Plumbing Installation & Upgrades

Predicting exactly when a water tank will start to leak is difficult. A better question to ask is: where will the water travel if the tank does leak? At Fitch Services, we recommend installing a tank drainage pan to protect your home. If that's not possible, a draining tube that carries leakage to a safe drainage area is a practical alternative. Age and condition are both factors in knowing when replacement makes sense — if your unit is showing signs of wear, performing inconsistently, or hasn't been evaluated in some time, a professional assessment is the best way to understand where things stand.

For a household of one to four people, a 40-gallon tank is generally sufficient. If one of those people is a teenager or you have a large soaker tub, a 60-gallon tank is a better choice. For larger households or those with unusually high hot water demand, a larger unit or a tankless system may be worth discussing with a plumber.

The lifespan of a water heater depends on several factors — the type of unit, the quality of the original installation, how well it has been maintained, and the quality of the water running through it. Tankless units generally last longer than conventional tank heaters with proper upkeep. Homes with hard water or acidic water conditions tend to see shorter lifespans without treatment, as mineral buildup and corrosion accelerate wear. Regular maintenance is one of the most effective ways to get the most out of any water heater — and if yours is showing signs of age or underperforming, a professional evaluation is the best way to assess where things stand.

A water softener addresses hard water — water with high mineral content — by exchanging those minerals for sodium through a process called ion exchange. This protects pipes, appliances, and fixtures from scale buildup and improves soap lathering. A water filtration system addresses contaminants — sediment, chlorine, bacteria, heavy metals, and other substances — by physically filtering or treating the water. Some homes need one, some need the other, and some benefit from both. The right solution depends on what's actually in your water.

In most cases, yes — plumbing work that involves new installations, relocations, or significant modifications typically requires permits and inspections. Permit requirements vary by locality but exist to ensure the work is done safely and to code. Working with a licensed plumber means permits are handled correctly as part of the process, and the work is inspected and documented before walls close up.

It depends on the type of system. Sediment filters remove particles and debris. Carbon filters address chlorine, taste, and odor issues. Reverse osmosis systems remove a wide range of contaminants including heavy metals, nitrates, and certain chemicals. UV systems target bacteria and other biological contaminants. Many homes benefit from a combination of treatment stages rather than a single filter — the right approach depends on what's actually in your water, which is why starting with a water test is always a good first step.

Common indicators include water that has an unusual taste or odor, visible discoloration or sediment, staining on fixtures or appliances, or a water test that has flagged contaminants above recommended levels. Homes on well water in particular benefit from regular testing since well water quality can change over time and varies significantly by location. Even homes on municipal water may benefit from filtration depending on local water quality conditions and individual household preferences.

Hard water contains elevated levels of dissolved minerals — primarily calcium and magnesium. Over time these minerals accumulate inside pipes, water heaters, and appliances, reducing their efficiency and shortening their lifespan. Hard water also leaves scale deposits on fixtures and glassware, reduces the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, and can cause dry skin and hair. In areas with particularly hard water, the cumulative damage to plumbing and appliances can be significant.

Simply carry out routine maintenance on your equipment and you will always have clear lines. At what temperature should I set my hot water tank? The optimum temperature is subjective. It all depends on your needs. The temperature should be set in your house based on who will use the facilities. For example, if you have young children I recommend lowering the maximum temperature to prevent accidental scalding.