Joe the Plumber – a plumbing legend?

In my meandering course through the whizzing ones and zeros we call the Internet, I was reminded of a certain plumbing story that begs to be dredged up from our hilarious history:
Joe the Plumber was just like any other guy, until he ran into – completely by coincidence – Senator Obama.  He criticized the future President’s tax proposal then and there, catching him unaware and off-balance.
His rise to fame was swift, and sure.  His criticisms were taken to heart by the Republican candidate, Senator John McCain, who set up Mr. Plumber as an avatar of the average American.
Senator John McCain was extremely happy with this strategy, and its outcome, citing Samuel J. Wurzelbacher – Joe’s real name – as “the winner” of October 15’s presidential debate.  Clearly, an important standpoint had been championed by a paragon of plumbing virtue.
And all of this was fine until the media had a couple of days to explore the seedy underbelly of Mr. Wurzelbacher’s real life.  Not only was it revealed that his chance-meeting with the president elect was intentional, when he admitted as much on a conservative web site: familysecuritymatters.org, but it also bubbled up from a routine backcheck that Joe the Plumber was not actually registered to lawfully plumb in Ohio.  Mr. Wurzelbacher, the champion of the average American, was not even a plumber, after all.
But, as the San Francisco Chronicle was apt to point out, Joe the Plumber took more interviews in the brief period of his fame, than did Sarah Palin.  He certainly took the spotlight well.  But where did it leave him?
Corrupt practices such as this may be standard in places like Ohio, but certainly not at George Salet Plumbing.  No one is disgruntled, here, and you can tell by the way they approach their job – with pride and commitment.  Proper registration, licensing, etc. all go without saying.

7 Ways to tell whether a Plumber can fix the kitchen sink

You do not need to settle for the stereotypical plumber anymore, and anyone who tells you otherwise is stuck in the Industrial Age (aka. thirty years ago).  There are in fact a number (small though this number may be) of individuals in the plumbing profession whose social skills and cleanliness defy the stereotype. 

I know, who would dare to ask for a man who can fix things and smile while doing so… without tripping on the rug and exposing the proverbial crack?  Well, now you don’t need to settle for anyone you would not invite to tea. 

In order to ensure that the plumber who arrives at your door will be able to wield the variety of tools in his/her belt properly (that is, without marring various surfaces of your home), be sure to use the following checklist:

1)    Did he/she greet you with a smile?
2)    Does said plumbing professional have his/her shirt tucked in?
3)    Does the plumber listen with his/her mouth politely closed?
      (Studies show that plumbers who do not know to close their mouths have difficulties operating monkey    wrenches.)
4)    Does he/she shift their weight uneasily?
5)    Does he/she avoid eye contact?
6)    Do their shoes look old, worn, or in need of cleaning?
7)    Is said plumbing professional wearing a belt?

If he/she fails in any of the following ways, send them back to the shop and demand another, or try a different company!  You deserve better

*The Soft, Sensitive Side of Garbage Disposals – Maintenance Tips

Garbage disposals are completely misunderstood. It is true that they do not deal with the most sanitary materials, nor do they utter exactly pleasant sounds as they complete their labor. OK, so perhaps it is a wise decision to keep them under the sink basin. But they still deserve some respect and TLC to live long and fruitful lives.

The Vulnerabilities of Garbage Disposals – What Not To Feed Them

Some people idealize their disposals and believe that no matter what the chore, lemon rind or chicken bone, the whirring blades will erase it, simply, effectively, thoroughly. Disposals would never admit it themselves, but they cannot handle:

• Hard/sticky materials, such as bones or toffee

• Vegetables containing fiber, such as celery or corn husks

• Any kind of grease or oil, especially in large quantities – instead, discard with the trash, in closed receptacles

Some of these will not pass down the drain, causing harmless odors, while others can erode or jam the blades. But none of these repercussions should even be considered. Remember, your kitchen appliance wants you to care about its feelings, not just weigh the pros and cons of treating it properly.

General Maintenance Tips that Show You Care

While each garbage disposal is unique, there is a short list of dos and don'ts that every, and I do mean every, one of them will respond to:

• Always run cold water when grinding

• Only grind small amounts of food at once

• Every month or so, process a few ice cubes (a handful or two will do)

• Keep them smelling great by running a citrus peel through (whatever you would like the kitchen to smell like)

Make sure that everyone in the household knows how to operate the device, as well, and the disposal will surely enjoy a long, happy life in your kitchen.

Troubleshooting Tips

But even if you do everything right, problems can still occur. If the device stops working or becomes plugged up, for whatever reason, be sure that you do not reach your hand down the drain to unplug it or remove the debris.

If the drain has been clogged with grease, melt the grease by heating the pipes with boiling water. If too much water has already accrued in the sink, remove as much as possible before continuing. Once the clog clears, run hot water for five minutes.

If there is debris covering the opening, use thongs to pull it out, and if the problem persists, contact a professional to fix it.

*Understanding Automatic Faucets – Fad or Future?

Hunkering down in front of an automatic faucet and waiting for the thing to grace me with a slight trickle of water always throws a monkey wrench in my cogs. That is not mentioning the temperature that I never seem to agree with, regardless of whether it is luke/warm or cold.

But I think I am biased. I drive a manual transmission, after all; I turned off Word's autocorrect feature years ago, as well. Machines bug me when they presume to make my decisions for me. After reading about the benefits of automatic faucets, I have had to ask myself: am I in left field here? Please leave a comment at the bottom of this page, the more strongly you feel, the better!

In the meantime, here are all the reasons why my gut reaction could be wrong.

Pros of Automatic Faucets

We are seeing more and more of these devices, particularly in public restrooms, but also in new homes.

• Automatic faucets conserve water, especially in public spaces where anyone can accidentally (or not) leave a tap on. Reports claim that, even in private residences, they conserve up to 70% of tap water use, reducing 3-5% from one's water bill, on average.

• Most do not realize how hygienic tap-less fixtures are. Each person who runs the water of a standard faucet turns the knob before they wash their hands, leaving germs that will rub off on the person after them, and so on.

• Using an automatic faucet for the home is quite different than using one in a public restroom. Temperature and flow strength can be regulated on most, if not all models.

• Elegant design, simple execution. There is a certain technological mastery and progressiveness that automatic faucets promote. Stylistically, their sharp, mechanized, efficient, message pairs well with modern décor.

• Convenient – Using the more recent models, especially on fixtures that heat water quickly, can transform the act of washing hands into a luxurious experience. It really can.

Will We See Automatic Faucets in the Home of Tomorrow?

But the question remains: will we be seeing these devices gain popularity, or fizzle out, as just another fad gone the way of 3D glasses. For these things to really catch on, people will need to see the above, objective pros over the inconvenient cons. I, for one, hope that taking off 3-5% of the water bill would be worth the adjustment for many, and that people from the Bay Area will use George Salet Plumbing to replace their faucets.

*Before You Remodel Kitchen Sinks – What to Expect

Wondering whether now is the time to refurbish your bathrooms or kitchens? Remodeling projects are infamous for the time and trouble they take to complete, despite Home Improvement companies' marketing efforts to make it look swift and easy.

I think these web sites actually harm their customers by pushing for a commitment people may not be ready for, so I thought that, instead, posting some information on the topic would help my readers be more realistic in their planning for the project budget and timeline.

When Do Most People Decide to Renovate?

Children are actually the best indicators for remodeling projects. According to a new consumer market resource, the HomeSight project, “Kitchen remodels are the province of "Empty Nester" life stage (36%) and of "Mature Families"- those with teenage and young adult children still in the household (43%).” That means that 80% of all remodels occur when the children of a residence are between the ages of 13 and 24.

So, if your last child is six years old and you are beginning to fantasize about shiny new kitchen faucets, you may want to channel that desire into the planning of a renovation to begin six or ten years down the road, rather than pushing a decision too quickly. The same resource goes on to say: “In fact, one third of all home remodel projects currently under way will be postponed for as long as five years. Of those delayed, 17% will never be completed in full.” Just imagine having a gutted kitchen/bathroom lying idle and unused, needlessly. Much better to spend more time on planning and avoid project delays.

Project Scope

Other sources of concern for families considering renovation:

• Will I be able to stop with one room, or...

• Will the budget explode, mid-project and bankrupt me before I can enjoy or sell the results?

Often, in the beginning stages of the project, consumers realize that changes in one room will precipitate renovations in other rooms in order to preserve a sense of balance and harmony in the residence. For instance, most who consider replacing one of their faucets, say, in the kitchen, will replace bathroom fixtures, as well. So, it is generally better to plan for renovating all of the utility rooms in the same project. This will make the budget more realistic, so you can plan for it.

Speaking of Budget Expectations

More food for thought:

• No matter how much money is involved, renovators see a consistent 13% increase in budget from start to end of project

• Average return on investment (ROI) for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects above $15,000 ranges from 80-93%

Who Renovates Bathrooms and Kitchens?

While men tend to renovate entertainment centers and basements, studies show that women see kitchens and bathrooms as expressions of themselves. This means that kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects, including sink and faucet replacement, are most often completed, in the end, by professionals, rather than by husbands.

More behind-the-counter information can be found at:

https://www.quickenloans.com/refinance/learn/why/home-improvements-increase-home-value

http://blogs.consumerreports.org/home/faucets/

http://www.nkba.org/consumer_tools_statistics.aspx

*New low flow toilets – How much money will I save?

The new, low-flow and high-efficiency toilets may be good for the environment, but are they good for my wallet? Many Californians are wondering whether the money saved will be worth the upfront costs. Sure, people know it's good for the environment, but is it good for them? In the following, old toilets are compared to the new, 1.28-gallon per flush (gpf) high-efficiency toilets to make heads/tails of the issue.

Performance: Do High-Efficiency Toilets Stack Up?

People still worry about the performance of high-efficiency and low-flow toilets, and it makes sense that with restrictions on water usage, toilets would necessarily sacrifice power. This was true to some extent before 2003, but innovations in flushing technology are now making high-power, water-efficient toilets the norm. If performance is important to you, look for toilets with MaP test ratings of 1000 g and higher. For more explanation, read my blog: What is the MaP test for toilets, and Why Is It Important?

Water and Money Saved By High-Efficiency Toilets

So far, convenience and luxury are the same for conventional and low-flow toilets, but still, why would anyone willingly shell out the money for new toilets?

• Normal toilets use 3.5-7 gallons

• New toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, or less

• on average, 4 gallons saved per flush

According to the San Francisco Examiner, by upgrading to high-efficiency toilets, the average American family will save:

• 87.5 gallons of water each day

• $12 in water utilities each month ($360 in 3 years)

Calculating Payback Period

Eventually, the savings gained by upgrading household toilets will outstrip the upfront costs. The only question is: will that happen before the mortgage is paid off. I estimate that upgrading a household in the Bay Area with 2 toilets will pay for itself within 6 years. That is not taking into account government rebates offered through the EPA's WaterSense program, installation costs, or more expensive models.

*What is the MaP test for toilets, and Why Is It Important?

Many consumers do not trust low-flow or high-efficiency toilets to flush as well as the standard models. This infamy is leftover from toilets manufactured in the last decade of the 20^th century that were as low in their flushing power as they were in their water usage. But now, technology has caught up, in part, because of the MaP test (2003).

Before 2003, new toilets could not be told apart by their flushing power, so manufacturers did not have a big reason to research technologies that would increase power, even with low amounts of water usage. The resultant negative product reviews were throwing the entire water-efficiency movement into doubt. Users would sometimes need to flush these old models two or three times, which would waste as much water as the standard toilets except with more hassle!

Fixing the Problem: the MaP Test and Its Impact on Toilets

To address the problem, Canada and the US devised the Maximum Performance Test (MaP Test), which was to rate toilets based on their flushing power. As a result, consumers could tell the difference between high-end and low-end models before purchasing. As one can imagine, the higher-end models began to sell much better, and the ineffective toilets were kicked back to the drawing board.

What the Rating System Means

Now, most toilets on the market perform up to consumer expectations. Still, check the rating on each model. The rating represents the maximum fecal size that the toilet model will reliably flush. So, because the largest fecal size for the average male is 250 g, the test does not go below that threshold. Ratings larger than that indicate superior performance, and most models being produced today boast ratings at or above 600 g. For more information, view the latest MAP test report  Here.

The WaterSense Program – How It Builds on the MaP Test

The EPA's WaterSense Program uses the MaP test to either pass or fail toilet models, as well, but the program only passes models that:

• Rate at 350 g or above on the MaP test, and

• Have equal to or less than a 1.28 gallon flush (called high-efficiency toilets)

The downside to this certificate is that the stamp of approval covers up the MaP rating, so it is impossible to distinguish between toilets with a 350 g rating from those with a 1000 g rating. If the difference matters, then you may need to look up the results yourself on the pdf given above.

Why the WaterSense Program Matters – Save Money

There are plenty of rebates one can claim for replacing old toilets with WaterSense-certified models. These will often take up to $40 off each replacement, which adds up to more than 10% savings on most models. These rebates can be found on the EPA's site, with applications and instructions.

Only One More Thing To Do – Installation

If you are excited about saving the environment and money by purchasing a new toilet but want more specific information regarding the amount of money and water a high-efficiency toilet will save you, check out my last blog (link “New low flow toilets – How much money will I save?”). But remember that installation costs some money on top of the purchase price. Click here for a free estimate.

The Gritty Truth - When to Consider Sewer Replacement

It usually takes a blockage or breakdown of a household's sewer system for most people to consider sewer replacement. On the other hand, most people would agree it would be better to know how to diagnose minor sewer problems before a blockage. The following is designed to teach how a sewer line backup/blockage can be avoided, first by diagnosing sewer issues, and knowing when it may be time to consider sewer replacement.

Signs of Trouble

Late warning signs, such as toilet overflow, may be effective at calling the household into immediate action, but it is certainly better to realize beforehand that a problem might occur! Here are the numerous symptoms that should send up red, septic flags:

• Drain noises

• Odors

• Slow drains

• Wet areas on property

• Blockages

If you notice any of these symptoms but would rather a plumber take the problem out of your hands, I have provided a link to a free estimate in the San Francisco Peninsula. For the do-it-yourselfers, please find more info below.

Diagnose the Cause of a Blockage – When Not To Consider Sewer Replacement

Knowing how to determine whether a sewer line may need replacement or whether the problem could be as simple as a child's toy stuck in the pipes can have a large impact on your course of action. Sometimes all it takes is a little problem-solving to figure out what the problem is, and what to expect.

If any drains or toilets are running slowly or are backed up, they could either be signs that the sewer system is on the verge of collapse... or merely a message that it is time to have your drains snaked

The easiest way to tell the difference is to diagnose the extent of the problem. Look at all the drains close to the malfunctioning one. Be sure to take into account the fact that toilets closer to the main sewer line (on the ground floor) will be the most prone to backing up. If a number of toilets or drains are flushing or running slowly, then the sewer line almost definitely has a significant problem, such as tree roots getting in the pipes  Click here to read: (Sewer Cleaning – Keep Roots from Becoming Pipe Blockage), there are resources on this blog regarding how to fix the problem yourself. Alternately, you can call a plumber to take care of it.

If, however, only one toilet is having trouble flushing, then the problem is most likely a single blocked drain, which can most likely be easily fixed. Check out this online how-to unclog blocked drains guide if wanting to do it yourself. 
If all this seems like too much work  Call a Professional Plumber

What is Orangeburg pipe?

One of the many wonders that the nineteenth century handed down to us, Orangeburg pipe began as an experiment. One and a half miles of the stuff was laid down for a pipeline in Boston in 1867. The prototype was a tremendous success, considering how inexpensive it was to make. The only catch was that the stuff starts falling apart about 50 years after it's laid in the ground.

The Orangeburg Pipeline Revolution

But, perhaps because of the less-than-enduring materials used to craft it (wood pulp and pitch) Orangeburg pipe did not gain widespread use in sewers until the second World War, when the metals normally used for piping were in high demand by the US military. At this time, the bituminized fiber, which had gone through a number of transformations to improve its stability, seemed a fine option, and many people had it installed under their homes.

The Problem – Short Life Expectancy

That sewer pipeline revolution occurred almost 60 years ago. Having 'dug up some dirt' on this type of piping on Wikipedia, I quote: “Lack of strength causes pipes made of orangeburg to fail more frequently than pipes made with other materials. The useful life for an orangeburg pipe is about 50 years. It has been taken off the list of acceptable materials by most building codes.”(Wikipedia: Orangeburg Pipe).

How does Wikipedia know this untold secret about Orangeburg pipe? Probably for the same reason you do. Now that most of the sewers made with bituminized fibers are roughly 50-60 years old, these pipelines cracking, leaving Californians with serious sewer problems.

Ask Not for Whom Orangeburg Pipe Tolls...

The most common of these issues arises when a crack in the tubing allows some water to escape to the soil within close proximity of the pipe. Then roots from surrounding trees are attracted to the water, eventually growing through the cracks into the line itself.

Specific areas can be treated for root blockages (See my blog: The Gritty Truth – When to Consider Sewer Replacement); however, it is normally more cost-effective in the long run to refurbish the entire sewer line with PVC or a different material because Orangeburg pipe will only continue to cause problems in other areas, accruing additional costs each time.

There is little anyone can do to avert replacement/remodeling because the material itself is the problem. So, if there is a moral to this story, always ask what type of material the sewer lines are made of before purchasing a home, and if Orangeburg pipe has not yet been replaced, ask a plumbing company for a free estimate for replacement. The realtor should not complain about taking the cost of remodeling out of the upfront cost of the purchase.

Sewer Cleaning – Keep Roots from Becoming Pipe Blockage

Most cases of sewer cleaning involve tree root removal. So, chance has it that if you are experiencing a sewer line backup, roots are most likely the cause.

How do Tree Roots Block Up My Sewer Pipes? How Do They Enter?

Ever see grass growing through the cracks in the sidewalk? The grass does not break the concrete with its sheer will to see the sun. Instead, the changing temperatures of the seasons expand and contract the sidewalk until it breaks under the strain. It is only after that point, when there are tiny holes in the concrete, that grass seeds that have lain dormant for years begin to sprout up through the cracks.

The same principle is true of tree roots and sewer pipes. As trees grow, their roots continue to expand throughout the surrounding topsoil, in search of water and nutrients to sustain the growing tree. The roots naturally grow in the direction of the most sustenance; that is how they provide the most value to the tree. In application to sewers, this is both bad news and good news.

• The good news – tree roots will not be attracted to water-tight sewer pipes (there will be no sustenance around the pipes to take the roots' interest

• The bad news – tree roots will be attracted to sewer lines that already have cracks in them (roots are drawn to increasing amounts of water, beginning around the sewer line and ending in the sewer line itself)

Over the Soil and Through the Cracks...

So, roots will enter through the cracks in the pipeline and begin to spread through the drain. Once they are thick enough to keep detritus from passing through, they will cause a sewer line backup. This means that if you have noticed a slight backup, acting quickly will be necessary, as the roots will only continue to grow, and waste material will only continue to build up.

What a Homeowner Can Do

Once a pipe blockage is detected, there are a number of different options one may choose from.

• Chemicals are available for use on the pipeline directly, which are merely flushed through toilets. These chemicals are toxic to tree roots and our environment, killing all they come into contact with. While these chemicals can work for a time, they often will kill only the roots that hang down into the sewer water, leaving the rest to grow back. For this reason, these chemicals are best used as a temporary treatment.

• Clean them yourself by following the step-by-step instructions found on web sites, such as Ask the Builder and Drains and Plumbing. 
 

• Ask a professional to help you determine the best course of action.

A Drain Cleaning Resource for Everybody Tips on Drain Cleaning and Maintenance

Some people will fold up their shirtsleeves in order to clear their drains of debris; others would rather call a plumber. Both of these people have an easy, step-by-step method that will keep their drains flowing. For those who want to avoid blockages and backups entirely, read the next section for maintenance tips, but for those of you who would rather just wait until a blockage occurs, simply skip to the how-to resources below (In the Event of a Clog).

To Avoid Clogs Altogether

If the thought of a drain or the pipes under your sink make you queasy, then proper drain maintenance is the way to go. For all drains without a garbage disposal, long hair is usually the primary source of clogs, so anything that can be done to reduce the amount will keep pipes cleaner, longer. Additionally, follow this maintenance schedule as closely as you like:

• Every week, boil a large pot-full of water; pour one round of water down the drains in the household; five minutes after that, pour down a second round.

• Every month, throw an enzymatic cleaner down there – pour around the edge of the drain to fully coat the pipes underneath.

• Every half-year, use an explosive combination to keep clogs away – Run the hot water faucet until the water is hot; reduce flow; spoon out some baking soda (about a half-cup for each drain); turn off the water, and flush with the same amount of vinegar; wait a few minutes and rinse.

(Do You really want to do all this stuff? and I'm not sure it really works)

For advice on Garbage disposals, read my other blog: xxx

In the Event of a Clog

While many clogs are easy enough to clear with caustic cleaners, some require drain snakes, or other methods. Covering them all myself would be a waste, since I found this do-it-yourself resource the most comprehensive guide out there. And of course, there is always a plumber to take care of it for you professionally, Without all the mess and frustration of doing it yourself

It's Saturday And We Are Open

What a beautiful day today is the sun is shining and I am sitting in the office fielding calls, Yes that's right we are open for business. Several years ago I thought I would try opening on Saturday at no extra charge to accommodate  some of our Customers who had a hard time fitting plumbing into their work schedule. Well you will never guess Saturday has become a very busy day. Today we have two plumbers doing all sorts of plumbing repairs from leaking gas lines to new faucet installations. A lot of times a homeowner who have started a home repair project calls and ask for help to get it completed. The project turned into more work than they were prepared for. If you need plumbing services, Give us a call, or find us on the internet were here to help! but call early Saturday fills up fast. And of course we are open Sundays for emergencies.

What to Expect from Tankless Water Heaters

As sales of on-demand, instant, or tankless water heater sales skyrocket in the US, more consumers are starting to wonder: are tankless water heaters worth it? As of 2009, they had taken roughly 8% of the market, with expected increases of that figure in 2010. Because the technology is beneficial to the environment but can involve some inconveniences, I feel that people should be able to look at an unbiased source to decide for themselves what is best for them.

Advantage Number One – Conservation of Energy

Reports indicate that tankless water heaters conserve between 10-30% of the energy that conventional water heaters use, which means that without a doubt they are beneficial to the environment. On average, each household spends about ¼ of its energy on water heating. So, going tankless, one can expect to shave 5% off utilities.

Problems with Going Tankless – Upfront Cost

But I would not cut off my right arm to save twenty gallons of oil each year, and I would not pay $2,000 to do so either. So, the question becomes, do the disadvantages to the consumer outweigh the benefits, or not? Here's the economic perspective:

Tankless units are more expensive (almost 2x the cost of conventional water heaters). However, one of the reasons they have become more popular, despite the price gap, is Energy Star, the Environmental Protection Agency's seal of approval on products that are beneficial to the environment. Any water heater with the Energy Star seal will allow for a tax refund for 30% of the cost, up to $1,500. For more information on Energy Star, see my other blog entry on Hybrid Water Heaters.

But even with the government incentives, tankless water heaters are still more expensive, especially due to increased installation costs. Gas powered heaters, in particular, which are more efficient and have a higher output (more gallons/minute) than their electric counterparts accrue installation costs that can rival the cost of conventional units, as new gas lines must be made from scratch. Free estimates in the California Peninsula can be found here.

Tankless – Less Convenient?

Consumers report that tankless water heaters have problems with either small or large demands. On the large side of the spectrum, that means that running the dishwasher and shower simultaneously can overrun some units. While paying a little more attention to the hot water consumption in one's home is not a deal breaker, at least in my opinion, it is definitely a red mark.

On the small end, the amount of hot water required for washing one's face, or shaving, is not enough to turn many units on. As a result, adjustments must be made, say, by filling the sink with hot water instead.

Some Useful Resources for Further Reading

• The most useful consumer review

• The most comprehensive, technical, but easy-to-understand explanation of tankless heaters, with gallon per minute (gpm) ratings on most household water sources, flow rates, etc.

Earthquake Preparedness - 2 Common Mistakes Californians Should Know About

The 1906 Earthquake –

The most lethal earthquake in United States history struck San Francisco on April 18, 1906. More than 480 city blocks were obliterated, causing close to $400,000,000 in structural damage. But even though 250,000 people lost their homes, under 700 people lost their lives, meaning that roughly one person died for more than 285 homes destroyed.

How was this even possible, especially considering that the largest tremors struck at 5:15 AM, when most were still in bed asleep? The fact is: the initial quake only caused the tip of an iceberg of damage. The majority of homes were destroyed by the fire that raged unchecked across the city for the three days following. After the ground had stabilized, the vast majority of citizens were able to escape from their homes relatively unharmed, even if it meant living like refugees in the years to come. (More info on the 1906 quake can be found here.)

The Aftermath - Modern Earthquake Preparedness

With all that has been learned in the last century about fire control, a 6.5 on the Richter scale does not require my attention. I do, however, follow all the new guidelines and regulations that have responded to what we have learned from disasters, such as the 1906 quake. Tips, such as securing shelves, checking electricity and gas connections (to prevent fire after a quake), and organizing storage so that heavier items are stored closer to the ground are made available to everyone across the country on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website.

Two Common Mistakes Californians

Because FEMA is a Federal organization, it is missing the regulations that are specific to California. These are crucial for households that may undergo an earthquake, because they decrease the likelihood of significant structural damage and fires resulting from earthquakes.

• Forgetting water heater straps - The state of California has made water heater straps mandatory to prevent heaters from falling over during quakes. Simply check all water heaters for two thick straps attached to the wall. One strap should hug the top and one the bottom. If a heater is missing them, they may be installed either professionally or by the owner.

• Not checking for an automatic earthquake gas valve – A study conducted after the 1994 Northridge earthquake concluded that roughly half of the resultant fires would have been prevented by earthquake gas valves. These will automatically shut off the gas to a home in the event of an earthquake, preventing damaged gas lines from causing fires and are now . For more information on how to know if you have one, see my page.

Additionally, comments, tips, regulations, or new technologies I have missed are welcome! We want to make sure everyone is safe and secure.

Hybrid Water Heaters Deconstructed

Hybrid Water heaters should be easier to understand, and so I'm setting out to “make it so,” as Captain Picard would say.  Although plenty of people know of their existence, hybrid water heaters can be a little more difficult to consider purchasing.  More so, applying for federal tax rebates, finding the right unit, and installing this new technology, especially without a clue as to whether these things will work well can deter many consumers.  Read the following for all the basics, and follow the links below to dig deeper if you like. 

Hybrid Water Heater Basics
These units, which use a combination of tank and tankless heating, electricity and gas,  typically cost more money upfront, and save a lot of money in the long run.  Compared to the normal, tank units, hybrids:

• Use about half as much energy – saving roughly $250/year (depends on region and usage)
• Last almost twice as long – roughly 20-year life-spans compared to the 10-13 year norm
• Contribute to the preservation of energy and the environment
• Cost about 3X the norm, including installation
• Many units are credited by government incentives, which pay 30% of the cost, up to $1,500

So, using the average values, if a hybrid water heater is purchased rather than an $1300 conventional heater, then it would take anywhere between 3-5 years to save enough money in energy costs to pay back the difference in the initial investment. 

Energy Star Requirements
The EPA has effectively created an energy-efficient stamp of approval that guarantees the federal rebate.  Few products receive the Energy Star label, and these are set apart from the competition by meeting a few, broad requirements:

• The product must conserve energy when compared to the national average
• The product must be verified to pay for its additional cost in energy savings within a “reasonable” period of time – Going by the numbers, this figure is definitely under ten years for water heaters, and if the product would not deliver on its own, then the government will often give incentives in the form of tax breaks, to bring the payback period “within reason”
• The product must meet performance and feature standards, as outlined by consumers
• The product must use widely available technologies that are offered by multiple manufacturers.

Currently, incentives (30% of cost, up to $1,500) are attached to all hybrid water heaters with the Energy Star label, in addition to other models that meet specific energy efficient requirements.  You can check out those requirements on the government web site, as well as download the application for the refund.

Product Reviews
But what are people saying about these new models?  How do we know, especially for those without the Energy Star label, they work as well as the tried-and-true conventional units?  I found only positive reviews when I searched, such as the one quoted below.  The following is the only overall disadvantage he/she found with the GE Hybrid water heater: “It took 3 guys around 3 hours to install (this is new for them as well) and took more work than a regular water heater. The most difficult aspect was the intake and outlet pipe had to be reworked into an "L" shape so that there was room to allow the air filter to be removed. You definitely want to be experienced with soldering pipes etc if you were to do this yourself. Our house is older, so we also needed an electrical line installed to replace the 20A we had in place (included in installation costs).” -trevorc45102 reviewed November 20, 2009

The reviewer commented further that, after tax breaks, there was an $800 difference in cost between the standard tank unit and the hybrid, which was expected to be paid back in energy savings within five years.  The full review can be found here; and if you want to have one installed, here is an San Francisco Plumbing company that will install them.
George Salet Plumbing
www.PlumbingPro.com