October 5th is World Financial Planning Day and the Elmer’s team wants to help you make the most of the money that you put into your home. Plumbing is a complex part of your house systems that can involve homeowners, local jurisdictions, and independent gas companies. However, preventative maintenance and inspections are almost always available as do-it-yourself tasks to save money toward other financial milestones. Keep reading for insights into your home’s plumbing and how to mitigate potential issues.
Maintain Your Gas or Electric Heaters
The average cost of a water heater can start at $1,200. This investment, alone, provides a good reason for regularly checking on its performance. Be sure to keep up with the recommended flushing of your water heater at least once a year to prevent sediment buildup and keep it functioning without strain. If you’re noticing issues in your heater’s performance, try to pinpoint them yourself before calling a professional. The proper person to contact will depend on what kind of water heater you have and whether the issue involves a gas leak, electrical failure, or another tank mechanism. Water leaks are another sign that your heater will need repair and it’s important that they be addressed immediately to alleviate the chances of long-term damage or a bigger mess.
Consider Going Tankless
While the cost of a tankless water heater can start at $2,400, planning to install one once your gas or electric heater needs replacing can come with significant benefits. What you’ll spend upfront will contribute to reducing long-term waste and increasing savings, as tankless water heaters are longer-lasting systems that take up less space than a traditional tank heater.
Whether you’re looking to make this your forever home or sell it down the line, these heaters will save you money in the long run, ensure an endless supply of hot water, and are sought after in the housing market. If you’re looking for a new home and are determining how much house you can afford, consider prioritizing efficient home systems such as tankless heaters, central air, solar panels, and rainwater collection systems as specialty items in your budget that will allow you to get the most from your buy while contributing to a more sustainable future. Including these investments in your home buying budget will allow you to save more money long term.
Clean and Inspect to Promote Longevity
With home systems and plumbing, it can be easy to let unseen buildup occur until pipes, filters, and other items are essentially non-functional, compromising your health and budget. The professionals at Elmer’s specialize in a variety of routine drain and sewer maintenance to ensure that you’ll have continuous access to safe, healthy water and air. Regular cleaning and inspection can keep your pipes in working order for longer and will give you peace of mind knowing that no backup will occur in your home.
Keep an eye out for smells of mold in your home, visible water spots on ceilings, and spikes in your water bills, as these can indicate an internal break in your water line. While easy to identify, it’s important to bring in professionals to diagnose and repair the necessary piping or valves. Elmer’s offers both regular and emergency services to cover everything from kitchen garbage disposal repair to major gas and water leaks. Call us today to plan your home’s maintenance for happier finances and a healthier home!