You may have heard online or among friends that hard water can hurt your body, even your hair. Perhaps you’ve blown off their comments as parroting fad statements peddled by the newest “clarifying shampoo.”

However, the science behind these statements could prove the assertion true. Does hard water cause hair loss? As the top company for water softener installation in St. George, Utah, Iron Mountain Plumbing technicians have answers.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water contains high amounts of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals through absorption. While having some minerals in your water is normal and necessary, the amount of said minerals determines its effects. 

The EPA measures water softness or hardness by grains per gallon (gpg). By this measurement, one grain is 0.002 ounces of calcium or magnesium carbonate in a gallon of water.

Soft water typically tops at only 3 gpg, while moderate water has 3.5 to 7 gpg. Water with over 7.5 gpg is hard water. Exceedingly high calcium and magnesium content may appear in well, mineral, or high-pH water. 

Over 70% of U.S. wells have consistently hard water, and companies typically only offer preliminary softening treatment. While hard water reportedly doesn’t harm people’s health, it can negatively affect your property.

The Effects of Hard Water

The high mineral content in hard water can leave mineral deposits in pipes, making them more difficult to use. If you have hard water in your area, it affects every tool using water in your household.

For example, mineral buildup makes coffeemakers less efficient at filtering. Your water heater can cause more mineral development due to the high volumes of liquid and the heating process. Moreover, while harmless, water spots and stains on your dishes from the dishwasher look displeasing.

As the minerals build up, they can clog and degrade the quality of pipes, faucets, and appliances. Hard water can reduce their usable lifespans by weeks, if not months, based on how hard it is. The limescale buildup and reduced water pressure and flow could lead to clogs requiring professional help.

How Hard Water Can Affect Your Hair

Minding these factors, we find it’s fair to ask, “Does hard water cause hair loss?” Indeed, local water conditions can become a primary factor in non-genetic hair loss. Why is that when we can drink hard water?

Drinking hard water may not hurt your body because we naturally absorb and use calcium and magnesium. However, the same can’t be said for using it on our bodies.

Lack of Lather = Lack of Effectiveness

We use soap to remove debris, residue, and dead skin from our bodies. The lather removes dirt and grease by increasing the water’s surface tension. Increased surface tension means more friction, allowing users to clean their skin.

However, high mineral counts in water can affect the efficiency of soap, which some argue is directly related to our health. Magnesium and calcium carbonate hinder lathering, meaning the soap doesn’t pick up as much grime. Your body ends up less clean overall.

Making Layers on Your Skin

Have you ever felt a sort of scummy feeling after taking a shower? While certain soaps can produce that sensation, hard water could also be the culprit.

When the lather doesn’t work effectively, the minerals building up in pipes and faucets stay on your skin. This is why hard water is fine to drink but a systemic nightmare for bathing. Moreover, hard water can taste disgusting.

No current studies have shown that the layers prevent us from absorbing vitamin D from the sun. However, the calcium and magnesium buildups affect us by:

• Clogging pores
• Making hair strands tackier or more brittle
• Sometimes leading to bacterial growth and infections
• Preventing nourishing effects from shampoos and conditioners

Hard Water and Hair Loss

While the minerals don’t hurt your body, excess amounts can prevent it from functioning normally. It may lose volume and dry out without the ability to clean or nourish your hair. The damaged hair may then break off after a time.

Does hard water cause hair loss? In this case, the water is a contributing factor. Contrary to some reports, this may influence your mental, physical, or emotional health.

What You Can Do About Hard Water

The technicians at Iron Mountain Plumbing don’t like presenting problems without solutions. We have a few things you can try to help save your hair and maybe your sanity, too.

Use a Clarifying Shampoo

Some clarifying shampoo gimmick statements may not be completely off the mark.

Calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate have high pH levels between 9 to 11. Many shampoos have a high pH range of 3.5 to 5. With the addition of salt-removing ingredients, lower-pH clarifying shampoos can remove residue from your scalp.

However, we recommend consulting a dermatologist or cosmetologist before washing your hair with a product that may react negatively with your skin.

Use Leave-In Conditioners

Instead of combatting the mineral residue by stripping it away, leave-in conditioners give your scalp more time to absorb nutrients. This process helps bypass the layer of salts on your scalp and nourish your hair. However, like clarifying shampoos, these solutions are only temporary if you have hard water.

Install a Shower Filter

You can find a shower filter at a local hardware store to put on and reduce the minerals in your water. Many of these filters work on calcium, chlorine, magnesium, and other larger substances. 

Call Us To Install Your Water Softener

Does hard water cause hair loss? In simple terms, it can. Thankfully, we have the best solution.

Water softeners work more efficiently than shower filters, leave-in conditioners, and clarifying shampoos to reduce exposure to hard water. You can rely on our expert team for an easy installation. Iron Mountain Plumbing offers top-quality customer support and 24/7 emergency care in and around St. George, UT.

Call (435) 500-2576 today to learn how to know if you have hard water, which filters work best for your area, and more!

Have you noticed a weird gurgling sound when you flush your toilet? If so, you’re probably wondering, “Can a gurgling toilet fix itself?” Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about why your toilet gurgles and how to fix it.

As the most trusted plumbers in Cedar City, Utah, Iron Mountain Plumbing can fix your toilet quickly and with long-lasting results. Don’t waste your time and energy with DIY solutions when we make the process stress-free and affordable.

What Causes a Gurgling Toilet?

To understand why your toilet gurgles, you should first know how it works. When you flush the toilet, the water from the tank floods into the bowl, forcing the wastewater down into the toilet’s trap. This creates negative air pressure that pulls the water further into the pipes.

The water travels to your sewer line, where it combines with the waste from the rest of the neighborhood. As it exits your home, the fumes and exhaust from the sewage exit through the vent pipe that runs from your pipes up through the roof of your home.

A gurgling toilet means you have a blockage somewhere in your plumbing. The sound occurs when the formerly blocked water finally exits your pipes. The clog could reside in any of the following places:

• Your toilet’s P-trap
• A pipe within your home
• Your sewer line
• The vent pipe or stack

Why a Gurgling Toilet Won’t Fix Itself

Can a gurgling toilet fix itself? No, it won’t; when you hear gurgling in your toilet, it’s time to call in a professional plumber because the problem won’t resolve without help. 

The gurgling might stop for a time, but it always returns because blockages in your pipes don’t dislodge themselves. While many people think removing a clog yourself is the affordable and easy answer, doing so can cause significant problems for your pipes. Depending on the construction material, condition, and the type of clearing method you use, you could cause enough damage to burst your pipe and flood your home. Both the sewage and the drain cleaning chemicals can produce toxic fumes that seriously hurt your health if you handle them improperly.

How To Prevent Clogs in Your Toilet

The best way to deal with a clogged toilet is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Practice these habits to help prevent blocked toilets:

• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable materials down the toilet, such as feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, or kitty litter.
• Consider whether energy-efficient toilets are worth it, because the low flow rate makes them more susceptible to blockages.
• Regularly clean the tank and bowl.
• Schedule an annual inspection with a plumber to verify your pipes, drains, and sewer line are free of potential clogs.

How To Fix a Gurgling Toilet

How do the professionals fix a gurgling toilet? Depending on the severity and location of the clog, they’ll use any of the following methods.

Plunging the Toilet

Plunging the toilet is an easy and affordable way to clear minor blockages that are close to your toilet bowl. A plunger creates negative pressure that forces a surge of air through the pipes and dislodges the clog.

A flange plunger is better for removing toilet clogs, whereas the traditional bell-shaped plunger works better for sinks. The plumber will fill the flange plunger with water to act like a powerful water jet that increases the chances of dislodging the blockage.

Snaking the Toilet

If the clog offers moderate resistance or resides deeper into your pipes, the plumber can use a snake to reach far into the pipes and break down buildup. A snake is a long cable fitted with a screw-like ending. When the snake reaches the blockage, the plumber can twist or jam the snake into it, breaking down the conglomeration into smaller pieces. They can then use a plunger or flush the toilet to expel the clog from the pipes.

Clearing the Vent Stack

A clogged vent stack can cause the gurgling without blocking the flow of water. However, blocked vent pipes are still a problem because the foul sewer exhaust can enter your home and cause severe health problems and disease.

Your plumber can climb onto your roof and examine your vent stack for blockages. The most common causes of clogged vent pipes are nesting animals, leaves, or snow and ice. They can then use their hands or a snake to remove any blockages they find.

If none of those methods work, the plumber can dump hot or pressurized water down the stack to flush the blockage into your drainage system and out of your home.

Auguring the Sewer Line

If they believe the problem is a clog in the sewer line, your plumber can inspect it by entering through the basement or a capped pipe often located outdoors. For sewer line clogs, the plumber most often uses an augur, which is essentially a motorized snake. Able to reach much deeper than a manual snake, the augur uses its mechanical power to grind the blockage into tiny pieces.

Video Inspection

If the plumber can’t locate the clog, they can use a closed-circuit camera attached to a long cable. They thread the cable through the pipe work to determine the location and makeup of the blockage.

Hydrojetting

Hydrojetting uses pressurized water to break down the clog and expel it from your pipes. Hydrojetting can remove even the most stubborn blockages, like tree roots, but doesn’t risk damage to your pipes like an augur does.

Contact Iron Mountain Plumbing for All Your Plumbing Needs

Can a gurgling toilet fix itself? Unfortunately, no, and leaving it alone only leads to more severe clogging. When you hear your toilet gurgling, call Iron Mountain Plumbing immediately so we can prevent further complications.

From a bad toilet flapper to installing a brand new toilet, no job is too small. We approach every appointment with 100% dedication and work hard to leave you satisfied with our long-lasting and effective solutions. To book an appointment, call 435•241•7031.

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.

It’s easy to forget about your water heater as long as it works as it should. However, if you haven’t scheduled professional maintenance in a few years, your water heater may have hidden damage that could lead to an explosion. 

If you think your water heater could explode, you may think the best course of action is to cut the power. But can a water heater explode if turned off?

While turning off the water heater may work as a short-term solution, the safest thing to do is to call Iron Mountain Plumbing to schedule professional water heater services in St. George, Utah.

 

What Causes a Water Heater to Explode?

If you have an electric water heater, you may think you’re safe from an explosion, but that isn’t true. Gas leaks can cause explosions, but that’s not the only reason a water heater could explode.

The two main factors of a hot water heater explosion are excessive heat and internal pressure. Those factors, combined with malfunctioning safety components, can create an explosive force that destroys your home and injures your family.

As water heats up, thermal expansion increases pressure inside your water heater. Sediment inside the tank caused by rust or excess minerals acts as unwanted insulation, raising the temperature even more.

 

The Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

Known in the industry as the T&P valve, the temperature and pressure relief valve monitors changes within your water heater. If the temperature or internal pressure climbs to dangerous levels, the T&P valve opens, and cool water enters the tank to prevent an explosion.

There are two ways the T&P valve can malfunction. If it doesn’t open at all, pressure will continue to build until you have a disaster on your hands. If the valve stays open at all times, the water heater can’t maintain a consistent temperature and pressure level and could explode.

 

Signs of a Dangerous Water Heater

Water heater explosions are not as common as they once were, thanks to modern safety measures. Even with these measures in place, though, water heaters do explode sometimes. 

Can a water heater explode if turned off? If you suspect your water heater is about to explode, it’s safe to turn it off and call for emergency service. However, you shouldn’t plan to turn your water heater off as a form of maintenance. 

Call a qualified professional as soon as you notice any of the following signs.

 

Crackling or Popping Sounds 

Naturally occurring minerals in your water supply, like calcium and magnesium, build up inside your water heater tank over time. Air and water can end up trapped beneath the sediment layer, causing pressure to build up. High pressure creates the cracking and popping sounds.

Mysterious noises are often some of the early warning signs of water heater trouble. Hiring a professional to flush the tank and remove the sediment can restore a safe level of pressure inside the water heater.

 

Discolored Water

Orange or brown water could let you know you have too much sediment in your water heater before it starts to make popping sounds. Discolored water is an indication that your hot water heater could explode and that the water is not safe to drink. Don’t consume any water until a professional services your water heater and deems the water supply safe.

 

High Water Pressure

Everyone knows about the inconvenience of low water pressure, but did you know high water pressure is an even bigger problem? Your hot water heater has a safety feature called a pressure valve. It prevents too much pressure from building up as the tank heats water. If the pressure valve malfunctions, excessive pressure could build up inside the tank and create unusually high water pressure.

 

Shaking Water Tank

If the tank of your hot water heater starts shaking or vibrating, the pressure is dangerously high, and it could explode at any moment. Don’t hesitate to call for emergency service to avoid serious injury.

 

Extremely Hot Water

Your hot water heater has a thermostat to ensure it heats the water enough to kill bacteria but not so much that scalding hot water comes out of the faucet. A faulty thermostat could lead to dangerously hot water. The combination of high temperature and pressure could cause an explosion.

 

Rotten Egg Smell

If you have a gas water heater, stay alert for a rotten egg smell. Natural gas doesn’t have an odor, so the gas company adds a smell similar to sulfur. If you smell rotten eggs in your home or near your hot water heater, you could have a gas leak. Turn off the gas valve immediately and evacuate your home before calling 9-1-1 to report the gas leak.

 

How to Keep Your Water Heater From Exploding

You know your water heater could explode if it has too much sediment, a gas leak, or damaged safety components. The best way to know your water heater is safe is by scheduling regular maintenance. A qualified professional can check for corrosion and damaged parts that could make your water tank unsafe. Replacing damaged parts can help prevent your water heater from exploding. 

Regular maintenance can keep you safe and lower your monthly bills. The longer a water heater operates with too much corrosion or damaged parts, the less efficient it is at providing hot water. A well-maintained water heater works more efficiently by using less energy to provide hot water for you and your family.

 

Stay Safe With Regular Water Heater Service

When your water heater creates too much pressure and the water temperature climbs to an unsafe level, your water heater could explode. Scheduling professional maintenance can help avoid serious problems by correcting small issues along the way. 

Can a water heater explode if turned off? No, but you don’t want to think of turning your water heater off as a safety measure in place of professional water heater repair. To schedule service with Iron Mountain Plumbing, call 435•241•7031 or book online through our contact form.

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.

Every St. George, Utah, homeowner needs clean water to drink and bathe in. Installing a top-notch water softener on your property is one of the best ways to ensure your home supplies fresh, mineral-free water that won’t adversely affect your health or plumbing system. However, many residents don’t know whether water softeners remove chlorine from their water supply, making them hesitant to purchase such a device.

So, does a water softener remove chlorine? To teach you more about water softeners, Iron Mountain Plumbing created this short guide explaining their function and filter capabilities.

Iron Mountain Plumbing is one of St. George, Utah’s leading professional plumbing companies. If you want top-quality water softener services in St. George, UT, contact Iron Mountain Plumbing.

 

What Is a Water Softener?

Water softeners are residential filtration systems that eliminate minerals from your home’s water supply. They convert hard water (water with high mineral content) into soft water (water with minimal or no minerals), significantly improving water quality and preventing issues that negatively impact your pipes and plumbing fixtures. Without a water softener, your plumbing system is vulnerable to scale buildup, decreased water pressure, and burst pipes.

Water softeners eliminate minerals through a process known as ion exchange. They push hard water through numerous polystyrene resin beads (or something similar) that grasp the mineral ions as the water flows through them, eradicating the minerals before they reach your home. 

 

Why Remove Chlorine From Your Home’s Water Supply?

Although trace amounts of chlorine help sanitize water by eradicating potentially dangerous organisms while preventing future growth, chlorine can be detrimental in large quantities. It can make your drinking water taste a bit off and can cause your hair and skin to dry out. Excess chlorine within your water supply can also lead to:

• •  Strange or foul-smelling water

• •  Bleached clothes

• •  Piping issues

•  Damaged rubber gaskets

 

Will a Water Softener Remove Chlorine From Your Water?

So, does a water softener remove chlorine from residential water supplies?

Although high-quality water softeners will remove some chlorine from your water, this isn’t their primary purpose. Water softeners prioritize removing minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium over other elements like chlorine. Their main objective is to convert hard water into soft water to make it taste better and prevent various issues within your piping system. 

Excessive chlorine can adversely affect your water softener’s performance, longevity, and quality. When chlorine levels exceed one ppm (parts per million), they can destroy the polystyrene bead resin within the unit, drastically diminishing its performance. It won’t be able to generate soft water as well, leaving you with unsatisfactory water you’ll want to avoid. 

High chlorine levels may also shorten your water softener’s lifespan by several years, forcing you to replace your unit prematurely. They will destroy the device’s gaskets, pistons, gears, and other mechanisms that are often costly to repair.

 

How To Remove Chlorine From Your Water

Although traditional water softeners won’t eliminate chlorine from your water supply, there are ways to eradicate it and improve your home’s water quality. Below are a few effective ways to remove chlorine from your water.

 

Add Granular Activated Carbon to Your Water Softener

Adding granular activated carbon (GAC) to your water softener’s resin bed is a surefire way to reduce chlorine and improve water quality. It combines with the softener’s resin, allowing it to filter out excess chlorine before reaching your plumbing fixtures. The mixture can last up to three years, ensuring your water stays safe and chlorine-free.

However, it’s important to note that traditional water softener resin can last up to ten years without granular activated carbon. It’s incredibly hard to remove GAC once it combines with the resin, requiring you to replace the resin when it’s time to refill the GAC. 

 

Install a Reverse Osmosis System

Installing a top-quality reverse osmosis system on your property is one of the best ways to eliminate chlorine from your water supply. Reverse osmosis systems push water through multiple membranes and filters that catch chlorine and remove it from the water. 

Pairing a reverse osmosis system with a water softener will improve water quality while reducing your softener’s wear and tear. The reverse osmosis device eradicates chlorine from the water before it reaches your softener, helping it preserve its internal components while giving you a second line of defense against contaminants.

 

Invest in Whole-House Filters

Whole-house filters act like traditional filters but indiscriminately treat the water in every plumbing fixture. They efficiently remove chlorine and other adverse minerals before the water reaches your glass, providing tasty, clean hydration for you and your family.

However, keep in mind that whole-house filters don’t convert hard water into soft water, so you’ll still need a water softener. That said, there are all-in-one devices that both filter and soften water. While these systems usually cost a bit more than traditional filters and softeners, they prevent you from buying and installing two separate units.

In short, while most water softeners remove small amounts of chlorine from your home’s water supply, they don’t eliminate all of it. To avoid chlorinated water, you must install an additional system or enhance the softer with upgrades or granular activated carbon. 

If you’re unsure which water softener and/or filter works best for your home or need professional installation services, contact Iron Mountain Plumbing. Our team will handle all your water purification needs at a price that fits your budget.

 

Contact Iron Mountain Plumbing for Exceptional Plumbing Services in St. George, Utah

If you’re unhappy with your home’s water quality and wonder, “Does a water softener remove chlorine?” contact Iron Mountain Plumbing. We are your trusted whole-home water filtration service in St. George, Utah, and will ensure your water remains safe and pristine year-round. Regardless of your plumbing needs, our team has the experience and expertise to get the job done.

Give Iron Mountain Plumbing a call at (435) 422-4667, and see what our plumbers can do for you in St. George, Utah, today!

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.

Toilet bubbling when the shower is running

As you prepare for a relaxing shower, you might gather your favorite clean towel and a bar of fresh-smelling soap before pulling back the shower curtain. You reach toward the faucet and turn the faucets, waiting for the perfect water temperature before stepping under the deluge. But just before you step in, you hear an unsettling gurgling noise coming from the toilet.

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running? Iron Mountain Plumbing, reliable plumbers in Cedar City, UT, provides some possible answers to this question below. 

How Your Property’s Plumbing Works

The drainage system bears a striking resemblance to a tree. Picture roots running beneath your home, with branches reaching various rooms. Your residential drainage system looks similar.

• Roots: Like the roots of a tree, the sewer drain runs far beneath the ground. Waste from your home’s upper levels travels downward to the drain. The drain line transports it to the municipal sewer system for treatment.  
• Trunk: The drain pipe reaches upward like a tree trunk.
• Branches: Each tub, sink, toilet, and shower shoots off this main drain pipe like a tree’s branches. The waste contents travel through the main line and down to the sewage system. 
• Treetop: Like a treetop, the vent pipe is the uppermost part of your drainage system. Its job is to release trapped gasses from the waste contents as they slide downward. 

Visualizing your drainage system will help you better grasp the plumbing issues behind your gurgling toilet. And we list seven possible reasons for the sound below.

#1 Sewer Drain Blockage

A sewer drain blockage forms beneath the offshoots of toilets, sinks, and showers. Water and waste normally sink to the bottom while air rises toward the top. However, as the blockage grows, air and liquid struggle to move through the drain. 

Then, as your shower drains, water trickles down the shower drain and into the sewer drain, forcing some of the air away. The air chooses the path of least resistance (in this case, your toilet). When the air escapes through your toilet drain, it disturbs the water.  

#2 Vent Pipe Blockage

The vent pipe’s opening at your roof allows trapped air to escape your drain pipe. It prevents sewage gasses from escaping through plumbing drains and entering your home. If the vent pipe develops a blockage, it traps the air. 

Once again, using the path of least resistance, these gasses will likely push through your toilet drain as an escape outlet. Nasty smells often accompany these gasses due to the nature of the bacteria. 

#3 why does my Toilet kee Clogging

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running? The other toilets in your home might also be the main culprits. 

Is a toilet located below the gurgling one? If it develops a clog, it could produce an air surge that escapes through the toilet sharing a bathroom with the shower. 

The water from the shower flows downward with gravity, moving air out of its way. It has to move upward to make room for the draining water, and that’s why it arrives at your toilet while you take a shower.

#4 Shower Clog

Does your shower drain have a potential clog? Since it shares a drainage branch with the toilet, the trapped air’s nearest escape route is the toilet. The air will emerge through your toilet bowl, making the water bubble and gurgle as it rises. 

#5 Municipal Sewer Line or Septic Tank Issue

Sometimes municipal sewer lines develop clogs too. A section of sewer pipe will trap the constant flow of waste and water, resulting in trapped gas seeking an escape route. The closer the blockage is to your home, the more likely your toilet will provide a sufficient escape route. 

When you shower or drain your bath water, copious amounts of liquid travel downward. Gasses must push past the water to find a release upline. Since toilets often have broader, more accommodating drains, the gasses can travel through them more easily. 

Contact your local water authority to report the issue. Similar issues can occur from septic tank failure, including the following:

• Slow water drainage
• Swampy areas on your lawn
• Unpleasant odors arising from the septic tank

#6 Poor Pipe Installation

Finally, improper plumbing installation often factors into constant blockages and inappropriate gas releases. Drain lines and pipes that branch from them require specific slopes to accommodate adequate waste flushing. Without the proper slope measurements, water and waste can move too quickly or slowly. 

The air caught in the mix finds the route offering the least resistance and speediest escape. The gas disturbs the water in your porcelain throne as it rises. A professional plumber can inspect the plumbing system with a special video camera to identify the source of the installation issue.   

Why Do Blockages Form in the Plumbing System?

• Mineral buildup: Most water supplies contain minerals like calcium, sodium, and magnesium. These minerals may collect on drain and sewer lines, creating a slow but stubborn blockage. 
• Waste collection: Sometimes, waste doesn’t move through your drainage line. Large waste clumps become lodged in narrow spaces. The waste creates a clog that prevents water and other substances from rinsing down the drain line. 
• Disposal of inappropriate substances: You should only flush soap and water down most drains. Toilets can handle toilet paper. However, other substances can snag on pipes and collect other debris. 

How To Solve These Plumbing Issues

You can easily dislodge minor clogs located near the drains using the following:

• Sink or toilet plungers
• Homemade drain cleaning solutions
• Drain snakes

If you try these methods with no complete resolution, request an inspection from a local plumber. 

Why Is My Toilet Bubbling When The Shower Is Running? Let Iron Mountain Plumbing Solve The Problem! 

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running?

Iron Mountain Plumbing has answers for this and many other questions involving toilet repair. Call 435-334-5617 today to schedule an inspection and request a repair quote!

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.

Cause of a hot water heater to stop working

Every property needs a consistent hot water supply for daily living and working activities. We typically get our hot water from boilers or water heaters. However, even with those systems to rely on, occupants sometimes find out that they’ve run out of hot water.

What would cause a hot water heater to stop working? Iron Mountain Plumbing handles St. George’s water heater services, and our experts have a few answers. Read more to learn what could prevent your water heater from working properly.

Need Repairs? Review Your Warranty Before Diagnosis

If you check the system yourself, you could break the warranty on newer water heaters. You should see the warranty years on the sales receipt or the manufacturer’s website. Find the rating plate, which should have pertinent information you may need to tell your manufacturer.

You can ask your manufacturer about what they cover. They usually don’t cover damage from daily use and regular wear and tear. Still, if you believe the issue may be from something else, they may be able to check and cover repairs to your system.

Safety First When Diagnosing Water Heaters

Before you begin investigating your system, be sure you know and practice common safety precautions. For example, you should turn off the circuit breaker for an electric water heater or the gas valve for a gas model. Gas and electricity are either highly flammable or pose a shock hazard, both of which can be fatal with mishandling.

You should also open the cold water supply valve to release tank pressure and prevent damage to the internal elements. Also, reach to the bottom of the tank and open the drain valve to keep you from scalding yourself with hot water. If you anticipate working with any wiring, use a voltage tester to ensure none has an active charge.

Common Reasons a Water Heater Stops Working

What causes a water heater to stop working depends on the type of water heater you have. While not every water heater has the same parts, many models present similar issues. Review common water heater problems to see whether any of the following symptoms sound familiar.

#1. Thermostat Issues or Malfunctions

If the water comes out of the faucet too hot or too cold, that could indicate a problem with the thermostat. Like your HVAC system, water heaters use a thermostat to dictate water temperature. Anywhere including and between 120 to 140 degrees meets antibacterial standards without scalding skin.

However, someone could accidentally adjust the thermostat to be too hot or cold. Check the one for your water heater system to see whether it is at the right temperature or needs adjustment. If you adjust it but it changes to something incorrect by itself, call a technician.

#2. Water Heater Leaking

Water heaters already use a lot of energy  around 29% of your energy bill relates to heating aspects within your home. If you notice that your utility expenses keep increasing, there could be a leak in your water heater. You should also check whether your system has poor water pressure or quickly runs out of hot water.

A leaking water heater has to keep fruitlessly heating new water. This process takes up energy and often doesn’t leave you with enough hot water for daily activities. Check around your system and see whether you notice pooling or dripping water.

#3. Faulty or Broken Heating Element

Some water heaters use a heating element to add heat energy to the water you use. If yours malfunctions or breaks, the system may overwork itself yet fail to provide hot water. No matter what faucet you turn on, you will notice a lack of hot water, requiring emergency services.

Digital multimeters can test the water heater’s voltage and ensure it has and is using energy. You can either do this part by yourself or call a high-quality technician. If you don’t receive a response from the multimeter, you must replace the heating element.

#4. Gas Leaks

You may not think of this, but the cause of a broken water heater could reveal itself with an odor.

Be careful if you have trouble getting hot water and notice a rotten smell around your water heater. If you use gas to fuel your water heater, the smell could signify a gas leak. Follow these steps when you suspect a gas leak is causing your problems:

• Evacuate the premises as quickly as possible
• Do not flip light switches on or off, as sparks could ignite the gas
• Leave the doors open as you and others evacuate to allow airflow
• Once outside, remain at least 300 feet away from the property
• Call your gas provider to notify them of the issue and 911 for assistance
• Call a trustworthy gas line repair contractor 

#5. Faulty Anode Rod

An anode rod should protect the inside of your water heater from collecting minerals and forming rust or corrosion. However, as the anode rod breaks down, the tank can begin to degrade. This issue often presents as an odd taste or smell from your water or discolored, brown water from your faucets.

You should replace your anode rod every three to five years, but if it breaks down early, replace it immediately. Before checking the rod, you should turn off and drain your water heater to keep from scalding yourself. If the tank, instead of the rod, collects rust and suffers from corrosion, you need to call an expert assistance.

Call Iron Mountain Plumbing for Top-Quality Water Heater Care

We’ve covered some of what would cause a hot water heater to stop working, but not everything. For a detailed diagnosis of your water heater system, call on Iron Mountain Plumbing. Our licensed and highly trained technicians know the ins and outs of many hot water heaters, no matter the brand or fuel type. Iron Mountain Plumbing serves Washington County, UT, and surrounding areas, including St. George, Toquerville, and Pine Valley. When your water heater smells like gas, or if you notice rusty residue in your bathwater, call (435) 422-4667 for expert water heater repair!

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.

Do you have a problem with your home’s water quality? Call Iron Mountain Plumbing today at (435) 422-4667 for custom solutions.

When you hear the term “hard water,” you’ll most likely want to know what determines the hardness or softness of the water and where the water flowing throughout your home falls.

As the leading providers of water softener services in St. George, Utah, we know the impact of hard water in any home. So, how do you know if you have hard water? We’ll cover the top signs to watch for and more in this post.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water has a high amount of minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. Soft or normal water also contains these minerals but in moderate quantities.

Thus, most water softeners work by reducing the concentration of these minerals in the water. Water hardness is a problem common with homes that depend on groundwater sources, but it can also present in homes that use municipal water sources.

Five Signs You Have Hard Water

How do you know if you have hard water flowing through your pipes? The first thing you should do is to watch for the most common signs. They include the following:

1. Stubborn Soap Scum

Do you find soap scum all over your bathroom walls, even after rinsing? Do you have soap residue all over your hands after washing clothes or doing the dishes? It’s a clear sign that the excess calcium in the water is reacting with other minerals.  

With soft water, you’ll get heavy bubbles when you’re washing. And after you rinse, you won’t find any dried-out residues on the surface where you washed or on your hands.

2. Dry Skin and Hair

Your skin is delicate. Therefore, it will most likely show you some signs if you have hard water. One of the first signs is skin dryness, but you should also watch for other signs like psoriasis, eczema, itchiness, and acne flare-ups.

If you always feel itchy after washing or taking a bath, it’s a good idea to check for water hardness.

Similarly, hard water will make washing off the shampoo from your hair very difficult. Over time, this problem will make your hair look dry, limp, and unhealthy.

3. Regular Plumbing Trouble

The high mineral content in your water can cause mineral buildup in your pipes. Over time, you’ll experience plumbing issues like persistent clogs, a reduction in water pressure, and more. Appliances and fixtures that use water may also break down frequently across your home.

For faucets and other fixtures, you’ll find white spots around or inside them.

4. Stained Clothes 

Do your clothes have stains or a dull appearance after several washing cycles? It’s a sign that you have excessive minerals in your water.

5. General Trouble With Using Soap

Do you find yourself using a lot more soap than necessary because you can’t seem to work up enough lather? That’s a common sign that you have hard water. The minerals in the water will react with the soap, reducing its efficacy.

So, if your favorite soap is no longer as effective as it once was, you may have to look beyond the soap manufacturers.

How to Confirm You Have Hard Water

How do you know if you have hard water for certain? You can determine the quality of your water by running a few confirmatory tests. Here are some of the things you can do:

Analyze the Local Water Testing Report

If you see any of the signs above, you can request the latest water testing report from your provider. The report will itemize all documented contaminants in your water and the concentration levels for each one.

You can expect to see the levels of mineral content, amount of pesticides, and more. The report will also show hardness and other water properties like turbidity, conductance, and pH levels.

Hire Your Local Plumbing Company for a Test

An experienced plumbing company that provides water hardness tests can come out to your home to complete a test or collect some samples for testing at a local laboratory.

Complete a DIY Water Hardness Test

Many home improvement stores have DIY water test kits that will change color if certain ions are present in the water. You can compare the color results to the accompanying color chart to see the mineral concentration in your water.

What Is the Solution to Water Hardness?

If you confirm the presence of hard water in your home, you can deal with it in two major ways:

Get a Water Softener

A water softener is a type of water softening system that uses the process of ion exchange to remove excess minerals in your water. The setup features a mineral tank that contains a special resin that can remove magnesium and calcium while infusing sodium ions from another compartment known as the brine pack.

With the softener working, you will notice significant improvements in the quality of your water. All those signs of hard water, like stubborn residue, scale buildup, and reduced water pressure, will disappear almost immediately.

Use a Water Conditioner

Unlike a water softener, a water conditioner will not remove the excess minerals. Instead, it will alter their properties to make the water more malleable. It will reduce the probability of mineral buildup and will make your water easier to use for washing and cleaning.

Find the Perfect Water Hardness Solution for Your Home

How do you know if you have hard water without professional guidance? Granted, you can use DIY test kits, but only if you know how to interpret the readings. It’s best to work with an experienced plumbing company for a thorough analysis and to set up the perfect solution for your home.

That’s where we come in.

Our experienced team at Iron Mountain Plumbing has helped many homeowners improve the quality of their water, and we can help you too. Call us at (435) 422-4667 to schedule a consultation and say goodbye to all the effects of hard water.

A number of components can degrade to cause the water inside of the porcelain throne and a sense of panic to rise. Any toilet troubles are an unsanitary pain, especially if the toilet water overflows onto the floor, precious rugs, and discarded laundry. But can a bad flapper cause a toilet to overflow in this way?

At Iron Mountain Plumbing, Cedar City’s reliable plumbers, we see these issues daily. Here, we share more about the reasons behind an overflowing toilet so that you can, hopefully, avoid facing this messy business in your bathroom.

Stopping the Overflow in Your Toilet

Before diagnosing the problem, you might want to put an end to the seemingly endless flow of water emanating from your toilet. Toilet overflow can cause structural damage to any home or business once it soaks into the building materials. It could also contain bacteria, viruses, and other microbes associated with sewage and unsanitary substances.

One way to stop the water involves handling the components inside the toilet tank. Remove the tank lid and push down on the flapper valveit looks like a large, circular piece of rubberto allow your toilet tank to refill. Doing so should trigger the toilet to stop running.

Next, turn off the toilet’s main water supply. This move will prevent any further water from entering the toilet tank or bowl in case the problem continues.

• Locate the pipe that runs from your toilet tank to the wall.
• You’ll notice another metal valve with a turning handle. Turn it for a tightly sealed-off main water supply.

Can a Bad Flapper Cause a Toilet to Overflow?

Now that you’ve eliminated further water flow, you can assess the situation. Many toilet components can fail, causing that dreaded, aggressive flow of water that hovers at the toilet bowl’s rim and threatens to ruin your day.

Can a bad flapper cause a toilet to overflow? Yes, it absolutely can. The flapper is the flat, rubbery piece at the bottom of a toilet tank, easily identifiable by its circular shape.

It gets its name from the floppy disconnected area at the top that allows water to flow from the tank to the bowl. Most flapper valves have a chain attached to them. The chain connects to the mechanism responsible for opening and closing the flap.

Although the flapper may look like a nondescript piece of plumbing, it plays an essential role in the function of all toilets, including smart models with cutting-edge capabilities. When your toilet has leaky valves or pipes of any variety, they can cause serious damage. But since flappers are directly responsible for the water filling your toilet bowl, you should check on their integrity first.

Signs of a Bad Flapper or Flapper Valve

How do you know your toilet needs a new flapper valve? Most property owners don’t check their tank’s contents at all. Plus, flapper valves are fairly sturdy and have a lifespan lasting up to five years.

However, if you don’t check on it occasionally, you may not notice when it has deteriorated or shifted out of position. So, as soon as you notice your toilet is not working correctly, you should look under your toilet tank’s hood. Some signs that your flapper valve needs professional attention may include the following:

• Water constantly trickling down the edges of your toilet bowl
• Previous plumbing services have revealed toilet blockages or clogged drains
• Excessive water usage increasing water bills
• Unusual or loud flushing noises compared to normal

If you pick up on any of these tell-tale signs, you might want to troubleshoot your toilet before you have a disaster on your hands.

How to Troubleshoot for a Bad Flapper Valve

Can a bad flapper cause a toilet to overflow if you don’t see much evidence of a problem? How do you troubleshoot a toilet’s flapper valve if you get it wrong? And shouldn’t you leave diagnostics up to trained plumbers?

In most instances, you should. Plumbing repairs are delicate services on a complex system. However, testing for flapper valve failure is uncomplicated.

• Locate a tube of food coloring.
• Open your toilet tank.
• Add a few drops of liquid to the tank’s contents (too much will stain the porcelain!)
• Let the coloring settle for half an hour.

After 30 minutes, return to the toilet for a diagnostic inspection. If you see no color in the tank’s water or find the bowl’s water tinted, then the flapper valve needs professional attention. If the tank still holds the food coloring, then the flapper valve is still doing its job well!

Flapper Replacement Services

If you’ve determined that your flapper valve allows water to trickle from the tank to the bowl, you need flapper replacement services from a qualified plumber like Iron Mountain Plumbing. DIY methods could accidentally break the replacement valve, damage something else, or incorrectly install the new part, all of which easily lead to unwanted plumbing disasters.

Qualified plumbers will verify that the flapper is your only area of concern, checking the fill valve and then sourcing the perfect fit for your toilet model. They’ll also install everything correctly so that it gives you another five years of hassle-free toilet use. After the service, you can use your toilet in peace again, knowing that the bowl’s contents won’t sneak up on you post-flush.

Other Reasons for Toilet Overflow

If you test the flapper with food coloring only to discover the flapper works perfectly, you could have myriad other plumbing issues on your hands. Whether it’s a faulty toilet component or a deeper plumbing and sewage system issue, common reasons for toilet overflow include the following:

• Mineral buildup in pipes
• Low water pressure
• Tree roots infiltrating sewage lines
• A full septic tank

In all cases, only an experienced plumber can get to the root of the issue.

Solve Your Toilet Troubles with Iron Mountain Plumbing

Can a bad flapper cause a toilet to overflow? Yes, it can, along with various other potential issues. After troubleshooting for a bad flapper as per above, why not call 435-500-2576 for toilet repair services from Iron Mountain Plumbing?

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.

 

Is your water heater racking up your energy bills? Schedule an inspection with Iron Mountain Plumbing.

Water heaters use ample amounts of energy to fuel the hard work of raising water temperatures. You need your water heater to work reliably or else your showers and baths become a gauntlet of uncomfortable challenges. But hot water heaters can sometimes use more energy than what homeowners are used to.

Can a bad hot water heater affect an electric bill? At Iron Mountain Plumbing, our team provides expert water heater services in St. George, UT. We answer this question and offer some reasons why your water heater might use so much energy each month. 

Can a Bad Hot Water Heater Affect an Electric Bill?

Yes, a bad hot water heater can affect your electric bill. It can also affect your water bill. Water heaters typically keep their tanks full of water at all times. They require either gas or electricity to raise the water to your desired temperature.

Even when a gas or electric water heater works perfectly well, it can still create a hefty water or energy bill each month depending on how you use it. So a water heater that doesn’t work efficiently will have an unprecedented influence on your monthly expenses. Explore some of the reasons water heater problems can greatly influence your utility bills. 

Outdated, Inefficient Heaters

Like any other appliance, a water heater has an eventual expiration date. Its lifespan depends on the model and how you maintain it throughout your ownership. 

• Gas water heaters may last ten years or longer.
• Electric water heaters can last up to 15 years.
• Tankless water heaters have a lifespan lasting around 20 years. 
• On-demand heaters can last anywhere from 15 to 25 years. 

But even the most advanced and well-maintained heater will eventually become outdated.

If you’ve noticed your energy or water bills depleting your bank account, think back to when you had your heater installed. A durable, hardwearing heater might need one or two repairs. But a heater that shows visible signs of disrepair probably needs complete replacement. 

Leaky or Faulty Components

When certain parts fail to work efficiently, they too can influence the energy consumption of your household. Sometimes, major components like water heater tanks develop damage that causes pressure or leaks. Other times, a smaller part like a valve can slowly become rusted, unbeknownst to you.

In either case, the damage eventually leads to the appliance using more resources to do its job. A skilled technician can troubleshoot, diagnose, and solve the problem with professional repairs. Most of the time, the part is small and relatively inexpensive. However, some repairs warrant complete replacement services due to the price of the part and the condition of other pertinent components.

Avoid attempting part replacements by yourself. When an unskilled person attempts such tasks, they can further damage the water heater. 

Higher Energy Usage

Can a bad water heater affect an electric bill? Electric water heaters certainly can. One of the first signs of water heater failure is a sharp increase in your electricity bill. If you own a gas water heater, you might notice more expensive gas bills.

Should these issues catch your attention, try to investigate them. Stay alert for odd smells or sounds coming from the water heater. You can also inspect it for visible damage.

Electric water heaters often use more resources simply because they struggle to effectively complete the task for which they were designed. For example, you might run out of hot water more quickly. Your water heater may fail to heat cold water promptly.

Higher gas bills often signify a gas leak. This situation is often dangerous for plants, animals, and people. If you have skyrocketing gas bills because of your water heater, turn off your water heater. Call for emergency services and professional help immediately to ensure no harm comes to you, your property, or other people. 

Incorrect Heater Size

Another common reason behind high energy bills is water heaters that don’t fit the building or occupants’ needs. Some homeowners try to save money by purchasing an undersized water heater, only to pay more monthly expenses. If a water heater can’t keep up with household demands, it will inevitably use more resources to heat up and disperse hot water throughout a building. 

Mineral Buildup

Mineral buildup can cause similar problems to undersized water heaters. In areas with hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium are common throughout the water. As the water travels throughout the plumbing system, the minerals may stick to the piping and appliances that use water.

This becomes a serious problem for water heaters. Since a water heater raises the temperature of the water, it effectively serves as a separator for minerals and water. The minerals will solidify and stick to the inner walls of the tank, gradually taking up more space over time.

You’ll notice this problem when:

• Water overheats quickly
• Your household uses up all hot water faster than normal
• Your water heater requires more energy to continuously heat a never-ending stream of water

You can prevent these issues by scheduling professional plumbers to drain and clean out the heater’s tank each year. This service eliminates mineral buildup and keeps your appliance working flawlessly for years to come. 

What to Check to Prevent Exorbitant Resource Usage

When you notice your energy bills consistently climbing, you should check on your water heater for a few common issues such as:

• Demanding thermostat settings
• Damage or corrosion on the water heater and its components
• Puddles that may indicate leaky areas
• Mineral buildup around valves and other connective components

The thermostat should be set no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You can easily reset the temperature on your own.

Any other issues require professional assistance to ensure that you can safely use the water heater. 

Let Iron Mountain Plumbing Diagnose the Problem

Can a bad hot water heater affect an electric bill? It absolutely can. It can also affect gas and water bills.

Tired of ever-increasing energy bills? Call 435-334-5617 to schedule water heater repair services from Iron Mountain Plumbing.

Homeowners who are new to water softeners generally have some questions about how they work. As the top choice for water softener installation in St. George, Utah, we answer as many of these questions as possible when they bring them to us.

One of the most common questions we’ve received in recent times is about the frequency of regeneration. How often should a water softener regenerate? What does the process entail? We’ll cover the details in this post.

What Is Water Softener Regeneration?

The process of regeneration in a water softener flushes out minerals from the resin beads. It’s an important process that makes sure the beads don’t become oversaturated with minerals.

When water from the city pipes or your underground well pass through the resin beads in your water softener, the sodium in the beads will trigger an ion swap, removing the minerals in the water and replacing them with sodium. When the beads become clogged with minerals, this exchange can no longer work. That’s when regeneration kicks in.

The regeneration process draws on the salt you add to the softener to replenish the sodium the resin beads need to function properly. After removing the minerals, the resin beads can return to doing their jobs.

Regeneration is an integral part of a water softener’s function. If your system doesn’t regenerate at regular intervals, it’s a sign that something is wrong and that you’re probably getting hard or semi-hard water for your everyday usage.

The Right Frequency for Water Softener Regeneration

So, how often should a water softener regenerate? Most systems will regenerate every couple of days or once a week. However, the right answer is it depends. Many modern softeners have an automated schedule, but most of them allow you to tweak the schedule manually.

Some of the factors that determine the frequency of your water softener’s regeneration include:

• The water’s initial hardness level. The water softener may need to regenerate two to three times per week if your water level is hard.
• Iron content. You’ll likely experience more frequent regeneration if your water is high in iron.
• Frequency of water usage. If your household uses up water quickly, the water softener will need to regenerate more frequently to keep up with the demand.
• Resin tank capacity. The larger the tank, the longer it will take for the resin to become saturated and require regeneration.
• System age. Like other such systems, most water softeners will lose capacity over time. So, they’ll need to regenerate more often to keep up with water demand.
• Chemical deterioration. The system will need to regenerate faster if there’s a high level of chlorine in the water.
• Type of control valve. Timer-controlled valves will regenerate more frequently than demand-controlled valves. If you hear the system running at odd hours, you most likely have a timer-controlled valve.

How Long Does the Water Softener Regeneration Process Take?

Water softener regeneration may take up to 90 minutes to complete. The exact duration will come down to the size of the resin beads compartment. So, when you hear the tank running for longer than half an hour, there’s no need to worry.

How Much Water Does Water Softener Regeneration Consume?

Depending on the hardiness of the water supplies, water softeners in most homes across Utah will need around 20 to 25 gallons of water to complete regeneration.

Many people have voiced concerns about how wasteful the process is. However, the overall benefits of having water devoid of hard chemicals and minerals outweigh the cons. Remember, you’ll waste a lot more water trying to wash with hard water. You also can’t cook with it.

What To Do When Your Water Softener Doesn’t Regenerate

While it’s normal to worry about your water softener running too frequently, a system that doesn’t seem to regenerate at all brings a new level of concern. However, there’s usually an explanation for why a water softener isn’t regenerating. It’s not always a sign that the unit is broken.

The softener may not regenerate if you have a demand-controlled valve and your water usage habits have changed in recent times. If you have a time-based schedule, you may have adjusted the settings accidentally. Additionally, there will be no water regeneration if you forget to add salt to the brine tank.

What To Do When Water Softener Can’t Stop Regenerating

On rare occasions, homeowners have reported that their softeners can’t seem to stop regenerating. If you notice this problem, it’s highly likely that you have a clog in the connection somewhere. The first places to look are the venturi valve, the drain line, and the brine valve.

Low water pressure can also keep the softener running longer than it should. Therefore, it’s best to call in an expert for a proper diagnosis of the problem.

Why Do Water Softeners Regenerate at Odd Hours?

If your water softener always seems to regenerate in the middle of the night, you have a timer-controlled system. Manufacturers set the regeneration time to the hours of the day when water usage is unlikely so that the regeneration can complete without interference.

If you change the time to standard waking hours, you run the risk of introducing mineral-laden hard water into your home. Using your faucets while the softener is regenerating means you’ll get unprocessed (and sometimes cloudy) water. If you do it frequently, your plumbing system will start to suffer from the impact of hard water.

Solve Your Water Softener Problems Today

How often should a water softener regenerate? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as you’ve seen above. However, you should now have an idea of what to expect.

If you have a demand-controlled system and don’t have a large household, your water softener will not regenerate frequently. On the other hand, a timer-controlled system will run at the same time every few days or every week.

For definitive guidance on how your system operates, call 435•241•7031 to schedule a consultation with the Iron Mountain Plumbing team today. We can also install whole-home water filtration systems for you.

Author Bio:
Daniel Tanner
Owner / Managing Member. Iron Mountain Plumbing is located in Cedar City, Utah. This organization primarily operates in the Plumbing Contractors business / industry within the Construction – Special Trade Contractors sector.