Category: Blog

Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

Tankless Water Heater Maintenance:
Keeping Your System Running Efficiently

Tankless water heaters represent a sophisticated solution for Medford, Somerville and Cambridge, MA area homeowners seeking energy efficiency and endless hot water. At Big Blue Plumbing and Heating, we understand the unique maintenance needs of these advanced systems.

Key Maintenance Highlights

  • Annual Professional Service: Critical for preventing mineral buildup and maintaining system efficiency
  • Water Quality Management: Essential to protect your tankless water heater from hard water damage
  • Early Warning Detection: Identifying potential issues before they become significant problems

Regular maintenance is crucial for tankless water heaters. Unlike traditional tank systems, these units are sensitive to mineral buildup and require specialized care. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy costs, and potential system failure.

Annual professional maintenance is the cornerstone of keeping your tankless system in top condition. During our comprehensive service, we perform a thorough system flush to remove mineral deposits that accumulate from hard water. Our technicians carefully inspect water connections, clean air intake filters, and evaluate electrical components to ensure optimal performance.

Water quality plays a critical role in tankless water heater maintenance. We conduct a comprehensive water quality assessment that helps us recommend the most appropriate care for your system. An evaluation will guide us in suggesting a water softener installation or developing a customized descaling strategy.

Homeowners should remain vigilant between professional maintenance visits. Watch for these warning signs:

  • Inconsistent water temperature
  • Reduced hot water flow
  • Error codes on digital display
  • Unusual operational sounds

Big Blue Plumbing and Heating offers unmatched expertise in tankless water heater maintenance. We provide manufacturer-recommended service, detailed system diagnostics, and priority scheduling for Medford residents. Our transparent, upfront pricing ensures you never face unexpected costs.

Protect your tankless water heater investment and ensure years of reliable hot water.

Schedule your professional maintenance today and experience the Big Blue Plumbing difference.

Call (617) 284-9444

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater 

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater: What Medford Homeowners Need to Know

As a homeowner in Medford, MA, your water heater is an essential appliance that often goes unnoticed – until something goes wrong. At Big Blue Plumbing, we’ve helped countless local families avoid unexpected cold showers and potential water damage by recognizing the warning signs that it’s time for a water heater replacement.

1. Age of Your Water Heater

The most critical factor in determining whether you need a new water heater is its age. Most traditional tank water heaters last between 8 and 12 years. If your unit is approaching or has passed this milestone, it’s time to start planning for a replacement. Our Big Blue Plumbing experts can help you assess your current system and recommend the most efficient options for your home.

2. Rusty or Discolored Water

It’s a red flag when you start noticing rusty or brown-tinged water coming from your hot water taps. This discoloration typically indicates internal rusting of your water heater tank. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also lead to potential health concerns and damage to your plumbing fixtures.

3. Strange Noises and Rumbling

As sediment builds up in your water heater, you might hear unusual sounds like popping, crackling, or rumbling. These noises occur when the sediment hardens at the bottom of the tank, reducing your water heater’s efficiency and potentially damaging the unit.

4. Frequent Repairs

Calling for water heater repairs more frequently than enjoying hot water is a clear sign that replacement is more cost-effective than continued maintenance. Our team can help you calculate the long-term savings of a new, energy-efficient water heater.

5. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Are you struggling with water that’s either too hot, too cold, or constantly changing temperature? This inconsistency strongly indicates that your water heater is on its last legs. Modern water heaters provide more reliable and consistent hot water, saving you frustration and potential energy costs.

6. Visible Leaks or Water Damage

Any signs of water pooling around your water heater or visible corrosion on the tank are immediate red flags. These issues can lead to significant water damage in your home and should be addressed immediately by professional plumbers like our Big Blue Plumbing team.

Why Choose Big Blue Plumbing for Your Water Heater Replacement?

As a local plumbing and HVAC company in Medford, MA, we understand the unique needs of Massachusetts homeowners. We offer:

  • Energy-efficient water heater options
  • Expert installation
  • Transparent pricing
  • Local service with a personal touch

Don’t wait for a complete water heater failure to take action. Contact Big Blue Plumbing today if you’re experiencing any of these signs. We’ll help you find the perfect water heating solution for your home, ensuring comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Call us at (617) 284-9444 to schedule your water heater assessment today!

The Importance of Upgrading Your Shower Valve

Transforming Your Bathroom: The Importance of Upgrading Your Shower Valve

Are you tired of looking at that old, corroded shower valve every time you enter your bathroom? At Big Blue Plumbing and Heating in Medford, MA, we understand the frustration of dealing with outdated fixtures that detract from your space’s aesthetic appeal and compromise functionality. That’s why we’re here to help you upgrade your shower valve and breathe new life into your bathroom.

Today, we’re excited to share the transformation of a shower valve in one of our recent projects. Please look at the pictures of a shower valve we replaced, showcasing its worn-out, gold-plated exterior marred by corrosion. This corrosion is common, especially in areas like Cambridge, where hard water is prevalent.

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can accumulate over time.  Hard water leaves behind unsightly deposits on your plumbing fixtures. Not only does this affect the appearance of your bathroom, but it can also lead to functionality issues, such as reduced water flow and leaks.

Fortunately, our team at Big Blue Plumbing and Heating specializes in upgrading outdated plumbing fixtures to enhance your bathroom’s look and performance. Subsequently, we replaced the old, corroded shower valve with a sleek, modern chrome valve, spout, and trim in this project.

Why is upgrading your shower valve important? Here are a few reasons:

  1. Improved Aesthetic Appeal: Outdated fixtures can drag down the overall appearance of your bathroom. By upgrading to a newer, more stylish shower valve, you can instantly elevate the look of your space and create a more inviting atmosphere.
  2. Enhanced Functionality: Corrosion and mineral buildup can impede the proper functioning of your shower valve. It can then lead to issues such as leaks, drips, and uneven water flow. Installing a new valve ensures smooth operation and consistent water pressure, enhancing your showering experience.
  3. Prevention of Water Damage: Leaky or malfunctioning shower valves may cause water to seep into the walls and floors, leading to mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs. Upgrading to a high-quality valve can help prevent water damage and safeguard your home.
  4. Increased Property Value: Renovating your bathroom and upgrading fixtures like the shower valve can significantly increase the value of your home. Potential buyers are often drawn to modern, well-maintained bathrooms, making this investment worthwhile.

About Big Blue Plumbing and Heating

At Big Blue Plumbing and Heating, we take pride in delivering top-notch plumbing solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. And don’t forget the importance of upgrading your Shower Valve. Whether you want to upgrade your shower valve, replace a water heater, or tackle a plumbing emergency, you can count on our team to provide reliable service and exceptional craftsmanship.

Please take a peek at the before and after pictures of the newly installed shower valve, showcasing the stunning transformation that awaits. Finally, if you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom and say goodbye to outdated fixtures, contact us today for a consultation. Let’s work together to bring your vision to life and create the bathroom of your dreams.

 

old shower valve corroded

new shower head sleek

Why get a Heat Pump Water Heater

Harnessing Efficiency: Why get an A.O. Smith Voltex Heat Pump Water Heater

In the ever-evolving world of plumbing and heating solutions, efficiency, sustainability, and innovation are paramount. At Big Blue Plumbing and Heating in Medford, MA, we take pride in staying ahead of the curve and offering cutting-edge products and services to our valued customers. This is why you should get  A.O. Smith Voltex heat pump water heater—a game-changer in residential hot water systems.

Efficiency Redefined

Installed recently in residence in Somerville, the by taking a closer look at the A.O. Smith Voltex heat pump water heater, it stands as a testament to energy efficiency. With a 50-gallon capacity, this powerhouse of a system utilizes state-of-the-art heat pump technology to produce hot water most efficiently. By extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it to the water within the tank, the Voltex system significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional water heaters. Ultimately, this translates to lower utility bills for homeowners and a reduced environmental footprint for all.

Built-in Protection

At Big Blue Plumbing and Heating, we understand the importance of safeguarding your investment. That’s why our team goes the extra mile to ensure that every installation is efficient and secure. In the case of the A.O. Smith Voltex heat pump water heater, we take additional measures to provide peace of mind to our customers. Raising the system on blocks provides extra flood protection, safeguarding against potential water damage in unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, the Voltex tank has a built-in leak detector, further reducing the risk of water damage and ensuring long-term durability.

Features and Benefits

The A.O. Smith Voltex heat pump water heater boasts a range of features and benefits that set it apart from traditional water heating systems:

  1. Energy Efficiency: With an energy factor (EF) of up to 3.45, the Voltex system outperforms standard electric water heaters, offering substantial savings on energy costs.
  2. Quiet Operation: Unlike traditional water heaters that can be noisy during operation, the Voltex heat pump operates quietly, providing a peaceful environment for homeowners.
  3. Versatility: The Voltex system can be installed in various locations, including basements, garages, and utility rooms, offering flexibility to homeowners with limited space.
  4. Smart Technology: Equipped with advanced controls, the Voltex water heater allows for precise temperature adjustments and monitoring, ensuring optimal performance at all times.
  5. Longevity: With durable construction and reliable components, the Voltex system is built to last, providing years of dependable hot water for residential use.

Get in Touch

At Big Blue Plumbing and Heating, we’re passionate about providing our customers top-of-the-line products and exceptional service. If you’re interested in learning more about the A.O. Smith Voltex heat pump water heater or any of our other plumbing and heating solutions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our knowledgeable team is here to answer any questions and assist you in finding the perfect solution for your home.

The A.O. Smith Voltex heat pump water heater represents the pinnacle of efficiency, innovation, and reliability in residential hot water systems. With its cutting-edge technology, built-in protection features, and unmatched performance, it’s no wonder homeowners in Somerville and beyond are making the switch to the Voltex system. Experience the difference for yourself—contact Big Blue Plumbing and Heating today and embark on the journey towards a more efficient and sustainable home.