FAQ

Common signs include unexplained increases in your water bill, low water pressure, wet spots in your yard (especially in a line between the meter and your home), discolored water, and the sound of running water when all fixtures are off.

If you notice any of these signs, contact Above + Beyond promptly. Water line leaks worsen over time and can cause foundation damage, sinkholes, and significant water waste.

Gas tankless units require a dedicated gas line sized for the unit's BTU rating and proper venting (typically stainless steel category III vent). Electric tankless units may require a panel upgrade to support the higher amperage draw.

Above + Beyond evaluates your home's gas capacity or electrical panel before recommending a tankless unit. Our licensed plumbers handle all gas, venting, and electrical connections to ensure a safe, code-compliant installation.

A well-maintained tankless water heater typically lasts 15 to 20 years, nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank unit. The heat exchanger is the most critical component, and annual descaling is the best way to protect it.

Above + Beyond installs tankless units from all major brands and backs every installation with a 2-year labor warranty on equipment. Combined with the manufacturer warranty, your investment is well protected.

Tankless water heaters should be descaled (flushed with vinegar solution) annually to remove mineral buildup that reduces efficiency and can damage the heat exchanger. The inlet filter screen should also be cleaned regularly.

Above + Beyond offers tankless maintenance as a standalone service or through Saige's Loyalty Club. Regular descaling keeps your unit running at peak efficiency and protects your manufacturer warranty.

Tankless water heaters are sized by flow rate (gallons per minute) and temperature rise. Your plumber calculates the maximum number of hot water fixtures you might use simultaneously and the temperature of your incoming water supply to determine the right unit size.

An undersized tankless unit will deliver lukewarm water when multiple fixtures run at once. Above + Beyond's plumbers perform precise calculations to ensure your new unit handles your household's peak demand comfortably.

Most homeowners save 20 to 30 percent on water heating costs by switching to tankless, since the unit only heats water when a faucet or appliance calls for it. Annual savings depend on your current usage and local energy rates.

Above + Beyond can provide an estimated savings comparison based on your household's hot water usage. Factor in the longer lifespan of a tankless unit and the savings often more than offset the higher initial cost.

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand rather than storing it, which eliminates standby energy loss and provides an endless supply of hot water. They are more compact, have a longer lifespan (15-20 years vs. 8-12), and can reduce water heating costs by 20-30 percent.

The trade-off is a higher upfront cost and potentially more complex installation. Above + Beyond helps homeowners weigh these factors to determine which type is the best fit for their household.

If your water heater is under 8 years old and the repair cost is less than half the replacement cost, repair usually makes sense. If the unit is older, requires frequent repairs, or shows signs of tank corrosion, replacement is the better investment.

Above + Beyond's plumbers provide honest assessments and will never push a replacement when a repair will do. We present both options with clear pricing so you can make an informed decision.

Water heater sizing depends on your household's peak hot water demand. A 40-gallon tank is typically sufficient for 2-3 people, while a 50-gallon or larger tank is recommended for 4+ person households. Tankless systems are sized by flow rate (GPM).

Above + Beyond's plumbers calculate your specific hot water needs based on the number of bathrooms, appliances, and simultaneous usage patterns to recommend the right size for reliable performance.

Simple steps include lowering the thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, insulating exposed hot water pipes, flushing sediment annually, and ensuring the unit is properly sized for your household's demand.

If your water heater is more than 10 years old, upgrading to a high-efficiency model can significantly reduce your energy bills. Above + Beyond can help you compare options and calculate potential savings.

We recommend annual maintenance for all water heaters. This includes flushing sediment from the tank, inspecting the anode rod, checking the pressure relief valve, and verifying thermostat accuracy.

Regular maintenance prevents efficiency loss, extends the life of your unit, and reduces the risk of unexpected failures. Above + Beyond offers maintenance as a standalone service or as part of Saige's Loyalty Club membership.

A conventional tank water heater typically lasts 8 to 12 years, while a tankless model can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Factors like water quality, usage patterns, and maintenance frequency all affect lifespan.

Above + Beyond recommends annual maintenance including flushing sediment and checking the anode rod to maximize your water heater's lifespan. Our plumbers can assess your current unit and let you know where it stands.

The main types are conventional tank water heaters (gas or electric), tankless (on-demand) water heaters, and hybrid heat pump water heaters. Each has different upfront costs, energy efficiency ratings, and best-use scenarios.

Above + Beyond's licensed plumbers can help you evaluate which type best fits your household's hot water demand, available space, and energy goals. We install and service all major brands and types.

Signs that your backflow preventer may need repair include water discoloration, unusual taste or odor in your tap water, visible leaks from the device, or a failed annual test. Any of these warrant immediate professional attention.

Above + Beyond responds quickly to backflow concerns because compromised drinking water is a health hazard. Our certified plumbers carry common repair parts and can often fix or replace a failing device on the same visit.

The most common types are atmospheric vacuum breakers (AVB), pressure vacuum breakers (PVB), double-check valve assemblies (DCVA), and reduced pressure zone assemblies (RPZ). Each is designed for different risk levels and installation scenarios.

Above + Beyond's licensed plumbers will recommend the correct device based on your property's hazard level and local code requirements. RPZ assemblies offer the highest level of protection and are required for high-hazard connections.

Many municipalities require backflow prevention devices on properties with irrigation systems, swimming pools, fire suppression systems, or other connections that could allow non-potable water to enter the clean water supply.

Even if not required by code, a backflow preventer is a smart investment in your family's health. Above + Beyond can evaluate your property and let you know whether a device is required or recommended for your situation.

Backflow preventer installation costs depend on the type of device required, the complexity of the connection, and whether any plumbing modifications are needed. Above + Beyond provides upfront pricing after evaluating your specific setup.

Common devices include double-check valves and reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assemblies. Our licensed plumber will recommend the right device for your property and ensure it meets all local code requirements.

Most local codes require annual backflow preventer testing to verify the device is functioning properly. Above + Beyond's certified plumbers perform testing with calibrated equipment and handle all required documentation for your water authority.

Annual testing catches worn seals, fouled check valves, and other issues before they allow contaminated water into your supply. Our team can set up a recurring annual appointment so you never miss a required test.

Backflow occurs when water flows in the reverse direction through your plumbing system, potentially pulling contaminated water from irrigation systems, pools, or other non-potable sources into your clean drinking water supply.

Backflow events can introduce harmful chemicals, bacteria, and other contaminants into your home's water. A properly installed and tested backflow prevention device stops this from happening and is often required by local plumbing codes.

Yes, hydro jetting is one of the most effective methods for removing grease buildup from drain and sewer lines. The high-pressure water breaks apart hardened grease deposits and flushes them completely out of the pipe.

Kitchen drains in both residential and commercial properties are especially prone to grease accumulation. Above + Beyond recommends periodic hydro jetting for any home or business that experiences slow kitchen drains or recurring grease-related clogs.