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Finding Main Water Shut-Off Valve: A How-To Guide

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:12:08 GMT

Most homeowners never think about their main water shut-off valve until something goes wrong.

A burst pipe, leaking appliance, or unexpected plumbing failure can send water rushing through your home in seconds. When that happens, knowing how to shut off your main valve quickly can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and thousands of dollars in damage.

One of the first things professional plumbers recommend is learning about your home’s main water shut-off valve location before an emergency happens.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through finding your main water shut-off valve, turning it off properly, and what to do if you can’t locate it.

Why Every Homeowner Should Know Where the Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

Your home’s main water valve controls the flow of water from the city supply (or well system) into your house. If a pipe bursts or a major leak develops, shutting off this valve stops water from entering your plumbing system.

Without that knowledge, many homeowners waste valuable time searching for the valve while water continues to damage floors, drywall, cabinets, and furniture.

Professional plumbers see this situation all the time. A homeowner might call after a pipe bursts under the sink or behind a wall, only to realize they didn’t know how to shut off the water main.

By learning the main water shut-off valve location ahead of time, you can:

Stop water damage faster
Protect flooring and structural materials
Reduce repair costs
Prevent flooding in basements or crawl spaces

In other words, this simple piece of knowledge can save you a lot of money and stress.

Where to Start When Finding Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

If you’re trying to find your water main shut-off valve, start by thinking about where water enters your home.

The main valve is typically installed near where the water supply line enters the house. That means it’s usually located near:

The basement wall facing the street
A utility room
A crawl space
The garage
A mechanical room or laundry area

In colder climates, the valve is usually inside the home to prevent freezing. In warmer regions, it may sometimes be located outside.

When finding the main water shut-off valve, follow the main water line entering the home. This pipe is typically larger than other plumbing pipes and is often made of copper, brass, or PEX. It will usually come straight through the foundation wall or floor and run directly toward the home’s plumbing system. The shut-off valve is normally attached to this line and may appear as a wheel handle or a lever-style valve.

Once you locate that pipe, the shut-off valve should be nearby.

5 Common Main Water Shut-Off Valve Locations in Homes

Every house is different, but plumbers typically see the same common locations when homeowners are trying to find the water main shut-off valve.

1. Basement

In many homes, especially older ones, the main water shut-off valve location is in the basement near the front foundation wall.

The pipe will usually enter through the wall and connect directly to a shut-off valve.

2. Crawl Space

If your home has a crawl space instead of a basement, the valve may be located just inside the crawl space near where the pipe enters.

This location sometimes makes finding the main water shut-off valve more difficult, since it may require crawling under the house.

3. Utility Room

Newer homes often place plumbing components in a dedicated utility room or mechanical closet. The shut-off valve may be installed next to:

The water heater
The pressure regulator
The water meter

4. Garage

In some modern homes, the water main enters through the garage wall. The valve may be located near the floor or along the wall.

5. Outside Near the Meter

Occasionally, especially in warm climates, the main shut-off valve may be outside near the city water meter.

However, most homes still have an interior shut-off valve as a backup.

What the Main Water Shut-Off Valve Looks Like

Once you’re close to the water supply line, identifying the valve becomes easier.

Most homes have one of two types.

Gate Valve (Round Handle)

Older homes often use a gate valve, which has a round handle similar to an outdoor hose spigot.

To turn it off:

Turn the handle clockwise
Continue turning until it stops

Gate valves can sometimes become stiff over time, requiring extra effort to operate.

Ball Valve (Lever Handle)

Newer plumbing systems typically use a ball valve with a lever handle.

This style is easier to operate.

To shut it off:

Turn the handle 90 degrees
The handle should be perpendicular to the pipe

When the handle is sideways, the water is off.

Many plumbers prefer ball valves because they’re more reliable and easier to operate during emergencies.

Step-by-Step: How to Shut Off the Main Water Valve

Once you’ve located it, shutting off the main water valve is very simple.

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate the Valve

Make sure you’ve identified the correct valve connected to the main supply pipe.

Step 2: Turn the Valve Off

Gate valve → turn clockwise until fully closed
Ball valve → rotate lever 90 degrees

Step 3: Test the Water

Turn on a faucet somewhere in the house.

If water stops flowing after a few seconds, you’ve successfully shut off the main water supply.

That’s all it takes to shut off your water main and stop water from entering the home.

Situations When You Should Shut Off the Water Main

Knowing how to shut off the water main becomes especially important during certain plumbing emergencies.

Common situations include:

Burst pipes
Major leaks under sinks or appliances
Frozen pipes that have cracked
Water heater failure
Washing machine hose failure
Plumbing work or repairs

Many homeowners also shut off the water main when leaving home for an extended trip.

This precaution helps prevent flooding if a leak occurs while the house is empty.

What If You Can’t Find Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve?

Sometimes homeowners spend 20 minutes searching and still can’t find the water main shut-off valve.

That’s when it’s time to call a professional.

A licensed plumber can quickly identify your main water shut-off valve location, ensure it’s functioning properly, and replace it if necessary.

In some cases, older homes may have valves that are:

Hidden behind walls
Corroded or stuck
Installed in unusual locations
No longer functioning properly

If the valve fails during an emergency, the situation can quickly escalate.

That’s why plumbers often recommend checking your shut-off valve once a year.

Why Main Water Lines Should Be Professionally Maintained

Your shut-off valve is only one part of the system. The main water line itself can develop issues over time.

Common problems include:

Pipe corrosion
Tree root intrusion
Underground leaks
Aging pipe materials

If your home experiences low pressure, unexplained wet spots in the yard, or recurring plumbing issues, the main line may need to be inspected.

Our main water line repair and replacement team regularly helps Utah homeowners diagnose and repair problems with main water lines throughout the area. Addressing these issues early can prevent costly damage and unexpected water emergencies.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you’re struggling with finding the main water shut-off valve, dealing with a leak, or planning plumbing upgrades, it’s always a good idea to speak with an experienced professional.

A plumber can:

Identify your main water shut-off valve location
Replace faulty valves
Repair or replace main water lines
Prevent future plumbing emergencies

And most importantly, they can make sure your home is protected when something goes wrong.

If you need help locating or repairing your main water shut-off valve in Northern Utah, contact Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air today. We proudly help homeowners throughout Salt Lake County and Utah County , and our team can quickly locate and repair your shut-off valve if something isn’t working properly.

We’re always happy to help homeowners understand their plumbing systems and keep their homes safe.

How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:39:11 GMT

Flushing a tankless water heater is a routine maintenance process that removes mineral buildup, primarily calcium and magnesium, from inside the system. Over time, these deposits can collect along the heat exchanger, restricting water flow, reducing efficiency, and putting extra strain on the unit.

By circulating a descaling solution through the system, flushing helps break down and remove this buildup, keeping your water heater running smoothly. In this blog, we’ll cover why flushing your system is important, how often to do it, and how to do it in 7 easy steps. Keep reading for the ultimate guide to flushing a tankless water heater.

Do You Really Need to Flush a Tankless Water Heater? Yes, Here’s Why

Over time, minerals such as calcium and magnesium can build up inside water heaters, leading to clogs and erosion of the heating chamber walls.

Flushing your tankless water heater regularly helps prevent mineral buildup—and it also helps:

Ensure you have hot water when you need it most: Keep your system running reliably without unexpected interruptions.
Maintain efficiency: Allow your tankless water heater to heat water quickly while using less energy.
Extend its lifespan: Reduce wear and tear on internal components to avoid premature breakdowns.
Decrease wait times for hot water: Improve performance so hot water reaches your taps faster.

As you can see, flushing a tankless water heater is essential. Now, the next question you probably have is how often do you flush it?

How Often Should You Flush a Tankless Water Heater?

Plumbers generally recommend flushing a tankless water heater at least once a year, more so if you live in an area with hard water. If you have especially hard water, professionals recommend flushing the system every 6–9 months.

How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater: 7 Steps

If you’ve noticed reduced water pressure, inconsistent temperatures, or longer wait times for hot water, mineral buildup inside your system could be the cause. Flushing your tankless water heater is a simple maintenance task that helps restore performance and efficiency.

First, you’ll need the following items:

Basic toolkit
Two hoses (about 6 feet each)
Descaling/cleaning solution
Submersible circulation pump
Bucket

After you’ve gathered your supplies, follow these steps for flushing a tankless water heater:

1. Turn Off Power and Water Supply

Start by shutting off power to the unit—either by turning off the gas valve or disconnecting the electricity, depending on your system. Next, close the cold-water inlet and hot-water outlet valves to stop water from flowing through the heater during the process.

2. Drain Any Remaining Water

Remove the service caps on both the hot and cold water valves to release pressure and drain any remaining water from the unit. Let the water flow into a bucket until it’s empty.

Note: The water may still be hot, so take precautions to avoid burns.

3. Check and Clean the Filter

Many tankless water heaters have a small inlet filter designed to catch debris. If your system has one, locate it (typically near the cold-water inlet), remove it, and rinse off any buildup before reinstalling it.

4. Connect the Hoses and Pump

Attach one hose to the cold-water service valve and connect the other end to your submersible circulation pump. Place the pump in a bucket. Then, connect a second hose to the hot-water service valve and place the open end into the same bucket to create a loop.

5. Circulate the Cleaning Solution

Fill the bucket with a descaling or cleaning solution, making sure the pump is fully submerged. Open the service valves and turn on the pump to circulate the solution through the unit. Let it run for about 45 minutes to a couple of hours to break down mineral buildup inside the heat exchanger.

6. Flush the System with Clean Water

Once the descaling process is complete, turn off the pump and dispose of the used solution. You can then flush the system with clean water to remove any remaining residue before disconnecting the hoses.

7. Reconnect and Restore Service

Remove the hoses, replace the service caps, and reopen the water valves. Restore power or turn the gas back on. To finish, run a hot water tap for a few minutes to clear out any remaining solution and ensure the system is operating normally.

Flushing a Tankless Water Heater: 4 FAQs

1. Can I flush my tankless water heater myself?

Yes, you can flush your tankless water heater yourself. However, you need to ensure you’re knowledgeable about how flushing works and what it requires from you. Based on your tankless water heater model, you may follow different steps, or it may look different than what we’ve outlined.

If you’ve done your research and are still confused about how to flush a tankless water heater, reach out to a professional plumber like Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air for help.

2. What chemical do you use to flush a tankless water heater?

You can use a commercial descaler like Nu-Calgon Vital-Flo, Chromex, Calci-Free, or Hercules Harmaker. These products are safer and faster than acid-based cleaners.

3. How much does a plumber charge to flush your tankless water heater?

A plumber usually charges around $150–$250 to flush and descale a tankless water heater. However, costs can be higher or lower depending on your system and the potential repairs needed.

4. Can I use vinegar to flush my tankless water heater?

Yes, you can use white vinegar to flush and descale a tankless water heater. Check your manual to make sure it’s safe for your specific model. If you use vinegar, let the pump run for about 1.5–2 hours.

Skip Learning How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater & Hire the Pros to Do it For You.

If you’ve tried to learn how to flush your tankless water heater and feel overwhelmed or confused, it’s best to get in touch with the professionals. Plumbers know how to work with a variety of tankless water heater models and can even run a comprehensive checkup of your system to ensure it’s running smoothly.

If you live in Utah, Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air provides expert-level tankless water heater repair services , including flushing and descaling when needed. We service Salt Lake County , Utah County , Davis County, Summit County, Wasatch County, and Weber County, providing 5-star water heater services every time. Schedule an appointment with us to ensure your water heater is well-maintained and operating at maximum capacity.

7 Common Types of Plumbing Pipes: A Homeowner’s Guide

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:32:59 GMT

When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, the pipes behind the walls play a critical role in keeping everything running smoothly. From delivering clean water to removing waste, the materials used in your plumbing system directly affect durability, efficiency, and long-term performance.

Many homeowners don’t think much about their pipes until a leak or plumbing problem occurs. However, understanding the types of plumbing pipes used in residential systems can help you make informed decisions when repairing, remodeling, or upgrading your home. Let’s explore 7 different types of plumbing pipes, their uses, advantages, and how to determine which material may be present in your home.

Why Pipe Materials Matter

Not all pipes serve the same purpose, and not every material works for every situation. Some pipes are designed to handle hot water and pressure, while others are intended for drainage systems. The materials chosen affect installation cost, corrosion resistance, and lifespan.

Older homes may contain materials that are no longer commonly installed today, while newer houses typically use modern alternatives designed for efficiency and longevity. When plumbing systems are upgraded or repaired, the type of pipe used determines how long those improvements last. The best type of pipe for plumbing depends on several factors, including the location of the pipe, the type of water system it serves, and the age of the home.

7 Different Types of Plumbing Pipes Often Found in Homes

Several types of plumbing pipes are used in residential systems, each with unique strengths, applications, and lifespans. Some materials are designed for delivering drinking water, while others are intended for drainage and waste removal. Here are 7 different types of plumbing pipes commonly found in homes:

1. Copper Pipes

Copper pipes have been a trusted plumbing material for decades and remain one of the most recognizable pipe types in residential systems. These pipes are typically used for water supply lines that deliver clean drinking water throughout the home.

Copper is valued for its durability. It resists corrosion well, handles high water pressure, and can last for many decades when properly installed. Many homeowners also appreciate that copper is naturally resistant to bacterial growth, which makes it a safe option for drinking water systems.

However, copper pipes tend to be more expensive than many modern alternatives. Installation also requires specialized tools and techniques, which usually means professional installation is necessary. Over time, copper pipes may develop small pinhole leaks, especially in areas where water chemistry contributes to corrosion. Even with these considerations, copper remains one of the most respected types of plumbing pipes used in residential systems.

2. PEX Pipes

PEX piping has become extremely popular in modern plumbing installations. The material, which stands for cross-linked polyethylene, is flexible and relatively easy to install.

One of the biggest advantages of PEX is its flexibility. Unlike rigid pipes, PEX can bend around corners and obstacles, reducing the need for multiple fittings and joints. Fewer joints often mean fewer opportunities for leaks to develop. PEX is also resistant to freezing damage. When water inside the pipes freezes, the material can expand slightly rather than cracking immediately, which makes it especially useful in colder climates. Yet another reason PEX is commonly used in modern homes is cost efficiency. Compared with copper piping, PEX is typically more affordable and quicker to install.

Despite its advantages, PEX does have some limitations. It should not be installed in areas exposed to direct sunlight because ultraviolet rays can weaken the material. Even so, it remains one of the most widely used types of pipes for plumbing in newer homes and repiping projects.

3. PVC Pipes

PVC pipes, made from polyvinyl chloride, are commonly used in drainage systems rather than drinking supply lines. These pipes are lightweight, affordable, and easy to install, making them a standard choice for sewer and drain applications.

PVC pipes are particularly valued for their corrosion resistance. Unlike metal pipes, they will not rust over time. They also tend to have smooth interior surfaces that help prevent buildup inside the pipe. However, PVC pipes are not typically used for hot water systems because high temperatures can weaken the material. For that reason, they are most often found in residential drain, waste, and vent systems. Because of their affordability and ease of installation, PVC pipes remain one of the most common types of plumbing pipes used for wastewater systems.

4. CPVC Pipes

CPVC pipes are closely related to PVC pipes but are treated with additional chlorine during manufacturing. This extra processing allows the material to tolerate higher temperatures. Because of this improvement, CPVC can be used for both hot and cold water supply lines. Many homes built during the 1980s–early 2000s used CPVC as a cost-effective alternative to copper piping. Like PVC, CPVC resists corrosion and chemical attack, helping extend the life of the plumbing system. It is also lighter and easier to install than many metal pipe materials.

One drawback is that CPVC can become brittle with age or extreme temperature fluctuations. Over time, it may develop cracks or become more susceptible to damage. Even with these concerns, CPVC remains a practical choice among the different types of plumbing pipes used in residential water systems.

5. Galvanized Steel Pipes

Galvanized steel pipes were once a common feature in homes built before the 1960s. These pipes are coated with a protective zinc layer to prevent rust. When they were first introduced, galvanized pipes were considered extremely strong and reliable. However, over time, the protective zinc layer gradually wears away, allowing corrosion to develop inside the pipe.

As corrosion builds up internally, it can reduce water pressure and restrict flow. In some cases, rust particles may even find their way into household water. Because of these issues, many older homes eventually replace galvanized systems with modern materials like PEX or copper. If your home still has galvanized pipes, it may be worth having a professional inspect them to assess their condition.

6. ABS Pipes

ABS pipes, made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, are commonly used in residential drain, waste, and vent systems. These pipes are typically black and known for their durability and impact resistance.

Like PVC, ABS is lightweight and relatively easy to install, which makes it a practical option for many plumbing drainage systems. It also performs well in colder temperatures and can be more resistant to cracking in freezing conditions.

However, ABS pipes are less commonly used for water supply lines and are primarily found in drainage systems. In many newer plumbing installations, homeowners may see either ABS or PVC used for these purposes, depending on local building codes and installer preference.

7. Cast Iron Pipes

Cast iron pipes are most commonly found in the older drainage and sewer systems . These pipes are extremely heavy and were originally favored for their strength and longevity. One of the lesser-known benefits of cast iron is its noise-reducing properties. Because the material is dense, it absorbs sound well, making it quieter when water flows through the system. This is one reason cast iron pipes were often installed in multi-story homes or apartment buildings.

However, cast iron pipes can eventually rust from the inside out. As corrosion develops, the pipe walls may weaken and crack, leading to leaks or blockages. For this reason, many modern plumbing systems have replaced cast iron with PVC or ABS piping. Even though they are less commonly installed today, cast iron remains one of the historically significant types of plumbing used in residential construction.

How to Tell the Type of Plumbing Pipe in Your Home

Many homeowners wonder how to tell the type of plumbing pipe they have without opening walls. In many cases, you can identify pipe materials by examining exposed sections of the plumbing system. Basements, crawl spaces, and areas under the sink often reveal visible sections of pipe that can provide clues about the material used.

Copper pipes have a metallic orange or bronze appearance, while PEX pipes are typically red, blue, or white plastic tubing. PVC pipes are generally white or gray, and ABS pipes are black. Galvanized pipes often appear dull gray with threaded connections. Another helpful clue is the age of your home. Older homes built before the 1960s may have galvanized steel or cast-iron piping, while homes built in recent decades often use PEX, CPVC, or copper. If you’re still unsure about your plumbing materials, a professional plumber can quickly identify the pipe type and assess its condition.

Get Expert Help from Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air

Understanding the different types of plumbing pipes in your home can help you make smarter decisions when repairs or upgrades are needed. However, identifying pipe materials is only part of the equation. Knowing when pipes need repair, replacement, or professional maintenance is just as important for protecting your plumbing system. The experienced team at Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air provides a wide range of plumbing services designed to keep residential plumbing systems working safely and efficiently. Whether you’re dealing with aging pipes, frequent clogs, or planning a renovation, our licensed professionals have the tools and expertise to help.

If your home is experiencing issues with water pressure, leaks, or older plumbing material, professional main water line services can help identify and resolve problems before they lead to costly damage. At Rare Breed, Heating, and Air, we also specialize in plumbing remodel services, helping homeowners upgrade outdated systems during kitchen, bathroom, or whole-home renovation projects.

For homeowners dealing with recurring clogs or slow-moving drains, our team offers professional drain cleaning services that remove buildup and restore proper flow throughout the plumbing system. When pipes are damaged, but replacement isn’t ideal, pipe lining services can reinforce existing pipes from the inside, extending their lifespan while minimizing disruption to your home.

Based in Davis County, Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air proudly serves homeowners throughout the region, including Salt Lake County , Utah County, and Weber County, as well as surrounding communities . No matter how big the project, Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air is ready to help. Contact our team today to schedule service and ensure your home’s plumbing system remains reliable for years to come.

DIY Plumbing Home Inspection

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 07:22:11 GMT

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How to Grow Your Plumbing Business: Marketing Strategies for Contractors (Podcast Interview)

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 17:13:45 GMT

JOB CALLS EP. 8: How to Grow Your Plumbing Business: Marketing Strategies for Contractors

Mastering Marketing to Grow Your Plumbing Business: Court Lundberg from Rare Breed Plumbing, Heating, and Air joins Adam Loveridge to discuss how plumbing contractors can leverage digital marketing strategies to attract more customers and grow their businesses. They share insights on rebranding, SEO, PPC, and positioning yourself as the go-to plumber in your area.

What to Expect When Repiping a Home

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 08:31:51 GMT

Repiping your house isn’t exactly a dream home makeover project. You’re not picking out tile or shopping for countertops. You’re dealing with the bones of your plumbing system, and the idea of tearing into walls to replace old pipes might sound like a major headache.

But here’s the thing: repiping doesn’t have to be scary. In fact, with the right team (like us at Rare Breed Plumbing), a solid plan, and a clear understanding of what to expect, a home repiping project can be surprisingly smooth—and the payoff is huge. Better water pressure. Cleaner water. Fewer leaks. And peace of mind.

So, what’s this whole repiping process really like?

Let’s walk through it—step by step.

Why You Might Need a Home Repiping Project

Most homeowners don’t wake up one morning and randomly decide to repipe their entire house. Usually, it starts with plumbing problems that just won’t go away. Maybe you’ve had frequent leaks , low water pressure, or even discolored water. These are often signs your old plumbing pipes—especially if they’re made from galvanized steel, cast iron pipes, or lead pipes—are past their prime.

Over time, pipe material breaks down. Old plumbing systems corrode, collect sediment, and eventually restrict water flow or leach rust into your drinking water. If your house was built before the 1980s and still has its original plumbing, it might be relying on outdated materials that no longer meet current local building codes. Worse yet, lead pipes can pose serious health risks, especially to kids.

Repiping a house means replacing those old pipes with modern materials like copper pipes or CPVC pipes that are built for durability, safety, and efficient water flow. It’s a complete overhaul of your home’s plumbing system—one that fixes ongoing issues and sets your home up for decades of reliable performance.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’ve helped Utah families make this transition with minimal disruptions. And yes—it’s a big job. But it’s absolutely worth it when you consider the long-term benefits to your home’s water quality, pressure, and value.

Step 1: The Initial Inspection

Every successful repiping project starts with a thorough inspection.

Before we even talk about replacing a single pipe, one of our repiping specialists will take a close look at your existing plumbing system. We’ll check for visible signs of damage, corrosion, and outdated materials. We’ll test your water pressure, examine water supply lines, and assess how your plumbing is laid out behind the walls and under the floors.

We’re not just looking at the obvious stuff—like rusty pipes or low water pressure—we’re also identifying potential access points, checking your home’s layout, and reviewing your water service connection.

We’ll ask questions like:

Are you experiencing frequent leaks?
Does your water have a rusty tint?
Are there rooms with weak water flow?
Do you ever get a burst of cold water in the middle of a hot shower?

This inspection helps us understand your plumbing needs and determine whether whole house repiping is the best solution, or if a partial update would do the trick.

We’ll also explain your options when it comes to pipe material, go over timelines, and answer every single question you throw at us. No surprises. No jargon. Just straight-up info you can actually use.

Step 2: Planning and Permits

Once we’ve completed the inspection and confirmed that a repiping project is the right move, we shift into planning mode.

We create a custom strategy for your home, taking into account your existing pipes, your preferred pipe material (copper pipes, CPVC pipes, or other modern materials), and how to minimize disruption to your everyday life. Our goal is to preserve as much of your home’s interior as possible, while still giving you a new piping system that’s built to last.

This is also when we’ll handle any required permits . Plumbing work like this has to meet local building codes, so it’s crucial to do things by the book. Our team knows the ins and outs of Utah’s plumbing regulations, and we’ll take care of all the paperwork so you don’t have to.

If you’re curious about how much drywall we’ll need to remove or how long the work will take, we’ll walk you through every detail during this stage. Spoiler alert: with good planning and the right tools, we can usually keep drywall dust and mess to a minimum.

Step 3: When the Repiping Work Begins

The big day has arrived, the project begins.

Now, this is where most homeowners get a little nervous. There’s a team in your house, you might hear tools behind the walls, and maybe a little drywall comes down. But don’t worry—we’ve done this more times than we can count, and we always approach every repiping project with a clean, respectful, and organized process.

Here’s what typically happens:

Protecting your home – Before any actual repiping work begins, we take time to cover floors, furniture, and surfaces with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. We’ll keep the workspace clean and safe throughout the job.
Access points – We’ll strategically cut small openings in your drywall to access the old plumbing pipes. These cuts are carefully placed to minimize cosmetic damage and make future repairs easy.
Shutoff and drain – We’ll temporarily shut off the water supply to your home, usually just for a day or two. That means you may be without running water for a brief period, but we’ll give you plenty of notice and schedule things around your needs.
Pipe replacement – We remove the existing pipes and install your new plumbing system using copper pipes, CPVC pipes, or a mix depending on what’s best for your home. These new pipes are more durable, corrosion-resistant, and built for efficient water flow.
Testing and inspection – Once everything’s in place, we’ll pressure-test the system, inspect all the joints, and make sure every connection is watertight. If something’s not perfect, we fix it before the walls get closed up.

Repiping a house may be a major undertaking, but with the right crew, it’s a surprisingly smooth process. Most homeowners are amazed by how fast and efficient it really is.

Step 4: Clean-Up and Restoration

After the pipes are in and we’ve double-checked everything, we shift our focus to clean-up and restoration. We want your home to look as good—or better—than it did before we arrived.

We’ll patch up any drywall access points we created, and in many cases, we can texture and paint those areas so you’re not left with obvious signs of work. Our team is known for neat workspaces, thorough cleanup, and respectful service.

Yes, there may be some drywall dust, but we go out of our way to keep it contained. And if you’re ever worried about cleanup, just let us know—we’ll walk you through our post-project checklist so you can feel totally at ease.

And just like that? You’ve got a brand-new piping system tucked behind your walls and under your floors—ready to deliver cleaner water, better pressure, and far fewer headaches.

Aftercare and Final Inspection

Before we pack up, we’ll do one final walkthrough with you.

We’ll explain how your new plumbing system works, answer any lingering questions, and talk about what to expect in the first few weeks after installation. You’ll also receive documentation for your records—especially important if you ever decide to sell your home.

We recommend checking water pressure and monitoring for any leaks (rare, but worth a glance) during the first couple of days. And of course, if anything feels off or you just want to double-check something, give us a call. We stand by our work and always make sure our customers are 100% satisfied.

Is It Time to Repipe Your Home? Call Rare Breed Plumbing!

If your home’s plumbing is giving you grief, you’re tired of patching the same frequent leaks, or you just want peace of mind that your drinking water is clean and safe, it might be time for a home repiping project.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we believe in honest advice, expert craftsmanship, and real solutions. We won’t recommend repiping unless we truly believe it’s the best solution for your plumbing needs. But when it is, we’ll guide you every step of the way—from the initial inspection to the final patch of drywall.

Whether you’ve got old plumbing pipes made of galvanized steel, low water pressure, or you’re worried about lead pipes in your system, our team is here to help.

Let’s replace those tired, rusty pipes with something better. Let’s bring your plumbing system into the modern era. Let’s get your home back to running the way it should.

Ready to chat? Give us a call today and find out what to expect when repiping, with none of the guesswork.

5 Signs Your Utah Home Needs Repiping

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 11:44:28 GMT

Let’s talk pipes.

Not the prettiest part of your home, but when they’re doing their job right, you don’t even think about them. Water flows. Drains drain. Showers are hot. Life’s good.

But when your plumbing system starts acting up, it can throw your whole routine off track. One cold shower too many or a mysterious leak under the sink, and suddenly, those old pipes are the only thing on your mind.

If you’re living in an older home in Bountiful, Sandy, or anywhere across the Wasatch Front, chances are your piping system might be showing its age. Here at Rare Breed Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners repipe their homes—and trust us, the signs are there long before a pipe bursts and floods your kitchen .

So, how do you know when it’s time to repipe?

Let’s dig into the five major warning signs your Utah home needs repiping—and what you can do about it.

1. Low or Fluctuating Water Pressure

You turn on the shower and… it sputters. Or worse, one bathroom has great pressure while the others feel like you’re rinsing off under a leaky faucet.

Sound familiar?

Inconsistent or poor water pressure is one of the earliest indicators that your pipes might need to be replaced. Over time, older pipes—especially galvanized steel and cast iron pipes—accumulate mineral buildup from Utah’s notoriously hard water. This buildup restricts water flow, slows everything down, and can eventually cause full blockages.

In some cases, the pressure might surge and drop suddenly, especially when you’re using hot water. That could be a sign of corrosion or scaling on the inside of the pipe walls. If your water pressure fluctuates from room to room or drops when multiple fixtures are in use, it’s time to get your piping system checked.

2. Discolored or Rusty Water

Here’s a clear sign it’s time: your water isn’t clear.

When you turn on the tap and notice a rusty brown color—or worse, it smells metallic—that’s not just unpleasant, it’s a red flag.

Discolored water usually means there’s corrosion inside your metal pipes. As these pipes age, especially galvanized steel or cast iron, they start to break down from the inside out. That rust can flake off into your water supply, making it unsafe to drink and giving your laundry and dishes a lovely orange tint. Yikes.

Even if the discoloration comes and goes, it’s not something to ignore. The longer corroded pipes stay in service, the higher the chance they’ll spring a leak or completely collapse.

Also worth noting—lead pipes and old lead soldering (common in homes built before the 1980s) can leach harmful chemicals into your water. That’s not just a plumbing issue—it’s a health issue.

3. Frequent Leaks and Water Damage

A leak here. Another one there. A patch job that holds for a month and then… here we go again.

If you feel like you’re constantly calling a plumber for leaking pipes, it’s probably not bad luck—it’s your piping system waving a big red flag.

Leaks happen when aging pipes corrode, joints loosen, or pinhole leaks form from long-term mineral wear. Even copper pipes, which tend to last longer, can eventually suffer from pinhole leaks due to pitting corrosion—tiny holes caused by chemical reactions between the water and the pipe’s interior surface.

And let’s not sugarcoat it: water damage adds up fast. From warped floors to moldy drywall, one slow leak behind a wall can turn into a major (and expensive) renovation project.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’ve seen it all—leaks that looked minor on the surface but turned out to be symptoms of a much bigger issue. If you’re experiencing frequent leaks, repiping your home could actually save you money and headaches in the long run.

4. Noisy or Banging Pipes

If your pipes sound like a haunted house—banging, clanking, gurgling—there’s trouble brewing behind the walls.

Noisy pipes usually happen when air gets trapped in the lines or when loose connections allow the pipes to move and bang against walls or each other. In older homes with outdated or poorly installed plumbing, these issues are all too common.

But noise can also point to something more serious, like pressure imbalances or corroded pipes that can no longer handle the usual water flow. When pipes age and narrow from the inside due to buildup, it creates pressure spikes that make them “talk.”

In some cases, that noise could mean your water heater is overworked or sending hot water through pipes not designed to handle the heat. If you hear rattling every time you turn on the hot water, it’s worth investigating.

A well-functioning plumbing system should be quiet. If your pipes are loud, they’re trying to get your attention.

5. Your Home Has Outdated or Hazardous Piping Materials

This one’s a little more technical, but super important.

If your home was built before the 1980s (and plenty in Bountiful and Sandy were), it might still have outdated pipe materials that simply weren’t built to last—or are straight-up dangerous.

Here’s a quick rundown of what might be lurking in your walls:

Galvanized steel pipes : These were commonly used until the 1960s but are prone to corrosion and internal rusting, which leads to low water pressure, discolored water, and leaks.
Cast iron pipes : Super durable when new, but as they age, they become brittle and prone to cracks and clogs.
Lead pipes or solder : Major health risk. Lead can leach into your water supply and cause serious health issues, including lead poisoning, especially dangerous for kids and pregnant women.
Polybutylene pipes : Used in the ‘70s through early ‘90s, this plastic piping was affordable but ultimately failed due to its reaction with water treatment chemicals. It’s now considered unreliable and prone to sudden failure.

If your home still uses any of these materials, it’s not a matter of if they’ll need to be replaced—it’s a matter of when.

Why Repiping Isn’t as Scary as It Sounds

Let’s be real, repiping your home sounds like a big project.

And yeah, it’s not a small job. But it’s also not the horror story some folks imagine. Modern repiping services are way more streamlined than they used to be. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we work hard to minimize disruption to your daily life. In most cases, we can repipe a home in just a few days, keeping things clean, efficient, and well-organized from start to finish.

You’ll have better water pressure, cleaner water, quieter plumbing, and way fewer worries.

Plus, you’ll be adding value to your home. If you’re planning to sell in the next few years, being able to tell buyers that you have a brand-new plumbing system is a huge selling point.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you’ve noticed one or more of the warning signs we’ve talked about—discolored water, frequent leaks, noisy pipes, or low water pressure—it’s time to get a professional opinion.

And no, that doesn’t mean a quote with pushy sales tactics or a one-size-fits-all approach. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we believe in transparency and education. We’ll walk you through the condition of your home’s plumbing, show you where the problem spots are, and recommend solutions that actually make sense for your budget and long-term needs.

We’ve helped countless Utah homeowners tackle unique plumbing challenges, especially in neighborhoods with older homes and aging pipes. Whether you’re dealing with corroded galvanized steel or potentially dangerous lead pipes , we’ve got the experience and tools to handle the job.

Bonus Tip: Pay Attention to Water Temperature

Ever get scalded in the shower because someone flushed a toilet?

That’s not just annoying—it could be a sign your plumbing system is struggling to regulate hot and cold water flow. Fluctuating water temperature, especially in homes with older plumbing systems, often points to outdated or poorly insulated pipes. It might also mean your water heater isn’t playing nicely with the rest of your plumbing.

Either way, it’s another clue that repiping might be in your future.

Need Repiping for Your Utah Home? Call Rare Breed Plumbing Today!

Plumbing problems are one of those things we all try to put off. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

But when the signs start to pile up—rusty water, frequent leaks, low pressure, weird noises—it’s best not to wait. Aging pipes don’t get better on their own. They need to be replaced before they cause bigger, more expensive problems.

Whether you’re dealing with hard water corrosion, outdated materials like galvanized steel or polybutylene, or you just want the peace of mind that comes with a well-functioning plumbing system, repiping your home might be the smartest move you make this year.

If you’re not sure where to start, give us a call at Rare Breed Plumbing. Our plumbers will assess your home’s plumbing, explain your options in plain English, and help you make the right call for your family’s health, comfort, and future.

Let’s get your home back on solid (and leak-free) ground.

Why Does My Toilet Bowl Drain By Itself?

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 11:53:44 GMT

Have you ever walked into the bathroom, looked down, and noticed the water in your toilet bowl is mysteriously lower—or completely gone? You didn’t flush it, nobody else used it, but there it is: a bowl that seems to have drained itself. It’s weird, frustrating, and often a little gross. If you’ve caught yourself wondering, “Why does my toilet bowl drain by itself?”—you’re definitely not alone.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we get this question more than you might think. There are actually several possible reasons why your toilet could be acting up like this, and some of them are easier to fix than others. Whether it’s a small DIY project or time to call in the pros, we’ll walk you through it.

What Can Cause the Water in My Toilet to Self-Drain?

If your toilet bowl is mysteriously draining on its own, something isn’t working properly in your plumbing system. The question is—what’s behind it?

There are a few possibilities:

Clogged or Improperly Installed Vent Pipe: The most common cause of a self-draining toilet bowl is a problem with the toilet vent system. Toilets (and all your drains, really) need airflow to function correctly. The vent pipe—often connected to a vent stack on your roof—allows air to enter the system so water can flow freely. If that pipe is clogged with debris like leaves, bird nests, or other gunk, it can create a siphon effect. The air pressure gets messed up, and water gets pulled out of your bowl.
Crack in the Bowl or Trap: If there’s a small crack in the bowl or the u-bend (the trap), the water could slowly be leaking out. Sometimes it’s so subtle that you won’t see any actual water on the floor, but your water level keeps going down.
Faulty Wax Seal or Seal Leak: The wax ring at the base of your toilet keeps water (and sewer gas) from leaking out. If that seal is broken or worn out, water might be seeping into the floor below. In this case, you’ll usually notice some moisture or even a bad smell around the base of the toilet.
Drain Line Issues or Clogs Downstream: A partial blockage in the drain line—especially if it’s close to the toilet—can affect the way water flows and drains. If air or pressure builds up due to the clog, it can create enough suction to cause the bowl to empty.
Improperly Sized or Placed Vent Stack: If your house has an improperly installed vent system or one that’s too small, your toilet venting problems could be recurring. In Utah homes, especially older ones, this is a more common issue than people realize.

Any one of these issues—or a combo—can create that spooky disappearing water scenario. That’s why it’s important to get to the root of the problem rather than just topping off the water in the tank or bowl.

Remedies for a Self-Draining Toilet

So your toilet bowl keeps draining itself—what can you do about it? Luckily, there are a few things to try before calling in the cavalry.

Check and Clean the Vent Pipe

The vent pipe is most likely the issue. Climb up to the roof (carefully!) and look down the vent stack. If it’s clogged, try using a garden hose to flush it out or a plumber’s snake to break through any debris. This might involve flushing out leaves, bird nests, or even ice during colder seasons. Just be sure to take proper safety precautions or have someone help you.

Inspect the Toilet for Cracks

Look closely at the bowl and base. If there’s a hairline crack in the porcelain or water pooling around the base, you’ve probably got a leak. A cracked trap or base means it’s time to replace the toilet—these aren’t safe or repairable in most cases.

Replace the Wax Ring

If the seal between your toilet and the floor is damaged, replacing the wax ring may stop the leak and restore normal function. This is a fairly simple but slightly messy DIY project. You’ll need to shut off the water, drain the tank, lift the toilet, scrape off the old wax, and install a new one.

Clear the Toilet Drain Line

A partial blockage could be interfering with airflow and causing siphoning. You can try using a closet auger (a type of drain snake made for toilets) to remove any buildup. Most likely, your sink, tub, or another fixture nearby may also show signs of slow draining if the issue is more widespread.

If none of these work—or if you’re not comfortable attempting them—it’s time to call in a pro. A professional plumber can perform advanced tests and inspections to locate hidden issues like a plugged vent or cracked pipe under the floor.

Self-draining toilets are more than just annoying. If left unattended, they can lead to high water bills, sewer smells, and even structural damage.

Ghost Flushing vs Self-Draining Toilet Bowl

Now let’s clear up one point of confusion: ghost flushing vs the self-draining toilet.

Ghost flushing happens when your toilet refills even though no one flushed it. It’s caused by a slow leak from the tank into the bowl, usually because of a bad flapper, worn float ball, or improperly adjusted fill valve. Water slowly leaks out of the tank until the float drops low enough to trigger a refill. That sudden sound of the tank filling back up? That’s ghost flushing.

A self-draining toilet bowl , on the other hand, isn’t usually about the tank at all. The issue lies in the bowl, trap, vent, or drain system. The water level moves down and doesn’t get replaced. There’s no flush or refill—it just disappears.

If your tank shuts off normally and there’s no sound of refilling, but your bowl keeps emptying, you’re probably dealing with a siphon effect or leak in the bowl area—not a ghost flush.

When to Call a Professional for a Self-Draining Toilet Bowl?

While it’s tempting to troubleshoot on your own, there are times when calling in a licensed plumber is your best bet—especially when the cause isn’t obvious or the fix might involve digging into your plumbing system.

Call a professional when:

You’ve checked the vent pipe, wax ring, and toilet drain , and nothing has worked
You suspect a crack in the bowl or trap but can’t see it clearly
The toilet base is leaking or rocking
There’s sewer smell coming from the bowl or floor
Other fixtures (like your tub or sink) are draining slowly too
You’ve recently remodeled or installed a new toilet and suspect a venting issue

In many cases, we’ve found that the issue stems from an improperly installed vent, a clogged system, or a damaged drain line that needs attention below the floor. This isn’t a job most homeowners want to tackle alone, and that’s where Rare Breed Plumbing comes in.

We use diagnostic tools like smoke testing, camera inspections, and pressure gauges to find problems quickly and fix them without guesswork. Our experienced plumbers serve West Jordan, Layton, Bluffdale, Sandy, Bountiful, and everywhere in between.

Toilet Acting Up? Call Rare Breed Plumbing Today

Toilets should just work. When they don’t—and when they start doing strange things like draining themselves—it’s not just inconvenient, it’s unsettling.

Whether it’s a clogged vent, a hidden crack, or a deeper problem with your system, Rare Breed Plumbing is here to help.

Our professional team of licensed plumbers is trained to spot and fix the exact issue causing your toilet bowl to empty on its own. We work cleanly, efficiently, and always with a focus on solving the problem for good, not just putting a band-aid on it.

From clogged vents and leaking seals to toilet replacements and full vent system repairs, we’ve got you covered. And we’re just a call away.

Need answers or a free estimate? Reach out to Rare Breed Plumbing today. We’ll help you stop the mystery and get your toilet working properly again.

Dealing With a Cracked Toilet Bowl or Tank

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:29:40 GMT

A cracked toilet is one of those plumbing problems that can go from small inconvenience to full-blown mess in no time. Whether it’s a thin fracture creeping across your tank or a more obvious crack in the bowl, it’s not something you want to ignore. Left unaddressed, even a tiny leak can cause water damage to your floors, subfloor, or walls—and drive your water bills through the roof.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’ve helped homeowners across Utah tackle everything from hairline cracks to full toilet replacements. Whether you’re a DIYer or wondering when it’s time to call in the pros, here’s what you need to know.

What Can Cause a Toilet Tank or a Toilet Bowl to Crack

Toilets might seem tough, but porcelain can be surprisingly vulnerable to certain stresses and environmental conditions . Cracks can show up suddenly or develop slowly over time, depending on how your toilet is used and maintained.

Common causes of toilet cracks include:

Overtightening bolts: Fastening tank or seat bolts too tight can create stress fractures in the porcelain.
Dropping heavy objects: Items like shampoo bottles, tools, or even tank lids can cause cracks if dropped on the toilet.
Age and wear: As porcelain ages, it becomes more brittle, making older toilets more susceptible to cracking.
Temperature changes: Sudden shifts in temperature (like pouring hot water into a cold toilet) can cause expansion and cracking.
Manufacturing defects: Sometimes the flaw was there from the beginning and only reveals itself over time.
Improper installation: If a toilet isn’t properly secured or balanced, pressure points can lead to cracks.
High water pressure: Excessive water pressure can stress tank seams and cause structural failure.

No matter the cause, even small cracks can grow over time. That’s why it’s smart to inspect your toilet regularly and address damage early—before it turns into a leak or a full replacement.

If you notice a crack forming, your first step is to figure out how bad it is and whether it’s something that can be repaired or should be replaced altogether.

Dealing With a Hairline Crack in a Toilet Tank

Hairline cracks are usually superficial and appear near the top of the tank or along the sides. If caught early, many of these can be sealed with a simple repair and a little patience.

What to do if you find one:

Hairline cracks in toilet tanks often don’t leak at first, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Once water pressure and temperature come into play, the crack can spread. Here’s how to handle it:

Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to empty the tank.
Dry the tank completely. You may need to use a towel or even a hair dryer to make sure the crack area is clean and moisture-free.
Use waterproof epoxy or a plumbing-grade porcelain sealant designed for toilets. Apply the sealant along the crack, following the product instructions.
Allow time to cure. Most epoxy needs 24 hours to fully set.
Turn the water back on and fill the tank slowly. Watch closely for signs of seepage or expanding cracks.
Monitor over the next few days for any changes.

This kind of fix can work well for non-leaking, hairline cracks, especially in the upper portion of the tank. Just remember—it’s a temporary solution. Cracks can reopen or worsen under stress, so keep an eye on it.

If the tank starts leaking again or you notice new cracks, replacement is usually the safest route.

Dealing With Thick Cracks in the Toilet Bowl

Cracks in the toilet bowl are more serious. They’re harder to fix and riskier to ignore—especially if water is already leaking onto the floor.

Here’s how to approach the situation:

If you spot a visible crack in the bowl, your best bet is to turn off the water immediately and stop using the toilet until the situation is evaluated. Here’s how to move forward:

Shut off the water supply and flush the toilet to remove standing water.
Inspect the crack. If it extends below the waterline or through the base, replacement is usually required.
Avoid using sealants inside the bowl. They won’t hold up under water exposure and flushing pressure.
Check for floor damage. If water has been leaking for a while, you may also be dealing with water-damaged flooring or subflooring.
Replace the toilet if necessary. Bowl cracks can lead to instability and are considered a sanitary risk if left unsealed.

Unlike tank cracks, bowl cracks are rarely repairable—especially those below the waterline or on the base. The cost of a new toilet is typically less than dealing with water damage or a sudden break later on.

Can a Repaired Toilet Tank or Bowl Last Long?

In some cases, yes—but only if the crack is small, superficial, and located in a low-pressure area like the upper portion of the tank. With proper sealant and curing time, a repaired tank may last for months or even a few years.

However, cracks in the toilet bowl or deeper structural cracks are almost always short-term fixes at best. If you’re trying to stretch a little more life out of the unit, a repair might work for a while—but don’t count on it as a long-term solution.

When in doubt, it’s smarter (and safer) to replace the toilet than risk costly damage or an unexpected failure later.

When to Call a Professional for Dealing with a Leaky or Cracked Toilet?

Cracks in your toilet aren’t something to ignore. If you’re unsure about the severity—or if you’ve already tried a repair and it didn’t hold—it’s time to call in the professionals.

You should also contact a licensed plumber if:

The crack is leaking water onto the floor
You’ve noticed signs of water damage around the base of the toilet
The toilet rocks, shifts, or feels unstable
You’re dealing with multiple cracks or repeated issues
You’re planning to upgrade or replace the unit altogether

In most cases, cracked bowls need full replacement, not just repair. A professional plumber can help you choose a new toilet that fits your space, meets efficiency standards, and is installed correctly to avoid future issues.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, our skilled plumbers offer expert service at a fair price, whether you need toilet replacement, leak repair, or full bathroom plumbing support. We’ll inspect the damage, recommend the best course of action, and handle the job cleanly and quickly, so you can get back to your routine without stress.

Call Rare Breed Plumbing Today for Any Toilet Issues in Your Utah Home

A cracked toilet tank or bowl might seem like a small inconvenience, but left alone, it can turn into a big problem fast. Whether you’re dealing with an active leak or just not sure how serious the crack is, Rare Breed Plumbing is here to help.

We offer full-service toilet repairs and replacements across Utah, including Sandy , Bountiful , West Jordan, Kaysville, Bluffdale, Layton, and beyond. Our experienced team will give you honest advice, expert repairs, and a free estimate so you can make the right choice for your home and your budget.

Give us a call today—we’ll handle the hard stuff, so you don’t have to.

How to Deal with a Leaky Toilet?

Tue, 20 May 2025 12:39:33 GMT

There’s nothing like the sound of a constantly running toilet in the middle of the night to remind you that something’s not quite right in the bathroom. A leaking toilet might seem like a minor nuisance at first, just a drip here, a trickle there—but left unchecked, it can waste gallons of water, inflate your utility bills, and even cause damage to your floors or walls.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we know how frustrating it can be to track down the source of a leak , especially when it feels like water is coming from everywhere. But don’t worry—whether you’re a weekend DIYer or someone who just wants the problem gone, we’ve got your back. Let’s break it down and tackle that leaky toilet step by step.

First Off… What’s Leaking?

Toilets are simple in design, but they’ve got a lot of parts that can fail over time. When water starts appearing where it shouldn’t, the first step is figuring out where it’s coming from. Is it the base, the tank, or the bowl? Maybe the leak isn’t even a leak at all—just condensation. Let’s explore the most common culprits.

Water Pooling Around the Base of the Toilet?

Water on the floor around the toilet might look like a disaster waiting to happen, but sometimes, it’s not as bad as it seems. The most common cause here is a worn-out wax ring—the seal between the toilet base and the closet flange on your floor. This wax ring keeps water and sewer gas from leaking out. Over time, it can dry out, crack, or shift, especially if the toilet has been nudged or rocked a bit. When that happens, every flush can send a bit of water out from underneath the toilet base.

But that’s not all. Loose tank bolts or a faulty gasket between the tank and bowl can also cause water to sneak down to the floor. Even cracks in the porcelain of the toilet base or tank can be culprits, though that’s less common.

Leaking from the Toilet Bowl?

If you notice water trickling down the side of the bowl, it might be coming from the bowl itself. Cracks in the toilet porcelain—particularly hairline cracks—can form with age or from impact. These may start off small but can get worse with every flush. If the bowl is leaking, unfortunately, it typically means replacing the entire toilet bowl, especially if it’s a structural crack.

Sometimes, what looks like a bowl leak is actually water dripping from the tank above, sneaking down and making it appear like the bowl is the problem. Always check for upper leaks before assuming the bowl itself is damaged.

Leaks from the Toilet Tank?

Your toilet tank is basically a small reservoir that refills after each flush. It holds several gallons of water and uses gravity to do its job. So naturally, a leak here can mean serious water waste. Common causes include a faulty flush valve, a deteriorated flapper , or worn-out tank bolts. If the tank bolts or the tank to bowl gasket are degraded, they can allow slow leaks to develop over time.

The fill valve and float ball also play a big role. If they’re misadjusted or broken, the water level can rise too high and spill into the overflow tube, causing the tank to constantly refill. This doesn’t always leak water onto the floor, but it does cause continuous water waste—and noise.

It Might Just Be Condensation

Before you panic and assume your toilet is haunted by plumbing issues, take a second to check if the “leak” is actually condensation. On humid days, especially during summer, cold water in the toilet tank can cause moisture from the air to condense on the outside of the tank. This water drips down and forms puddles that look a lot like a leak.

You can usually tell it’s condensation if the tank is cold and there’s no dripping from visible connections. The fix here isn’t plumbing—it’s about air control and insulation.

That Should Cover the Usual Suspects…

Now that we’ve identified what might be leaking, let’s talk about what to do about each situation. With the right tools and know-how (and maybe a trip to your local hardware store), some of these fixes are DIY-friendly. Others? Well, let’s just say that’s what we’re here for.

Dealing With Each Type of Leak

Alright, roll up your sleeves (or just call us—we don’t judge). Let’s walk through how we at Rare Breed Plumbing would approach each of these issues, and what you can try before you reach for the phone.

Toilet Base Leak Fix

When water shows up around the toilet base, we’re usually looking at a failed wax ring. Here’s how we’d fix it:

First, we shut off the water supply line and flush the toilet to drain the tank and bowl. Then, we disconnect the water supply and remove the nuts from the base bolts using an adjustable wrench. After lifting the toilet straight up and setting it aside, we scrape away the old wax seal and inspect the closet flange for damage. If the flange is in good shape, we install a new wax ring, reseat the toilet, and bolt it back down evenly.

Finally, we reconnect the water supply and test for leaks . No more puddles!

Toilet Bowl Leak Fix

If the bowl itself is leaking due to a crack, that toilet’s done. Toilet porcelain doesn’t patch well—at least not in a way that’ll last. We always recommend replacing a cracked toilet bowl.

First, we check to ensure the bowl is truly the source of the leak. If so, we shut off the water supply, drain the tank and bowl , and detach the toilet just like we would with a base leak. Then we replace the entire unit, install a new wax seal, and reattach the water supply line. With a new bowl (or full toilet replacement), you get peace of mind and improved water efficiency too.

Toilet Tank Leak Solutions

Tank leaks are a bit more versatile in their causes and solutions.

If the fill valve is faulty or misaligned, we’ll adjust or replace it to make sure the water level sits just below the top of the overflow tube. A constantly running toilet usually means a bad flapper or chain, both of which are simple replacements. We also check the tank bolts and the tank-to-bowl gasket. If they’re corroded, brittle, or loose, they’ll need to be replaced. For this, we remove the tank from the bowl and install new rubber seals and washers to ensure a watertight fit.

It’s also a great time to inspect the flush valve while we’re in there. If it’s worn or cracked, swapping in a new one can prevent future problems.

Condensation Issues – Best Fixes

Condensation isn’t technically a leak, but it’s still annoying.

The simplest fix? An insulating tank liner. It’s like a cozy blanket for your toilet tank. It keeps the outside surface from getting cold enough to cause condensation in the first place. You can pick one up from a local hardware store or ask us to install one during your next service call.

Another trick is to reduce the humidity in the bathroom—run the fan, open a window, or use a dehumidifier. Sometimes, a mixing valve on the water supply line that allows a tiny amount of warm water into the tank can also help.

One Leak at a Time…

Every toilet tells a story. Whether it’s a drippy tank bolt or a faulty gasket, the key is diagnosing the issue and applying the right solution. If that sounds like a headache, don’t stress. That’s literally why we do what we do at Rare Breed Plumbing.

When to Call a Professional for a Leaking Toilet?

Some toilet fixes are as simple as turning a wrench or swapping out a flapper. But others? Not so much.

If you’ve tried the basics and the leak keeps coming back—or if you’re unsure what’s causing it—it’s probably time to call in the pros. Persistent leaks can point to deeper issues, like a cracked toilet, deteriorated seals, or even a damaged flange hidden under the floor. These problems can’t be ignored, and DIY repairs might just mask the symptoms while the damage gets worse.

Also, if you don’t feel confident removing and reseating a toilet (which involves lifting heavy porcelain and resealing pipes), it’s safer to call a licensed master plumber. We’ve seen plenty of cases where a well-intentioned repair led to more trouble—water damage, mold, and ruined flooring.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’re not just about quick fixes. We get to the root of the problem, do clean work, and make sure your toilet is leak-free and running like new. So if your toilet is still acting up after some elbow grease, give us a shout.

Don’t Let That Toilet Leak Ruin Your Day

Leaks have a sneaky way of turning small annoyances into big repairs. But when it comes to knowing how to deal with a leaky toilet, knowledge is power, and action saves gallons of water (and dollars) down the line.

If you’ve got a suspicious puddle, a hissing tank, or a toilet that just won’t stop running, don’t wait for it to get worse. Reach out to the experts at Rare Breed Plumbing. Whether it’s a quick fix, a full toilet replacement, or just some honest advice, we’re ready to help.

�� Call us today or book your appointment online —your toilet (and your water bill) will thank you!

Reverse Osmosis vs Other Water Filtration Methods: Which One Is Best for Your Utah Home?

Mon, 12 May 2025 12:44:43 GMT

When you turn on the tap, you expect clean, safe drinking water. But if you’re living in Bountiful, Sandy, or anywhere else in Northern Utah, you’ve probably noticed that your tap water doesn’t always meet that expectation. Maybe it smells funny, tastes off, or leaves behind a chalky residue. That’s where water filtration comes in. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we get a lot of questions about reverse osmosis vs other water filtration methods—especially from homeowners who are serious about improving their water quality. So let’s break down the different options, talk about how they work, and help you figure out which filtration system is best for your home and your family.

What Is Reverse Osmosis and How Does It Work?

We go into a deep dive about the reverse osmosis process in our other blog post here , but here’s a short version for a refresher.

A reverse osmosis system (also known as an RO system) uses a semipermeable membrane to filter water. The reverse osmosis filtration system works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane using pressure (specifically, osmotic pressure in reverse). This membrane traps contaminants like heavy metals, dissolved salts, organic compounds, and even microbial contamination .

The result? Very pure water. Cleaner, better-tasting, and safer than untreated tap water. A reverse osmosis filtration system typically includes multiple stages—often sediment and carbon filters before the RO membrane and sometimes a polishing filter afterward. The system removes dissolved solids, volatile organic compounds , and chemical contaminants that other filtration methods might miss.

It’s like a super-charged filtration process. Reverse osmosis employs multiple basic filter types in a compact setup to deliver high-quality water to your tap.

Other Types of Water Filtration Available in Utah

There are several other water purification technologies out there, and while reverse osmosis is one of the most powerful, it’s not always the best fit for every home or situation. Here’s how the other main filtration methods compare.

Activated Carbon Filters

Activated carbon filters (also called carbon filtration systems) are one of the most popular water filtration options. They use a type of charcoal that’s been treated to create a large surface area, which helps trap contaminants.

They’re great at removing chlorine, sediment, and many organic chemicals that affect taste and odor. They can also reduce some pesticides and industrial solvents. These filters work through a process called adsorption, where contaminants stick to the surface of the activated carbon.

But when you compare carbon filters vs reverse osmosis systems, it’s no contest in terms of purification. Carbon filters don’t remove dissolved solids or heavy metals. They also don’t do much for microbial contamination. Reverse osmosis, thanks to its semi-permeable RO membrane, does.

So while carbon filtration is great for improving the taste of water, it’s not a complete purification process on its own.

Ultraviolet Light Water Purification

UV light filtration uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. The UV rays disrupt the DNA of these microorganisms, making them harmless.

This method is excellent for biological contaminants. But here’s the thing: UV systems don’t actually filter anything. They don’t remove suspended solids, dissolved chemicals, or anything that’s not alive. That means chemical contaminants, dissolved salts, and other pollutants can still be in your water.

UV light systems are best used in combination with other methods, such as sediment filters or activated carbon filters. Compared to reverse osmosis filtration, they handle different aspects of water purification. Reverse osmosis removes physical and chemical impurities, while UV targets microbial contamination.

Ceramic Filters

Ceramic filters use tiny pores to trap contaminants like bacteria, protozoa, and sediment. Water flows through the porous ceramic material, and the particles that are too big to pass through get trapped.

They’re great for basic filtration needs, especially in areas without access to treated water. But ceramic filters don’t remove dissolved chemicals, organic compounds, or viruses.

So again, when it comes to reverse osmosis vs ceramic filters, the RO system wins if you want very pure water. Ceramic filters are more suited for emergency kits or situations where you’re mainly worried about bacteria.

Distillation

Distillation is an old-school method of water purification. It works by boiling water and collecting the steam, which then condenses back into liquid. This process leaves behind dissolved solids, heavy metals, and most chemical contaminants.

Sounds great, right? The problem is, it’s slow. Very slow. And it uses a lot of energy. Also, like reverse osmosis, it removes beneficial minerals from the water.

When comparing distillation to reverse osmosis filtration systems, RO tends to be more practical for everyday home use. Distillers take up more time and space, and they can’t keep up with household water usage.

Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF Filters)

KDF filters use a redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and hydrogen sulfide. They’re often made of copper and zinc.

These filters are excellent at neutralizing certain chemical contaminants and are frequently paired with carbon filtration or other media in whole-house water filters.

But like other filtration methods, they can’t handle everything on their own. Reverse osmosis covers a wider range of contaminants. That’s why many filtration systems combine KDF with activated carbon or reverse osmosis to give a more complete filtration process.

Ultrafiltration (UF)

Ultrafiltration uses a membrane, kind of like reverse osmosis, but the pores are larger. It removes bacteria, protozoa, and some viruses, along with suspended solids and particulate matter.

Unlike reverse osmosis, UF doesn’t remove dissolved salts, chemical contaminants, or many dissolved substances. But it keeps beneficial minerals in the water, which is a plus for some homeowners.

So if you’re comparing ultrafiltration to a reverse osmosis RO system, the RO system wins when it comes to delivering very pure water. But UF uses less water and energy, so it might be suitable if you’re looking for a low-maintenance system.

Ion Exchange (Water Softeners)

Ion exchange is what water softeners use to replace hardness-causing minerals (like calcium and magnesium) with sodium or potassium. This helps prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances.

This type of filtration system doesn’t purify water in the traditional sense. It doesn’t remove chemical contaminants, microbial contamination, or volatile organic compounds.

But if you’ve got hard water (and let’s face it, most of Utah does), a water softener can be a lifesaver. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we offer full-service installation and repair for water softeners , whether you’re pairing them with an RO system or just want to improve your plumbing life.

If you’re weighing reverse osmosis vs water softeners, remember this: they’re complementary. One improves water feel and protects plumbing, the other delivers clean drinking water.

So… Which Water Filtration System Should You Choose?

Choosing between reverse osmosis and other water filtration methods comes down to what you need.

If you’re worried about the taste and smell of your tap water, activated carbon filters or refrigerator filters might be enough. If you’re on well water or if you suspect microbial contamination, UV light and ceramic filters can offer peace of mind. If hard water is your issue, you probably want a water softener.

But if you’re looking for a system that removes the widest range of harmful contaminants—including dissolved chemicals, heavy metals, and organic compounds—a reverse osmosis filtration system is hard to beat. Reverse osmosis technology, especially when installed by a local team like Rare Breed Plumbing, gives you a powerful, efficient, and reliable way to get high-quality water every day.

Ready to Ditch Contaminated Water for Good? Let Rare Breed Plumbing Help!

Clean, pure water doesn’t have to be a luxury. With the right filtration system, it can be your everyday reality. Whether you’re leaning toward a reverse osmosis system or exploring other water purification options, Rare Breed Plumbing is here to guide you. Our team serves Bountiful, Sandy, and surrounding areas with expert RO installation , maintenance, and honest advice. Let us help you find the best solution for your family’s water needs. Call today to schedule your free water quality consultation or ask us anything about filtration technology—we’re always happy to help.

Gas vs Electric Tankless Water Heaters – Which Is the Best Choice for Your Utah Home?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:50:31 GMT

When it comes to upgrading your home’s hot water system, choosing the right tankless water heater can feel like navigating a maze of technical jargon and endless options. If you’re living in Bountiful, UT, or anywhere in Utah, where temperatures dip low and hot water is a daily must-have, you need a water heater that’s dependable, energy efficient, and cost-effective over the long haul.

One of the most common dilemmas Utah homeowners face is deciding between gas vs electric tankless water heaters. Both types have their perks and trade-offs. Whether you’re building a new home, swapping out a clunky traditional tank heater, or simply craving endless hot water without the wait, this guide breaks it all down for you.

Let’s dive into how gas tankless water heaters and electric tankless water heaters compare—so you can pick the best option for your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Water Usage: Gas vs. Electric

First things first—how much hot water do you actually use?

If your household runs multiple showers, loads of laundry, and dishes all at once (especially on those chilly Utah mornings), a gas tankless water heater might be your best friend. Gas tankless heaters generally offer a higher flow rate than their electric counterparts. That means they can heat more gallons of water per minute (GPM), so you won’t be battling for hot water.

Electric tankless water heaters, while great for smaller households or point-of-use needs (like heating just one bathroom), might struggle to keep up with whole-home demand—especially if you’re trying to run several appliances at once. They simply don’t heat water as quickly or in as large quantities as gas models.

So, if you’ve got a big family or like your showers long and steamy, gas tankless is probably the way to go.

Energy Costs / Long-Term Savings: Gas vs. Electric

Now let’s talk money—and not just upfront costs, but what you’ll be spending (or saving) over time.

In Utah, natural gas prices tend to be lower than electricity prices, which makes gas tankless water heaters a smart bet for long-term energy savings. These units heat water quickly and efficiently, especially in high-demand households.

However, electric tankless heaters can still be more energy efficient in certain ways. Since they don’t lose heat through venting like gas water heaters do, and there’s no standby heat loss like you get with a storage tank, they waste less energy overall. Plus, modern electric tankless water heaters have high energy factor (EF) ratings , which means they convert more of their energy into actual hot water.

If your goal is ultimate energy efficiency, electric tankless water options might appeal more. But if you’re focused on long-term energy savings in a cold climate like Utah’s, gas tankless often wins—especially if you already have an incoming gas line in place.

Price: Gas vs. Electric

Here’s where things get interesting.

When it comes to unit cost alone, electric tankless heaters are generally cheaper. You can snag a solid electric tankless water heater for a few hundred bucks less than a gas model.

But don’t get too excited just yet—because price tags only tell part of the story. You’ve got to factor in what comes next: installation costs, energy bills, maintenance, and possible upgrades to your adequate electrical supply or gas lines.

Still, for homeowners on a tight budget, especially those with smaller homes or lower water usage, an electric tankless heater offers an affordable and efficient way to get endless hot water.

Installation Costs: Gas vs. Electric

Let’s break down what it takes to get these systems up and running.

Installing a gas tankless water heater can be more involved. You’ll need proper venting, upgrades to your combustion air supply requirements, and sometimes new or larger gas lines. That’s especially true if you’re converting from an old electric tank water heater to a gas setup. These upgrades can drive up the installation cost significantly—often into the thousands.

On the flip side, electric tankless water heaters are simpler to install. They don’t require venting and are more compact, which means they can fit easily into tight spaces. However, they often require electrical upgrades since they’re very high power appliances—which means you may need to upgrade your panel or run new wiring if your current setup can’t handle the load.

In Bountiful and nearby Utah cities, Rare Breed Plumbing can help you assess whether your home’s current infrastructure can support either type, and what the water heater installation will actually cost.

Maintenance: Gas vs. Electric

Nobody likes surprise breakdowns or high repair bills.

Gas tankless heaters have more moving parts—like burners and venting systems—which means they typically require more frequent maintenance. You’ll need to have them descaled regularly (especially in Utah’s hard water zones), clean the heat exchanger, and check for gas leaks or blockages.

Electric tankless water heaters are simpler machines. Fewer parts mean fewer things that can go wrong. Maintenance mostly involves descaling the system once or twice a year and maybe replacing a filter.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance hot water solution, electric models definitely have the edge.

Lifespan: Gas vs. Electric

Both gas and electric tankless water heaters are built to last longer than traditional tank heaters, which usually give up the ghost after 8–12 years.

With proper care, you can expect about 15–20 years of life from either a gas tankless heater or an electric tankless heater. The catch? Gas units may need more frequent service to reach that upper end of the range.

Electric units, with their simpler design and fewer internal parts, often have a longer effective lifespan—especially if you keep up with regular maintenance.

So, for long-term durability with less fuss, electric tankless heaters come out slightly ahead.

Environmental Impact: Gas vs. Electric

If going green is a priority, the environmental impact of your water heater matters.

Electric tankless water heaters produce zero on-site greenhouse gas emissions, making them the more eco-friendly option—especially if your electricity comes from renewable sources. And as the grid gets cleaner, electric tankless options will only become greener.

Gas tankless water heaters, while efficient, still rely on natural gas, a fossil fuel. Burning gas releases greenhouse gas emissions, even if it’s more efficient than an older gas tank system.

So, if you’re trying to shrink your carbon footprint, electric tankless water systems are the better choice for the planet.

Contact Rare Breed Plumbing for All Your Tankless Water Heater Needs in Utah

Still on the fence between electric or gas tankless?

Choosing the right tankless water heater isn’t just about the specs—it’s about what works for your home, your family, and your budget. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we specialize in helping Utah homeowners like you make smart, informed decisions that keep the hot water flowing without draining your wallet.

Whether you’re replacing an old hot water heater , switching from a traditional tank heater, or building new and want a highly energy efficient system, we’ve got you covered. We serve Bountiful, Sandy, and the nearby Utah cities.

Give us a call, and let’s talk through your needs, inspect your gas line or electrical setup, and help you pick the perfect new tankless water heater—no pressure, just expert advice and top-notch service.

Don’t guess—get it right with Rare Breed Plumbing. Ready to enjoy unlimited hot showers, lower energy usage, and a smarter home? Contact Rare Breed Plumbing today to schedule your consultation!

Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters – Which Is the Best Decision for Utah Homeowners?

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:57:18 GMT

If you’re living in Utah, especially around Bountiful and nearby areas, choosing the right water heater can make a big difference in your comfort, your budget, and your home’s energy efficiency. But with so many options out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming. The biggest question we get here at Rare Breed Plumbing is: “ Should I go with a tank water heater or tankless water heater ? ” It’s a fair question, and the answer depends on your household’s specific needs, usage habits, and priorities.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the tank vs. tankless water heaters debate in simple terms. We’ll look at how both systems work, what their pros and cons are, and what factors you should consider before making your decision. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing your old hot water heater, this guide will help you make the best decision for your Utah home.

Understanding The Basics

Before we dive into comparisons, let’s get clear on what we’re actually talking about when we say “tank” or “tankless.”

How Do Traditional Tank Water Heaters Work?

A traditional tank water heater (also known as a storage tank water heater) stores heated water in a large tank, usually between 30 and 80 gallons. It heats water using either gas or electric heating elements and maintains that temperature until you need it. When you turn on your faucet or shower, the hot water comes from the top of the tank while cold water enters at the bottom to refill it.

This means that you have a ready supply of hot water, but once that storage tank runs out, you’ll have to wait for more to be heated.

How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?

A tankless water heater (or “on-demand” water heater) doesn’t store hot water. Instead, it heats water only when you need it. When you turn on the tap, cold water runs through a heat exchanger that heats water instantly using either electric heating elements or a gas burner.

Because they don’t rely on a storage tank, tankless water heaters provide endless hot water—as long as your flow rate stays within the unit’s capacity.

Storage Tank Water Heaters – Pros & Cons

If you’re considering a traditional water heater, here’s a quick look at why many homeowners still go this route. It’s reliable, budget-friendly, and gets the job done.

Pros

Lower Initial Cost : Tank water heaters are generally cheaper to buy and install. That makes them appealing for homeowners who need hot water fast without a big upfront investment. Whether you’re on a budget or replacing an old system, this is a practical choice.
Simplicity : Easier and quicker to install, making them a go-to for emergency replacements. Most plumbers can get a tank heater up and running in a day, which means less downtime and hassle.
Familiar Technology : Most plumbers know how to work with these systems. Repairs and replacements are straightforward, and you’re unlikely to run into specialized parts or unexpected compatibility issues.

Cons

Limited Water Supply : Once the tank runs out of hot water, you’ll have to wait for it to heat more. If you have a big family or love long showers, this could be a daily frustration.
Higher Operating Costs : Keeping water heated 24/7 means more energy usage. Your heater burns fuel or uses electricity even when no one’s home.
Shorter Lifespan : Typically last around 8-12 years. That means you might be replacing it sooner than you think—especially if your household puts a lot of demand on the unit.
Takes Up More Space : You need space for that large storage tank. It can take up valuable square footage in basements, closets, or utility rooms.

If you value simplicity and affordability, tank models still hold their ground. But it’s worth considering the trade-offs, especially when it comes to space and energy use.

Tankless Water Heaters – Pros & Cons

Thinking of going tankless? These sleek systems are gaining popularity for a reason. They’re compact, smart, and built for efficiency.

Pros

Energy Efficiency : Since they only heat water on demand, they use less energy. This can lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills over time.
Endless Hot Water : Great for big families or homes with high hot water demand. No more waiting between showers or scheduling loads of laundry around your water heater’s limits.
Longer Lifespan : Can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. You might pay more upfront, but you’ll likely replace it less often than a traditional unit.
More Space : Wall-mounted and compact, freeing up room in utility areas. Perfect for smaller homes or if you want to reclaim that bulky corner in your basement.

Cons

Higher Initial Cost : The unit itself and the installation cost are both higher. It’s a bigger investment upfront, especially if you need system upgrades to support it.
May Require Upgrades : You might need new gas lines or electrical upgrades. These costs can sneak up on you and add hundreds—or thousands—to the total price.
Flow Rate Limits : If you run multiple fixtures at once, you might max out the capacity unless you install multiple tankless units. This could mean juggling when you run the dishwasher and the shower.

Tankless heaters bring a lot of modern perks, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Consider how much hot water your home uses at once and what your budget looks like before jumping in.

Storage Tank Water Heaters – Considerations

Not quite sold yet? Let’s dig a little deeper into what makes storage tank models a solid option for many homeowners. Here are the most practical reasons people stick with them.

Budget : If money is tight right now, tank heaters have lower upfront costs. You’ll spend less at the time of purchase and installation, which is especially helpful during emergency replacements.
Space : Got room in your basement or utility closet? A large storage tank won’t be a problem. These models aren’t small, but if you have the space, it’s a non-issue.
Usage Habits : Smaller households that don’t use much hot water may not notice the downsides of limited capacity. If you’re not pushing your heater to its limits, the drawbacks may never show up.
Fuel Source : If you already have gas lines or electric connections suited for a traditional tank model, installation will be easier and cheaper. No major upgrades needed means faster setup and lower labor costs.
Replacement Needs : If your old hot water heater just died, a quick and simple replacement might be the way to go. A tank model can be swapped out with minimal fuss, often within a single day.

All in all, if you want a tried-and-true solution without breaking the bank, a storage tank water heater may be your best bet.

Tankless Water Heaters – Considerations

Ready to step into modern water heating? Tankless units come with a few more decisions, but they offer some serious long-term benefits. Let’s look at what should be on your radar.

Long-Term Savings : Though the initial cost is higher, tankless units have lower operating costs over time. You’re not paying to store and maintain hot water, so your utility bills may take a dip.
Household Size : Bigger families or homes with high demand for hot water benefit from endless hot water. With the right unit, nobody has to fight over shower time again.
Energy Usage : If you’re eco-conscious, tankless heaters are more energy efficient. They only work when you need them, which cuts down on waste and helps reduce your carbon footprint .
Future-Proofing : Planning to stay in your home long-term? A tankless water heater is a solid investment. With proper maintenance, it could outlast two traditional tanks.
Installation Costs : Be prepared for potential expenses like upgrading your gas line or electrical system. Not all homes are ready for a tankless system out of the gate.
Temperature Rise : Make sure the unit can handle the temperature rise required for your climate—Utah winters can be brutal, and your system needs to heat very cold water quickly.

If long-term value, efficiency, and convenience matter most to you, a tankless model might be exactly what your home needs.

Are You in Need of a Water Heater for Your Utah Home? Call Rare Breed Plumbing

Still unsure whether a tank or tankless water heater is the right call for your Utah home? Don’t stress. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we specialize in helping homeowners like you figure out the perfect solution.

Our experienced team can evaluate your household’s needs, your existing system, and your budget to recommend the best option—whether that’s a high-efficiency gas tankless water heater or a reliable traditional tank model. We handle everything from assessment and recommendation to full installation and maintenance.

Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. We’ll make sure your home stays comfortable, efficient, and supplied with all the hot water you need.

Rare Breed Plumbing is proud to serve Bountiful, UT and the nearby cities, including Sandy , Midvale , Bluffdale , Layton , Kaysville , and West Jordan with professional, honest plumbing services you can count on.

Common Problems with Reverse Osmosis Systems and How to Fix Them

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 13:55:59 GMT

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are one of the best ways to get high-quality water for drinking and cooking. They remove dissolved salts, other contaminants, and dissolved gases, providing purified water that’s safe for human consumption. But like any water treatment system, RO systems can run into problems over time. If you’re dealing with slow water flow, low water pressure, leaks, or bad-tasting water, you’re in the right place.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we know how frustrating it can be when your reverse osmosis system isn’t working as it should. That’s why we’ve put together this reverse osmosis troubleshooting guide to help you diagnose and fix the most common issues. Let’s dive in!

1. Low Water Pressure or Slow Water Flow

If your RO system has a low pressure problem, it could be caused by several factors:

Causes:

Clogged filters : Over time, sediment or carbon filters collect debris and can become blocked, restricting water flow through the system.
RO membrane issues : If the reverse osmosis membrane is worn out or clogged, it won’t function properly, reducing water production.
Low supply line pressure : The feed water pressure must be adequate for the system to push water through the membrane. Low pressure can prevent water from flowing efficiently.
Faulty flow restrictor : The flow restrictor helps regulate wastewater discharge. If it’s clogged, it can restrict water flow and reduce the system’s efficiency.

Fixes:

Replace filters : Changing clogged filters every 6–12 months ensures proper water flow and filtration.
Check supply line pressure : Using a pressure gauge, ensure your RO unit has at least 40-60 PSI to function efficiently.
Inspect the RO membrane : If it’s too old or clogged, replacing it will restore normal water production.
Clean or replace the flow restrictor : Ensuring proper drainage prevents excessive pressure buildup and improves performance.

2. Leaking Reverse Osmosis System

Water leaks are a common issue with most reverse osmosis systems. They often occur around the filter housing, tank valve, or drain tube.

Causes:

Loose connections or damaged O-rings : Poorly secured fittings or worn-out O-rings can allow water to escape.
Cracked filter housing : If the plastic housing holding the filters is cracked, it can cause leaks.
High tank pressure : If the air chamber inside the storage tank has too much pressure, it can force water out through weak connections.
Worn-out tubing or blocked drain line : Old tubing can crack, and a clogged drain line can cause water to back up and leak.

Fixes:

Tighten connections : Ensuring all fittings are secure prevents unnecessary leaks.
Inspect and replace O-rings : If they’re cracked or worn, replacing them can prevent water from seeping out.
Check the filter housing : If it’s cracked, replacing it is the only solution to stop leaks.
Release excess tank pressure : Using a bicycle pump to adjust pressure levels prevents stress on the system.

3. Bad Taste or Odor in Water

If your filtered water has an odd taste or smell, your reverse osmosis system may not be filtering properly.

Causes:

Clogged filters : When filters become too dirty, they can no longer effectively remove contaminants, allowing bad tastes and odors to pass through.
Old carbon filter : A worn-out carbon filter can no longer absorb chlorine and other chemicals, leading to off-tasting water.
Biofilm buildup : Bacteria or mold can grow inside the system, causing unpleasant tastes and odors.
Faulty RO membrane : If the membrane is compromised, contaminated water can pass through, affecting the water’s taste.

Fixes:

Replace filters regularly : Keeping filters fresh ensures proper contaminant removal.
Sanitize the system : Flushing it with a cleaning solution helps eliminate bacteria buildup.
Check the RO membrane : A faulty membrane should be replaced to restore water purity.

4. RO System Constantly Draining or Not Shutting Off

If your RO unit seems to be constantly draining, you might be wasting water.

Causes:

Faulty check valve : A broken check valve won’t allow water to stop flowing when the tank is full.
Malfunctioning air gap faucet : A blocked or improperly installed air gap faucet can cause continuous draining.
Blocked drain line or drain tube : A clog in the drainage system prevents water from flowing correctly, causing constant discharge.
Improper tank pressure : If the tank pressure is too low, it won’t signal the system to shut off properly.

Fixes:

Replace the check valve : This ensures that water stops flowing when the tank is full.
Clear the drain line : Keeping it free from blockages ensures proper wastewater disposal.
Adjust tank pressure : Ensuring the right pressure helps the system function correctly.

5. Cloudy or Milky Water from the RO System

Cloudy purified water can be unsettling, but it’s often harmless.

Causes:

Air bubbles trapped in the water : Tiny air pockets can make water look cloudy but are harmless.
Newly installed RO system : Air can get trapped in the system after installation, creating a milky appearance.
High water temperature : Warm water holds dissolved air that releases as bubbles, causing cloudiness.

Fixes:

Let the system run for a few days : This allows trapped air to clear out.
Flush the RO system : Draining and refilling the tank multiple times removes excess air.

6. RO Storage Tank Not Filling Up Properly

If your reverse osmosis tank isn’t filling up, it’s a sign something is blocking water flow.

Causes:

Low feed pressure : If the incoming water pressure is too low, it restricts flow to the tank.
Clogged pre-filters : Dirty filters slow down water production.
Faulty tank valve or air chamber : A damaged valve or air chamber affects the tank’s ability to hold water.

Fixes:

Check feed pressure : A pressure gauge can determine if the supply is adequate.
Replace clogged filters : Ensuring proper flow helps the tank fill efficiently.
Test the tank valve : A faulty valve should be replaced to restore proper function.
Perform a drain flow rate test : This can help diagnose restrictions in the system.

7. No Water Flow from the Faucet

If your RO system isn’t dispensing filtered water, check these factors.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If your reverse osmosis system continues to have issues despite troubleshooting, it may need professional attention. Persistent leaks, low water flow, or poor water quality can indicate underlying problems requiring expert repair or replacement. Additionally, if your RO unit is over five years old and consistently struggles to produce enough water, it may be time to consider upgrading or replacing components. Our licensed plumbers can diagnose complex system failures, ensure proper installation, and optimize your system’s performance to provide clean, safe drinking water for your home.

Call Rare Breed Plumbing for Any Water Filtration System Repairs

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we specialize in troubleshooting and repairing water filtration systems, including reverse osmosis units. Serving Bountiful, UT , and surrounding areas, including Sandy , Bluffdale , Midvale , Layton , Kaysville , and West Jordan , we provide expert service to keep your drinking water safe and clean.

Whether you need help with low water pressure, replacing filters, or diagnosing a leak, we’ve got you covered. Don’t let water quality issues disrupt your daily routine—give us a call today and let us restore your reverse osmosis system’s efficiency!

Membrane Technology for Reverse Osmosis

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:35:57 GMT

If you’re looking for a reliable way to improve your home’s water quality in Bountiful, UT, and nearby areas, a reverse osmosis system might be the perfect solution. You’ve probably heard of reverse osmosis (RO) systems, but how exactly do they work? What makes them one of the most effective water filtration methods? Let’s dive into the membrane technology behind reverse osmosis and explore why it’s a game-changer for water purification.

Introduction to Reverse Osmosis (RO) Technology

Reverse osmosis technology has been around for decades, providing clean, purified water for homes, businesses, and even industrial applications. The reverse osmosis process involves forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities, leaving behind only water molecules. This process is highly effective in reducing total dissolved solids, heavy metals, and harmful contaminants, making it a popular choice for drinking water systems.

The natural osmotic pressure in water typically causes water molecules to pass through a semipermeable membrane from a less concentrated solution to a more concentrated solution. However, in a reverse osmosis water system , feed pressure is applied to push water in the opposite direction, effectively filtering out impurities.

How Reverse Osmosis Membranes Work

At the heart of any reverse osmosis RO system is the RO membrane. This membrane plays a crucial role in the reverse osmosis process, acting as the barrier that removes dissolved salts, volatile organic compounds, and larger particles. The thin film composite membrane is one of the most commonly used materials in RO systems due to its durability and effectiveness.

The membrane filtration process works by allowing only water molecules to pass through while trapping contaminants. The filtration process relies on cross-flow filtration, meaning some water passes through the membrane while the rest carries away the filtered-out impurities. This prevents membrane degradation and ensures longer-lasting performance.

Key Components of a Reverse Osmosis System

A typical reverse osmosis water filter system consists of several essential components:

Sediment Filter – Captures larger particles like dirt, sand, and rust, protecting the RO membrane.
Carbon Filters – Remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds , and other chemicals that can affect taste and odor.
RO Membrane – The core component that removes dissolved solids, bacteria, and harmful contaminants.
Storage Tank – Holds purified water until you’re ready to use it.
Air Gap Faucet – Prevents backflow contamination into the drinking water system.
Drain Line – Disposes of concentrated solution and impurities removed during filtration.

Each of these components plays a role in ensuring that your tap water is safe, fresh, and free from unwanted substances.

Factors Affecting RO System Efficiency

For a reverse osmosis water system to work effectively, several factors need to be considered:

Water Pressure – The system requires sufficient feed pressure to push water through the semi-permeable membrane.
Water Quality – Higher levels of dissolved solids and contaminants may require additional filtration stages.
Membrane Condition – Over time, membranes experience degradation and need to be replaced to maintain performance.
Storage Tank Capacity – Determines how much filtered water is readily available.
Ongoing Maintenance – Regular filter and membrane replacements are essential to ensure the system continues to function efficiently.

Applications of Reverse Osmosis Technology

Reverse osmosis technology isn’t just for residential use—it’s also widely used in various industries. Some key applications include:

Home Water Purification – Whole house reverse osmosis systems provide clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
Commercial & Industrial Reverse Osmosis Systems – Used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics manufacturing.
Reverse Osmosis Desalination – Converts seawater into drinking water by removing dissolved salts.
Water Treatment Plants – Ensures municipal water supplies meet quality standards.

Advantages and Limitations of Reverse Osmosis Systems

RO filtration offers numerous benefits, including:

High-Quality Water – Removes harmful contaminants, total dissolved solids, and heavy metals.
Improved Taste and Odor – Eliminates chlorine and other unwanted chemicals.
Cost Savings – Reduces the need for bottled water and expensive filtration systems.
Eco-Friendly – Lowers reliance on plastic water bottles, reducing waste.

However, there are also some limitations:

Water Waste – The reverse osmosis process produces wastewater that carries away impurities.
Beneficial Minerals Removed – Some RO systems remove essential minerals along with contaminants.
Maintenance Requirements – Regular filter and membrane replacements are necessary to maintain efficiency.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting of RO Systems

Proper maintenance ensures that your reverse osmosis RO system continues to provide high-quality drinking water. Without regular upkeep, you might experience a drop in water pressure, strange tastes, or even bacterial contamination. Here’s what you need to do to keep your system running efficiently:

Replace Filters Regularly – The sediment filter and carbon filters should be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on water usage and the level of contaminants in your water supply. Neglecting this step can lead to clogged filters, reducing the efficiency of your RO system.
Monitor the RO Membrane – The RO membrane typically lasts 2-3 years but may need replacement sooner in areas with high dissolved solids. If you notice a decrease in water flow or a change in water taste, it may be time to replace the membrane. Keeping an eye on your system’s total dissolved solids reduction can help determine when a replacement is necessary.
Check for Leaks – Inspect all connections, tubing, and the air gap faucet for potential leaks. Even small leaks can lead to inefficiencies in the system, wasted water, and potential damage to surrounding areas. A quick inspection every few months can help prevent bigger issues down the road.
Clean the RO Storage Tank – Over time, bacteria and other impurities can accumulate in the RO storage tank. Cleaning the tank at least once a year helps maintain water purity and prevents any buildup that could affect the taste and quality of your drinking water.
Test Water Quality – Periodically check for changes in taste, odor, or total dissolved solids reduction. A home water quality test can help you determine if your system is performing as expected. If you notice an increase in dissolved solids or a return of unwanted contaminants, it may be time to replace filters or troubleshoot the system.
Inspect and Replace O-Rings and Seals – The O-rings and seals in your RO system can wear out over time, leading to leaks or decreased efficiency. Regularly checking these small but crucial components can prevent bigger problems from arising.
Ensure Proper Feed Pressure – Reverse osmosis systems rely on adequate water pressure to function correctly. If your home’s water pressure is too low, your RO system might struggle to push water through the membrane, leading to poor performance. Installing a booster pump can help maintain optimal feed pressure.

If you experience issues with your reverse osmosis system, such as low water flow, unusual tastes, or system malfunctions, troubleshooting common problems can help. Ensuring that the water supply is adequate, checking for clogged filters, and verifying the feed pressure can resolve many concerns. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to call our professional plumbers .

The Wrap-Up

A reverse osmosis water filtration system is one of the best ways to ensure clean, purified water for your home or business. Understanding the membrane technology behind reverse osmosis helps you appreciate how this filtration process works and why it’s so effective in improving water quality.

If you’re in Bountiful, UT, or the surrounding areas and are considering installing an RO system, Rare Breed Plumbing is here to help. We specialize in installing and maintaining reverse osmosis systems to ensure you get the best water quality possible. Whether you need a whole house reverse osmosis system or a simple under-sink reverse osmosis water filter, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today to learn more about how a reverse osmosis system can benefit your home and family!

Reverse Osmosis for Well Water: Is It the Right Choice?

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:41:41 GMT

If you rely on well water for your Utah home, you’ve probably thought about the best way to keep it clean and safe. One of the most popular water filtration options is reverse osmosis for well water—but is it the right choice for you? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.

Understanding Reverse Osmosis: How It Works

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a high-tech way to filter water, removing a wide range of contaminants using a reverse osmosis membrane . It works by pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane that traps unwanted particles, including chemicals , bacteria, and other contaminants.

The result? Purified water that’s free from many of the impurities that could be lurking in your well. However, it’s important to understand that osmosis systems also produce water waste as part of the filtration process. Some systems include a permeate pump to help reduce water waste, making them more efficient.

Common Well Water Contaminants in Utah and RO Filtration Efficiency

Unlike municipal water systems, well water in Utah isn’t treated before it reaches your home, meaning it can contain a variety of contaminants depending on location, geology, and environmental factors. Utah’s well water is often affected by:

Sediment and silt – Many areas in Utah, particularly near the Wasatch Front and southern parts of the state, have naturally high levels of sediment in well water. These particles can clog pipes, reduce water pressure, and damage appliances.
Hard water minerals (Calcium and Magnesium) – Utah is known for its hard water . While these minerals aren’t necessarily harmful to health, they cause scale buildup in plumbing and appliances, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
Iron and manganese – Common in rural areas of Utah, these minerals can stain sinks, tubs, and laundry, and create a metallic taste in water.
Arsenic – Some regions of Utah, particularly in areas with geothermal activity, may have naturally occurring arsenic, which can be harmful if consumed in high amounts.
Nitrates – Found in agricultural areas where fertilizers and livestock waste seep into groundwater, high nitrate levels can pose health risks, particularly for infants and pregnant women.
Radon and uranium – Believe it or not, parts of Utah have elevated levels of naturally occurring radioactive elements in groundwater, such as uranium, which may pose long-term health risks.
Bacteria and viruses – Shallow wells or wells near livestock farms or septic systems can be contaminated with harmful microorganisms that cause illness.
Sulfur (hydrogen sulfide gas) – Causes a rotten egg odor in water, a common issue in some Utah wells.

Reverse osmosis water is highly effective at filtering out many of these contaminants, making it one of the best filtration methods available. However, RO systems alone may not be sufficient for certain well water problems. For instance, bacteria and viruses require additional treatment, such as a UV filter, while hard water minerals may necessitate a water softener before the RO system is installed.

If you live in Utah and rely on well water, getting a professional water test can help determine the exact contaminants in your water supply, ensuring you choose the best filtration system for your needs.

Pros and Cons of Using Reverse Osmosis for Well Water

Like any water filtration system, reverse osmosis systems have both advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at both sides.

The Benefits of Reverse Osmosis

Highly effective filtration – Removes a vast array of contaminants, improving water quality.
Better taste and odor – Say goodbye to funny-smelling, bad-tasting well water.
Healthier drinking water – Filters out heavy metals, lead, and harmful chemicals.
Customizable system options – You can pair your RO system with a UV filter, pump, or other pre-treatment solutions.

The Downsides of Reverse Osmosis

Water waste – Traditional osmosis systems produce water waste, though some modern permeate pumps help improve efficiency.
Removes minerals – It filters out beneficial minerals along with contaminants, which can affect the pH of your water.
Requires maintenance – Filters and RO membranes need to be replaced regularly.
Water pressure considerations – Low water pressure can affect how well an RO system functions.
May require electricity – Some systems need electricity to operate properly, adding to your home’s energy use.

Pre-Treatment Requirements for Well Water Before RO

Before you install an RO system, you may need some extra filters or treatments to prepare your well water supply. Well water often contains sediment, iron, and bacteria that can damage an RO membrane or clog the system.

Here’s what to consider:

Sediment filters – These remove sand, dirt, and debris before they reach your reverse osmosis membrane.
Water softeners – If your water is high in iron or hardness minerals, a softener can prevent buildup in the system.
UV Filters – A UV filter kills bacteria and viruses, making your water safer.
Carbon Filters – These help remove odors and certain chemicals that RO alone might not catch.

Maintenance and Cost Considerations of an RO System

If you decide to get a reverse osmosis system, you’ll need to keep up with regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Routine Maintenance Tasks

Replace RO membranes and filters – The RO membrane typically lasts 2-3 years, while pre-filters should be changed every 6-12 months.
Clean and sanitize the system – Prevents bacterial growth and maintains water quality.
Check the tank and pump – Make sure your tank is holding enough purified water and that your pump is functioning properly.

Cost Factors

The upfront cost of an RO system varies, depending on size and features. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a whole-house system. You’ll also need to budget for replacement filters and membranes, plus any necessary pre-treatment options.

Alternative Filtration Systems for Well Water

If reverse osmosis doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, there are other water filtration options to consider:

Carbon filters – Good for improving taste and removing chlorine and some chemicals.
Water softeners – Best for reducing hardness and iron levels.
UV filters – Ideal for killing bacteria and viruses.
Whole-house filtration systems – Can be customized to target specific contaminants.

Is Reverse Osmosis Right for Your Well Water?

Ultimately, the best water filtration system for your well depends on what’s in your water supply. Reverse osmosis for well water is a great choice if you want purified water that’s free from lead, iron, bacteria, and other contaminants. However, if your water contains high levels of sediment, low pH, or bacteria, you may need additional treatment options.

If you’re unsure, Rare Breed Plumbing can help! We specialize in water systems and reverse osmosis installations in Bountiful, UT , and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to test your well water and find the best filtration solution for your home!

Can a Reverse Osmosis System Help With Hard Water?

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:48:39 GMT

If you live in Bountiful, UT, or the surrounding areas, you may be dealing with hard water. That frustrating scale buildup on your faucets, the never-ending battle to get soap to lather, and those annoying water spots on dishes? Yep, that’s all thanks to water hardness, which comes from high levels of calcium and magnesium ions in your tap water. One solution many homeowners turn to is a reverse osmosis system —but can reverse osmosis help with hard water? Let’s dive into it.

But first, let’s take a better look at the effects of hard water on your plumbing system and health.

How Hard Water Affects Your Home and Health

Hard water isn’t just a nuisance—it can have serious effects on both your home and your health. Here’s how:

Appliance Damage & Plumbing Issues: The calcium and magnesium ions in hard water cause scale buildup in pipes, water heaters , and appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Over time, this can reduce efficiency, increase energy costs, and lead to costly repairs.
Soap & Detergent Problems: Hard water makes it difficult for soap and detergent to lather properly, meaning you’ll use more product to get the job done. It also leaves behind soap scum, which can be frustrating to clean off surfaces.
Skin & Hair Concerns: Bathing in hard water can leave your skin feeling dry and itchy. It also makes hair feel rough and brittle due to the buildup of minerals that prevent moisture from being absorbed properly.
Drinking Water Quality: Although hard water isn’t necessarily harmful to drink, the high mineral content can give it an unpleasant taste. Additionally, hardness minerals can interfere with the effectiveness of water filtration systems , making it harder to remove other contaminants.

With these concerns in mind, it’s important to find an effective water treatment solution to improve both your home’s efficiency and your overall water quality.

The Difference Between Reverse Osmosis Systems and Water Softeners

Both a water softener and a reverse osmosis system play a role in improving your water quality, but they serve different purposes. Let’s break it down:

Reverse Osmosis Systems (RO Systems):
Use a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants, total dissolved solids (TDS) , and impurities from water.
Great for improving drinking water quality by removing heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants.
However, reverse osmosis does not remove hardness minerals effectively on its own.
Water Softeners:
Specifically designed to remove hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium ions from water.
Use an ion exchange process, replacing calcium and magnesium with sodium ions.
Prevent scale buildup in pipes, appliances, and fixtures.

If you want a deeper dive into how these systems compare, check out our guide on Water Softeners vs. Water Filtration Systems .

Can a Water Softener Complement a Reverse Osmosis System?

So, what’s the best approach? The truth is, a reverse osmosis system alone isn’t the most effective way to remove hardness minerals from your water. However, pairing an RO system with a water softener creates a winning combo for your home’s water treatment needs.

A water softener tackles the problem of hard water at its source by removing calcium and magnesium ions before they ever reach your pipes, appliances, or drinking water system. By doing so, it prevents scale buildup, protects plumbing, and improves the efficiency of household cleaning.

On the other hand, a reverse osmosis system provides an additional layer of purification, ensuring that the water you drink and cook with is free from contaminants such as heavy metals, bacteria, and dissolved solids. While a water softener removes hardness minerals, an RO system goes a step further by eliminating impurities that can affect taste, smell, and overall water quality.

Do I Also Need a Water Softener Along With My RO System If I’m Dealing With Hard Water?

If hard water is an issue in your home, adding a water softener before your reverse osmosis system is a smart move. Here’s why:

Protects Your RO System: Hard water can damage the reverse osmosis membrane over time. A water softener removes calcium and magnesium ions before they reach the RO system, extending its lifespan.
Improves Filtration Efficiency: Softer water helps the reverse osmosis filter work more effectively, reducing the need for frequent filter changes.
Enhances Water Quality: Using both systems together ensures that your entire home has soft water while your drinking water is also purified through reverse osmosis.
Better for Appliances and Pipes: Softened water prevents scale buildup, improving the efficiency and longevity of appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters .

Choosing the Right Water Filtration System for Your Home

Selecting the best water filtration system for your home depends on your specific water quality needs. Here are a few factors to consider:

Water Hardness Level: If your water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium ions, a water softener is essential to prevent scale buildup and protect your appliances.
Desired Water Quality: If you’re looking for purified water for drinking and cooking, an RO system is the way to go. It effectively removes contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, and total dissolved solids.
Water Pressure Considerations: Reverse osmosis systems require adequate water pressure to function properly. If your home has low water pressure, you may need a booster pump to optimize RO performance.
Whole-House vs. Point-of-Use Filtration: A whole-house water softener will improve the water quality for all appliances, whereas an RO system is typically installed at a single point, like under your kitchen sink, for drinking water purposes.
Long-Term Cost & Maintenance: While both water softeners and reverse osmosis systems require some maintenance, such as salt refills for softeners and filter changes for RO systems, investing in both will save money in the long run by extending the life of your appliances and plumbing.

Dealing With Hard Water? Call Rare Breed Plumbing for Pure Water Solutions

If you’re tired of battling hard water problems in Bountiful, Sandy, or any of the nearby Utah cities, Rare Breed Plumbing is here to help. Whether you need a high-quality reverse osmosis water filtration system, a water softener, or both, our team can find the perfect water treatment solution for your home.

Say goodbye to scale buildup, spotty dishes, and dry skin. Call us today to get the best reverse osmosis and water softening solutions tailored to your needs. Clean, soft, and great-tasting water is just a call away!

The Pros and Cons of Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration Systems

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 05:53:29 GMT

Water is one of life’s most essential resources, and ensuring you have clean, safe drinking water is a top priority. While tap water might be convenient, it often contains impurities that can affect taste, odor, and even your health. That’s where reverse osmosis filtration comes in. Many homeowners in Bountiful , Sandy and other surrounding areas are turning to reverse osmosis water systems to purify their water supply. But is it the right choice for you? Let’s explore how reverse osmosis works, its benefits, potential downsides, and whether a reverse osmosis system is the best water filtration solution for your Utah home.

What Is Reverse Osmosis and How Does It Work?

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water filtration process that removes contaminants, dissolved solids, and impurities from water using a semipermeable membrane . This method forces water through the membrane, leaving behind unwanted particles like heavy metals, bacteria, and chemical contaminants while allowing purified water to pass through.

The reverse osmosis process consists of multiple filtration stages, typically including activated carbon filters , a reverse osmosis membrane, and a storage tank. Some systems also include additional pre-filters and post-filters for enhanced water purification. This results in highly filtered water that’s free from harmful contaminants, making reverse osmosis water a popular choice for those seeking pure drinking water.

The Benefits of Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration

If you’re considering an RO system for your home, you’ll want to know what makes it a worthwhile investment. Here are some key benefits of reverse osmosis water filtration :

Removes Harmful Contaminants

One of the most significant advantages of reverse osmosis filtration is its ability to eliminate a wide range of harmful contaminants. The reverse osmosis membrane effectively removes dissolved solids, heavy metals like lead and arsenic, bacteria, and chemical contaminants such as chlorine and fluoride. This means you’ll get clean, safe drinking water without worrying about harmful substances in your tap water.

Greatly Improves Taste and Odor

Unfiltered tap water can have an unpleasant taste or odor due to chlorine, sulfur, or other impurities. Reverse osmosis water filters significantly improve the taste and smell of your drinking water by removing these unwanted elements. The result? Crisp, refreshing, and pure water that you’ll actually enjoy drinking.

Better Than Bottled Water

Many people turn to bottled water as an alternative to tap water, but it’s expensive and generates a lot of plastic waste. Reverse osmosis water systems provide the same level of purity as bottled water—if not better—right from your tap. Plus, using an RO system eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While installing a reverse osmosis system may seem like an investment, it actually saves you money over time. By producing pure water at home, you’ll reduce your reliance on bottled water and avoid costly filtration alternatives. The maintenance costs of an RO water system are relatively low, making it a smart financial choice.

Ideal for Cooking and Beverages

If you’re serious about the taste of your food and drinks, you’ll appreciate the difference that purified water makes. Reverse osmosis water is perfect for cooking, making coffee, tea, and even ice cubes. Since it lacks contaminants and dissolved minerals that can alter flavors, your favorite recipes and drinks will taste better.

Works Well with Water Softeners

Hard water is a common issue in Utah, and many homeowners use a water softener to combat mineral buildup. However, water softeners do not remove contaminants—only minerals like calcium and magnesium. A reverse osmosis system complements a water softener by providing thorough filtration, ensuring you get both soft and purified water throughout your home.

Easy to Maintain

Reverse osmosis water treatment systems are relatively low maintenance. While you’ll need to replace RO filters periodically, the process is straightforward and ensures your system continues to produce high-quality purified water for years to come.

Reverse Osmosis Downsides

While reverse osmosis filtration has many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider:

Removes Beneficial Minerals

RO systems filter out dissolved minerals along with harmful contaminants. This means essential minerals like calcium and magnesium are also removed, which some argue makes reverse osmosis water less nutritious. However, these minerals can be obtained from a balanced diet, and some RO systems include remineralization filters to restore essential minerals.

Does Not Remove All Bacteria and Viruses

While reverse osmosis filtration is excellent at removing dissolved solids, heavy metals, and chemical contaminants, it is not specifically designed to eliminate all bacteria and viruses. The semipermeable membrane can block many microorganisms, but some smaller bacteria and viruses may still pass through. If your water supply is at risk of bacterial contamination, additional filtration methods, such as UV purification or activated carbon filters, may be necessary to ensure potable water.

Produces Waste Water

One downside of the reverse osmosis process is that it generates waste water. For every gallon of purified water, an RO system can produce several gallons of waste water. While some advanced models are more efficient, this is something to consider if water conservation is a priority.

Slower Filtration Process

Unlike regular tap water that flows instantly, reverse osmosis water filtration takes time. Water must pass through multiple osmosis filters, meaning it doesn’t come out as quickly as unfiltered tap water. A storage tank helps provide on-demand access, but the system still has limitations on how fast it can produce water.

Initial Installation Costs

While an RO system saves money in the long run, the upfront installation cost can be a deterrent. Professional installation ensures the system functions properly, but it’s an expense that homeowners should factor into their decision.

Utah Water and Reverse Osmosis Filtration

Utah’s water supply contains high levels of dissolved minerals, making it one of the hardest water sources in the country. While water treatment facilities reduce some contaminants, many homeowners in Bountiful and surrounding areas still prefer additional filtration to remove chemical contaminants and improve taste. Reverse osmosis water systems are particularly popular in Utah because they effectively remove impurities while working alongside water softeners to deliver cleaner, purer drinking water.

Do I Need a Reverse Osmosis System for My Utah Home?

If you’re concerned about the quality of your tap water, installing an RO filtration system can be a game-changer. Reverse osmosis filters provide peace of mind by ensuring your drinking water is free from harmful contaminants. If you frequently buy bottled water, an RO system is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. Plus, if you already have a water softener, adding an RO water system can provide the ultimate water filtration solution for your home.

Call Rare Breed Plumbing for Pure Water Solutions in Utah

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we specialize in water filtration solutions, including reverse osmosis water treatment systems. Whether you need a new RO system installed or maintenance for your existing setup, our team is ready to help. We serve Bountiful and the nearby cities, including Sandy, Kaysville , West Jordan , Bluffdale , Midvale , and Layton . Contact us today to learn more about how a reverse osmosis water filter can improve your home’s water quality and give you access to clean, pure drinking water every day.

7 Myths About Water Softeners – Debunked

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:58:10 GMT

There’s a lot of misinformation floating around about water softeners , and unfortunately, many people believe these myths without checking the facts. If you’ve ever wondered whether soft water is salty, if drinking softened water is bad for your health, or if water softeners waste water, you’re in the right place! At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’ve heard all kinds of common water softener myths, and we’re here to set the record straight. So, let’s dive into the seven biggest myths about water softeners and debunk them once and for all!

Myth #1: Water Softeners Make Water Salty

One of the most common water softener myths is that they make your water taste salty. The truth? Softened water is not the same as saltwater! Water softeners work through an ion exchange process that swaps hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium for sodium ions. This does not mean salt (sodium chloride) is added to your water—only a very low sodium amount is introduced.

For context, the amount of sodium in softened water is much lower than in many common foods and beverages. In fact, a glass of low-fat milk contains more sodium than a glass of softened water! The sodium levels vary based on how hard your water was to begin with, but in most cases, the sodium added is minimal and poses no health risks, even for those on a low sodium diet. If you’re concerned about the taste or sodium levels, you can always install a reverse osmosis system to remove sodium and other contaminants, leaving you with fresh, great-tasting water.

Myth #2: Water Softeners Remove Essential Minerals From Water

Many people believe that water softeners strip water of essential minerals, leaving it devoid of any nutritional value. However, this is one of the biggest misconceptions. Water softeners don’t remove all minerals; they specifically target hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium ions.

While calcium and magnesium are important for your health, the minerals found in hard water aren’t the most bioavailable forms for your body to absorb. In other words, you’re not getting your essential minerals from drinking water—you get them from your food! Eating a balanced diet with dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts will provide the necessary minerals your body needs. Plus, removing calcium from water helps reduce scale buildup in water heaters, washing machines, and other water-using appliances, ultimately saving you money on maintenance and energy costs.

Myth #3: I Have a Water Softener – I Don’t Need a Water Filtration System

While water softeners are highly efficient at removing hard minerals, they don’t eliminate other contaminants like chlorine, lead, or bacteria . Many homeowners think softened water is the same as purified drinking water, but this is not the case. A water softener is designed to soften water by reducing scale buildup, while a water filter targets a broader range of impurities.

If you’re concerned about the quality of your drinking water, consider pairing your water softener with a water filtration system. Reverse osmosis filters , for example, can remove additional contaminants, ensuring that your drinking water is as clean and safe as possible. Investing in both systems gives you the best of both worlds—soft water for your home and pure, great-tasting water for drinking.

Myth #4: Water Softeners Diminish Water Pressure

A common myth is that water softeners reduce water pressure, making showers and taps less effective. While it’s true that any water treatment system could potentially lower pressure if improperly installed or maintained, a correctly sized and maintained water softener will not cause any noticeable drop in water pressure.

In fact, softened water can actually improve water flow in homes that previously had issues with scale buildup in pipes. Hard water minerals create deposits that clog plumbing over time, leading to restricted water flow and reduced efficiency in appliances. By removing these hard minerals, water softeners help keep your pipes clear and your water pressure strong.

Myth #5: A Water Softener Can Have a Negative Impact on My Septic System

Some people worry that using a water softener will harm their septic tank, but the reality is quite the opposite. The myth comes from concerns about salt and the regeneration process. However, studies have shown that salt-based water softeners do not negatively impact septic systems when used properly.

The amount of sodium added to the water is very low, and the volume of water released during regeneration is minimal compared to the overall septic system capacity. In fact, softened water can actually benefit your septic system by improving the breakdown of waste. Plus, by reducing scale buildup, a water softener helps extend the lifespan of your plumbing and septic system components.

Myth #6: I Don’t Need a Water Softener for City Water

Some people assume that city water is already treated and, therefore, doesn’t need softening. However, in many places—including Bountiful, UT—city water is still considered hard. Utah’s water supply comes from various sources, including Valley-Fill, Cache Valley, and Cedar Valley Aquifers , as well as City Creek and Cottonwood Canyon watersheds. Unfortunately, the vast majority of this water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, leading to hard water problems in homes across the state.

Bountiful, UT has an average water hardness of 513 PPM (mg/L) or 38 GPG, which is considered extremely hard. This level of hardness can cause issues such as scale buildup in pipes and appliances, dry skin and hair, and reduced efficiency of cleaning products. Installing a water softener is the best way to combat these problems and enjoy the many benefits of soft water.

Myth #7: Table Salt Can Be Used in Water Softeners

Another common myth is that you can use regular table salt in a water softener instead of specialized salt or potassium chloride. While both contain sodium chloride, table salt is not formulated for use in water softeners and can lead to clogs and damage in the system.

Water softener salt is designed to dissolve properly and facilitate the ion exchange process, ensuring that hard minerals are effectively removed. Using regular table salt or rock salt can result in sediment buildup, requiring more frequent maintenance and potentially shortening the lifespan of your softener. To keep your water softener running efficiently, always use the recommended type of salt.

Call Rare Breed Plumbing for All Your Soft Water Needs in Bountiful, UT!

Now that we’ve debunked these common water softener myths, you can make an informed decision about your home’s water treatment. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners in Bountiful, UT, and surrounding areas enjoy the benefits of soft water. Whether you need a new water softener, maintenance for your existing system, or a water filtration setup, our expert team is here to help.

Give us a call today to discuss your water-softening needs and say goodbye to hard water problems for good! Also, along with Bountiful, we also serve homeowners and businesses in nearby cities, including West Jordan , Sandy , Layton , Bluffdale , Kaysville , and Midvale .

Water Softeners vs Water Filtration Systems: What’s the Difference?

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 06:03:54 GMT

If you’re concerned about your home’s water quality, you’ve likely come across the debate of water filters vs water softeners. While both systems work to improve water quality, they serve entirely different purposes. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision about which system—or if both a water softener and a filtration system—are right for your home.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we want to help homeowners in Bountiful, UT, and surrounding areas find the best pure water solution for their needs. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about water softeners and water filtration systems , how they work, and which option best suits your home.

Understanding Hard Water and Water Contaminants

Before we dive into the specifics of water softeners and water filtration systems, it’s important to understand the problems they aim to solve.

Hard water: Water with high levels of calcium and magnesium minerals is considered hard. Hard water leads to scale buildup in pipes and appliances, causing inefficiency and costly repairs. It can also result in dry skin and hair, faded laundry, and soap scum residue.
Contaminated water: Tap water may contain dissolved solids, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, pesticides, heavy metals, and other harmful contaminants. Depending on your water supply, you may need a water filtration system to remove specific contaminants and improve water taste.

Now, let’s take a closer look at water softeners and water filtration systems to see how they address these issues.

What Is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a system designed to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium from water, preventing scale buildup in pipes and appliances. This process is essential for prolonging the lifespan of appliances like washing machines, water heaters, and dishwashers.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

Most water softeners use a process called ion exchange, which replaces calcium and magnesium minerals with sodium ions. The system consists of:

A resin tank containing ion exchange resin beads that attract and trap hard minerals.
A brine tank filled with a salt-based solution that regenerates the resin beads.

When hard water flows through the resin beads, the minerals are exchanged for sodium, resulting in softened water that prevents mineral deposits and extends the life of your plumbing system.

Types of Water Softeners

There are different types of water softeners, each with its own way of dealing with hard water . These are:

Salt-Based Water Softeners. These systems use ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium, replacing them with sodium ions. They are highly effective for dealing with severe water hardness and help prevent scale buildup in plumbing and appliances. However, they require a brine tank for salt replenishment and regular maintenance to keep the system running efficiently. It’s also important to mention that there’s a common myth that salt-based softeners render water saltier. Here’s another post where we debunk such nonsense.
Salt-Free Water Softeners. Instead of removing minerals, salt-free water softeners condition the water so that hard minerals do not form scale on surfaces. They are a great choice for those looking to avoid added sodium in their water or the hassle of salt refills. While they do not provide true water softening, they effectively reduce scale buildup and require minimal maintenance.
Dual Tank Water Softeners. For homes with high water usage, dual tank systems provide continuous soft water by alternating between two tanks. While one tank is in regeneration mode, the other remains active, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of soft water. These systems are ideal for large households but require extra space and cost more than single-tank models.
Magnetic Water Softeners. These systems use electromagnetic fields to alter the behavior of dissolved minerals, preventing them from sticking to surfaces. They are easy to install, require no maintenance, and do not involve chemicals or salt. However, their effectiveness varies depending on water hardness levels and the specific plumbing setup in your home.

What Is a Water Filtration System?

A water filtration system is designed to remove harmful contaminants from water, improving its safety and water taste. Unlike water softeners, which focus on water hardness, filtration systems target impurities like chlorine, lead, bacteria, pesticides, and VOCs.

How Does a Water Filtration System Work?

A water filtration system functions by pushing water through specialized filters designed to remove specific contaminants. These filters can target a range of impurities, from sediment and chlorine to bacteria and heavy metals. Depending on the type of filtration system, the process can involve physical filtration, chemical filtration, or biological filtration.

Physical Filtration : This involves using a barrier, like activated carbon filters or semi-permeable membranes, to trap unwanted particles and impurities.
Chemical Filtration : Some water filtration systems use chemical reactions to neutralize harmful contaminants, making them safer for consumption.
Biological Filtration : This technique involves using beneficial bacteria to break down pollutants in the water.

Each type of filtration system is designed for different water quality issues, ensuring clean, filtered water tailored to your home’s needs.

Types of Water Filtration Systems

Carbon Filters – These are widely used to remove chlorine, sediment, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They use a process called adsorption, in which contaminants adhere to the surface of the activated carbon. These filters are commonly found in whole house water filters and drinking water systems.
Reverse Osmosis Systems – These systems are known for their ability to remove total dissolved solids (TDS), heavy metals , bacteria, and dissolved salts. They use a semi-permeable membrane to purify the water, producing incredibly clean filtered water for consumption. However, they can result in water waste and require regular maintenance. Here’s one of our other posts about the pros and conse or RO systems .
Ultraviolet (UV) Filters – These filters use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms in the water . UV systems do not remove dissolved minerals or sediment, so they are often combined with other water filtration methods.
Whole House Water Filter Systems – These systems are installed at the main water entry point, ensuring that filtered water reaches every tap in your home. They typically include multiple filtration stages, such as carbon filters, sediment filters, and UV filtration, to remove a variety of specific contaminants from your water supply.

Which Is Best for My Home – A Water Softener or a Water Filtration System?

Choosing between a water softener and a water filtration system depends on your specific needs. Here’s how to decide:

If you have hard water, a water softening system is essential to prevent scale buildup and protect your plumbing system.
If your water contains harmful contaminants, a filtration system is necessary to ensure safe, clean drinking water.
If you’re dealing with both hard water and water contamination, you may need both a water softener and a filtration system.

Combining Systems: Some whole house systems combine both technologies, offering both water filters and water softeners to address multiple issues at once.

Call Rare Breed Plumbing for Professional Pure Water Solutions!

When it comes to water filters or water softeners, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you need a whole-house water filter, a water softener, or both, understanding your water quality will help you make the right choice.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we provide professional installation of water softening systems and water filtration solutions in Bountiful, Sandy, and nearby areas. Contact us today to find the perfect water treatment system for your home!

Choosing the Right Water Softener for Your Home: A Short Guide

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 06:09:00 GMT

Have you ever noticed that your skin feels dry and itchy after a shower? Or maybe your dishes have stubborn spots even after going through the dishwasher? If so, you might be dealing with hard water.

Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium carbonate and magnesium ions, which can cause all sorts of problems in your home, from scale buildup in your pipes to reducing the efficiency of your water heaters. The good news? A water softener can help! But with so many water softener systems out there, choosing the right water softener for your home can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the process and pick the perfect one for your needs.

Types of Water Softeners Available in Utah

There are different types of water softeners, each with its own way of dealing with heavy minerals . Understanding your options can help you make the right choice:

Salt-Based Water Softener

These systems rely on a process called ion exchange, in which sodium ions replace calcium and magnesium ions, effectively softening the water. A salt-based system is ideal for households with severe hard water problems . However, it requires a brine tank, where salt is added periodically to help with the regeneration process. The softened water helps prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances, extending their lifespan. On the downside, salt-based water softeners require ongoing maintenance, such as adding salt regularly and ensuring the resin bed remains clean. Additionally, homes with a septic system should consider the impact of excess sodium on drain field soil percolation.

Salt-Free Water Softeners

Unlike salt-based systems, these do not use sodium to remove hardness minerals. Instead, they work by conditioning the water, preventing minerals from sticking to surfaces and forming scale. These systems are a great choice for those who want to avoid increased sodium intake or don’t want the hassle of constantly adding salt. While salt-free water softeners do not technically “soften” the water, they effectively reduce scale buildup, improving water quality without the need for electricity or a drain line. They are also an eco-friendly option as they do not discharge brine into the environment. However, they may not be as effective in extremely hard water conditions.

Dual Tank Water Softener

If your home has high water usage or you need continuous access to softened water, a dual-tank water softener is an excellent choice. Unlike single-tank systems, which stop softening water during the regeneration cycle, a dual-tank water softener has two resin tanks that work alternately. When one tank is regenerating, the other remains in operation, ensuring uninterrupted access to soft water. These systems are perfect for large families or households with high water demand. However, they require more space and tend to be more expensive than single-tank models. If you experience heavy mineral buildup or frequently run out of soft water with a single tank, investing in a dual-tank system could be a game-changer.

Magnetic Water Softeners

A more recent and alternative approach, magnetic water softeners use electromagnetic fields to alter the behavior of dissolved solids in your water supply. These devices do not remove hardness minerals but instead change their structure so that they do not stick to pipes and appliances. Magnetic water softeners are easy to install, requiring no plumbing modifications, salt, or maintenance. They are also energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, as they do not produce waste water or require chemicals. However, their effectiveness varies depending on water hardness levels and the specific conditions of your plumbing system. While some homeowners notice a reduction in scale buildup, others find that traditional softening methods work better for their needs.

Each of these types has its own advantages, and the right choice depends on your home’s water supply and usage needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Softener for Your Home

Before making a decision, here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Water Hardness – Have your water tested to determine the level of hardness minerals present.
Grain Capacity – Consider how many grains of hardness minerals the system can remove before the softener regenerates. Larger households with higher average water usage may need a higher grain capacity.
Resin Bed and Tank Size – The size of the resin tanks affects the efficiency of the ion exchange process.
Water Usage – A metered water softener adjusts regeneration cycles based on your actual water usage, making it more efficient. To determine the appropriate water softener size for your home, multiply the number of people in your home by the gallons of water they use each day. The average person uses about 80 gallons of water per day. Multiply that number by the grains of hardness in your water to figure out how many grains need to be removed each day. Once you have that written down, choose a softener that’s up to the task. Also, look for the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact grain capacity needed for your situation.
Salt Usage – Consider how much salt the system requires and whether you want to use potassium chloride as an alternative.
Softening Process – Do you prefer an ion exchange water softener or a salt-free system?
Septic System Considerations – Some salt-based systems may impact your drain field soil percolation, so check compatibility.
Maintenance Needs – Some systems require frequent salt refills and cleaning, while others, like magnetic water softeners, need little maintenance.

Water Softeners: Frequently Asked Questions

How Is Water Hardness Measured?

Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (GPG) . The higher the number, the harder your water is. Most municipalities provide water quality reports, but you can also use a water test kit.

What Does the Grain Capacity of a Water Softener Mean?

Grain capacity refers to how many grains of hardness minerals a water softener can remove before needing a regeneration cycle. Choosing a water softener with the right capacity for your home ensures consistent softened water.

What Water Softener Salt Should I Use?

Most salt-based water softeners use sodium chloride, but you can also add salt alternatives like potassium chloride if you’re concerned about sodium intake.

What Is a Water Softener’s Regeneration?

The regeneration process is when the resin beads release trapped hardness minerals and recharge with sodium ions. This ensures the softening process continues efficiently.

How Much Electricity Does a Water Softener Need?

Most modern water softener systems use very little electricity, typically less than a standard light bulb.

Is Water Filtration and Water Softening the Same?

No. A water softener removes hardness minerals, while a water filter removes contaminants like chlorine, lead, and bacteria. Some homes benefit from having both systems installed. Learn more about the differences between water softeners and water filtration systems .

Is Hard Water Giving You Trouble? Call Rare Breed Plumbing for Professional Water-Softening Solutions

If you’re tired of dealing with mineral buildup, itchy skin, or inefficient water heaters, it might be time to invest in a high-quality water softener. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we help you find the best solution for your home’s water needs and assist you with a professional water softener installation , as well as any other water softener service you may need. We serve homeowners and businesses in Bountiful, UT, and the nearby cities, including Sandy , West Jordan , Bluffdale , Layton , Kaysville , and Midvale . Call us today.

Common Problems With Water Softeners and How to Deal With Them

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 06:20:31 GMT

Hard water can be a real headache. From spotty dishes to crusty faucets, the minerals in your water supply can cause all sorts of annoying problems . That’s why so many homeowners in Bountiful, Utah, rely on a water softening system to keep their water feeling fresh and clean. But just like any other appliance, a water softener system isn’t immune to issues.

If you’ve noticed problems with your soft water, don’t panic! Here’s a breakdown of common water softener problems, what you can do about them, and when to call us for professional water softener services .

6 Common Water Softener Problems

Water softeners can encounter a variety of challenges, ranging from mechanical malfunctions to chemical disruptions. These complications may develop gradually, compromising the system’s efficiency. Recognizing potential problems early is essential for maintaining peak performance and preventing major breakdowns. A proactive approach ensures your water softener operates smoothly and continues delivering high-quality softened water.

Insufficient Softening

If your tap water is still feeling hard even though you have a water softener installed, something isn’t functioning correctly. A few culprits could be behind this issue:

Incorrect water softener settings – Make sure your system is set to the right level for your household’s water hardness.
Clogged resin tank – Over time, resin beads can become coated with iron or other minerals, reducing their effectiveness.
Salt bridge – This occurs when hardened salt build-up forms a crust in the salt tank, preventing proper regeneration.
Resin replacement needed – If your resin beads are old or degraded, they might not be softening your water properly.

Softener Is Using Too Much Salt

If your system seems to be going through salt like crazy, you might be dealing with excessive salt usage. Some potential reasons include:

Improper softener settings – If your water softener settings are too high, the system could be regenerating more than necessary.
Salt mushing – A mushy, compacted layer of salt forms at the bottom of the brine tank, reducing efficiency.
Brine tank overflow – Too much salt or a clogged brine line float can cause salt to accumulate improperly.
Using low quality salt – Not all salt is created equal. Stick with high-purity salt to prevent clogs and excessive usage.

Poor Water Flow and Blockages

A drop in water pressure could mean your water softener’s motor or plumbing system is having issues. Here’s what might be going on:

Clogged valves – The bypass valve, control valve, or float valve can become blocked with sediment.
Salt clogging inside the brine line or drain hose can slow the water flow.
Scale buildup – If you’re not preventing scale buildup properly, mineral deposits can restrict flow.
Sediment build-up in the media tank or mineral tank may need flushing.

Smelly or Discolored Water

No one wants weird-smelling or discolored water coming out of their taps! If you’re dealing with smelly or discolored water, it might be due to:

Bacteria growth in the brine tank or resin tank – Regular cleaning is a must!
Iron buildup – If your system isn’t designed to remove iron, you might need an additional filter.
Clogged drain line – A blockage can cause stagnant water that starts to smell.
Excess water in the system due to a failing brine line valve.

Issues With the Regeneration Process

If your water softening process isn’t cycling properly, your system may not be going through the regeneration cycle as it should. Possible causes:

Brine cycle failure – If the brine line is clogged, your system won’t regenerate correctly.
Drain line blockages – A blocked drain hose prevents proper flushing.
Electrical power issues – If the system loses power, the regeneration process can get disrupted.
Softener manually set to the wrong mode or skipped regeneration.

Issues With the Control Valve

The control valve is the brain of your water softener, regulating when and how it regenerates. If it’s malfunctioning, your system won’t work properly. Some common problems include:

Motor failure – If the water softener’s motor goes bad, the system won’t function.
Clogged or worn-out valve parts – Mineral deposits can cause valves to stick or fail.
Incorrect programming – Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when setting up your softener.

Water Softener Troubleshooting Tips for Homeowners

Before calling in a water softener professional, try these quick fixes—sometimes a little DIY can save you time and money!

Check the Salt Level

First things first—pop open that salt tank and take a look inside. If you don’t see much salt, your softener is probably struggling to do its job. But don’t go overboard either! Too much salt can lead to clumping and blockages. Keep the salt level about halfway to two-thirds full, and always use high-quality salt to avoid unnecessary buildup.

Break Up a Salt Bridge

If your water softener isn’t using salt properly, a salt bridge might be the culprit. This happens when hardened salt forms a crust on top, making it seem like there’s plenty of salt when, in reality, the softener can’t access it. Grab a broom handle (or something similar) and gently poke around to break it up. Be careful not to damage the sides of the tank, though!

Clean the Brine Tank

If you’ve had your water softener system for a while and never cleaned the brine tank, it’s time! Over time, salt build-up and sediment can clog things up, making regeneration less effective. Empty the tank, give it a good rinse, and scrub out any gunk with warm water and vinegar. Once it’s clean, refill it with proper salt levels, and you’re good to go.

Flush the Resin Tank

Your resin beads work hard to trap minerals from your hard water , but they can get clogged with iron or other contaminants over time. Running an iron remover solution through the system helps keep those beads working like new. If you notice your water still feels hard even after flushing, it might be time for a resin replacement.

Inspect the Drain Line

A clogged drain line can cause all sorts of problems, from regeneration failure to brine tank overflow. Check for any visible blockages and make sure the hose isn’t kinked or twisted. If water isn’t draining properly, a quick flush with warm water or mild vinegar might do the trick. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the drain hose.

Reset the Softener Settings

Sometimes, your water softener settings might be off, especially if there’s been a power outage or accidental adjustment. Check the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure everything is programmed correctly for your household’s water hardness level. If your softened water still isn’t feeling right, try manually running a regeneration cycle and see if that fixes the issue.

By giving your water-softening system a little regular maintenance, you can keep it running efficiently and avoid costly repairs. But if these DIY fixes don’t solve the problem, don’t hesitate to call in a water softener professional!

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried troubleshooting and your softener problems persist, it might be time to bring in an expert. Sometimes, no matter how many DIY fixes you try, the system just won’t cooperate. Here are some red flags that mean your system is in need of professional water softener services:

Water remains hard despite the system running – If you’re still dealing with hard water even though your water softener system is on and running, something’s off. The issue could be anything from resin beads not working properly to a malfunctioning control valve. A pro can pinpoint the problem fast.
Low water pressure throughout the house – A sudden or gradual drop in water pressure could mean clogged valves, sediment build-up, or a blockage somewhere in your drain line or brine line. If cleaning or flushing doesn’t help, it’s time to call in a technician.
Continuous brine tank overflow – If your brine tank keeps overflowing, your brine line float or brine line valve might not be functioning correctly. This can lead to excess water where it shouldn’t be, which can create even bigger problems.
Electrical or motor failure – If your water softener’s motor isn’t working or the system isn’t getting electrical power, don’t try to mess with it yourself—especially if you’re unfamiliar with wiring. One of our technicians can safely diagnose and fix motor failure or any electrical mishaps.
Frequent regeneration cycle issues – Your softener’s regeneration cycle should be predictable. If it seems to be running too often, not often enough, or not at all, your softener settings might need recalibration, or there could be a deeper issue with the control valve or brine cycle. A professional can get your system back on track.

If you notice any of these problems and your water softener troubleshooting efforts aren’t working, don’t wait—contact a water softener professional before a minor issue turns into a costly repair!

Contact Rare Breed Plumbing for Any Water Softening System Problems

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we know how important soft water is for your Bountiful home. Whether you need help with a brine line float, softener maintenance, or a full system replacement, we’re here to help. Don’t let common water softener issues mess up your water supply—give us a call today!

Contact Rare Breed Plumbing for expert water softener services! Along with homes and businesses in Bountiful, UT, we also serve Midvale , Kaysville , Layton , West Jordan , Sandy , and Bluffdale !

Dealing With Frozen Pipes in Utah: A Short Guide

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 06:24:56 GMT

Utah winters bring stunning snow-covered landscapes but also bone-chilling temperatures that can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Frozen pipes are a common winter headache for homeowners, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Understanding how to deal with frozen pipes in Utah, as well as how to prevent them, can save you from the hassle, expense, and extensive water damage that comes with burst water lines . Let’s dive into what you need to know to protect your home this winter.

My Pipes Are Frozen, What Should I Do?

If your pipes freeze, you might notice little to no water pressure or that water isn’t flowing from your faucet. This is your first clue that a section of your plumbing system has frozen. Here are some proactive steps to take:

Turn off the water supply: Locate the main water valve and shut it off to prevent a water leak or a burst pipe.
Check for visible damage: Inspect exposed pipes for cracks or leaks. If you notice a burst water line, you’ll need plumbing repair immediately.
Apply heat to frozen sections: Using a safe heat source—like a hairdryer, heat tape, or towels soaked in hot water—apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe. Avoid using an open flame or high-temperature electrical appliances, as these can cause more harm than good.
Open faucets: Keep faucets open to allow water to flow as the ice melts. This helps relieve pressure within the pipe and speeds up the thawing process.

By taking these steps promptly, you can minimize damage to your plumbing and avoid a costly repair bill.

Thawing a Frozen Pipe – Everything You Need to Know

Thawing frozen pipes inside your home requires a combination of patience and caution. Follow these tips to safely thaw pipes:

Start close to the faucet: Begin heating the frozen section nearest to the faucet and work your way back to the frozen area. This ensures that any melted water has a clear exit path.
Use heat tape: Heat tape can be wrapped around the frozen pipe to provide consistent, gentle warmth. It’s especially useful for exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces.
Apply towels soaked in hot water: For pipes inside walls or tight spaces, wrapping them in hot towels can help transfer heat effectively.
Maintain safe heating practices: Avoid using open flames, as they can damage the pipe material or ignite nearby flammable objects.

If your efforts don’t restore water flow or you suspect a hidden water leak , it’s time to call a professional plumber.

What Can I Do to Prevent My Plumbing From Freezing?

Preventing frozen pipes is all about preparation. Take these proactive steps to protect pipes during the winter months:

Add insulation: Use pipe insulation to cover cold water pipes, especially those located in unheated areas or against exterior walls.
Seal gaps: Check for drafts or cold air leaks around windows, doors, and exterior walls near plumbing fixtures. Seal these areas to keep cold air out.
Install heat tape: Heat tape is an excellent option for exposed pipes in crawl spaces, basements, or outdoor areas.
Keep a slow drip: During freezing temperatures, let cold water drip from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes. This prevents pressure buildup and keeps water flowing.
Maintain indoor heat: Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even when you’re away, to prevent pipes from freezing.
Drain water from outdoor faucets: Disconnect hoses and drain water from outdoor faucets before the first freeze. This prevents freezing in the outdoor water line.

Once Frozen, Does a Pipe Unfreeze on Its Own?

While it’s possible for frozen pipes to thaw naturally as temperatures rise, this approach carries significant risks. If the pipe thaws unevenly or experiences expanding ice, it could burst, causing a water leak or extensive water damage. It’s far safer to intervene by applying heat or contacting a professional plumber.

Does Leaving a Faucet Open Prevent Pipes From Freezing?

Yes, leaving a faucet open can help prevent pipes from freezing. When water is flowing, it’s less likely to freeze. A small, steady stream of water, particularly from cold water pipes, can reduce the chances of ice formation and relieve pressure if a pipe begins to freeze. This technique is especially effective for pipes in unheated areas or along exterior walls.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Some frozen pipe situations require expert assistance. Here’s when you should contact Rare Breed Plumbing:

No improvement: If you’ve tried thawing the pipe and still have no water pressure, there may be a more significant blockage or damage.
Burst pipe: If a pipe has burst, it’s crucial to get immediate plumbing repair to prevent extensive water damage.
Hidden pipes: Pipes inside walls, floors, or crawl spaces can be difficult to access and may require specialized tools to thaw safely.
Recurring issues: If your pipes freeze often, a plumber can help you identify problem areas and recommend long-term solutions like pipe insulation or adding heat sources.

Rare Breed Plumbing Can Assist You With Any Frozen Plumbing Issue

When it comes to dealing with frozen pipes, Rare Breed Plumbing has you covered. Our professional plumbers can quickly diagnose and repair frozen water lines, ensuring your plumbing system is back to normal in no time. We also provide long-term solutions to prevent frozen pipes, including pipe insulation, heat tape installation, and more.

Don’t wait for freezing temperatures to damage your home. Call Rare Breed Plumbing today for expert assistance with frozen pipes and other winter plumbing needs. Together, we can protect your home from cold weather and keep your water system running smoothly.

Gas vs Electric Water Heaters

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 06:40:03 GMT

If you’re in the market for a new water heater in Utah, then you’re probably trying to figure out what which model type will be best for your home. Two common types of water heaters are gas and electric, and each has its pros and cons. Here’s what you should know when shopping for water heaters.

What’s the Difference Between Gas and Electric Water Heaters?

Gas water heaters use gas-powered burners to heat the water that’s stored in a large tank. Electric water heaters use electric coils to heat the water in the tank and are powered with energy from your property’s electrical system.

Gas Water Heater Pro: Larger Tank Capacity

Large families may want to consider having a gas water heater installed in their homes to have plenty of hot water at their disposal. Gas water heaters typically have larger tanks than their electrical counterparts, being more energy efficient.

Gas Water Heater Pro: Faster Heating and Recovery Times

Gas water heaters can heat water more quickly than electric water heaters. If having lots of hot water available almost immediately is important to you, then consider a gas water heater.

Gas Water Heater Con: Significant Installation Requirements

To safely install and operate a gas water heater, you’ll need to have multiple components installed. Your new gas water heater will require a gas water hookup as well as sufficient ventilation to make sure that carbon monoxide doesn’t build up in your interior. A skilled plumber can install a gas water heater for you

Gas Water Heater Con: Lower Heating Efficiency Level

Gas water heaters heat an entire tank of water and then keep it heated to that temperature indefinitely. As a result, they must burn a decent amount of gas to keep the water within at the desired temperature.

Electric Water Heater Pro: Greater Variety of Options

Since you can buy both tanked and tankless electric water heaters, you’ll have more types of electric water heaters to choose from than gas water heaters. Tanked water heaters, like their gas counterparts, store water in bulk in large tanks. Tankless water heaters are smaller than traditional units and heat the water as it comes into the unit, providing hot water on demand.

Electric Water Heater Pro: Safe and Clean Operation

Water heaters running on electricity don’t burn gas, so you don’t have to worry about gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure. You also don’t have to install special ventilation systems to handle excess fumes that you might encounter with gas water heaters.

Electric Water Heater Con: Slower Heating Rate

Due to their nature, electric water heaters warm water more slowly than their gas counterparts. If the speed at which your water heater warms water doesn’t matter to you, then this won’t be too much of a problem. However, if you frequently need a lot of hot water at your disposal, you might prefer a gas water heater.

Electric Water Heater Con: Requirement for Constant Electrical Connection

An electric water heater requires an electrical connection. If there is a power outage, your electric water heater cannot provide you with hot water. However, gas water heaters can operate during power failures to ensure hot water is available.

Quality Water Heater Installation in Bountiful, UT

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional plumbing services to residents who live in Bountiful and the Salt Lake area. Our knowledgeable plumbers can take care of water heaters, sump pumps, garbage disposals, and plumbing system remodels. Whether you need quality water softeners , reverse osmosis filtering systems, repiping, or water line repair, we can help. Get in touch with us today if you want to learn more about our plumbing services or to schedule an appointment.

Garbage Disposal Dos and Don’ts

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 06:43:01 GMT

A well-maintained garbage disposal is essential for keeping your kitchen clean and odor-free. However, many homeowners may not be fully aware of the best practices for using and maintaining their garbage disposal. To help you keep your unit running smoothly, we’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts that you should follow.

Do: Use Cold Water

Always run cold water while your garbage disposal is in use. Cold water helps solidify any grease or fat, allowing it to be chopped up and flushed down the drain without clogging your pipes. Make sure to let the water run for a few seconds after you’ve finished using the disposal to ensure everything is thoroughly flushed out.

Don’t: Put Certain Foods Down the Disposal

While garbage disposals are handy, they aren’t meant to handle everything. Avoid putting fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, or potato peels down the disposal, as they can wrap around the blades and cause clogs. Similarly, hard items like bones, pits, and shells can damage the blades and motor, leading to costly repairs.

Do: Clean Your Disposal Regularly

Keeping your garbage disposal clean helps prevent bad odors and ensures it operates efficiently. You can clean your disposal by grinding up ice cubes and citrus peels, which help to sharpen the blades and freshen up your kitchen. Another simple method is to sprinkle baking soda down the disposal, followed by vinegar, to eliminate any lingering smells.

Don’t: Use Harsh Chemicals

It might be tempting to use drain cleaners or other harsh chemicals to clear a clog or clean your disposal, but this can do more harm than good. These chemicals can corrode the disposal’s components and damage your plumbing. Stick to natural cleaning methods or call a professional if you’re experiencing persistent issues.

Do: Feed Items Gradually

When using your garbage disposal, it’s important to feed items gradually rather than all at once. Overloading the garbage disposal can cause it to jam, reducing its effectiveness and potentially damaging the motor. Take your time to ensure everything is properly ground up before adding more food waste.

The Plumbing Company You Can Count On

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’re committed to helping you keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape. If you’re having trouble with your garbage disposal or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our experienced team in Midvale, UT, is here to assist you with all your plumbing needs. Contact us today to schedule a service or consultation!

Toilet Base Leak: Is It an Emergency?

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 06:49:25 GMT

Dealing with a leaking toilet base can be frustrating and worrisome. While it’s common to encounter leaks in our homes, understanding when a toilet base leak becomes an emergency is crucial for homeowners. Here, we’ll explore the reasons behind toilet base leaks, their potential consequences, and the appropriate steps to take.

Identifying the Leak and Common Causes

A toilet base leak typically reveals itself as water pooling around the base of the toilet. It’s important to determine the source of the leak to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

A toilet base leak can occur due to various reasons. One of the most common causes is a damaged wax ring, which creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the sewer pipe. Over time, this seal can wear out or become damaged, leading to leaks. Loose bolts that secure the toilet to the floor may also contribute to leaks, especially if they become loose due to frequent use or an unsteady installation, causing the toilet to rock and break the seal, allowing water to escape. Additionally, a cracked toilet base can lead to water leakage, potentially caused by manufacturing defects, aging, or sudden impacts. Faulty installation can also result in various issues, including leaks at the base, making proper installation crucial to prevent leaks and ensure the longevity of your toilet. Lastly, flooring issues such as an uneven or damaged floor beneath the toilet can compromise the seal and lead to leaks.

Assessing the Severity

Not all leaks require immediate action, but understanding the severity is key. If the water is clear and doesn’t smell, it may be from condensation or a minor seal issue. However, if the water is discolored or has an odor, it might indicate a more serious problem with the sewer line or the toilet’s internal components.

Potential Risks of Ignoring a Leak

Ignoring a toilet base leak can lead to significant damage. Water can seep into the flooring, causing warping and rot, and potentially lead to mold growth, which poses health risks. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise the structural integrity of your bathroom floor.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor leaks can be addressed with a quick fix, it’s always safer to consult with a professional. If you’re unsure about the source of the leak or if the issue persists after attempting basic repairs, it’s time to call in the experts. Professionals can accurately diagnose the problem and provide effective solutions to prevent further damage.

Expert Bathroom Plumbing in Midvale

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we understand the stress and inconvenience a leaking toilet can cause. Our team of experienced professionals in Midvale, UT, is equipped to handle all your plumbing needs , ensuring your home remains safe and comfortable. Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem. Contact us today for a thorough inspection and reliable repairs. We also offer comprehensive drain cleaning and sewer repair.

Common Plumbing Scams That Every Homeowner Should Be Aware Of

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 06:52:25 GMT

When it comes to maintaining your home, plumbing issues can often lead to stress and confusion. Unfortunately, this stress can sometimes make homeowners vulnerable to scams. Understanding common plumbing scams can help you avoid being taken advantage of and ensure you receive honest, professional service. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’re dedicated to protecting our customers from such deceitful practices and providing reliable, transparent plumbing solutions.

Unnecessary Repairs and Overcharging

One of the most prevalent plumbing service scams involves unnecessary repairs and inflated charges. Some less reputable companies might recommend extensive repairs that aren’t actually needed or quote inflated prices to take advantage of your urgency. Always be cautious if a plumber suggests a series of repairs or upgrades that seem excessive. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we believe in transparent pricing and only perform work that’s truly necessary.

Emergency Service Fees

Plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but they can also attract unscrupulous businesses looking to capitalize on your distress. Be wary of companies that charge exorbitant fees for emergency services. While it’s normal to pay a premium for after-hours work, the charges should still be reasonable. We strive to offer fair pricing even during urgent situations, ensuring you know exactly what you’re paying for.

False Advertising and Unverified Credentials

Another common scam involves false advertising and unverified credentials. Some plumbers might advertise incredibly low rates or promotions that seem too good to be true. However, these can sometimes be bait-and-switch tactics, where the initial low rate turns into a much higher bill once the work begins. Additionally, ensure that any plumber you hire is properly licensed and insured. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we are fully licensed and provide clear, upfront information about our services and rates.

Unnecessary Upselling

Some companies might try to upsell products or services that you don’t need. For instance, a plumber might suggest that you replace your entire plumbing system when a simple repair would suffice. We prioritize honest assessments and only recommend solutions that align with your needs and budget.

Reputable Plumbing Services in Utah

To protect yourself from these scams, always research plumbers thoroughly, ask for references, and get multiple quotes before committing. At Rare Breed Plumbing, our commitment is to provide reliable, honest plumbing services in Midvale, UT, without any hidden surprises.

If you suspect you’re dealing with a scam or need a trustworthy plumbing service, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to offer the professional support you deserve. Call us today to schedule a drain cleaning inspection or another plumbing service!

What Causes a Slab Leak?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 06:55:02 GMT

Slab leaks can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, often leading to significant damage and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Understanding the causes of slab leaks can help you take preventive measures and seek timely professional assistance. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we specialize in identifying and repairing slab leaks , ensuring your home remains safe and secure. Here are the common causes of slab leaks and what you can do about them.

Poor Construction Quality

One of the primary causes of slab leaks is poor construction quality. If the pipes were not installed correctly or inferior materials were used, leaks can develop over time. Improper sealing, inadequate support, and faulty connections can all contribute to slab leaks. Ensuring your home is built by reputable professionals and using high-quality materials can prevent these issues from arising.

Soil Shifts and Settling

The soil beneath your home can shift and settle due to various factors, including natural settling, erosion, and seismic activity. These movements can place stress on the pipes running through the slab foundation, causing them to crack or break. Regular inspections and monitoring for signs of foundation movement can help detect potential issues early.

Corrosion

Corrosion is another common cause of slab leaks, particularly in older homes. Over time, pipes can corrode due to the chemical composition of the water or the surrounding soil. This corrosion weakens the pipes, leading to leaks. Using corrosion-resistant materials and regular maintenance can help mitigate this risk.

High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure can strain your plumbing system, causing pipes to develop leaks. High water pressure can damage pipes, joints, and connections, leading to slab leaks over time. Installing a pressure regulator and regularly checking your home’s water pressure can help prevent this issue.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots can grow and spread, searching for water sources, sometimes invading your plumbing system. These roots can wrap around pipes, exerting pressure and causing them to crack or burst. If you have trees near your home, regular inspections and maintenance can help detect and address root intrusion before it leads to a slab leak.

Abrasion and Friction

Pipes can naturally expand and contract due to temperature changes, leading to friction against the concrete slab or other pipes. This constant movement can cause pipes to wear down and develop leaks over time. Ensuring proper installation with adequate space for expansion and using protective sleeves can reduce this risk.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we are dedicated to helping you prevent and address slab leaks effectively. If you suspect a slab leak or want to take preventive measures for your plumbing system , contact us today. Our experienced technicians use advanced detection methods and repair techniques to ensure your home’s foundation remains leak-free and secure. Ask us about our sump pump services too!

Is Relining My Home Worth It?

Mon, 20 May 2024 06:57:20 GMT

When it comes to maintaining your home’s plumbing system, relining your pipes can be a highly effective solution. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we believe in offering the best services to ensure your plumbing system functions smoothly and efficiently. Here’s why relining your home’s pipes is worth considering.

Cost-Effective Solution

One of the most significant advantages of pipe relining is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional pipe replacement involves extensive digging, which can be labor-intensive and expensive. Relining, on the other hand, requires minimal excavation. This trenchless method reduces labor costs and minimizes the disruption to your property. You save money on both the project and potential landscaping repairs, making it a smart financial decision.

Durable and Long-Lasting

Relined pipes are incredibly durable and can last for decades. The relining process involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe, which then hardens and forms a new, seamless pipe within the old one. This new pipe is resistant to corrosion, root intrusion, and leaks. By choosing relining, you invest in a long-term solution that enhances the reliability and longevity of your plumbing system.

Environmentally Friendly

Relining is an eco-friendly option because it reduces the need for extensive excavation and the associated environmental impact. There’s less disruption to your yard, landscaping, and surrounding structures. Additionally, because the process involves rehabilitating existing pipes rather than replacing them entirely, it generates less waste. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we prioritize sustainable practices, and pipe relining aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Time-Efficient Process

Traditional pipe replacement can take days or even weeks, depending on the extent of the work required. Relining is a much quicker process. In many cases, the job can be completed in a day, minimizing inconvenience to you and your family. Our skilled technicians at Rare Breed Plumbing work efficiently to ensure your plumbing system is back up and running as quickly as possible.

Improved Water Flow and Quality

Over time, pipes can become clogged with mineral deposits, rust, and other debris. Relining your pipes can improve water flow and enhance water quality by providing a smooth, new surface for water to travel through. This can lead to better water pressure and cleaner water for your home.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we are dedicated to providing top-notch plumbing services that meet your needs. If you’re experiencing frequent leaks, reduced water pressure, or other plumbing issues, pipe relining might be the perfect solution. Contact us today to learn more about how our relining services can benefit your home and ensure a reliable plumbing system for years to come.

Chemical Drain Cleaning vs. Professional Drain Cleaning

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:01:12 GMT

Maintaining a clean and functional drainage system is crucial for every household. However, when faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions without fully understanding the potential risks involved. While these DIY methods might offer temporary relief, they often fail to address the root cause of the problem and can even lead to more serious issues down the line.

The Dangers of DIY Chemical Drain Cleaning

Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh ingredients such as lye, bleach, and acids, which can be extremely harmful to your plumbing system.
The corrosive nature of these chemicals can eat away at the pipes over time, leading to leaks, cracks, and even pipe bursts.
The fumes emitted by chemical drain cleaners can be harmful if inhaled, especially in poorly ventilated areas, causing irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning Services

Expertise and Experience: Professional plumbers have the knowledge and experience to identify the root cause of a drain problem and provide the most appropriate solution.
Use of Safe Methods: Professional plumbers use safe and environmentally friendly methods to clear clogs, such as drain snakes, hydro-jetters, and augers.
Comprehensive Cleaning: Professional drain cleaning services not only clear clogs but also clean the entire drainage system, ensuring that all debris and buildup are removed.
Cost-Effective: Professional drain cleaning services offer a cost-effective solution by addressing the problem effectively and preventing future issues.
Peace of Mind: By hiring professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing that your drain problems are being handled by experts.

Drain Cleaning Experts

While DIY solutions may seem cheaper initially, they can end up costing more in the long run due to potential damage and the need for frequent treatments. Professional drain cleaning services provide a safer and more effective solution, ensuring that your plumbing system remains in good condition and your family stays safe. So, next time you’re faced with a clogged drain, consider calling in the professionals for a thorough and reliable drain cleaning solution .

Is The Price Of A Tankless Water Heater Worth The Investment?

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 07:07:40 GMT

I am watching the sun rise in beautiful Hannah, Utah. I spent the night with two other plumbers so that in the morning, we could have a full day installing a tankless water heater that another company messed up only five years ago. Because of this, I wanted to share why I like tankless water when it is so easy to make a mistake.

I am going to try to be as unbiased as possible in this. It’s no secret that I am a big fan of tankless water heaters . But what you may not know is that many property management companies and other plumbers, especially old-school ones, absolutely despise them.

So why the drastic split? And why might I recommend you spend two, three, or even four times as much on a tankless water heater over another tank style ? I will cover EVERYTHING so you can make an absolute decision based on your lifestyle and worldview. I will cover both practical and emotional reasons behind it. You may be shocked which one sways you the most.

Connivence. Pros and Cons

Have you ever run out of hot water? And then ask yourself, do you find yourself hurrying in the shower to be considerate of others in your family? For MOST people, the answer is they don’t run out at all, or not often. But if you’re honest, after a ski trip, a family hike or camping trip, swimming at the lake or local pool. An unspoken rule is that adults shower first because they can be responsible for water usage. Teens, you get what’s left. And we are all going to hurry. You are guessing at how much hot water is left. But I am a plumber; I don’t have to guess! There are two standard-size water heaters, 40 or 50 gallons. You will get 80% of their capacity in one use. So, let’s size it to 50 gallons. A shower head is limited to 2.5 gallons per minute. You have 16 solid minutes of hot water running the shower on straight hot. With three people, the average household in Utah, they get a 5-minute shower. NOW! You don’t shower on a straight, hot day, right? Unless you’re a lava monster like my wife. You will mix it with cold based on how high your water heater is turned up. Let’s say it’s 75% hot water and 25% cold. Now you get 21 total minutes of showering. Maybe that’s enough, maybe not!

Let’s pivot to a scenario that I am much more familiar with because I don’t have teens; I have two small kids. When we get back from a trip, it’s not showers; it’s baths. Your bathtub will almost always completely drain its water capacity, and you need to wait an hour before you can take a shower.

There is a negative side to having unlimited hot water. You may never see your teens again. Sometimes, the water turning cold is the only reason they get out of the shower!

Suppose you’re anything like me after the first ski trip of the year or a long backpacking trip. I need some time. And in a hot shower without any time constraints. A tankless is a luxury that I can afford and enjoy! If you have ever shut the water off on your teenager because they will use up all the hot water. If you have ever had a baby with six blowouts in a day, if you are married to a lava monster like me, a tankless may make sense. A tank is perfect if you have a smaller family or enjoy just getting in and out and onto the next thing!

Water quality

As mentioned, a tankless water heater may cost up to four times as much as a tank style. Utah’s water quality contributes to this. I have tested it as high as 45 GPG, grains per gallon, in Herriman and bountiful, which, for the record, is really bad.

Now, again, this is the practical and emotional side of the story.

With a tankless, you need a softener or, at the very least, a water conditioner . Some people see this as a drawback. They don’t like the “slimy” feeling of showing with a softener. They don’t want to deal with salt; they don’t want to affect the taste of their water. This is like never eating ice cream because you don’t like the taste of the cone… it’s silly because there are easy ways around this!

That “slimy” feeling I have come to love. But if you hate it, we can add a bleeder for minimal cost and introduce 1-2 GPG or hardness back into your system. This will still protect your tankless and your fixtures. But I will also take away that feeling.

Suppose you don’t want to deal with salt. What if we put the salt barrel in your garage? That way, you won’t have to carry it anywhere. I did that on my home, and it’s my favorite plumbing improvement ever! But if that’s not enough, we can install a saltless water conditioning system that is cheaper than an average softener!

Taste changes. We can add a simple filter and completely fix that or step it up to an RO, and you will have great-tasting pure water anyway:)

But as a water nerd, I can tell you soft water is way better for you and your home. It is better for your skin and your children’s skin. Some studies and data show that bathing in soft water when young reduces the chance of developing eczema. It will dry out your hair less, keeping the coloring of your hair more vibrant. It will make the colors of your clothes more vibrant.

We all know the age-old adage: “A softener up to date keeps the service plumber away.” I can’t tell you how true that is. With a softener, your fixtures, appliances, and everything the water touches will not only last longer but also look newer longer! And it will save you hours of unnecessary cleaning.

So yes, it’s an added necessary expense. But I would invest in it whether you want a tankless or not.

Space

Tankless water heaters take up much less space, so we can typically fit a water heater and a softener in the area where you have a tank. For most people, however, you don’t care about the space in your utility room, so this is a minor factor. But for some, we have put a tankless in and added a box for a washing machine so they could have a mother-in-law’s apartment downstairs. With the average price of a square foot home in Utah at over $260, we could save you two whole feet! Over 500 dollars! I am joking, but two feet can make a big difference for some people.

Maintenance

This is hands down the most significant problem with a tankless water heater in most people’s minds. Manufacturers recommend flushing a tank water heater every year, but to be honest, you probably never have, and it hasn’t affected you.

A tankless water heater NEEDS to be flushed every year. Otherwise, you will have considerable problems in about five years. As we established in previous posts, we want them to last 15-25 years.

When you hear someone complain about their tankless water heater in a newly built home or a property management company saying they always have issues, 99% of the time, they skipped on a softener, never flushed it, or both.

From a tradesperson’s standpoint, your car needs an oil change; we all know and accept that. Your home is a much more significant investment and should get a once-over annually at a minimum.

You don’t need to call a plumber to flush your tankless, but our annual membership includes a water heater flush. You can get a kit for $100 on Amazon that you can use repeatedly and rinse yourself with white vinegar. If I install it for you, I will even wash it for free in the first year and show you how!

I can’t deny the convenience of no maintenance and forgetting about it. This one goes to the tank.

Flow

People who experienced the first-generation tankless and DIY people who didn’t size their unit correctly often bring up flow as an issue.

With a tankless, there is a FLOW restriction. It can only produce so much hot water at a time. Typically, in Utah, you will notice a drop in water pressure on your hot side if more than three showers run simultaneously.

Some blogs and reviews report they could only use 1 or 2 fixtures. But as you read on, you realize they had a unit sized for a completely different climate… The water in Arizona comes into your home at 70 degrees. It is warmed to 120, leaving a delta, or a difference of 50 degrees, that you need to heat the water. However, in Utah, your water enters at 20-40 degrees in the winter, so your tankless needs to heat it 80-100 degrees! That’s a big difference!

For this reason, I have had multiple customers worry that they will regret switching to a tankless tank. When sized correctly, however, you will always be okay. I have a mother-in-law’s apartment in my basement and have never seen a drop in pressure since putting in my tankless.

Cold water sandwich

Another common complaint about earlier models of tankless you may read about is cold-water sandwiches. This is when you are showering, someone else turns on the water, and you get a second or two of cold water before it goes hot again.

I haven’t experienced it, but it would be enough to want to tear my tankless right off the wall!

This unpleasant problem was widespread with early models of tankless water heaters, especially Noritz or Boshe. What would happen most of the time is that your water heater has different flame levels based on the rate of gallons per minute or how many fixtures in the house are used at one time. When it switched between flame levels, it often had a delay where it didn’t heat consistently. But these issues have entirely been solved with the newer tankless that we installed.

Cost

As I have said before, the cost of a tankless water heater may be up to four times as much as that of a typical water heater.

Installing a standard water heater will take 2-4 hours. For a tankless, you are looking at 8-16 person-hours to install correctly so I can give you that 5-10-year labor warranty. That is why you should hire a professional with extensive experience in these units. Here are a few factors that differ significantly from a conventional water heater.

Drainage

At least once a week, I am the second quote on a tankless water heater for a home with a cast iron floor drain. The first plumbers will not mention that to the customer or include a neutralizer in the bid. They may view it as “Job security.” Or they may need to learn it is required.

What is a neutralizer?

Like your furnace, when a tankless is heating, it produces condensate. This condensate is acidic and WILL stain concrete, kill plants, and eat through your metal floor drains!

You won’t hear about this much on YouTube; they don’t discuss it in plumbing school. But my whole career, I have been fixing what someone else replaced. And it will eat a hole at the bottom of your floor drain or, worse, the whole drain line under your home’s concrete.

Venting

Your vents must slope back towards the tankless, or your exhaust will make a bubbling sound after a few years of use. It also cannot be too close to an open window —this is very important!! When quoting this, we often tell the customer we need to cut a few holes that we can have someone patch. They think we are crazy because the last guy said he only needed one hole. While it’s true you only need one hole to get the vent out of the home. You will probably need a few to secure the pipe and verify you have the correct slope. Cutting holes sounds scary, but we have great people we trust to patch and paint, so you will never even know we were there!

We cannot use the same venting as your last water heater, which adds more work upfront. But once you get it done, replacing your tankless in 20 years will be much more affordable!

Gas pressure

An engineer planned your home’s gas with a regular water heater in mind. When we switch to a tankless, we will go from 38,000 BTU to 240,000 BTU! Many people will say. “Oh, as long as we have a 3/4 inch gas line, we are fine.” The truth is it’s more complicated than that. We need to look at your meter, the other gas appliances you have in your home, how much gas piping you have, what size, and what kind of piping to ensure you have a great experience with your tankless. Having an RFGA, gas-certified professional, is incredibly beneficial to ensure you have the correct gas and combustion for your tankless to last its entire life span.

Some more emotional arguments with logic

Prepper

Honestly, the tank style makes way more sense for someone with a prepper mentality. In an emergency with a tank, 50 gallons of usable water are stored conveniently in your home. This is true. Also, tankless need electricity to work. If the power goes out, we can get a battery backup that will do well for you. But on a tank, no electricity is needed. So, as long as the gas lines are functional, it will work! These factors are why I held off on getting tankless at the start of COVID-19, and I have some great points behind them! And I love Red Dawn as much as the next guy, so win the tank!

Go green!

We all know Utah has terrible air quality. Significantly, I grew up in Cache Valley. A traditional water heater has a pilot that is always burning. And as the unit cools down, the burner kicks on repeatedly! A tankless unit only lights when you turn on hot water, which is better for your carbon footprint and overall air quality. Because they are much more efficient, there are $600-$1000 in federal and local rebates for going tankless. There is also the argument that because you will save up to 34% on your gas consumption going tankless, you will save money there over time. However, with the low natural gas price in Utah, it is more of an emotional argument when you do the math. However, if you are on propane, the propane savings may make more sense!

Ultimately, to affect any environmental change, many individuals must make small changes so that I would give Tankless the win here!

Go green, or else…

In 2010, the DOE changed the standards of water heaters, making them more energy-efficient. In 2017, Utah required low-nox. There is a lot of speculation that the government first rebates, then they demand. They have already made tank-style water heaters more expensive and demanding. There is a bill proposed on a federal level that in 2029, we all switch to high-efficiency water heaters like tankless. And if I had to bet, it would pass. They did it with dishwashers, laundry machines, and all vehicles, and I think they will get it with water heaters as well.

Flooding

This is both logical and emotional. If your home is built right, your floor drain works, and your concrete slopes when your 50-gallon water heater springs a leak, most of it should be contained. I have been to many homes with severe leaks where one of these things isn’t right, and they have 50+ gallons of water in their basement, doing damage. With a tankless system, the slightest traces of water send an error code to protect the electrical, so you know about it before it gets out of hand.

For all these reasons, I like tankless. In short, it fits my life. I feel good about having it and like the relaxation and peace of mind it brings me!

Alternatives To A Gas Tankless

Electric Tankless

Garbage. They use a ridiculous amount of power and are not cost-effective if it’s not for a single bathroom with our incoming water temperature.

Heat Pumps

These are great things in hot climates, but they could be better in Utah. They take the hot air, put it into the water, and cool the air in your home, like a giant refrigerator. The problem in Utah is that the air in your utility closet is cold for half the year. Therefore, they don’t work effectively. Yes, there are tax breaks on them. But you will spend a fortune on electricity, which is not a good option.

Solar Water Heaters

I have only worked on 3 of these in Utah. My thoughts are… I am not impressed. I used these a lot in Arizona, but in Utah, I don’t think it is worth the price.

Call Rare Breed Plumbing if you are interested in learning more about tankless water heaters for your home!

What To Expect During a Bathroom Remodel

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:15:15 GMT

Are you considering a bathroom remodel but feeling unsure about what the process entails? At Rare Breed Plumbing , we understand that embarking on a renovation project can be both exciting and overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to guide you through what to expect during your bathroom remodel journey .

1. Initial Consultation

The first step is to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your vision, preferences, budget, and any specific requirements you have for your new bathroom. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and address any concerns you may have.

2. Design Phase

Once we have a clear understanding of your needs, our designers will work with you to create a customized plan for your bathroom remodel. This may include layout changes, fixture selections, material choices, and color schemes. We’ll present you with design options and collaborate with you to refine the plan until it aligns perfectly with your vision.

3. Product Selection

Choosing the right products and materials is crucial to the success of your remodel. We’ll guide you through the selection process, offering recommendations based on your preferences, budget, and the overall design concept. From tiles and countertops to fixtures and lighting, we’ll help you find the perfect elements to bring your vision to life.

4. Preparation and Demolition

Before construction can begin, we’ll prepare the space by removing existing fixtures, tiles, and any other elements that need to be replaced. Our team will take care to protect surrounding areas and minimize disruption to your home as much as possible.

5. Construction Phase

This is where the magic happens! Our skilled craftsmen will work diligently to bring your design to fruition. Whether it’s installing new plumbing, laying tile, or constructing custom cabinetry, we’ll ensure that every aspect of your remodel is completed with precision and attention to detail.

6. Final Touches and Finishing

As we near completion, we’ll add the finishing touches that will truly make your new bathroom shine. This may include installing fixtures, mirrors, hardware, and any additional decorative elements. We’ll also conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that everything meets our high standards of quality.

7. Reveal and Enjoy

Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for – the big reveal! We’ll unveil your newly renovated bathroom and walk you through the features and functionality of your updated space. It’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your beautiful new bathroom for years to come.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’re committed to making your bathroom remodel experience as seamless and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing consultation and take the first step towards transforming your bathroom into the oasis of your dreams. We also offer water heaters and other services, ask us more today!

Avoiding Plumbing Disasters

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 07:33:36 GMT

Master Plumbers recommend that you should exercise and turn on and off EVERY water shut-off in your home once a year to verify that it works in case of an emergency.

Last night I got a call after hours of a pour couple that was getting a washing machine delivered at 7:30 in the morning. She went to turn the water off to the unit and one of the sides started to leak. The other side she couldn’t even move. As a plumber this seems like a minor thing. But this lady had been up since 2 am to catch a flight home, had a long day, and this little disaster was incredibly disheartening. I raced over there and quickly replaced the shut-offs for her. In case you didn’t know plumbers are almost always the heroes in my stories �� This may seem like a minor thing, but this was best case scenario. I have been to the same call where an ice line to a fridge blows up and the shut off under the sink doesn’t work so they must shut down their whole home. Or that a toilet is overflowing and the same thing! It’s all preventable.

The Importance Of Routine Plumbing Maintenance

Pick a day in the year that you will remember to change your water filters, flush your water heater and exercise your water shut offs. I do it on New Year’s. But YOU should not do it on a holiday or going into a weekend… just in case.

Every fixture in your home should have an emergency shut off. Excluding the shower and the hose bibs. And there should be at least two major shut offs. The whole home and the water heater.

Some may be a multiturn, which I personally don’t like. And some will be a quarter turn, which I love! If it’s a quarter turn the shut off should be able to twist easy with no aid of any tools. There is almost no way to do this wrong. If it’s a major shut-off, make sure that the installer didn’t install it in such a way that it runs into something before it can be shut off all the way. I run into this more than I would like to admit.

If it’s a multiturn valve you should be able to turn it without the aid of plyers. If you see any corrosion on it don’t touch it and call your trusted plumber. When you turn it on and off it may start to leak at the packing nut. Which is the nut that holds the handle/stem to the actual valve. Normally tightening this 1/8 a turn will stop the leak but we should probably replace the valves.

I have a few exceptions to this rule. If you have an all-plastic Mana Block system. And you do not have a softener. I wouldn’t touch it. Or you WILL be calling a plumber . I would only use it for an extreme emergency or have a plumber test it and recommend a replacement for all copper if needed.

Also if you have CVPC piping be very very careful exercising your shut offs. The CPVC is brittle and can crack under the smallest pressure. If your worried give your trusted plumber a call.

If this is just something that you don’t want to deal with you can sign up for our Herd protection plan . Which is our plumbing membership. Its. $15 a month and we will come to your home once a year and do a complete evaluation including flushing the water heater, exercising valves and replacing filters. We will even deliver salt to your home.

If you or anyone you know needs a trustworthy plumber day or night , Call Rare Breed Plumbing

The Herd You Can Trust

Continuing Our Rebranding Journey

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:36:34 GMT

Rebranding has been the most expensive, stressful, decision my wife and I have made for the company. So why did we do it?

Rare Breed Plumbing had amazing reviews and reputation. So, we are not hiding anything. Many people assume we rebranded because we sold out or we are positioning to sell.

Nothing could be further from the truth we have not sold, and we can’t be bought!

So why do it?

Because I truly believe WE are building something special.

Our Rare Breed Vision

We have amazing leaders/ future leaders here. My position has shifted. I am now entirely in sales. But not plumbing sales. As owner its entirely on me to sell the vision. WHY are we different? Many places only focus on what do we do differently. But if your plumbing is fixed at the end of the day that’s all the same. The difference is how did you feel during the process, and WHY that is what has always impressed our customers and driven our reviews and referrals.

We are Empathetic not sympathetic to your real issues.
We are trustworthy because our integrity means more to us than anything.
We are accountable when we mess up, and we do mess up.
We are learners and educators, because we have a noble trade that needs to live on.

And all these things are why we are a Rare find.

Sure, a contractor returning your call is rare now days but that’s WHAT we do. Why we do it sees your project through to the best outcome.

I have watched a division in the industry. Unintentionally, employees have become a number. And customers have become a dollar sign. That needs to stop. And we can stop it.

I believe you can accomplish anything you want in life, if you don’t care who gets the credit. And I don’t want my last name on what we build together. WE are a Rare Breed, and WE are going to change the world.

Ask any of my team why they work here, and you will hear a hundred different reasons all pointing back to the same thing. Because they are valued here, because they are heard. Ask any of our customers why the use us and you will hear the same thing. The why is everything.

Why does our team go the extra mile? Because they know they are building something special here.

We are a premium service. Not because of our name, logo, or WHAT we do. We area a premium service because of WHY we do it.

And that is why WE are Rare Breed . And why I changed it to Rare Breed plumbing so we could more consistently and clearly convey the vision to our internal and external customers. That Why we do what we do makes all the difference.

Read Part One of our rebranding journey!

On Our Rebranding to Rare Breed Plumbing

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 07:40:05 GMT

I used to think that plumbers are overweight, dirty, and poor. That they are only smart enough to know that “s*** flows downhill and Payday is on Friday. They are not crazy strong like the concrete guys. They can’t step back with pride in their voice and say, “I built that” like skilled carpenters. My dad told me time and time again to be a plumber, and time and time again I rolled my eyes and thought “I am going to make real money on a 4-hour work week.”

Humble Beginnings

Like most people, my first year married to my wife, Maddie, really humbled me to how expensive life can be. Maddie and I were both at USU. She was studying to become a nurse, and I to be a mechanical engineer. I loved the idea of being an engineer; solving problems that no one else had solved. Working on something different all the time. But as we both got into more upper-level classes, we couldn’t maintain our grades and the same work schedule.

We got to the point that we would have to take out student loans or take some time off school. I didn’t love what I was doing enough to go into debt for it. After discussing it together, Maddie was much more passionate about being a nurse than I realistically was about being an engineer.

We made a plan to finish the semester and then I would take a break and enter the workforce full time.

Plumbing Apprenticeship

My dad knew our plans and sent me a KSL ad for Apex Plumbing, who were looking for an apprentice plumber. Beggars can’t be choosers, so I called and accepted a part time position as a service plumber. I started at $12 an hour…hardly something to be excited about.

After riding with the owner Howard, my whole perspective on plumbing changed. Every aspect that I enjoyed about engineering I was able to get in service plumbing and so much more. Every hour was a different problem to solve. We were detectives with wrenches!

Howard, who was an actual engineer and a plumber, could explain everything. We investigated leaks in ceilings that were 25 feet away from the leak’s origin but manifested there because of the water’s very high surface tension value. You had to understand the difference in pressure and flow. The difference between Ion bond water softening and Ion exchange. Water softening and how it can be better or worse for skin conditions like eczema. And a million other things.

I immediately knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I remember sitting on the couch of our trailer home crying in my wife’s arms telling her “This little trailer home is not what I promised you when we were dating, but I am happy doing this. If this is all we have in this life, would you be ok with that?” Of course, she was.

A New Drive

To further drive home the point, Howard was an amazing role model. Money wasn’t the objective to him. Helping people was the objective money happened to be a result of how much he could help. Working in that kind of environment really fills your soul. He had many of the same life ambitions as I did, we both wanted to serve missions with our wives when the time came. He was patient, kind, honest, and incredibly hard working. And all these things together were incredibly rare for me to experience all in one person.

As my plumbing career progressed, I realized that what Howard brought to the table was even more rare than I originally realized. At my plumbing school they taught what the code was, but few of the teachers understood why it was code in the same way Howard had taught me. We would go to calls all the time that 2 or three other plumbers had already been to and couldn’t find the root cause of the issue. They just threw numbers at the person to fix it with no explanation of what they would do to fix it. We would spend a few hours on it and find the real issue was a $200 simple repair.

A New Vision

I started to pay more attention to my education. I had the opportunity to learn from one of the best and I was going to live up to that. As amazing of an experience working for my friend Howard was, there came a time that I outgrew Apex Plumbing. There were so many more things that I wanted to learn about that were just not in the cards at a two-man plumbing company. My wife and I had two options. I could go work for someone else and try to fit in whatever box they allowed me to occupy, or we could take the jump and start our own company.

After many hours and days of consideration, we decided to leave Logan and move to Orem. Ultimately, the move was justified by capitalizing on a larger population, a verbal agreement from a small size company, and the ability to have more resources to learn from. To make our dreams a reality, many sacrifices were made. My wife took a break from school and began working full time for the highest paying job she could find so that our living expenses were covered. Then we dumped the rest of our savings into the tools and equipment Lundberg Service, LLC would need to service the few jobs we had starting out. I wasn’t trying to build anything magnificent, I wanted to just provide for my family and have the freedom to grow my plumbing skills.

Humble Beginnings, Pt. 2

It was a rough start. Most of my days in the first year were spent trying to find more customers with a $0 marketing budget. But the few customers I did have knew that they had found something rare. A contractor that was responsive, professional and truly trying to master their craft. Like Howard taught me, I was there to help people. Money was a consequence of how much value I added to them.

Afte, the first year, things really started taking off. I had more work than I knew what to do with, I worked every major holiday because there was always someone with a plumbing emergency and it was my duty to get them taken care of. Finally, I decided it was time to bring someone else in. For some reason I knew I didn’t want an experienced plumber. I wanted someone that was eager to learn. Someone I could teach and train the same way Howard did for me.

We brought on Bensen. It is still the best thing we have ever done as a company. Having an employee added so many new dimensions to Lundberg Services LLC. Now I had two sets of customers. My regular customers that needed their plumbing fixed and my internal customers, Bensen. He had needs too that were my responsibility to help with. He was newly married. Money was tight. He wanted to have a family and buy a home. He wanted to become the best plumber he possibly could. All these things I as his employer have a partial responsibility for. I had proven to myself that we can create a rare and special experience for our customers. Now, can we do the same for our teammates?

Creating a Future

We were no longer just trying to make a living anymore, we had to build a place where Bensen had a future. We had to put plans in place for us to provide him with health insurance for his little daughter. We had to be profitable enough that he could make a livable wage with this crazy inflation. We had to be large enough that if he wanted to he could have a position to grow into, and organized enough that he could continue to progress in his path to be a plumbing professional. Lundberg Services, LLC was a great name for my personal job. But not a great name for a career. I did my first little rebrand, and we got a DBA of Lundberg Plumbing.

Lundberg Grows

We started a Google Profile so customers could start to give us reviews. With our quality of work and core belief that the customer always comes first, we quickly became one of the best ranking plumbing companies in our area. We are the ONLY plumbing company that I know of that has maintained a perfect 5.0 star average and has over 500 reviews, currently we are at 595!

As our name and reputation has grown, we have started to attract new talent. Some with no experience and are ready to learn, and others that are very experienced plumbers knowing far more than me about boilers, sewer liners, high end remodels, and more. What we quickly found is that some of these people are a great fit…for another company.

At Lundberg Plumbing, we require a little bit more. We are not looking for someone that can turn a wrench. We are looking for integrity, honestly, and someone who truly has intrinsic motivation to do any task they are doing the right way. I truly believe how you do the small things is how you do all things. We do not maintain our 5.0 rating by throwing people at problems. We truly are a small group of the most elite plumbers in the state.

Taking Care of Our Team

We do require more of our guys, but we also take care of them more. Our guys work like dogs, but I check in with them weekly. How are you doing? Is your wife okay with how much you’re working? How is your mental health? One of my guys looked at me and said “I am tired, but I like it. I am actually heard here. And that has never been the case anywhere else I have worked.” I feel like this statement more than anything drove home to me that this is no longer Lundberg’s company. I am just holding the steering wheel. But this is our dream as a team that we are building.

Rebranding to Rare Breed

We are looking at 5, 10, 20 years into our team members’ futures and what they want to achieve. We know that our brand is an uphill battle for us. They are not trying to live up to my last name “Lundberg”, they are living up to a greater ideal that plumbers are licensed and trained professionals. That plumbers protect the health of the nation. That being a plumber is something to be proud of and working for this company in and of itself is a huge validation that they are one of the Rare few that are not only the best at what they do, but value driven. And the words “Lundberg Plumbing” do not adequately convey that to new customers.

So we are once again going through the forward thinking process of a rebrand to better convey to our internal team and external customers what we are all about. We are a Rare Breed™! We are not afraid of doing hard things. We are committed to developing good people because good people build great companies—and great companies change the world. We are going to change the negative view that I used to have about plumbers for this and future generations. We are going to elevate the standard of what you can expect from your plumbing professional.

As plumbers, we will never be as buff as the concrete guy. And even on our best day, it’s hard to make your toilet the most beautiful focal point of your home. But we are the front line to your families and homes health and safety.

I couldn’t be more grateful for the amazing families that have gotten us this far. We are still and always will be a family company dedicated to the individuals & families that keep us in business. We are Rare Breed Plumbing, The Herd you Can Trust!

Continuing Our Rebrand!

How Long Does It Take To Repair a Burst Pipe?

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 07:43:28 GMT

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we understand the urgency and concern that arises when dealing with a burst pipe. The time it takes to repair a burst pipe can vary depending on several factors, and our experienced plumbing company is committed to addressing the issue promptly and efficiently.

Oh no! Now What?

Upon receiving a service request for a burst pipe, our skilled plumbers prioritize the situation and strive to provide a swift response. The repair timeline is influenced by factors such as the severity of the damage, the location of the burst, and the type of plumbing system in place.

For minor pipe bursts that are easily accessible, repairs may be completed within a few hours. Our technicians are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and materials to expedite the process without compromising on quality. We understand the importance of restoring normalcy to your plumbing system as quickly as possible.

In cases where the burst pipe is concealed within walls or under flooring, the repair process may take a bit longer. Our team employs efficient diagnostic techniques to locate and assess the extent of the damage. Once identified, we proceed with precision to minimize any potential disruptions to your property.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we prioritize transparency, and our plumbers communicate with clients throughout the repair process. We provide detailed explanations of the required repairs, ensuring that you are informed every step of the way. This commitment to communication helps build trust and confidence in our services.

Signs you Need Pipe Repair

Recognizing the signs indicating a need for pipe repair is crucial to preventing extensive damage. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we want to help you identify potential issues early on. Watch out for persistent low water pressure, as this could indicate pipe blockages or leaks. Stains or discoloration on walls and ceilings may signal hidden pipe damage.

Unusual sounds like rattling or banging while water is running could point to loose or damaged pipes. Additionally, a sudden spike in your water bill without an apparent reason may indicate a hidden leak. If you observe any of these signs, contact Rare Breed Plumbing for swift and efficient pipe repair and repiping services.

Expert Burst Pipe Solutions

It’s essential to note that immediate action is crucial when dealing with a burst pipe to prevent further damage to your property. Our team is available to assist you with expert solutions for any plumbing repairs you may encounter. Contact Rare Breed Plumbing for timely and efficient resolution of your plumbing issues, we also offer Bountiful repiping , Midvale repiping and other plumbing solutions!

My Personal Experience With CRPS aka, Suicide Disease

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 07:45:51 GMT

Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with the “suicide disease.” CRPS. If you don’t know what CRPS is, you are not alone. There is a great documentary “Take Care of Maya” that is all about it on Netflix that you should check out. CRPS is considered the world’s most painful incurable disease. And when they call it the suicide disease it is not an exaggeration.

All my life I wouldn’t say I was responsible when it came to my physical health. I have had rock climbing accidents that landed me in the hospital with 8 broken bones. I have broken my ankle and ACL jumping off roofs when park core was cool. I have shattered my nose-diving into the shallow end of the pool. Overall, I have broken 12 bones and had multiple surgeries in my life and never taken pain pills or skipped a beat for any of them.

CRPS traumatized me to my core .

I was on a little bike ride in Saint George with my new bride Maddie. We were coming down Snow Canyon on beach cruisers and I was going way too quick for my impulse decision to bunny hop a speed bump. I did not stick to the landing. My foot came off the peddle and onto the ground. My knee hyperextended and I popped my ACL for the third time. As I fell, I reached out to catch myself and jammed my thumb extremely hard. I was already familiar enough with my ACL to know immediately what had happened and my hand, it would heal itself I thought.

The doctor told me there were a lot of people who never fixed their ACLs and lived healthy and active lives. So I decided I would withgo the opportunity to pop it a fourth time. A decision I still don’t regret. The doctor agreed and extended his hand to shake mine. I bashfully extended my left in an awkward fist bump. “He also hurt his hand,” Maddie informed the doctor. The doctor said we should get a quick x-ray and I grudgingly agreed. I am so glad I did. It turns out the corner of the thumb that connects to my muscle had broken off so it would not have ever healed properly for me to use that hand well again. We got scheduled for surgery to pin it back in place. Keep in mind the surgery went great and I experienced little to no pain during the healing. A few months later we were back to get the pins pulled out, and same day, started to drive from Utah to Connecticut for a summer of pest control.

Life was great all healed up and headed off on an adventure with my best friend.

We stopped in Draper for a game night with friends, and to crash out their couch before really hitting the road. That night I woke up screaming. It was like there was a blow torch on my hand. Nonstop white hot pain. My wife got me calmed from screams to a soft whimpering as she held my head rocked me and sang me church hymns. She didn’t know what to make of this and neither did I. All the pain pills I had turned back into the doctor on my final visit. But I would have given anything to numb the sensation. I was managing a door-to-door team and my surgery already delayed my start date so I felt we had to continue on and the pain would go away in its own.

As we drove to Connecticut every bump, turn, movement of any kind had me overwhelmed with pain. I took Tylenol to try to sleep on the drive and Maddie drove us. It was the weekend so I told myself to wait until Monday so we didn’t have to pay for urgent care. I am an incredibly stubborn person at times, and Maddie did not know quite how to handle me in this kind of situation. We made it to Cheyanne that night. It seemed like night made it worst because again it was insistent pain and crying.

Maddie put her foot down she said get up we are going to the urgent care. I didn’t have the strength to be stubborn at that point and got in the car. When we got there, we told them what was going on and that I needed some pain relief. The lady behind the desk didn’t give me two looks. We waited a few hours before they came out and said there was not really anything they could do for us. I knew they just thought I wanted prescription drugs and honestly, I don’t blame them. We decided to keep driving and got to Deimos Iowa. Once again, we stopped at an urgent care. They were more sympathetic. They did some tests and told us that we didn’t have an infection but that they also couldn’t give me any pills. They said to get pills we would need to either wait till we got to Connecticut or go back to Utah. We pushed on. The torch on my hand never running out of fuel or pulling its punches.

When we got to Connecticut our first stop was UConn hospital. My hand was swollen and red. It was shiny and warm to the touch. And it couldn’t be touched without sending a debilitating amount of pain through me. UConn went above and beyond to make sure my needs were addressed. They tested everything they could for infection. They called in second opinions. Probably a dozen doctors looked at my hand and then would leave the room to talk amongst themselves. Finally, they came in almost with a defeated look “We believe you have CRPS.”

Like most people I had never heard of it. “Ok so what do we do?”

“We are going to refer you to a pain specialist. CRPS is not something we can test for, but this seems to have all the signs of it and there is nothing else we can find that is wrong.”

When they left the room, I googled CRPS. Nothing on the internet I found brought me any comfort. One article was all about the effectiveness of amputation to cure CRPS and how it’s not a guarantee because the pain may continue with phantom limb syndrome. Every article I read went from bad to worst. And the only thing I knew was there is no way I can spend the rest of my life like this.

CRPS is in short, a misfunction of your nerves. They send strong signals of pain even though there is nothing wrong. I am so lucky/ grateful that I was treated by a facility that caught it and recognized it.

I called my mom and dad to tell them what was going on. By some miracle my mom was working for a pain specialist and told him of the situation. The doctor being familiar with CRPS and told my mom I needed to be on the first flight back. This was one day before I turned 26. The doctor said he would do the treatments for free but said we need to start now because if not treated early enough the effects are often permeant. I bought the first ticket back leaving my new bride in Connecticut to hold down the fort until I got back.

I researched and did absolutely everything that had any chance of working. The doctor gave me cortisol shots in my neck, I received multiple religious blessings. I changed my diet to eliminate sugar and carbs that said they were inflammatory. I did acupuncture and took up meditation, mirror therapy and even contacted a hypnotist. Nothing was off the table. I am so incredibly blessed that over the following months I was able to gain back most of the function in my hand. No stone was left unturned. No option was to ridiculous or difficult.

Because we caught it so early, I was able to make a nearly full recovery. Realizing that I could have lost my hand I know have a hyper awareness for my mental and physical health. And that of my employees. This experience also influenced my whole plumbing career and now company. Plumbing is one way I remember how fragile my health is. Working with my hands every day to fix peoples problems. Knowing the fear many tradesman have that they “cant do this forever” or “my back wont always support plumbing” the fear of not having insurance is a trial I no one should ever have to go through. That’s why when we started to get employees it became my number one priority to make sure that their bodies were kept safe. When my first employee informed us his wife was pregnant I knew that we had to make my dream a reality. My dream was to be a place to work that gives our plumbers full health insurance. And we made it happen.

All my employees have full health insurance they don’t live in fear of getting hurt on the job. We rarely get a price objection but when I do, it’s easy for me to have confidence in our pricing because we do more! We do more for our customers. And we do more for our employees. And because we do more, you can expect more from our company. They are proud to give it their all because they know they are not a number they are part of the vision and belief that we have the responsibility to elevate everyone we encounter. Rare Breed Plumbing is the company plumbers want to work for. Rare Breed Plumbing is the kind of local company I want to support.

Going through CRPS I had the opportunity to meet many people that didn’t catch it as early as me. I met a 24 year old girl that sprained her ankle when she was 12 and never has walked sense. I met an older man that only wore special sandals for the rest of his life because they “hurt less.”

Just last week I got a message from a, in his own words is “just a broken plumber who misses working so bad.” It may not be CRPS but it’s the same concept. As plumbers our health is our livelihood. And the plumber’s slogan is “to protect the health of the nation” so we better start with our own.

Now when I am plumbing there will be random times that it’s almost like I hit my funny bone but it only affects my hand and I will drop whatever tool I am holding. But that is rare.

We are the plumbers you can trust. We are here for your most desperate times. To not leave any rock un turned. We will get to the root cause of your problems and help you ever step of the way.

Rare Breed Plumbing
The Herd you can Trust!
Personal 385.244.5153
Business 385.308.7471

4 Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:48:51 GMT

Having a reliable source of hot water is an essential requirement for most homeowners. Hot water is needed for cleaning, bathing, and cooking, prompting the need for an energy-efficient water heater. Tankless water heaters continue to become more popular for a variety of reasons, so let’s go over some of their benefits.

1. Cost-Effective and Energy-Efficient

A traditional water heater constantly heats and reheats gallons of water to hold on standby for when you need it. In contrast, tankless water heaters only heat water on demand, using less energy and eliminating standby heat losses that typically occur with tank water heaters. Tankless heaters also deliver hot water in seconds, conserving water and lowering your utility bills.

Additionally, traditional water heaters are prone to sediment buildup. This can reduce the efficiency of the water heater, leading to lower water temperatures and higher electric bills.

2. Saves Space

Traditional tanked water heaters occupy a large area of your home, enough to store 40+ gallons of water. On the other hand, tankless water heaters are compact, making them ideal for homeowners with limited space in their homes. Tankless water heaters are typically mounted on walls, unlike traditional tanks that require large floor spaces.

3. Longevity

Tankless water heaters can last up to 10 years more than tank water heaters on average. While the average life span of a tank water heater can be 8-12 years, tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

4. Reliable Hot Water Supply

Tankless water heaters can provide your home with a constant hot water supply. Water use in your home can sometimes exceed the capacity of your tank water heaters, causing a huge inconvenience. For example, if several people need to shower, there may not be enough water in the tank water heater for everyone to use. You have to wait between people taking showers for the water to reheat.

But a tankless system continually heats the water as needed. This creates a virtually endless hot water supply that can meet high demand. Overly high demand can cause the heater to struggle, but there are a variety of capacities on the market, which means you can choose the one that will suit your water needs best.

Rely on the Experts

From cost-effective energy consumption to their space-saving design, longevity, and high hot water supply capacity, tankless water heaters are an excellent alternative to traditional tank water heaters. We also offer plumbing , heating, basement remodeling, and garbage disposal services in Midvale, UT and the surrounding areas. Contact experts from Rare Breed Plumbing to make the switch today and start enjoying the benefits of a tankless water heater in your home or business.

12 Signs Your Water Softener Is Working Properly

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:53:18 GMT

A well-functioning water softener is integral to maintaining water quality in households. Identifying signs of its proper operation ensures the mitigation of issues caused by hard water. Recognizing these indicators is crucial, and they include the following.

1. Reduced Mineral Buildup

A well-functioning water softener effectively reduces mineral buildup in pipes, faucets, and appliances. This reduction minimizes the formation of limescale, preventing clogs and corrosion.

2. Softer Skin and Hair

Softened water has fewer minerals, resulting in smoother skin and silkier hair. Without the harshness caused by hard water, individuals may experience less dryness and irritation.

3. Brighter and Cleaner Laundry

The absence of mineral deposits in softened water allows laundry detergents to work more efficiently. Clothes appear brighter, feel softer, and retain their color longer.

4. Improved Lather Formation

Soft water creates more lather with soaps and detergents, facilitating better cleaning. This enhanced lather allows for more effective washing and rinsing.

5. Extended Appliance Life Span

Reduced mineral accumulation in appliances, such as water heaters and dishwashers, extends their life span. Soft water prevents the scaling that can damage these appliances.

6. Less Soap and Detergent Usage

Soft water requires less soap and detergent to produce satisfactory cleaning results. This not only saves money but also contributes to environmental conservation.

7. Clearer Glassware and Dishes

Softened water prevents the cloudy residue caused by hard water on glassware and dishes. It helps maintain their sparkle and shine.

8. Maintained Water Pressure

A water softener that’s functioning properly ensures that mineral buildup doesn’t impede water flow, maintaining consistent water pressure throughout the household.

9. Consistent Water Hardness Levels

A well-operating water softener maintains consistent water hardness levels, ensuring the water quality remains steady and predictable.

10. Efficient Water Heating

Softened water enables water heaters to operate more efficiently by preventing mineral buildup. This efficiency leads to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.

11. Reduced Plumbing Issues

With less mineral accumulation in pipes, water softeners decrease the chances of plumbing issues such as blockages, leaks, and corrosion.

12. Regular Regeneration Cycles

A properly functioning water softener undergoes regular regeneration cycles as programmed. This process refreshes the resin bed, ensuring the system effectively removes minerals from the water.

Ready to ensure your water softener is functioning at its best? Contact us at Rare Breed Plumbing to schedule your water softener installation if you reside in Midvale or a nearby area. We are a BBB-accredited company, which shows that you can trust us with all the plumbing services you require. We also offer basement remodels and drain cleaning services, among others.

Garbage Disposals and Your Pipes

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 07:56:31 GMT

Can garbage disposals harm your pipes? Only if used improperly. Garbage disposals are designed to work with your plumbing and usually don’t cause any harm. If used properly, they can last up to 10 years.

How a Garbage Disposal Works

Contrary to popular belief, garbage disposals do not have blades. They use impellers, or lugs that are mounted on a spinning plate to push food waste against a grind ring, which breaks down the food into tiny particles. When you run the water while running your garbage disposal, it helps to move these food particles down your pipes and out of your home. If you overfill your disposal or put the wrong things down it, it could cause problems.

What to Not Put Down Your Drain

Garbage disposals are meant to grind up the leftover food on your plates. It is not meant to act as a trash can! Here are some foods that you should avoid putting down your sink:

Fibrous foods such as celery or corn husks
Bones
Grease and oil
Pasta or rice
Eggshells
Seeds or pits

All of these things can cause your garbage disposal to become clogged or damage the disposal impellers and your pipes .

Installing a Garbage Disposal in Midvale

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we strive to provide our customers with excellent services for all your plumbing needs in Midvale, UT. We offer garbage disposal installations you can trust to be done right the first time. If your garbage disposal is clogged, leaking, or has strange odors or sounds, our plumbers can also come to repair it for you. Our motto is fast, friendly and fair plumbing, and you can trust us to provide whatever plumbing service you require. Whether it be for your garbage disposal or for your pipes, drains, sump pumps, water heaters or boilers, we have you covered!

We also provide services for garbage disposals in Sandy, UT as well as in Bluffdale !

Keep These 5 Items Out of Your Garbage Disposal

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:58:54 GMT

Your garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance that simplifies cleanup after every meal. However, it’s important to remember that this appliance can’t handle every type of food. Keep your garbage disposal in top condition by avoiding putting these five items in it.

1. Hard-to-Grind Items

Your garbage disposal blades can handle plenty of foods, but hard-to-grind foods need to go in the trash can instead. Bones and fruit pits, for example, are too tough for the disposal’s blades. So, when you place these hard items in the disposal, they will wear the blades down and potentially reduce the life of your disposal.

2. Eggshells

Eggshells aren’t as tough as bones or fruit pits, but they shouldn’t be placed in the disposal, either. Although the disposal’s blades can break them up, too many eggshells can eventually clog your drain and lead to plumbing problems.

3. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds are another clog-causing item in garbage disposals . When you’re cleaning out your coffee maker, throw those wet coffee grounds into the trash, not down the drain. They’re sticky and hard to break up and, as a result, they can block your pipes.

4. Fat, Oil, or Grease

Fat, oil, and grease might go down the drain as liquids, but they’ll eventually solidify somewhere in your pipes. As a result, it’s essential to keep these items out of your disposal. So, next time you make bacon, dispose of any grease in the trash can instead.

5. Water-Absorbent Foods

Some foods, such as pasta and rice, absorb water when they cook. When you put these water-absorbing foods down your drain, they tend to absorb even more water, which can result in buildup and eventual clogs in your pipes .

Use Your Garbage Disposal Wisely

Extend your garbage disposal’s life by using it smartly. When you avoid putting these common clog-causing items down the drain, you’ll keep your disposal running without a problem. If a garbage disposal issue does strike, contact Rare Breed Plumbing. We can repair water heaters, garbage disposals, drains, and more. We service Midvale and the surrounding areas.

The 7 Most Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 08:12:33 GMT

If you get a slow, miserable trickle when turning on the taps in your Midvale, UT home, your water pressure is low. Low water pressure makes it difficult to effectively clean anything. Your dishwasher and washing machine will run longer, and you might spend your time in the shower seething with frustration. Keep reading for the seven most common causes of low water pressure.

1. Your Water Supply Pipes Have Mineral Buildup

If the water flowing into your home is excessively hard, your water supply lines could be riddled with hard water minerals. This buildup gradually blocks the pipes so that incoming water has less room to move. You can resolve this by scheduling hydro jetting or hydro steaming service. You can prevent it by putting a water softener in.

2. Damaged Pressure Reducing Valves

Pressure-reducing valves or pressure-regulating valves maintain balanced pressure within residential plumbing systems. Not all homes have them, but yours might if you struggled with excessively high water pressure in the past. If these valves ever become displaced or worn, a licensed plumber can solve the problem and restore adequate water flow.

3. Leaky Pipes

If any water supply line develops a leak, you’ll notice a significant decrease in water pressure at the related tap. If your main water supply line leaks, you’ll have low water pressure throughout the entire building.

4. Your Water Shut-Off Valve Is Partially Closed

During an overflow or flood event, you can minimize building damage by turning your water off at the main water supply. However, if you don’t fully reopen this valve after the problem is resolved, you’ll have low water pressure until you do.

5. Local Regulations Have Changed

Local municipalities periodically update their water pressure regulations. Given that utility companies must adhere to these guidelines, your only recourse could be having a water booster installed.

6. Age-Related Pipe Corrosion

Like hard water buildup, age-related corrosion gradually blocks supply pipes. If you have old, galvanized steel pipes in your home, now may be the time to replace them.

7. Water Supply Problems

If everyone in your neighborhood is experiencing low water pressure at the same time, the problem likely lies with your water company. To expedite repairs , contact your water company and report the issue even if other homeowners have already.

We proudly serve residents of Midvale, UT. We provide general plumbing, water heater , drain cleaning , and repiping services . If your water pressure is low, give Rare Breed Plumbing a call!

3 Reasons Why Tankless Water Heaters Are Suitable for Cold Climates

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:16:48 GMT

Tankless water heaters have gained significant popularity in recent years. Homeowners are warming up to ditching bulky storage tank heaters in favor of compact, energy-efficient units that provide hot water on demand. However, there’s one question that many people ask themselves when considering a tankless system: Do they work in cold climates?

The short answer is yes, tankless water heaters can work in cold climates. They perform better in these regions than traditional storage tank models. Here’s why.

1. Efficient Heating Technology

Tankless water heaters use advanced heating technology to deliver hot water almost instantly. Instead of continuously heating and storing hot water in a tank, tankless systems heat water as it flows through the unit. Consequently, they use less energy and produce less waste heat. This translates to significantly reduced energy bills and a more sustainable home heating solution in cold climates.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we’re proud to offer tankless water heater installation services to homeowners in Midvale, UT and the surrounding areas. Our team of professionals can help you select the right model that fits your home’s hot water needs.

2. Freeze Protection

One of the main concerns about using tankless water heaters in cold climates is the risk of freezing. Most manufacturers build their units with freeze protection features to address this issue. These features ensure that the unit’s internal components stay above freezing temperatures, even in the harshest winter weather conditions. With a properly installed and insulated tankless system, homeowners can enjoy reliable hot water year-round even when the temperature dips below freezing.

3. Proper Sizing and Installation

Proper sizing and installation are essential for the optimal performance of tankless water heaters. This is especially true in cold climates where the water temperature is naturally colder. A skilled technician can help determine the correct size of the tankless system needed for a home. By evaluating the existing plumbing, water usage, and other factors, the plumber can ensure that the system is appropriately sized for the climate and can produce hot water even in frigid conditions.

Learn more about the differences between storage tank heaters and tankless water heaters!

Tankless water heaters can deliver hot water reliably and efficiently in cold climates, provided they are sized properly, installed correctly, and maintained appropriately. If you live in an area with severe winter weather conditions and are considering a tankless water heater, it’s crucial to consult a licensed and experienced plumber.

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we provide expert residential diagnosis and repair for leaks, burst pipes, and backups. Our plumbers correctly install dishwashers, garbage disposals, water heaters , and washing machine connections in Bountiful, Sandy, and nearby Utah cities. Contact us today to see how we can help you!

Learn About the Pros and Cons of a Gas Water Heater

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:19:34 GMT

If you’re considering investing in a new water heater , the variety of options available can be overwhelming. One such option is the gas water heater. This device, powered primarily by natural gas or propane, has its unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Learning more about gas water heaters can help you determine if it’s the right choice for your home.

Speed

Gas water heaters are renowned for their quick heating capabilities. They can heat water twice as fast as their electric counterparts, ensuring that your hot water supply is replenished rapidly.

Operational Costs

While the initial installation cost may be higher, gas is typically cheaper than electricity. Therefore, over time, a gas water heater could reduce your energy bills, leading to significant savings.

Performance During Power Outages

Unlike electric heaters, gas models aren’t impacted by power outages. This ensures a steady hot water supply even during blackouts, increasing their reliability.

Installation Costs

Gas water heaters often require professional installation because setting up gas lines and ventilation systems is a complex process. This can increase the initial costs compared to electric models.

Potential Hazards

Using gas introduces the risk of gas leaks and explosions. While modern units have safety features to mitigate these risks, they can’t ever be completely eliminated. Regular maintenance is critical for safe operation.

Environmental Impact

While all energy sources have environmental implications, natural gas is a fossil fuel contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. This is something to bear in mind for those aiming for a low carbon footprint.

Choosing the right water heater depends on your specific needs, preferences, and situation. Gas water heaters provide a rapid and reliable hot water supply, often at a lower operational cost. However, they do require a larger initial investment and careful safety considerations.

Rare Breed Plumbing offers plumbing services for customers in Midvale and the surrounding areas. Our company also specializes in sump pump installation, garbage disposals, and water softeners. Feel free to reach out to Rare Breed Plumbing to learn more about our services.

The Pressure is On: Solving Low Water Pressure in Your Kitchen Sink

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:25:13 GMT

Have you ever wondered why the water pressure in your kitchen sink just isn’t up to par? It can be incredibly frustrating when you get blasted with cold water or just a trickle when trying to clean up quickly after dinner. The issue could be as simple as the angle of the hose or a hidden clog, but several other factors could be causing the problem. Here’s what you should look out for.

Clogged Aerator

If your kitchen sink has a small strainer at the end of the faucet, it’s likely an aerator. This little gadget can get clogged with dirt and debris over time, restricting the water flow. You should get a professional to open it up and give it a good scrub, or you can ask them to replace the aerator.

Overworked Pumps

Pumps are responsible for supplying water to your kitchen sink. If too much is running at once, the pressure will drop. To prevent this from happening, ensure you’re not running hot water and the dishwasher simultaneously. You should also not run multiple faucets at once.

Clogged Pipes

If debris collects in the pipes that lead to your kitchen sink, it can affect the water pressure. This is especially true if the pipes are old and haven’t been serviced. If you haven’t had your pipes checked in a while, now is the time to do it.

Bad Installation

If your kitchen sink was installed incorrectly, it could cause low water pressure. Make sure that the plumbing lines are correctly connected and not leaking. If you need help, it’s best to call a professional.

Outdated Plumbing System

If your kitchen sink is connected to an outdated plumbing system, it could cause low water pressure. Replacing old pipes with new ones can help improve the water pressure you get.

Now that you know what might be causing your kitchen sink’s low water pressure, it’s time to take action and get that water flowing freely again. You may need to enlist the help of a professional plumber like Rare Breed Plumbing if the issue is more complex. We can also help you with water heater installation, water softening, sump pump installation, and garbage disposal services in Midvale. Contact Rare Breed Plumbing today to learn more!

Why Is My Faucet Making Loud, Strange Noises?

Mon, 22 May 2023 08:27:35 GMT

Leaving problems with your faucets unfixed can result in costly plumbing repairs. Anytime you hear a strange noise coming from a faucet, contact the experts from Rare Breed Plumbing to schedule an inspection .

High Water Pressure

When water pressure is too high, the water forces its way through a spout faster than it can handle; this damages the faucet and creates a screeching noise. The only way to fix this issue is to have a plumber lower the water pressure going to the faucet.

Dirty Aerator

Aerators, which reduce water pressure and often come as a standard feature on faucets, can clog with mineral deposits from the water, leading to strange sounds. A plumber can clean or replace the aerator to determine whether it’s the source of your faucet problem.

Corroded or Clogged Pipes

If the faucet makes a banging noise when you turn it on, there’s a good chance you have a clogged drain or corroded pipes , or there’s a possibility that your home needs bigger pipes. For a clogged drain, a plumber can likely clear the obstruction. However, if the pipes are too small or corroded, you may need all new plumbing installed.

Loose Washers

Faucets come with several washers, and it’s common for them to become loose or worn out over time. When this happens, a plumber must take apart the whole faucet and install new washers, followed by reinstalling the faucet. Leaving a loose washer in a faucet can cause it to make a screaming or whistling sound with the water turned on.

Contact Rare Breed Plumbing for a Faucet Repair

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, getting your faucet fixed before it turns into a more costly repair could be a good idea. In addition to repairing faucets, we also provide a wide range of other services, including hot water installation, sump pump repair, water softener replacement and garbage disposal maintenance to our neighbors in Midvale, UT. Fix your faucet today by contacting Rare Breed Plumbing to schedule a faucet inspection.

Is It Okay to Flush the Toilet When the Power Has Gone Out?

Tue, 16 May 2023 08:33:11 GMT

A power outage can disrupt your daily routine. So many things that you rely on, from your computer to your microwave, won’t work. Can you still flush? It depends. If your home’s water and waste removal systems don’t rely on electricity, feel free to flush. If your home’s systems require electricity to function, you’ll need to be more cautious.

Situations Where You Can Flush

As long as you have a standard gravity-flush toilet and enough water, you can use your toilet normally. If you’re connected to municipal water and sewage, your toilets should work fine during power outages. If you get water from a well, you can probably still flush a few times. There may be enough water in your holding tanks to refill your toilet bowls after flushing. That being said, you might want to be conservative if you anticipate needing water for another purpose.

Situations Where You Can’t Flush

If you have a septic system that uses a pump to transfer waste from a tank to a secondary location, you may only be able to flush once or twice, if that. If you flush too many times and the tank fills, an unpleasant backup could occur. Also, if you have electricity-operated toilets, they won’t function at all without power. Some people have these toilets in their basements or in other isolated areas of the home. When your sewage system works but you don’t have any water, you can manually refill your toilet tanks with water so that you can continue to use the bathroom normally.

Ready to Help

Rare Breed Plumbing offers services related to toilets and other plumbing issues in the Midvale area. We run our business with honesty and integrity, and we keep our customers’ best interests in mind. We’d be happy to answer questions and discuss options with you. In addition to working with kitchen and bathroom plumbing fixtures, we have experience with garbage disposals, water heaters, and water softeners. Call to set up an appointment .

What to Do If Your Toilet Won’t Flush

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:30:09 GMT

Flushing the toilet in your Utah home and watching the water rise instead of go down can be anxiety-provoking. If your toilet won’t flush properly, there are a few potential causes. They vary from minor concerns to more severe plumbing issues. Here’s what you can do if your toilet won’t flush.

A Broken Toilet Handle

If you push on the toilet handle and nothing happens, it may indicate a broken or disconnected handle. The handle of your toilet is connected to a flapper valve by a small chain, located inside the toilet tank. Pressing down on the handle elevates the flapper, allowing water to flow out of the toilet bowl. Reattaching the chain if it’s fallen off may be all that’s needed. However, replacing the entire mechanism may be needed to restore proper function to your toilet.

Not Enough Water in Your Toilet Tank

If your toilet tank lacks sufficient water, it won’t flush due to inadequate water pressure for emptying the bowl. Ideally, the water level in the tank should be one inch below the top of the overflow tube. Adjusting the flush valve may resolve the issue in some cases. However, other potential causes could include toilet leaks , cracks in the toilet tank, or water pressure problems.

A Clogged Toilet

Your toilet is designed to handle specific quantities and types of waste. Toys, sanitary products or excessive amounts of toilet paper can cause clogs. Sometimes, using a plunger can resolve the issue and restore proper flow. However, more severe clogs may require the expertise of a professional plumber . They can use specialized tools to unclog the toilet and restore normal function.

Fast, Friendly, and Fair Plumbing Services

At Rare Breed Plumbing, we are proud to have expert plumbers who focus on the quality of service that our customers experience. We treat your home like our own, taking great care as we do our job.

Our services include general plumbing and the installation of garbage disposals, water heaters, washing machine connections and dishwashers. We offer residential maintenance services to keep your pipes, appliances and fixtures working as they should. Contact Rare Breed Plumbing today to let our team accurately fix your plumbing issues the first time.

Do I Need To Test My Home’s Water?

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 08:36:48 GMT

Why You Should Consider Home Water Testing

Having access to clean and safe drinking water is something that many of us don’t question when we turn on taps and faucets in our households. While we assume that our home’s water supply is safe for use and consumption, there are several reasons why it might be important to consider testing your home’s water supply . Contaminants in the water can cause a wide range of health problems, and in some cases, the effects may not be immediately apparent to you and your family members. Are you wondering what you may not be seeing in that glass of water? Here are some reasons to consider home water testing to ensure the safety of your supply.

Potential for Health Concerns

Drinking contaminated water has the potential to cause a wide range of health problems, including gastrointestinal illness, reproductive issues, and even cancer. Testing your water helps identify potential contaminants so that you can take steps to avoid and reduce the risk of health complications.

Aging Pipes and Plumbing

If your home was built before 1980, you may be dealing with lead pipes and solder, which can leach into the water supply and cause contamination of your water. Testing samples regularly will identify lead and other contaminants that have made their way into your supply, giving you valuable information when it comes to repair and replacement of plumbing fixtures.

You Own a Well

If you get your water from a private well, it’s critical to test your water regularly to ensure that it is safe to drink. Well water can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or other pollutants, and testing can help to identify any issues. Annual testing is best to ensure the cleanliness and safety of your drinking water.

You’ve Experienced Changes in Water Quality

If you’ve recently noticed changes in the taste, color, or odor of your water, it may be a sign that something is wrong with your supply. Testing your water can help to identify any changes in water quality and determine the cause of the issue, allowing you to make changes as needed.

Proactive Water Management Is Key to Health and Safety

Our business at Rare Breed Plumbing is an industry leader in providing superior plumbing services to residents of Midvale and the surrounding areas. With services related to plumbing repair, installation, service, water heater installation and service, and water testing, we will ensure that your plumbing is ready to deliver clean, safe water to you and your family members. Contact us today for an assessment of your home’s water, and look forward to stellar service from our professionals! We serve multiple cities in Utah, including Bountiful , Sandy , Layton , Kaysville , West Jordan , and Midvale .

Water Heaters: How Long Will They Last?

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 08:39:38 GMT

On average, a well-maintained water heater connected to high-quality water lasts between six and 15 years. Tanked systems don’t last as long as tankless units, even when they receive equal routine care. The lifespan of electric-powered units is longer than gas units by about two years. Other factors affecting durability are the quality of the installation and the frequency of use. Make your water heaters last longer by observing the following care tips.

Maintain the System Well

The first tip to get the most out of your water heater is to keep each component in top-notch work condition. Get professional annual cleaning services to remove hard water buildups such as rust and sediments from your heater tanks.

Replace Anode Rods

Another simple way to prolong your heater’s life is by replacing its anode rod. Replacing the anode rod when its surface is entirely corroded can significantly extend the life of the unit.

Flush the Tank

Finally, you can add more useful life to the water heater by flushing the tank once a year or more if you have very hard water. Problems can arise during this procedure, so it’s best to call a plumber who can perform other routine maintenance tasks while they’re there. If the tank isn’t flushed, sediments that settle at the bottom of the tank may cause corrosion, plug the unit’s drain valve, and shorten the unit’s life.

Rare Breed Plumbing is your go-to Midvale plumbing company when you need to extend the life of your water heater. We offer annual maintenance , regular repairs, and emergency services to keep your system working optimally. Other services include repairing and maintaining water softeners, plumbing fixtures and systems, and garbage disposals. Our team is dedicated to providing a quick response to all service calls. Contact Rare Breed Plumbing to schedule an appointment and get a free price quote.

Signs Your Home Needs a Water Softener

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:42:48 GMT

Do You Have Hard Water?

Your home’s water is considered hard when it contains a concentration of calcium, magnesium, and other metals that can be naturally dissolved in water. Hard water can negatively impact a number of daily tasks like washing dishes, doing laundry, and showering, but it can be improved by installing a water softener.

Water softeners remove the minerals that have dissolved in your water. This process usually involves swapping out magnesium and calcium ions for potassium or sodium ions. Here are a few of the most common signs your home would benefit from a water softener.

Stains on Sinks, Showers, and Clothing

The dissolved minerals and metals present in hard water leave stains on your sinks, showers, toilets, bathtubs, and clothing. Although there are cleaning methods that can help remove these stains, it’s best to install a water softener so they don’t continue to come back.

Dry Hair and Skin

The minerals found in hard water can cause your hair and skin to become dry and itchy. It can also create a barrier around your skin’s pores, which could lead to breakouts and inflammation. In addition, your soap doesn’t dissolve as well in hard water, which can impact the proper removal of bacteria and dirt when you bathe.

Limescale Buildup

If your water is hard, you’ll probably start to notice a buildup of limescale on your glasses, silverware, and pots. This chalky film can be difficult to remove and can also create buildup in appliances like your dishwasher or washing machine. This will cause extra wear and tear on these machines and can lead to costly repairs.

If you’re still unsure whether your home’s water is hard, you can elect to have it professionally tested . If you’re ready to install a water softener, our team at Rare Breed Plumbing can help. We are a full-service plumbing company that specializes in water heaters, water softeners, and garbage disposals. Call us today to set up an appointment.