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Renovating your home is an exciting project, but it can also come with unexpected challenges, especially when it involves plumbing. Mistakes during the renovation process can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and delays. By understanding these common pitfalls and taking proactive steps, you can ensure your renovation project stays on track and your plumbing remains problem-free. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 plumbing mistakes to avoid: 1. Not Planning for Plumbing Relocations Mistake: Many homeowners underestimate the complexity of moving existing plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, or bathtubs. This can result in poor connections, incorrect pipe sizing, and improper fixture placements, leading to leaks, uneven drainage, and other long-term plumbing issues. Solution: To avoid these problems, it’s crucial to plan your renovation carefully. Work with a licensed plumber early in the process to ensure that any plumbing modifications are done correctly. A plumber can assess the space, provide the right pipe dimensions, and make sure your new fixtures are positioned where they’ll function efficiently. 2. Ignoring the Importance of Proper Ventilation Mistake: Proper vent pipes are essential for draining wastewater and preventing sewer gases from backing up into your home. Without proper ventilation, you might experience slow-draining sinks, toilets, and foul odors, which can affect the comfort of your living space. Solution: Review your current vent system and make sure it’s functioning correctly. If you’re adding new plumbing fixtures or relocating existing ones, you’ll likely need to extend or upgrade your vent pipes. Ensure that all waste pipes have proper venting to maintain efficient drainage and to prevent unpleasant smells. 3. Using Incorrect Pipe Material Mistake: Selecting the wrong type of pipe material can cause significant plumbing problems down the road. Using low-quality or mismatched pipes can lead to leaks, clogs, and decreased water flow. Solution: When selecting pipe materials, consider your home’s water pressure, flow rate, and local plumbing codes. PEX pipes are flexible and easy to work with, copper pipes are durable and long-lasting, while ABS pipes are ideal for drain lines. Make sure your material choice is compatible with your plumbing system and adheres to local building standards. 4. Overlooking Water Pressure Issues Mistake: High water pressure or low water pressure can cause damage to pipes and fixtures. Too much pressure can lead to leaks, while low pressure may result in poor performance of faucets and appliances. Solution: Before starting your renovation, test the water pressure in your home. If it falls outside the ideal range (typically 40-60 psi), consider installing a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) for managing high water pressure. This will help protect your plumbing system from damage. Although homeowners can try testing their own pressure, we recommend having a professional plumber assess the situation to ensure accuracy and safety. 5. Failing to Upgrade Pipes When Necessary Mistake: It’s easy to overlook aging pipes during renovations, but using old or deteriorating pipes can lead to leaks, clogs, and reduced water efficiency. Neglecting pipe upgrades can result in costly repairs down the line. Solution: Take the time to inspect your existing pipes before starting renovations. If you notice signs of wear, rust, or outdated materials (such as Poly-B pipes), it’s wise to upgrade to newer, more durable options. Modern materials like PEX and ABS can improve your plumbing system’s longevity and performance. 6. Neglecting to Account for Future Plumbing Needs Mistake : Many homeowners focus solely on the present when renovating and fail to plan for future plumbing needs. This can limit your home’s functionality and result in costly retrofits later on. Solution : Think long-term—do you plan to add more fixtures in the future, like additional sinks or water-saving appliances? Consulting with a plumber during the renovation process can help you plan for future plumbing expansions, ensuring your system is prepared to accommodate future demands without needing costly changes. 7. Ignoring Building Codes and Permits Mistake: Failing to obtain the necessary permits or adhering to local building codes can result in fines, rework, and unsafe plumbing installations. Many homeowners mistakenly skip these steps to save time or money. Solution: Before starting any major plumbing work, check local regulations and building codes. Some plumbing modifications may require permits, and you must ensure your renovations meet legal standards. A licensed plumber can help navigate these requirements to avoid complications. 8. Poor Installation of Fixtures Mistake: Incorrect installation of plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, and faucets can lead to leaks, uneven drainage, and poor water flow. A poorly secured fixture may also lead to damage over time. Solution: Pay close attention to manufacturer instructions when installing new fixtures. Make sure all connections are tightened properly, and ensure that your fixtures are level and securely mounted. If you’re unsure, hiring a professional plumber can help avoid costly errors during installation. 9. Neglecting to Protect Pipes During Drywall Installation Mistake: Drywall installation can inadvertently damage pipes if not done carefully. Without proper protection, pipes can be punctured, leading to leaks and expensive water damage. Solution: Always protect your pipes during drywall installation. Use pipe sleeves or guards around plumbing lines to minimize the risk of damage. These will ensure that your pipes remain intact and safe from drywall nails or accidental cuts. 10. Skipping Testing After Installation Mistake: Once the renovation is complete, it’s tempting to move on to the next phase without fully testing your plumbing system. However, skipping this crucial step can result in leaks, poor drainage, and unexpected failures. Solution: After finishing your plumbing installations, take the time to test all connections and fixtures. Run water through your pipes and check for any leaks, uneven pressure, or drainage issues. This simple step ensures that your plumbing system is functioning as intended and helps catch problems early on. Conclusion: By avoiding these common plumbing mistakes and implementing the right solutions, you can ensure your renovation process goes smoothly, minimize costly repairs, and create a functional, efficient plumbing system that will serve your home for years to come.

When it comes to maintaining your water heater, there’s a crucial component working quietly behind the scenes to keep your system in tip-top shape: the anode rod. This important element plays a vital role in preventing corrosion, ensuring your water heater lasts as long as possible. But what exactly is an anode rod, what is its purpose, and how do you know when it's time for a replacement? Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know. What is an Anode Rod? An anode rod is a sacrificial metal rod that is inserted into your water heater’s tank. Typically made of magnesium, aluminum, or a combination of these metals, the anode rod is designed to attract corrosive elements in the water. This process is known as electrolysis, where the rod sacrifices itself to protect the steel lining of your water heater from rusting. Without a functional anode rod, your water heater tank would quickly corrode, leading to leaks and eventual failure. The Purpose of the Anode Rod The primary purpose of the anode rod is to extend the life of your water heater. By attracting corrosive elements, it prevents these elements from attacking the tank itself. This sacrificial action preserves the integrity of your water heater, helping you avoid costly repairs or replacements. In essence, the anode rod is a small investment that pays off significantly in the long run by safeguarding your water heater. Signs Your Anode Rod is Bad Over time, the anode rod will degrade and become less effective. It’s essential to recognize the signs of a failing anode rod to prevent damage to your water heater. Here are some indicators that your anode rod may need replacing: Rust-Colored Water : If you notice rust-colored water coming from your hot water taps, it could be a sign that your anode rod is no longer protecting your tank from corrosion. Unpleasant Odors : A failing anode rod can cause your water to develop a rotten egg smell, due to the reaction between the rod and bacteria in the water. Visible Corrosion : During a routine inspection, if you see that the anode rod is significantly corroded or covered in a thick layer of calcium, it’s time for a replacement. Decreased Hot Water Pressure : Corrosion buildup can lead to blockages, reducing the water pressure in your hot water lines. When to Replace the Anode Rod The lifespan of an anode rod can vary depending on the quality of your water and the type of rod used. Generally, it’s recommended to check your anode rod every 2-3 years. However, if you have hard water, you may need to inspect it more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to replace the anode rod when it’s consumed more than 50% of its original thickness or if it’s heavily corroded. Get It Professionally Checked With Express Plumbing and Heating Replacing an anode rod may seem like a simple task, but it involves draining the tank, removing the old rod, and installing the new one correctly. At Express Plumbing and Heating, we  can guarantee the job is done safely and efficiently. Our experienced technicians have the expertise to inspect, replace, and maintain your water heater’s anode rod, helping to extend the life of your system and keep it running smoothly. Conclusion The anode rod is a vital component of your water heater, protecting it from corrosion and extending its lifespan. By understanding what an anode rod is, recognizing the signs of a failing rod, and knowing when to replace it, you can ensure your water heater remains in excellent condition. Trust Express Plumbing and Heating for all your water heater maintenance needs. Our professional team is here to help you keep your water heater in top shape, providing peace of mind and reliable hot water for years to come. For more information or to schedule a service, contact Express Plumbing and Heating today. Let us help you maintain your water heater and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Polybutylene (Poly-B) piping was once a popular choice for residential plumbing due to its low cost and ease of installation. However, over time, it has become evident that Poly-B pipes are prone to failure, leading to significant issues for homeowners. In this post, we'll discuss the problems associated with Poly-B piping, the impact on insurance and home sales, and why you should consider replacing it. Why Poly-B Piping is Problematic Poly-B piping was widely used in homes built between the 1970s and 1990s. Unfortunately, these pipes have been found to degrade over time, often leading to leaks and water damage without any warning. The primary issues with Poly-B include: Chemical Reactions: Poly-B pipes are susceptible to damage from chlorine and other chemicals commonly found in municipal water supplies. Cracks and Leaks: Over time, the pipes can become brittle and develop cracks, leading to leaks that can cause extensive water damage. Harsh winters can exacerbate the problem, making the material more likely to crack under freezing temperatures. Inconsistent Quality: The quality of Poly-B piping can vary, leading to unpredictable performance and increased risk of failure. Insurance Challenges with Poly-B Piping Insurance companies are well aware of the risks associated with Poly-B piping and often take a cautious approach when insuring homes with this type of plumbing. Here are some of the challenges you might face: Higher Premiums: Many insurance companies will charge higher premiums for homes with Poly-B piping due to the increased risk of water damage. In Alberta, local insurers may be particularly stringent, given the heightened risk posed by the province's cold climate. Limited Coverage: Some insurers may offer limited coverage, excluding property coverage, flood damage or other water-related incidents directly linked to Poly-B pipe failure. Replacement Deadlines: Insurance companies might impose a deadline by which the Poly-B piping must be replaced, failing which coverage may be denied. Denial of Coverage: Worst case, some insurers may outright refuse to provide coverage for homes with Poly-B piping. Building codes have evolved and have discontinued the use of Poly-B piping in 2005 and homes with this plumbing may not meet current standards. Impact On Your Home Saleability Poly-B piping can also significantly impact the saleability of your home. Prospective buyers are becoming increasingly aware of the issues associated with Poly-B and may be hesitant to purchase a home with this type of plumbing. Here’s how it can affect the sale of your home: Lower Sale Price: Buyers may request a reduction in the sale price to cover the cost of replacing the Poly-B piping. In Alberta, where the real estate market is acutely aware of Poly-B issues, this can be a significant factor. Sale Conditions: Some buyers may include a condition in the sale agreement that requires the Poly-B piping to be replaced and any resulting drywall repairs to be completed before closing. Buyer Hesitation: The presence of Poly-B piping can be a deal-breaker for some buyers, leading them to walk away from the sale altogether. Home inspectors routinely check for this type of plumbing, making it a critical point during the sale process. Challenges in Replacing Poly-B Piping Replacing Poly-B piping can be a complex and time-consuming process. Some areas of your home, such as behind shower valves or within walls, can be particularly tricky to access and replace. However, the benefits of replacing Poly-B far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. By upgrading to modern, reliable piping, you can protect your home from potential water damage and improve its value and insurability. Why Choose Express Plumbing for Your Poly-B Replacement At Express Plumbing, we specialize in the replacement of Poly-B piping with high-quality, durable alternatives. Our experienced team ensures minimal disruption to your home and provides professional, efficient service. Here's why you should choose us: Expertise: With over 10 years in the industry, our plumbers are skilled in handling Poly-B replacements and can navigate the challenges of accessing difficult areas. Quality Materials: We use high quality materials to ensure your new plumbing system is reliable and long-lasting. Honest Pricing: We believe in providing you with fair, open and accurate pricing with no hidden fees. Satisfaction Guarantee: We prioritize your satisfaction and work diligently to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Our services are completely backed with a full year, limited warranty on material and labour. Conclusion Poly-B piping presents significant risks to your home, from potential water damage to insurance complications and reduced home saleability. Replacing this outdated plumbing is a wise investment that can save you money and stress in the long run. Contact Express Plumbing today to learn more about our Poly-B replacement services.

Locally owned and operated, Express Plumbing and Heating has proudly been serving the Red Deer and surrounding area since 2012. We offer honest pricing and quality workmanship. We stand by our work with a satisfaction guarantee and 365 day warranty of on all work we perform. We also offer 24/7 emergency services. Red Deer's Best Reviewed Plumbing Company Where Quality And Service Come Together. CONTACT US Experienced Servicing the Central Alberta region since 2012 State Of The Art Equipment Latest in technology and products for long-lasting results Always Ready To Serve Available 24/7 Reliability That You Can Count On Red Deer's Plumbing Experts When it comes to outstanding service and excellence, there's only one name that comes to mind and that's Express Plumbing and Heating. We are a highly trained, knowledgeable and experienced team of technicians that are ready to take on your plumbing and heating needs from repairs, maintenance, installations, renovations and so much more. Our commitment to you is that we approach every project, no matter how big or small with the highest quality, care and attention to detail that it deserves. We strive to always exceed our customer expectations through: Honest Pricing We promise to provide you with fair, open and accurate pricing with no hidden fees. Integrity Adhering to the highest standards of quality, professionalism and promptitude of a job from start to finish. Satisfaction Guaranteed Partnering with the best in the business with brands you can trust. Our services are completely backed with a full year, limited warranty on material and labour. What Our Customers Are Saying These guys are top notch! Always helpful with sound advice. I was initially referred to Express through a building contractor for minor valve repair. A small job most contractors would consider a waste of time, but they fixed it with the same professionalism you'd expect from a multi-thousand dollar job. Since then, they have installed an in-floor heating system in my last house, and a high efficiency propane furnace in my current house in the country. Easy to talk to and trustworthy. I'll continue to use them because of their exceptional service, even though I live a hour away from red deer. I would highly recommend them for all your plumbing and heating needs. " - David Redmond Need A Repair? Let Us Have A look REQUEST A JOB ESTIMATE Brands We Trust At Express Plumbing and Heating, we have partnered with the best and top-of-the-line brands to service all your plumbing and heating needs. Rest assured, our highly trained technicians are able to service all makes and models. Our Service Area Express Plumbing and Heating is a locally based, privately owned business that is proudly serving Red Deer and the surrounding area. Our team covers a service area that spans a radius of 85 KM to neighbouring communities. Our area includes but is not limited to: Red Deer Sylvan Lake Red Deer County Lacombe Blackfalds Lacombe County Innisfail Pine Lake Nordegg Rocky Mtn House Clearwater County Ponoka Ponoka County Stettler Stettler County And More! CONTACT US TODAY

We are a fast paced, privately owned, quickly growing service company that services not only the City of Red Deer, but a distance radius of 85km. We are continually looking to bring on team members to assist with our ever-growing demand. Join the Express Plumbing & Heating Team We are a fast paced, privately owned, quickly growing service company that services not only the City of Red Deer, but a distance radius of 85km. We are continually looking to bring on team members to assist with our ever growing demand. We are currently accepting appliations for the following roles: SENIOR TECHNICIAN Senior Technician Red Deer, Alberta Full-time Mission Express Plumbing and Heating Inc. is a leading provider of plumbing and heating services, dedicated to excellence in meeting our customers' needs. We utilize the latest technology and products to ensure healthy, sanitary, and safe environments for homes, businesses, and projects. We are committed to maintaining our client’s vision and providing outstanding service. Why Work With Express? Extended Health, Dental, and Vision coverage Life and Dependent Life Insurance Staff Incentives & Rewards Team Social Events Competitive Wages Encouragement in Professional Growth & Career Development RegisteredPlmbrs Job Responsibilities Lead and manage new construction plumbing projects, ensuring compliance with provincial codes and standards while supervising team members as needed. Execute advanced service tasks, including diagnosing and resolving complex plumbing and heating issues in both residential and commercial settings. Oversee and coordinate larger-scale construction projects (in excess of $50K), ensuring seamless integration of plumbing and heating systems. Provide accurate quotes for service jobs, leveraging in-depth knowledge of construction and service requirements. Perform detailed plumbing work, including rough-ins, fixture installations, and system testing to guarantee optimal performance. Take charge of heating and gas fitting responsibilities, including installations, maintenance, and troubleshooting of high-efficiency boilers, tankless systems, and gas lines. Deliver expert advice to clients on safety, maintenance, and optimal operation of plumbing and heating equipment. Maintain productivity and quality control on all projects, working independently or collaboratively as required. Uphold high company morals and contribute to a professional and friendly work environment. What Are We Looking For? Extensive service industry experience with advanced skills in resolving complex plumbing and heating issues for residential and commercial clients. Prior experience in similar roles managing construction jobs with a proven track record in managing and executing large-scale construction projects Strong problem-solving abilities with a focus on innovative and effective solutions for complex challenges. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to maintain professional relationships with clients, vendors, and team members. Proficiency in drain cleaning, including the use of advanced equipment and techniques. Expertise with boilers and tankless systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Test newly installed and repaired equipment for proper performance Thorough understanding of provincial codes and standards Possess a clean and valid Class 5 driver's license, free of GDL restrictions, minimum 3 years driving history Clean criminal record check. First Aid, Confined Space, H2S, Fall Protection, and Backflow certification are considered assets. Must be a current resident of Canada with a valid work permit. How To Apply If you meet the qualifications and are interested in joining our team, please click the link below to complete the application form and upload your resume. Thank you for your interest and If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Did you know that you need 4 years, with a minimum 1560 hours of on the job training plus a minimum of 8 weeks of in-class learning per year to complete your apprenticeship? Join us today to start building your future APPLY NOW

If you need your furnace repaired, you can count on Express Plumbing & Heating to quickly and affordably fix it. We offer 24-hour service because when your furnace stops working in the middle of the night, you're going to need a furnace specialist to come in and get things repaired correctly. We offer a 365 day workmanship guarantee on all furnace repairs. Visit now to book a furnace repair with one of our technicians. BROWSE HEATING SERVICES Next Furnace Repair Next Garage Heaters Next In-Floor Heating Next Conventional Water Heaters Next Tankless Water Heaters Next Gas Fitting Services Next Emergency Services Furnace Repair Delivering the highest quality in furnace repair services Have A Heating Emergency? We have 24/7 on-call technicians that are ready to help you CALL NOW Furnaces are the number one way homes are heated in North America. They take the cool air and heat it through a heat exchanger. Then the air is circulated through the home until the temperature is satisfied. We offer top-quality brand names for furnace replacements and we service all makes and models of furnaces. It is our mission to keep your family warm on cold Alberta nights. Common Furnace Problems: Pilot light keeps going out Furnace runs but no heat comes out Furnace keeps turning on and off Furnace is squealing or humming Pilot light is flickering or emitting a yellow flame Furnace Replacement Warning Signs: Do you know the age of your current furnace? With the average life expectancy of a forced air furnace being approximately 20 years, do you know the warning signs? Below are some warning signs that you may want to consider. Remember, information is key when making an important decision. Payment Plans Available. Apply Now Age With the average life expectancy of a forced air furnaces today being approximately 16-20 years, age is always an important factor to consider. If your furnace is close to this age, or older, we recommend that you start looking into what a furnace replacement entails. Let’s face it, shopping for a replacement during the dead of winter, after your furnace has called it quits, is not fun. Starting your research early allows you to make an informed decision, and not one that is based solely on dollar and time frame. Colour of burning flame Have you noticed a change in the colour of your furnace’s burner flame? If you have a natural gas furnace, a yellow or flickering flame may be a sign that carbon monoxide could be present. Always be mindful, and monitor your furnace for possible warning signs. We recommend carbon monoxide detectors be placed on every floor, especially close to your furnace room. Remember, carbon monoxide is slightly lighter than air and diffuses evenly throughout the room. It is also colourless, odourless, and tasteless, hence the term “silent killer”. Strange Sounds As a furnace approaches the end of its life expectancy, you may start to notice odd sounds coming from the unit. Banging, popping, rattling, or squealing are all common sounds that are reported with older furnaces. Other common issues reported is the blowing of cold air and the furnace turning on and off periodically, without satisfying the call for heat. Rise in energy costs Over time, furnaces tend to lose their efficiency, especially if regular maintenance hasn’t been performed. As a result, furnaces may run longer to provide the same amount of heat. These longer run times will in turn cause your energy bills to rise. Contact Us Today For A Job Estimate For Your Furnace Repair Call us at 403-356-1111 to chat with a customer service representative and let's get that heating repair taken care of. So, Halloween day I put my son down for a nap, when I realized it felt chilly in the house. I walked over to check the temp when I realized my furnace wasn’t working! I had such amazing service last time I called Express, of course I called again, in a panic I may add. I sure wasn’t disappointed! Shawn was at my door in no time, fixed the problem AND made it out the door without even waking my son up from his nap! Absolutely the best service EVER . Thank-you so much, you have a customer for life Jennifer Barry-Weatherley WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US It is important to be aware of the warning signs that indicate that it may be time to replace your furnace. It is especially important to not wait until it’s too late. If you are contemplating purchasing a new furnace, don’t despair! With low interest financing, don’t think of it as a substantial cost, but as a long term investment. We’ve got the furnaces you need to help you save. By having a new furnace installed by Express Plumbing and Heating, you’ll improve the air quality within you home while increasing the value of your home and lowering your heating costs. GET A QUOTE Our Commitment To You Honest Pricing We promise to provide you with fair, open and accurate pricing with no hidden fees. Integrity Adhering to the highest standards of quality, professionalism and promptitude of a job from start to finish. Satisfaction Guaranteed Partnering with the best in the business with brands you can trust. Our services are completely backed with a full year, limited warranty on material and labour. Got Questions? Send Us A Message! Contact Us Our experts are waiting to hear from you!