heater Maintenance – 101
Your hot water heater is essential to your home’s plumbing system, providing hot water to every faucet and appliances such as the washing machine and dishwasher. Sediment builds up in your water heater over a period of time, which can cause performance problems such as reduced availability of hot water in the home, a clanking or popping sound, rust colored water and unpleasant odors.
Why Flush Your Hot Water Heater?
Flushing your hot water heater will help you save money on energy costs. 1st Plumbing Services recommends flushing your hot water heater each year to ensure it operates efficiently. Your hot water heater will also last longer if you clean the unit annually.
Consider how long you have owned your home. The sediment collecting in the bottom of your tank typically includes dirt, calcium, scale, iron and rust. This sediment displaces water in the tank, making less hot water available.
Signs that your hot water heater needs service include lack of hot water in certain areas in your home, a clanking noise when you use hot water, or untimely diminished flow of hot water in a faucet or shower. If you smell sulfur or a rotten egg odor, it is likely there is bacteria growing in your hot water tank and definitely time to flush the hot water heater.
A very old hot water heater may need to be replaced. If you notice rust on the outside of the hot water heater, contact a licensed plumber to inspect the unit.
The licensed plumbers at 1st Plumbing Services will clear clogged drains and perform plumbing maintenance including flushing your hot water heater – whether you are experiencing problems with hot water in your home or want to prevent a future plumbing problem.
Learn more plumbing maintenance tips in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Do you know how your septic tank works?
There are many different system designs, but septic systems generally function similarly. Your septic tank is designed to allow bacteria and enzymes to biodegrade waste. The process converts organic waste into water, carbon dioxide and small amounts of mineral matter. Solids will sink while soap and grease floats in the tank. A drain field is designed to let only clean water leave the tank through lateral pipes into sand or gravel, which acts as a final filter before the water enters the ground.
Unfortunately, chemicals, detergents, bowl cleaners, bleaches, anti-bacterial soaps, and food preservatives inhibit natural bacterial action within the septic tank and sewer system. This causes solids to accumulate in the septic system, which can flow out of the drain field and clog pipes.
Natural Sewer Maintenance
At 1st Plumbing Services, we recommend using Bio-Clean, an environmentally safe and effective clog remover, for periodic maintenance of septic tanks and your main sewer line. The special combination of natural bacteria and enzymes in Bio-Clean are formulated to biodegrade synthetic organics that normally clog sewer systems. The bacteria and enzymes literally digest dead organic waste in pipes and sewer systems.
The active bacteria and enzymes in Bio-Clean will defy gravity, eating their way up down and across any pipe or sewer system. Using Bio-Clean as a sewer system maintenance treatment keeps your pipes and main sewer line clear of organic waste and build-up.
Bio-Clean is a green alternative to harmful chemical treatments that clears sewer system clogs and natural build-up. Consumers today are choosing green alternatives to a wide range of products containing harmful chemicals to maintain a healthy home and lifestyle.
The licensed plumbers at 1st Plumbing Services will clear your toughest clogged sewer line and recommend preventing future plumbing problems with environmentally safe Bio-Clean – a maintenance solution that is beneficial to your plumbing system.
Learn about hot water heater maintenance to prevent plumbing problems in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Clogged Drain or Sewer Line?
Many homeowners treat the occasional clogged drain with over the counter clog removers that contain harmful chemicals. For a healthy home and business, 1st Plumbing Services recommends Bio-Clean – a safe and effective alternative. Bio-Clean is a combination of natural bacteria and enzymes that will digest dead organic waste in your plumbing system.
Build-up Naturally Occurs in Pipes
Waste – such as grease, soap scum, hair, food particles, paper and cotton – naturally builds up in your plumbing system, causing slow or clogged drains. Bio-Clean will literally “eat” and biodegrade organic waste and gunk from your pipes. It is safe to use in drains, kitchen sinks, garbage disposals, toilets, bathroom showers and tubs, floor drains, laundry drains, septic tanks, grease traps, RV and boat holding tanks, lift boxes and cat litter boxes.
Bio-Clean – Safe for People, Plumbing and the Environment
Natural Drain and Sewer Maintenance
Bio-Clean defies gravity, eating its way up down and across any pipe or plumbing system. Periodic treatment with Bio-Clean keeps your drains and pipes clear of organic waste and build-up.
Let us Tackle Your Toughest Clogged Drain or Sewer Problem
At 1st Plumbing Service, we care about our customers and would rather not see them stressed out about another plumbing problem. In addition to professional plumbing maintenance services, 1st Plumbing Services will clear the toughest clogged drain or clogged sewer. We’ll provide drain cleaning and sewer cleaning services, locate the source of the problem in a main sewer line and repair or replace pipes to get your plumbing system working smoothly again.
Learn about sewer system maintenance to prevent plumbing problems in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
High Velocity Jetting to Clear a Clogged Sewer Line
A clogged sewer line can quickly escalate from a minor inconvenience to a catastrophe. Sewage backup is just one of the causes of a clogged sewer line. Extreme weather could result in flooding, mudflows or a landslide, which then causes a clogged sewer line.
What is that Smell?
At 1st Plumbing Services, we provide sewer cleaning services to solve your worst clogged sewer problems. We utilize specialized sewer cleaning equipment to clear sewer blockages quickly by hydro-jetting.
Using modern plumbing equipment and techniques allows us to clear your sewer line of blockages more efficiently than other methods.
Sewer Line Repair
Main sewer lines are typically the largest drains in your home. Your plumbing system connects other drains to the main sewer line, which runs under your house to the city sewer line or septic tank. In addition to clearing sewer line clogs, we’ll identify and repair breaks in a sewer line that could cause a larger sewage problem.
We will perform a video camera inspection to identify damaged or corroded sewer lines and repair or replace the sewer line.
Sewer Maintenance prevents Clogged Sewer Lines
To prevent sewer lines from getting clogged, we recommend periodic sewer maintenance. Our licensed plumbers provide sewer cleaning services to homeowners and commercial businesses to ensure their sewer lines do not accumulate excessive sand, grease, sludge, stones or other materials.
Learn more about environmentally safe drain cleaning and sewer cleaning treatments in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
How often does your drain get clogged?
If the answer is anything but once, it’s a good idea to call the plumber. Your home or commercial property’s plumbing system is interconnected with every plumbing fixture, pipe and appliance, including the air conditioning system, the bathrooms, kitchen appliances, the water heater and washing machine. A clogged drain in the bathroom or kitchen may be a sign of organic build up. Organic build up can cause sinks and tubs to drain slowly and may also affect the flow of sewer and drain lines, as well as breaks, bellies and collapses in the line.
Plumbing Maintenance Prevents Clogged Drains
Maintaining your plumbing system periodically will help prevent problems like clogged drains from occurring. At 1st Plumbing Services, we recommend flushing your water heater every year, starting one year after installation. We offer maintenance agreements for homeowners and business owners, where we inspect, test and check every plumbing fixture and drain to ensure the plumbing system is working properly.
Although properly installed modern plumbing usually runs smoothly, there may still be circumstances when a drain will become clogged. Whether your home is new or your plumbing fixtures or appliances have been updated, drains can get clogged for many reasons.
You may not realize it, but even landscaping like tree roots near your home, can affect the plumbing. Most modern plumbing systems are made from PVC, Copper and Pex. However, the plumbing system in an older home may be equipped with cast iron pipes, which may corrode over time.
BIO-CLEAN – non-toxic, environmentally friendly clog remover
1st Plumbing services is now a distributor for BIO-CLEAN, a safe, green, drain cleaning additive for sewer and drain line maintenance. BIO-CLEAN is an effective non-toxic clog remover. Pour it down your slow draining or clogged drain as an alternative to toxic clog removers. It works as an enzyme to breakdown organic buildup in your plumbing – safely and effectively.
1st Plumbing Services – Drain Cleaning Experts
Whether you have a clogged sink or a clogged toilet, we’re Austin’s drain cleaning experts. No plumbing job is too small or too challenging for us. We repair clogged drains, leaking pipes, water heaters, gas leaks, as well as perform leak detection, line detection, line locating and so much more. Our experienced plumbers are licensed and expert in identifying the cause of a plumbing problem quickly and repairing it efficiently.
Contact us to learn more about plumbing maintenance and green solutions to solve your plumbing problems.
Why would I need a plumbing service maintenance agreement?
Commercial businesses know how important plumbing maintenance is to ensure that their plumbing system works efficiently without interruption. Plumbing maintenance is particularly important for restaurants and manufacturers.
Property management companies benefit from plumbing service maintenance agreements to ensure that a commercial properties or an apartment complex has a team in place to quickly address any plumbing issues reported by tenants.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we offer plumbing service maintenance agreements to residential and commercial customers. We are customer service oriented and will diagnose an issue promptly. Our experienced plumbers are equipped with the tools and materials to tackle plumbing emergencies efficiently. When a client purchases a plumbing service maintenance agreement, we begin by completing a comprehensive home plumbing inspection to uncover any potential issues before they become major problems. The cost to the customer is less than a one hour service call, and provides the customer with peace of mind knowing that there plumbing system has been checked by a trained professional.
A partial list of services included in the plumbing service maintenance agreement follows:
• Flush water heater
• Inspect water heater for leaks
• Check water heater drain valve
• Check water heater relief valve
• Dye test toilet
• Check exposed water lines
• Check drain lines
• Check emergence shutoffs
• Check hose bibbs for leaks
Customers benefit by from periodic plumbing maintenance through extended plumbing equipment and fixture life, assured safety of a properly working plumbing system, and potential reduced utility bills – saving customers money on water bills and reducing the need for emergency plumbing service calls.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we provide plumbing maintenance and service to ensure your plumbing system is working properly. Learn more about maintaining your septic tank in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Prevention Tips
No one wants to discover a leak or water damage in their home. The two most common causes of water damage in a home are appliance failure and faulty plumbing systems. To prevent potential costly water damage, check key several areas in your home periodically. The lifespan of a washing machine, sump pump and water heater varies, depending on the manufacturer and frequency of use.
If you see water dripping or forming a puddle near your water heater, sump pump, plumbing fixture or appliance, contact a licensed plumber immediately.
Many homeowners hire a handyman or fix-it guy to make simple repairs in their home. Just because you have the tools doesn’t qualify you to perform plumbing repairs. What seems like a small project can quickly escalate into a bathroom disaster.
Make sure that you hire a licensed plumber for any plumbing repair or maintenance need – whether you have a leak or want to replace a toilet. 1st Plumbing Services provides quality plumbing repair services in Austin and surrounding areas.
We’ll show up on time with a licensed plumber to fix leaks, unclog drains, and tackle any plumbing repair job. Our plumbers are equipped with the tools and materials to handle most common plumbing emergencies. And if you are upgrading your plumbing fixtures, we’ll help you shop for the parts.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we install energy saving plumbing appliances to help customers reduce their utility bills. Learn more about plumbing maintenance in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 
1st Plumbing Services, common plumbing emergencies, energy saving plumbing appliances, fix leaks, licensed plumber, perform plumbing repairs, plumbing maintenance, plumbing repair job, plumbing repair or maintenance, replace a toilet, unclog drains, upgrading your plumbing fixtures, water dripping or forming a puddleGreen Plumbing and Renewable Energy – Sustainable Living Measures At Home
Use the Sun’s energy to generate hot water in your home
Solar Water Heaters
Installing a Solar Water Heater can help you reduce energy use and move closer towards sustainable living. Solar Water Heaters use the sun’s energy to heat a fluid inside a solar collector that then heats the water inside your home’s hot water tank. A Solar Water Heater requires southern sky exposure in your yard or on your roof to capture sufficient sunlight.
The federal government offers a tax credit of up to 30 percent of the cost of qualifying energy-saving projects. Two tax credits called the Residential Energy Property Credit (REPC) and Residential Energy Efficiency Property Credit (REEPC) were introduced in The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and apply to energy-saving projects implemented between 2009 and 2016.
To qualify for the tax credit, half of your home’s water heating energy must come from the sun. The cost to purchase and install the system may be calculated in the total cost of the energy saving system, and homeowners may carry any unused portion of the qualifying tax credit to the next tax year. Obtain a Manufacturer Certification Statement from the equipment manufacturer to qualify for the credit and keep the certificate along with all receipts for the purchase and installation with your tax records.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we install energy saving systems to help customers save money. Learn more about green plumbing solutions and rainwater harvesting in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, energy saving systems, green plumbing solutions, renewable energy, Residential Energy Efficiency Property Credit (REEPC), Residential Energy Property Credit (REPC), solar collector, solar water heater, sustainable living, tax credit, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009Responsible Living – Sustainable Living – Cheap is the New Green
Whatever you call it, environmentally conscientious consumers are recycling, conserving, reducing and finding creative solutions to save money and live “greener”.
At 1st Plumbing Services we offer green plumbing solutions that help commercial and residential customers conserve water and reduce energy use. Our plumbing experts will evaluate your plumbing system and recommend low flow faucet aerators, shower heads, WaterSense toilets and more – to help reduce your water and energy bills. Green plumbing fixtures and appliances offer high performance and can reduce your water use by over 75%.
Plumbing Maintenance Increases Longevity of Your Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances
Identifying water leaks and fixing plumbing fixtures immediately reduces water waste. Plumbing maintenance, such as flushing your water heater, preserves the system by removing sediment – which improves the water and energy efficiency of the system. Installing a water softening system will clean sediment and mineral buildup from plumbing fixtures and pipes – in addition to improving the quality of the water.
1st Plumbing Services provides plumbing repair and maintenance services to residential and commercial businesses in Austin and Central Texas. Our plumbers are competent and repair any plumbing problem or install green plumbing fixtures to help you save money.
Learn more about green plumbing solutions to conserve water and save money in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, conserve water and reduce energy use, conserves water, Conserving water, evaluate plumbing system, fixing plumbing fixtures reduces water waste, flushing your water heater, green plumbing solutions, improves water and energy efficiency, install green plumbing fixtures and appliances, installing a water softening system, low flow faucet aerators, plumbing maintenance, plumbing repair and maintenance, reduce water use, reduce your water and energy bills, repair any plumbing problem, responsible living, sustainable living, water leaks, WaterSense showerheads and toiletsRainwater harvesting conserves water and is a key component of a sustainable living community. At 1st Plumbing Services, we install integrated water harvesting and distribution systems to improve the efficiency of irrigation and landscape management. Rain water harvesting is a more cost effective and sustainable alternative to purchasing water – whether you are purchasing municipal water or bottled drinking water.
Water Harvesting Systems Improve Irrigation and Landscape Management Efficiency
We configure and install John Deere Green Tech water harvesting systems that harnesses water power and reduces energy use. Central irrigation controls can be installed to save time traveling to multiple locations when seasonal changes or weather adjustments need to be made. Wireless technology may be utilized to make installation and maintenance more efficient. Landscape designs around rain water collection systems can enhance the performance of rainwater harvesting as well as contribute to the aesthetic of a home or commercial property.
We’ll help you apply for city, state, and federal rebates and tax credits to offset the rainwater harvesting investment.
Learn more about green plumbing solutions that reduce your carbon and water footprint in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, Conserving water, green plumbing solutions, improve the efficiency of irrigation and landscape management, integrated water harvesting and distribution systems, John Deere Green Tech water harvesting system, preserving plumbing pipes and fixtures, rain water collection systems, rainwater harvesting conserves water, reduce your carbon and water footprint, reducing water bills, removes hard water buildup in plumbing system, Stage 1 Water Use Schedule, sustainable living community, water conservation measuresWe are in a paradigm shift at the moment – adapting from a society of consumers to everyday environmentalists who are seizing new opportunities to reduce waste and reduce our carbon and water footprint. Renewable energy technologies are becoming more affordable and federal legislature supports this movement through rebates and tax credits for a range of energy conservation measures and sustainable living programs.
Water conservation is an important component in sustainable living.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we work with homeowners and commercial businesses to put in place green plumbing solutions that save energy and conserve water.
• Tankless water heaters conserve energy and water
• Solar water heaters use renewable energy to heat water for your home – reducing your carbon footprint significantly
• High efficiency toilets use substantially less water
• Rainwater harvesting conserves water and reduces your water footprint
Sustainable Living Solutions Impact Our Community
Rainwater Harvesting
A homeowner or business owner that installs a rainwater collection system benefits by conserving water and reducing their water bills. Rainwater can be reused outdoors in landscaping, a vegetable garden, to wash your car or fleet of vehicles, or to replenish pools and ponds. Indoor plumbing systems can be connected to a rainwater harvesting system that pumps rainwater through a filtration system for use inside your home or place of business. In addition to conserving water, using rainwater typically removes hard water buildup in your plumbing system – preserving plumbing pipes and fixtures.
Learn more about green plumbing solutions to reduce your water footprint in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, conserve energy and water, conserve water, Conserving water, energy conservation measures, green plumbing solutions, high efficiency toilets, preserving plumbing pipes and fixtures, rainwater collection system, rainwater harvesting conserves water, reduce our carbon and water footprint, reduce waste, reduces your water footprint, reducing water bills, removes hard water buildup in plumbing system, renewable energy, save energy, solar water heaters, sustainable living, tankless water heatersOutside Your Home
Conserving water in summer is important during the year.
You can reduce your water use even more with simple water conservation measures at home.
Simple changes to your lawn and garden can help reduce your water use. By raising your lawn mower blade to a 3 inch setting, your lawn and soil will hold more moisture. Using mulch around plants also holds moisture and reduces evaporation. Many plants, flowers, trees and bushes that are native to the area require less watering. Select native plants that thrive in the local climate to reduce water use and preserve the look and feel of Central Texas.
• Watering your lawn in the early morning conserves water by reducing evaporation.
• Rainwater collection systems conserve water by reusing rainwater in your garden and when washing your car.
• Get out the broom and sweep your driveway and sidewalk rather than hosing them down with water.
Learn more about green plumbing solutions that help you conserve water and save money in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Inside Your Home
Conserving water is a lifestyle change that benefits our community throughout the year. Reduce water use with simple water conservation measures at home.
• Shorter your shower by just one or two minutes and you’ll conserve gallons of water each day.
• Turn on the dishwasher or laundry machine ONLY when full.
• Turn the water off while shaving and brushing your teeth.
You can save 8 gallons of water each day by simply turning off the faucet while you brush.
• Use the garbage disposal less often.
• Fix faucets that have leaks or drips. Installing low flow faucets can reduce water use by 70% at each faucet.
• Insulate water pipes inside and outside your home.
• Replace toilets and appliances with energy efficient models.
Identify plumbing problems in your home and have them repaired.
Leaky faucets and toilets that stick or continue running after you flush can waste gallons of water each day. Low flow toilets can reduce your water use from 6 gallons per flush to 1.3 gallons per flush.
Wash your clothes in an Energy Star washing machine and reduce your water use for washing clothes by almost 50%.
To Shower or Take a Bath?
A ten minute shower using a typical showerhead will use about 3 gallons more water than a bath. By installing a low flow showerhead, you can save about a third of the water use during your shower.
Find out how you can reduce your water footprint on the Good Magazine website.
Learn more water conservation tips for outside your home in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we offer residential and commercial customers a range of eco-friendly plumbing solutions that save energy and conserve water – from tankless water heaters to no-salt water conditioning systems.
Installing a tankless water heater, or “on demand hot water heater”, saves customers money by using less energy and less water. In addition, tax credits are available to offset the purchase and installation cost.
EasyWater Protects Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters increase temperatures rapidly which can result in the minerals in untreated water to quickly form scale. EasyWater systems are designed to condition water without removing beneficial minerals. The EasyWater 2200 and 3500 systems were designed for use with tankless water heaters to prevent scale build up.
EasyWater systems are manufactured by FREIJE Treatment Systems. In independent tests by a major tankless water heater manufacturer, the FREIJE Descaling Technology proved to prevent scale buildup in the heaters tested. FREIJE Descaling Technology also eliminates scale buildup on humidifiers and other plumbing fixtures and appliances.
The EasyWater systems are a great alternative to salt-based water softeners. They condition water without adding salt or other chemicals. Revolutionary technology keeps the beneficial minerals such as calcium and magnesium that are beneficial to your health without letting them build up on your plumbing fixtures and pipes.
Ask us about plumbing maintenance tips to conserve water, condition your water and reduce your energy use.
To find more information on the EasyWater system, visit the EasyWater website.
Learn more about eco-friendly plumbing solutions that save money and conserve water in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, alternative to salt-based water softeners, build up on plumbing fixtures and pipes, condition water, conserve water, descaling technology, EasyWater 2200 and 3500 systems, eco-friendly plumbing solutions, no-salt water conditioning systems, plumbing maintenance tips, prevent scale build up, reduce energy use, save energy and conserve water, save money by using less energy and less water, tankless water heatersDrip Drip Drip
Do you have a drip in your kitchen or bathroom faucet? Have you returned home to find one of the faucets in your kitchen or bathroom has a slow steady drip? Perhaps you need to position the faucet in one specific direction to make sure it turns off completely. Or you may have noticed water stains in your sink or tub.
Many homes in Austin have hard water and minerals such as calcium and magnesium in the water can build up in plumbing fixtures. This mineral build up can cause clogs or disturb the flow of water in a tub or sink. Mineral buildup may cause a sink faucet cartridge to clog and need to be replaced more frequently.
1st Plumbing Services will diagnose your plumbing issue and quickly resolve the plumbing problem. Our professional technicians are clean, neat and efficient. We clear clogs in drains and pipes or replace faucet cartridges that have accumulated mineral buildup.
No-Salt No-Maintenance Water Conditioning System
Eliminate hard water buildup with the EasyWater no-salt water conditioning system. 1st Plumbing Services installs cost effective water conditioning systems in homes and commercial properties. The EasyWater system does not require maintenance since it doesn’t add salt to your water. Simply install it and forget about it.
Rely on our plumbers to arrive on time and repair your plumbing problem efficiently without leaving a mess. Ask us about plumbing maintenance tips to conserve water, condition your water without adding salt or removing beneficial minerals.
To learn more about the EasyWater system, visit the EasyWater website.
Learn more plumbing tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, clear clogs in drains and pipes, clogs, condition water without salt, conserve water, drip in kitchen or bathroom faucet, EasyWater no-salt water conditioning system, eliminate hard water buildup, installs cost effective water conditioning systems, mineral build up in plumbing fixtures, plumbing maintenance tips, repair plumbing problem, replace faucet cartridges, resolve plumbing problem, slow steady drip, water stains in sink or tubWater conservation federal tax credits
When you file your taxes this year, be sure to claim federal tax credits for replacing the water heater in your principal residence with an energy-efficient product or renewable energy system. Click the following link to be certain that you qualify for a federal tax credit for your energy-efficient water heater.
Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
Homeowners may qualify for 30% of the cost up to $1,500 if they install the system by December 31, 2010. Contact us at 1st Plumbing Services if you are considering replacing your water heater or are having problems with hot water in your home.
If you notice a rotten egg odor or rust colored water, you may need to flush your water heater. 1st Plumbing Services recommends flushing your water heater once a year, typically in the spring or fall. Call us immediately if you notice water leaking around the base of the heater or anywhere in your home as you tackle indoor or outdoor spring cleaning projects.
We repair water heaters, along with plumbing fixtures throughout your home. At 1st Plumbing Services, we solve your plumbing problem – whether you have a leaking sink or drain clog. In addition to plumbing repairs, we install water softeners and purified water systems. Contact us for reliable service or a quote if you are planning a new project in your home.
Learn more water conservation tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, drain clog, energy-efficient water heater, federal tax credits for replacing your water heater, flush your water heater, flushing water heater, install water softeners and purified water systems, leaking sink, problems with hot water, repair water heaters, solve plumbing problem, water conservation tips, water leakingLearn the difference between water softeners and water treatment softening systems
Water softeners are an excellent way to treat hard water in your home and protect your pipes from mineral build up. The water softener will use salt or potassium to remove calcium and magnesium from the water. These minerals can clog your pipes and cause a white chalky build-up in sinks and showers. If you have a septic system, potassium is recommended rather than salt.
Water treatment softening systems remove additional minerals, such as ferrous iron, mangansese and hydrogen sulfide gas to improve the quality of water and eliminate rust or black staining, and “rotten egg” odors. A reverse osmosis system is a premium filtration system that removes additional contaminants in the water.
Experience the Benefits of Installing a Water Softener
After installing a water softener in your home, most people immediately notice the difference on their skin. The softer water enables soap to rinse off easier so you’ll typically feel cleaner and use less soap and body lotion. Less detergent and fabric softener can be used as well, once a water softener is installed.
Choosing a water softener can be confusing. Contact 1st Plumbing Services if you are considering a water softener. We install a wide range of systems and help customers evaluate the right water softener or treatment system for your home.
Learn more water conservation tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Signs You Need to Flush Your Water Heater
As seasons change, your home’s plumbing may need attention. Common signs that you may have a problem with your water heater include:
- No hot water
- Inadequate hot water
- Low rumbling or popping noise
- Higher pitched whining
- Rotten egg odor
- Rust colored water
- Water leaking around the base of the heater
1st Plumbing Services recommends flushing out standard gas and electric water heaters once a year to remove sediment. This preventative care can extend the lifespan of the water heater. Flushing a water heater will also make it operate more efficiently, saving gas or electricity.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we repair and replace all types of water heaters, including standard gas and electric water heaters, re-circulating systems and tankless water heaters, also referred to as “on demand hot water heaters.”
Choosing a Water Heater
If you are considering replacing your water heater or are planning a new project, you may want to learn about the different types of water heaters. Tankless water heaters generat hot water on demand more quickly than standard water heaters. If you replace the water heater in your primary residence, you may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500. Contact us at 1st Plumbing Services to learn more about energy efficient water heaters or click here to apply for a tax credit.
Learn about water softeners and how to improve the quality of water throughout your home in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Hot Water Heater Maintenance – 101
Your hot water heater is essential to your home’s plumbing system, providing hot water to every faucet and appliances such as the washing machine and dishwasher. Sediment builds up in your water heater over a period of time, which can cause performance problems such as reduced availability of hot water in the home, a clanking or popping sound, rust colored water and unpleasant odors.
Why Flush Your Hot Water Heater?
Flushing your hot water heater will help you save money on energy costs. 1st Plumbing Services recommends flushing your hot water heater each year to ensure it operates efficiently. Your hot water heater will also last longer if you clean the unit annually.
Consider how long you have owned your home. The sediment collecting in the bottom of your tank typically includes dirt, calcium, scale, iron and rust. This sediment displaces water in the tank, making less hot water available.
Signs that your hot water heater needs service include lack of hot water in certain areas in your home, a clanking noise when you use hot water, or untimely diminished flow of hot water in a faucet or shower. If you smell sulfur or a rotten egg odor, it is likely there is bacteria growing in your hot water tank and definitely time to flush the hot water heater.
A very old hot water heater may need to be replaced. If you notice rust on the outside of the hot water heater, contact a licensed plumber to inspect the unit.
The licensed plumbers at 1st Plumbing Services will clear clogged drains and perform plumbing maintenance including flushing your hot water heater – whether you are experiencing problems with hot water in your home or want to prevent a future plumbing problem.
Learn more plumbing maintenance tips in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Consumer trends in the US toward conservation and sustainable living affect many aspects of our lives. Energy and water conservation headline the news and drive legislature with a range of federal, state and local rebates and tax credits for homeowners and businesses. Consumers are more educated than ever on ways they can reduce their carbon and water footprint and conserve our planet’s natural resources.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we offer residential and commercial customers a range of green plumbing solutions that save energy and conserve water – from tankless water heaters to high efficiency toilets.
Environmentally Responsible Solutions
Tankless Water Heater
Reduce your water footprint by installing a tankless water heater. In addition, to conserving water, you will have continuous hot water throughout your home or business. Contact 1st Plumbing Services at 512-282-7787 to find out which type of tankless water heater they would recommend for your home or commercial property.
Solar Water Heater
Austin Energy is offering a new rebate program for installing a Solar Water Heater in your home or commercial property. Homeowners and business owners can apply for a rebate of between $1,500 and $2,000 for installing the solar water heater and also receive a 30% tax credit of $750 to $1,000 – amounting to a savings of up to $3,000.
Learn how to qualify for renewable energy incentives on the Austin Energy website.
Free Toilets from the City of Austin
The City of Austin has reinstated the Free Toilet Program. If your existing toilets were installed before January 1, 1996, you can apply to replace up to 3 toilets per home with high-performance HETs (high-efficiency toilets). The Pro-Flo PF9300 toilets provided by the City of Austin utilize dual flush technology to ensure high performance and reduce water consumption.
Learn more about how to apply for free toilets on the City of Austin website.
1st Plumbing Services offers green plumbing solutions to customers who want to implement water saving options, which most often reduce both water and energy use.
Learn more about green plumbing solutions that save money and reduce water use in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, conservation and sustainable living, Free Toilet Program, green plumbing solutions, green plumbing solutions that save energy and conserve water, high efficiency toilets, plumbing maintenance tips, reduce both water and energy use, reduce water consumption, renewable energy incentives, save energy and conserve water, solar water heater, tankless water heater, tankless water heaters, water conservation, water footprint | 
Leave a commentWe are excited to announce that 1st Plumbing Services has become an authorized dealer for EasyWater systems in Austin, Texas.
The Easy Solution for Hard Water Problems
EasyWater is a cost effective water conditioning solution that is more beneficial to your health than water softeners. Most water softeners remove minerals such as calcium and magnesium and replace them with salt. A water softener may help your plumbing and reduce your use of soap and skin care products, however the EasyWater system is even better for your health.
Our experienced plumbers are trained to repair and maintain residential and commercial plumbing systems cost effectively. We clear clogs in faucets, pipes and drains and recommend plumbing maintenance to improve the performance of your plumbing fixtures and appliances. We’re now authorized to install the EasyWater system – a cost effective alternative to salt-based water softeners.
The EasyWater System is Eco-Friendly
The EasyWater System is designed to use minimal energy and does not waste water in the regeneration cycle like most salt water softeners. Since no chemicals or salt is used to treat the water, the EasyWater System does not discharge harmful treatment or salt into city water systems. In fact, EasyWater has been proven to be beneficial to vegetation and increases plant growth.
To find out more about the EasyWater system, visit the EasyWater website.
At 1st Plumbing Services, we solve your plumbing problem – whether you have a leak or clog or want to learn more about water conservation and energy efficient plumbing fixtures or appliances. Contact us for reliable service or a quote if you are planning a new project in your home.
Learn more plumbing maintenance tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, clog, cost effective alternative to salt-based water softeners, cost effective water conditioning solution, EasyWater no-salt water conditioning system, exclusive dealer for EasyWater systems in Austin, improve performance of plumbing fixtures and appliances, install EasyWater system, leak, plumbing maintenance tips, Solution for Hard Water Problems, solve plumbing problem | Leave a commentAlthough we’ve enjoyed a wet winter, we still need to conserve our water supply. Water conservation practices offer long term benefits to the community and our future generations. Learn more about your water and water conservation in Texas on the Water IQ website, developed by the City of Austin in conjunction with the LCRA.
This spring, consider ways that you can be a Green Neighbor. Take the Green Neighbor Clean Creek Challenge and encourage your friends and neighbors to join you in this effort to:
• reduce your carbon footprint
• protect our natural resources
• decrease waste
Green Neighbor booklets are available at libraries throughout Austin. When you and 40% of your neighbors join you in protecting water quality, you earn points, win prizes and become a Green Neighborhood! Click here to learn more about the Green Neighbor Clean Creek Challenge.
The Green Neighbor Clean Creek Challenge is a part of the Green City Initiative, a partnership between the City of Austin and the community. Its goal is to preserve and protect Austin’s environment. Learn more about water conservation in Austin at the Green City Austin website.
Learn more water conservation tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
1st Plumbing Services helps homeowners conserve water and by replacing plumbing fixtures, such as low flow toilets, water-conserving faucets and showerheads, washing machines and pressure regulating valves. Find water conservation tips on Plumbing Insights.
Posted in Plumbing Insights | 1st Plumbing Services, conserve water, Green City Austin, Green City Initiative, Green Neighbor Clean Creek Challenge, Green Neighborhood, low flow toilets, preserve and protect Austin’s environment, replacing plumbing fixtures, washing machines and pressure regulating valves, water conservation in Austin, water conservation in Texas, Water IQ, water-conserving faucets and showerheads | Leave a commentCity of Austin Water Conservation Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV) Rebate
Pressure Regulating Valves are water conserving plumbing fixtures designed to reduce incoming water pressure from a water main that is too high for average use. Installing Pressure Regulating Valves saves water and preserves a property’s plumbing system. In many cases a PRV will also help to reduce energy costs.
Plumbing Science – How much is too much water pressure?
When water pressure is too high, the increased force of the water may erode or wear down plumbing system components more quickly, leading to leaks in appliances, water heaters and pipes. By installing PRVs, the reduced friction may help prolong the appliance or plumbing fixture life expectancy.
Pressure Regulating Valves also enable consumers and businesses to reduce their water use through more functional water pressure distributed throughout the property.
If a property’s water pressure is higher than 50 pounds per square inch (psi), a resident may benefit from installing Pressure Regulating Valves. The City of Austin requires residents and businesses with pressure greater than 65 psi to install a PRV.
Not sure if you need a PRV?
Contact the City of Austin at 974-2199 and find out the estimated water pressure for your residence.
Find out how Austin residents can qualify for a $100 Pressure Regulating Valve rebate on the City of Austin Water Conservation website.
Learn more water conservation tips in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
City of Austin Water Conservation WashWise Rebate Program
Two-part Rebate Available to Austin Residents & Businesses
The City of Austin offers water conservation rebates to businesses and consumers who replace their clothes washers with high efficiency models. The two-part rebate includes up to a $100 water rebate along with a $50 energy rebate. In addition to qualifying for rebates, Austin residents will also reduce their utility bills by reducing water consumption and energy use.
Certain criteria must be met to qualify for both the water rebate and energy rebate. For instance, consumers who have an electric water heater must have Austin Energy service to be eligible for the energy rebate. Alternatively, consumers who have a gas water heater must have Texas Gas Service and be within the Austin city limits. Check your Texas Gas Service bill for the rate code: I/S Res to be sure.
The rebate only applies to clothes washers that are in service for a minimum of five years. You will not qualify for another rebate if you replace your washing machine before that time.
In order to qualify for the water rebate, consumers must receive water from Austin Water Utility. Find out which high efficiency washing machines qualify for the rebate program on the Water Conservation website.
Learn how to qualify for a rebate through the City of Austin Water Conservation Program by installing Pressure Regulating Valves (PRV) in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
City of Austin Water Conservation Toilet Rebate Program
The City of Austin offers an extensive range of water conservation rebates to businesses and consumers who replace their toilets. Even low flush toilets – 1.6 gallon-per-flush models that were installed since 1982 may be less water efficient over time as parts are replaced.
Toilet Innovations
Did you know that replacing an older 3.5 gallon toilet with an efficient 1.6 gpf model could save $3,000 in water consumption over the life of the toilet? And new High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs) reduce water consumption by an additional 20%. Dual-flush toilets offer both a half-flush and full-flush option that varies in water consumption based on the flush volume selected.
Q The state-of-the-art today?
A HET toilets carrying the EPA WaterSense label.
In order to carry the EPA WaterSense label, a toilet must flush at least 350 grams. That’s more than the average baking potato. Learn which water conserving toilets carry the EPA WaterSense label on the EPA website. Only toilets that meet EPA WaterSense criteria will qualify for a rebate through the City of Austin Water Conservation Program.
Does your toilet pass the test?
Read more about toilet models that meet or exceed customer expectations for flush volume and performance requirements in the 2008 cooperative Canadian and American study Maximum Performance (MaP) Test.
Learn how to qualify for a rebate through the WashWise Rebate Program by replacing your washing machine in the next Plumbing Insights update, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Learn How to Save on Water Consumption and Qualify for a Rebate
The Austin Water Utility offers a free service to commercial customers, where Water Conservation auditors will evaluate a business’ water consumption to determine how your company uses water. Auditors can then suggest ways to reduce water use and explore potential eligibility for special commercial rebates.
A water conservation audit may be well worth the effort, as Water Conservation offers rebates of up to $100,000 to industrial, commercial, and institutional customers for installing new water conservation equipment and processes at existing facilities. In addition, certain projects may also qualify for other incentives, such as property or sales tax exemptions.
Capturing Rainwater
Plumbing upgrades that may qualify for this program include capturing on-site sources of water, such as rainwater, air conditioner condensate, or foundation (French) drain water for landscape irrigation use or cooling tower makeup. Other techniques, such as reusing high quality rinse water and installing water saving equipment or processes may also be eligible.
Contact City of Austin Water Conservation auditors to learn more about rebates and eligibility or download the Commercial Rebate Application and Guidelines from the Water Conservation website.
The City of Austin also offers water conservation rebates to businesses who replace plumbing fixtures, such as toilets. Learn more about water conservation rebates and how businesses can reduce water consumption by installing toilets that carry the EPA WaterSense label in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Learn how to stay in Compliance with City of Austin Water Conservation Plumbing Fixture Requirements
Part 2 – Showerheads
In addition to utilizing water conserving toilets and faucets, any business or facility in Austin providing showers – from apartment complexes with five or more rental units to health or fitness centers – must be equipped with water-conserving showerheads that are designed to provide dispersed and reduced water flow and automatically clean debris from its water channels or pores. Showerheads must have an adjustable spray that produces a water cone that is not more than 42 inches wide in a size and half foot vertical drop. The showerhead is required to have a maximum flow rate of three gallons a minute in an inlet water pressure of between 20 and 80 pounds per square inch when measured with the adjustable spray in the fully opened position. Finally, the showerhead must resist damage by water heated to 160 degrees Fahrenheit with an inlet water pressure of 125 pounds per square inch. These same requirements apply to hotels and motels in Austin.
Not sure if your showerhead is in compliance? Contact 1st Plumbing Services and schedule an appointment where our expert plumbers will test your plumbing fixtures and recommend any necessary adjustments. We educate and inform businesses of a variety of options that will keep you in compliance and also help to reduce your utility bills.
Learn about water heaters and more energy conservation measures in next week’s installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the plumbing experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Certain exceptions do apply to the water conservation regulations and business owners can read more about the complete water conservation ordinance on the City of Austin website.
Learn how to stay in Compliance with City of Austin Water Conservation Plumbing Fixture Requirements
Part 1 – Low Flow Toilets and Water-Conserving Faucets
The City of Austin water conservation ordinance applies to commercial businesses as well as residences throughout Austin. In the city ordinance, commercial buildings and a wide range of businesses are defined as facilities that must utilize water-conserving plumbing fixtures. These regulations also apply to schools and day care centers as well as shopping centers or malls.
Companies in every business sector utilize water, whether they are simply providing bathrooms and drinking water or offer showers, such as hotels or motels in the hospitality industry.
Facility owners must install and maintain toilets equipped with a flush tank water saver that serves as a dam to withhold part of the flush tank water that would otherwise drain into the toilet bowl on flushing. The flush tank water saver needs to consist of a flexible, double-edged panel made of rubber encased, epoxy-coated spring steel to adapt to different tank sizes. It is also important that it does not reduce the height of the water in the tank and reduces water use. The flush tank water saver must not use more than 3.5 gallons for each toilet flush or 3.0 gallons for each urinal flush.
The toilet must also be equipped with a flush valve water saver that shortens the flush cycle and further reduces the volume of water flow during a flush to not more than 3.0 gallons for each toilet flush and 1.0 gallon for each urinal flush. The flush valve water saver must fit between the cover and flat part of the relief valve of a flush valve and should not affect the cleansing action.
Every lavatory or kitchen faucet must also utilize water-conserving measures with an aerator that reduces flow by introducing air bubbles into the water stream and a flow restrictor that reduces the opening through which water passes, or a spray tap that delivers water in a broad pattern of droplets. The ordinance specifies that the water flow of a lavatory or kitchen faucet may not exceed 2.75 gallons per minute with an inlet water pressure between 20 and 80 pounds per square inch, when measured with both hot and cold water supply valves in the fully open position.
Not sure if your toilet or faucet is in compliance? Contact 1st Plumbing Services and schedule an appointment where our expert plumbers will test your plumbing fixtures and recommend necessary adjustments. We educate and inform businesses of possible solutions that will keep you in compliance and help to reduce your utility bills.
Learn more about the City of Austin water conservation ordinance as it applies to apartment complexes, hotels and fitness centers or any business equipped with a shower in next week’s installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
Certain exceptions apply to the water conservation regulations. Business owners can learn more by reading the complete water conservation ordinance on the City of Austin website.
Commercial Water Use
In addition to placing water restrictions on outdoor water use in residential neighborhoods, permanent water conservation regulations apply to commercial businesses and facilities throughout Austin. Business owners and facility managers must stay abreast of restrictions to avoid a violation and potential fine from the City of Austin.
In addition, businesses need to consider the image they project to the community. In many cases, their customers visit their place of business and notice if they are watering a lawn or flower bed during a time of day not designated for outdoor water use. Consumers are more likely to purchase products from companies that are socially and environmentally responsible.
Find out more about the City of Austin water conservation ordinance on the City of Austin website.
Learn more about retrofitting businesses with water-conserving plumbing fixtures in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the plumbing experts at 1st Plumbing Services.
City of Austin Water Ordinance
Stage 2 Water Restrictions
Let it rain.
The recent rain has offered some relief to flower and vegetable gardens and enhanced our neighborhoods with greener lawns. However, the Stage 2 water restrictions are still in effect so be sure to know the facts to avoid a fine from the City of Austin. Violations are stiff so homeowners are advised to follow the water ordinance regulations carefully.
Essentially, homeowners are restricted to watering their lawn one day of the week in the morning between 12 am and 10 am if you are using a permanently installed automatic irrigation system. If using a hose-end sprinkler, a soaker hose or drip irrigation, homeowners may also water in the evening between 7 pm and 12 am on the same designated outdoor water use day. The city ordinance has designated that homeowners with an odd address water their lawn only on Saturday and those with an even address water their lawn only on Sunday.
It is important to note that homeowners will NOT be prohibited from watering with a hand-held hose or hand-held bucket at any time.
Washing Cars
Washing your vehicle is also restricted to outdoor water use days. This water restriction applies to washing cars, SUVs, trucks, trailers, boats, airplanes and other mobile equipment. A person is allowed to wash their vehicle only on the designated day with a hand-held bucket or a hand-held hose equipped with a positive shutoff nozzle Organizations and individuals are also prohibited from conducting or participating in a charity or fundraiser car wash.
Water Restrictions on Fountains
Fountains and outdoor structures making use of water are also prohibited, unless the unit provides aeration necessary to preserve habitat for aquatic species.
Water Restrictions on Pools
Homeowners who have enjoyed using their pool this summer are no longer allowed to use an automatic fill valve to add water to an outdoor swimming, wading pool or pond.
Water Restrictions on Restaurants
Thirsty? You’ll need to ask your waiter for a drink of water, because restaurants are now prohibited from serving water to a customer unless a customer requests a glass of water.
Learn more about the City of Austin water conservation ordinance as it applies to commercial businesses throughout Austin in the next installment of Plumbing Insights, brought to you by the plumbing experts at 1st Plumbing Services.