From Drips to Delight: HEP’s Guide to a Leak-Free Bathroom and Reliable Water Heater

Plumbing
Powell
Plumbing in Powell

A homeowner in Powell noticed a constant drip from their bathtub spout—even when the handles were fully off. Frustrated by puddles on the floor and the risk of water damage, they reached out to HEP for help. A HEP technician arrived, identified that the old multi-handle shower valve was worn out, and recommended a modern replacement. By accessing the valve from the front of the shower, the team swapped in a sleek single-handle fixture, patched the tile, and restored leak-free performance. On a follow-up visit, the homeowner also asked for a quote on their aging electric water heater; soon after, HEP installed a new unit complete with an expansion tank and pressure relief valve to ensure steady hot water and safe operation.

Below are some practical tips and real-world insights from HEP technicians—perfect for any non-technical homeowner looking to keep their home’s plumbing in top shape.

1. Spot and Stop Leaks Early

Left unchecked, a small drip can lead to mold, warped floors, or high water bills.
Tip: Give your tub and shower faucets a quick visual check every few months. Listen for sounds of dripping, and feel around the fixture for dampness.

If you notice persistent drips, a HEP technician can pinpoint whether a rebuild or full valve replacement makes more sense. In this case, swapping out the old multi-handle valve for a single-lever design not only stopped the leak but also simplified temperature control.

2. When Walls Need Opening, Expect a Clean Refinish

Sometimes the only way to fix a hidden leak is to open the tile wall and access the pipes behind it.

This might look messy, but skilled services install projects include a careful patch-and-grout phase. Your HEP technician will replace damaged or mismatched tiles—often in an off-white or cream shade—to blend with your existing tiling.

3. Upgrade to Modern Fixtures for Better Reliability

Switching to a cartridge-style valve and a brushed-nickel tub/shower set can improve both function and style.

Modern single-handle faucets reduce leak points and make temperature adjustments smoother. Plus, they often come with full parts and labor warranties, giving homeowners extra peace of mind.

4. Don’t Overlook Your Water Heater’s Health

Hot water systems generally last around 10–15 years. If yours is on the older side, consider an assessment for replacement.

In this Powell home, HEP installed a new electric water heater in the garage laundry area and added an expansion tank to manage pressure build-up. A properly sized expansion tank and pressure relief valve help prevent stress on the plumbing and extend your heater’s lifespan.

5. Monitor Your Water Pressure

Too much pressure strains fixtures; too little leaves you with weak flows. A simple gauge reading can tell you if you’re in the safe zone (typically 50–60 psi at the hose bib).

HEP technicians use tools like these gauges during routine maintenance visits. If your pressure swings wildly or stays above recommended levels, ask about installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) to protect your pipes and appliances.

6. Schedule Routine Check-Ups

Even if everything seems fine, annual inspections by a professional can catch small issues before they become big headaches. Whether it’s a leaky valve, a tile patch, or a water heater nearing its end of life, a proactive approach saves time and money in the long run.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll spend less time worrying about drips, leaks, and cold showers. When you’re ready to upgrade or need a reliable repair in Powell, the experienced HEP technicians are just a call away—bringing expert plumbing service, installs, sales consultations, and skilled craftsmanship to your doorstep.