Don Jones Plumbing Blog
Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, providing the hot water needed for bathing and cleaning. Because it often works quietly in the background, it’s easy to forget about it until something goes wrong. However, ignoring early warning signs can lead to breakdowns—or even water damage. At Don Jones Plumbing, we provide expert water heater repair and replacement in the greater Phoenix area. By paying attention to your water heater’s performance, you can spot problems early and get them addressed before they turn into bigger issues. Inconsistent or Insufficient Hot Water One of the clearest signs of trouble is when your water heater no longer delivers a steady supply of hot water. If the water takes longer to heat up, runs out faster than usual, or never gets as hot as it should, it could indicate heating element failure. Mineral buildup inside the tank can also reduce efficiency, leaving you with lukewarm showers and higher energy bills. Strange Noises Coming from the Tank While some noise from your water heater is normal, loud popping, banging, or rumbling sounds are cause for concern. These noises are often caused by sediment buildup inside the tank. As water heats, the sediment hardens and creates pockets of steam that make noise as they expand. Leaks Around the Water Heater Any sign of water pooling around your water heater should never be ignored. Even a small leak can worsen quickly and cause significant water damage to your home. Leaks may result from a faulty valve, loose connections, or corrosion inside the tank. A leaking water heater requires immediate attention and, in some cases, full replacement. Discolored Water If the hot water coming from your faucets appears rusty, your water heater may be the problem. Rust inside the tank or issues with the anode rod can cause discoloration. This not only affects water quality, but also indicates internal issues that require repair. Water Heater Service in Phoenix, AZ For water heater service in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Don Jones Plumbing at (623) 209-8464. Feel free to give us a call to request plumbing service in Phoenix!
Your toilet is one of the most frequently used fixtures in your home, so it's important that it functions efficiently and reliably. While many toilet problems can be fixed with simple repairs, there comes a point when replacing the unit entirely is the better option. Whether due to age, wear, or inefficiency, knowing when to invest in a new toilet can save you money and stress in the long run. At Don Jones Plumbing, we provide expert toilet repair and replacement in the greater Phoenix area. Here are four signs that it's time to replace your toilet. Frequent Clogs or Overflows If your toilet seems to clog more often than it used to, even with normal use, it may be an indication that the toilet’s flushing mechanism is no longer effective. Older toilets, especially those manufactured before modern efficiency standards, often struggle with performance. Constant plunging is not only frustrating but can also suggest that the internal components or drainage design are outdated and in need of replacement. Cracks in the Porcelain Small hairline cracks in the tank or bowl might not seem urgent, but they can grow into larger problems. Cracks can cause water leaks, which may damage your flooring or lead to mold and mildew growth. If you notice that the toilet has cracks, it’s often a good idea to be proactive and replace it before a major leak occurs. Constant Running or Leaking A toilet that runs continuously or leaks around the base is not just an annoyance—it’s a waste of water and a sign of deeper issues. While some internal parts like flappers and fill valves can be replaced, persistent leaks or recurring issues may mean the toilet has worn out beyond reliable repair. Replacing it can provide peace of mind and reduce your water bill over time. Inefficient Water Usage Toilets manufactured before the 1990s often use far more water per flush than newer models. If your toilet uses more than 1.6 gallons per flush, upgrading to a modern high-efficiency toilet can significantly reduce your household’s water consumption. This not only benefits the environment, but also helps lower your utility costs. Toilet Repair & Replacement in Phoenix, AZ For expert plumbing services in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Don Jones Plumbing at (623) 209-8464. Feel free to give us a call to arrange plumbing service in Phoenix!
When it comes to upgrading your home’s water heating system, a tankless water heater is a modern option that offers both efficiency and convenience. Unlike traditional water heaters that store hot water in a large tank, tankless units heat water on demand, which means they only use energy when you actually need hot water. At Don Jones Plumbing, we provide expert tankless water heater installation in the greater Phoenix area. Here are five benefits of installing a tankless water heater in your home. Endless Hot Water Supply One of the most attractive features of a tankless water heater is its ability to provide hot water continuously. Because water is heated as it flows through the unit, there’s no waiting for a storage tank to refill and reheat. This is especially beneficial for larger households where multiple showers, laundry, and dishwashing might be happening at the same time. Improved Energy-Efficiency Tankless water heaters are known for their energy-saving capabilities. Traditional water heaters constantly heat a full tank of water, even when you're not using it, which leads to standby heat loss. In contrast, tankless models only operate when hot water is needed, significantly reducing energy consumption. This efficiency can lead to noticeable savings on your monthly utility bills. Longer Lifespan Than Traditional Units While tankless water heaters may have a higher upfront cost, they typically last longer than conventional water heaters. On average, a tankless unit can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance, compared to 10 to 15 years for a standard tank unit. This extended lifespan helps offset the initial investment and makes the upgrade more cost-effective over time. Space-Saving Design Tankless water heaters are compact and can be mounted on a wall, making them an ideal solution for homes with limited space. Their small footprint frees up floor space in utility rooms, garages, or basements and allows for more flexibility in installation locations. This can be especially helpful in smaller homes where maximizing square footage is a priority. Lower Risk of Water Damage Because tankless water heaters don’t store gallons of water, there’s a lower risk of water leaks and tank ruptures. This reduces the potential for costly water damage to your home. Water Heater Service in Phoenix, AZ For water heater service in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Don Jones Plumbing at (623) 209-8464. Feel free to give us a call to arrange plumbing service in Phoenix!
