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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.

The purpose of this privacy policy is to inform users of users about data collection, usage, access, user rights, and our cookie policy. Privacy Policy Effective date: 1st day of May, 2022 www.expressplumbingandheating.ca (the "Site") is owned and operated by Express Plumbing & Heating Inc. Express Plumbing & Heating Inc can be contacted at: info@expressplumbingandheating.ca (403) 356-1111 Bay 1, 4621 63 Street; Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 7A6 Purpose The purpose of this privacy policy (this "Privacy Policy") is to inform users of our Site of the following: The personal data we will collect; Use of collected data; Who has access to the data collected; The rights of Site users; and The Site's cookie policy. This Privacy Policy applies in addition to the terms and conditions of our Site. Consent By using our Site users agree that they consent to: The conditions set out in this Privacy Policy; and The collection, use, and retention of the data listed in this Privacy Policy. Personal Data We Collect We only collect data that helps us achieve the purpose set out in this Privacy Policy. We will not collect any additional data beyond the data listed below without notifying you first. Data Collected Automatically When you visit and use our Site, we may automatically collect and store the following information: IP address; Location; Hardware and software details; Clicked links; and Content viewed. Data Collected in a Non-Automatic Way We may also collect the following data when you perform certain functions on our Site: First and last name; Email address; Phone number; and Address. This data may be collected using the following methods: Contact forms; and Quote requests. How We Use Personal Data Data collected on our Site will only be used for the purposes specified in this Privacy Policy or indicated on the relevant pages of our Site. We will not use your data beyond what we disclose in this Privacy Policy. The data we collect automatically is used for the following purposes: Statistics; and Website optimization. The data we collect when the user performs certain functions may be used for the following purposes: Communication; Appointment creation and reminders; and Marketing. Who We Share Personal Data With Employees We may disclose user data to any member of our organization who reasonably needs access to user data to achieve the purposes set out in this Privacy Policy. Third Parties We may share user data with the following third parties: Marketing agency; and Marketing agency partners. We may share the following user data with third parties: Links clicked on website; Page views; and Time on site. We may share user data with third parties for the following purposes: Targeted advertising; Website optimization; and Marketing. Third parties will not be able to access user data beyond what is reasonably necessary to achieve the given purpose. Other Disclosures We will not sell or share your data with other third parties, except in the following cases: If the law requires it; If it is required for any legal proceeding; To prove or protect our legal rights; and To buyers or potential buyers of this company in the event that we seek to sell the company. If you follow hyperlinks from our Site to another Site, please note that we are not responsible for and have no control over their privacy policies and practices. How Long We Store Personal Data User data will be stored until the purpose the data was collected for has been achieved. How We Protect Your Personal Data We strictly limit the collection and processing of your personal data, and to the best of our abilities we will work only with other organizations who do the same. We will not use personal data that you provide to us in a manner inconsistent with the purposes for which you provided it to us. We do not sell, rent or lease personal data. We work hard to ensure data is encrypted when in transit and storage, and access to this data will be strictly limited to a minimum number of individuals and subject to confidentiality commitments. We will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure that your data is treated securely and in accordance with this Policy. Unfortunately, the transmission of information via the internet is not completely secure. Although we will do our best to protect your personal data, we cannot guarantee the security of your data transmitted to any of our websites; any transmission is at your own risk. Once we have received your information, we will use strict procedures and security features to try to prevent unauthorized access. When possible, encryption is used, both in transit and storage. Access controls within the organization limit who may access information. As necessary in connection with the above purposes, your personal data may be transferred to our authorized third-party service providers and partners. We conscientiously select and review authorized third parties when possible and review their privacy and security policies. These authorized third parties may be engaged in, among other things, technology support, and outreach campaigns. While we take all reasonable precautions to ensure that user data is secure and that users are protected, there always remains the risk of harm. The Internet as a whole can be insecure at times and therefore we are unable to guarantee the security of user data beyond what is reasonably practical. International Data Transfers We transfer user personal data to the following countries: USA. When we transfer user personal data we will protect that data as described in this Privacy Policy and comply with applicable legal requirements for transferring personal data internationally. Children We do not knowingly collect or use personal data from children under 13 years of age. If we learn that we have collected personal data from a child under 13 years of age, the personal data will be deleted as soon as possible. If a child under 13 years of age has provided us with personal data their parent or guardian may contact our privacy officer. How to Access, Modify, Delete, or Challenge the Data Collected If you would like to know if we have collected your personal data, how we have used your personal data, if we have disclosed your personal data and to who we disclosed your personal data, or if you would like your data to be deleted or modified in any way, please contact our privacy officer here: Shawn Groulx info@expressplumbingandheating.ca (403) 356-1111 3, 4676 61 Street; Red Deer, AB, T4N 2R2 How to Opt-Out of Data Collection, Use or Disclosure In addition to the method(s) described in the How to Access, Modify, Delete, or Challenge the Data Collected section, we provide the following specific opt-out methods for the forms of collection, use, or disclosure of your personal data specified below: You can opt-out of the use of your personal data for marketing emails. You can opt-out by clicking "unsubscribe" on the bottom of any marketing email. Cookie Policy A cookie is a small file, stored on a user's hard drive by a website. Its purpose is to collect data relating to the user's browsing habits. You can choose to be notified each time a cookie is transmitted. You can also choose to disable cookies entirely in your internet browser, but this may decrease the quality of your user experience. We use the following types of cookies on our Site: Analytical cookies Analytical cookies allow us to improve the design and functionality of our Site by collecting data on how you access our Site, for example data on the content you access, how long you stay on our Site, etc; Targeting cookies Targeting cookies collect data on how you use the Site and your preferences. This allows us to personalize the information you see on our Site for you; and Third-Party Cookies Third-party cookies are created by a website other than ours. We may use third-party cookies to achieve the following purposes: Monitor website engagement for the purpose of website optimization; and Monitor user preferences to tailor advertisements around their interests. Modifications This Privacy Policy may be amended from time to time in order to maintain compliance with the law and to reflect any changes to our data collection process. When we amend this Privacy Policy we will update the "Effective Date" at the top of this Privacy Policy. We recommend that our users periodically review our Privacy Policy to ensure that they are notified of any updates. If necessary, we may notify users by email of changes to this Privacy Policy. Contact Information If you have any questions, concerns or complaints, you can contact our privacy officer, Shawn Groulx, at: info@expressplumbingandheating.ca (403) 356-1111

Was your home built between 1975 and 1998, and hasn’t undergone any substantial renovations? Then you may have Polybutylene (Poly-B) piping. BROWSE PLUMBING SERVICES Next Plumbing Repair Next Drain Cleaning Next Water Treatment Next Boilers Next Sewer Line Replacements Next Poly-B Replacements Next Bathroom Renovations Next Kitchen Renovations Next Emergency Services Polybutylene Piping Replacements Delivering the highest quality in Poly-B replacement services Have A Plumbing Emergency? We have 24/7 on-call technicians that are ready to help you CALL NOW In the spring of 1998, manufacturers ceased production of the Poly-B piping after their suppliers stopped production of the resin. One of the issues with Poly-B piping is that it may look fine from the outside, but over time the interior may begin to deteriorate after prolonged exposure to hot and/or chemically (chlorinated) treated water. This could lead to a fitting failure or a rupture of the piping. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell if there is existing damage to the interior of the piping or the possible remaining life expectancy. Since the damages to the piping typically originate from the inside, and with an average life expectancy of 10-15 years from the date of install, we generally recommend the replacement of all the Poly-B lines with Pex. Since Pex piping has a higher pressure limit, tolerance to heat and resistance to corrosion, makes it more superior then Poly-B. Did you know Poly-B piping can negatively affect your home insurance policy? Insurance companies often charge higher premiums, offer limited coverage, set replacement deadlines, or may even deny coverage for homes with Poly-B piping due to the increased risk of water damage, especially in Alberta's cold climate. Poly-B piping, discontinued since 2005, does not meet current building standards Payment Plans Available. Apply Now After the imperfections of Poly-B piping became more common knowledge, home insurance for properties containing Poly-B became more difficult to obtain due to the high risk of failure that this piping was susceptible to. Since obtaining home insurance when you have Poly-B is an issue, it may also deter potential home buyers, as Poly-B is no longer a CSA-approved building material. As a result of Poly-B piping being used to supply all fixtures within a home, a complete replacement may be an extensive project. But, not only are you investing in your homes resale value, you are providing yourself with peace of mind with reducing the risks of potential leaks and ruptures causing potentially significant damage. If you suspect you have Poly B piping, it's crucial to have it inspected by a professional plumber to assess its condition and determine if replacement is necessary. However, as a homeowner there are a few things you can do to see if you have Poly-B in your home. Common places to look for it is near the water heater, under sinks, or in the basement. Here's what to look for: Poly B pipes are usually grey in colour, which is the most common, but they can also appear in other colours. They have a slightly flexible feel compared to other types of piping. Look for a code on the piping itself that starts with 'PB', the most common being 'PB2110'. Poly-B pipes will normally have copper elbows, connectors, and joints to make corners. Additionally, if your home was built between the late 1970s and mid-1990s, there's a higher chance it may contain Poly B, as it was widely used during that time. Contact Us Today For A Job Estimate On Inspecting For Poly-B In Your Home Call us at 403-356-1111 to chat with a customer service representative to work out a solution to ensure that your home is Poly-B free. GET A QUOTE WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US I was so sick and tired of repairing the Poly B piping in our house. I asked Express Plumbing for a quote to replace all the pipe work in the house plus add a back flow preventer and a new water heater. Very prompt reply and great quote followed. We booked them in. They arrived as scheduled and did an excellent job. We were very impressed with their service. If ever I need a plumber again I will call them for sure. I highly recommend them for all your plumbing needs. Bill Woods 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!

Have a heating emergency? Don't wait! Express Plumbing & Heating is on call 24/7 and is ready to serve you. Serving the Red Deer and surrounding area. 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 Emergency Services Delivering the highest quality in plumbing and heating services Payment Plans Available. Apply Now Imagine it's dead of winter, and in the middle of the night, you awake to a loud screech before your furnace shuts off - not good! Or coming home from a long vacation to find out the inside of your house has been transformed into a large refrigerator - the worst! Emergencies can happen at any time, and they are more likely to happen when your furnace is working the hardest in the middle of winter. Furnace breakdowns in winter can become a serious situation, especially if you have young ones or pets. We understand this can be a stressful time, so we pledge that: Our on-call technicians are available, 24/7 ready to help you with your emergency. We will be there as soon as we possibly can to diagnose and repair your problem. We provide the best solutions to you with honest pricing We are committed to completing the repairs in an efficient and timely manner. During this time frame, we will provide you with complementary space heaters to make things as comfortable for you as possible. Have A Heating Emergency ? Call Now! 403-356-1111 CONTACT OUR ON-CALL TECHNICIAN We were away on vacation, upon returning we found out our heat was not working .I called the next day and Express P&H sent out Amanda who discovered that we had a large crack in our heat exchanger. We made an appointment to install a new furnace and Martin and James were fantastic .They were personable, knowledgable and efficient on doing the work needed. I have used Express previously with 2 new hot water tanks installed(5 months ago)and would recommend this co. without any doubt.Thank-you Amanda, Martin and James for the work you do.Also a big shout out to Jason(service mgr) who made all of this work for us with his recommendations and kindness. Bryan Hartley WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US 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!