Category: Plumbing

Key takeaways:

• Hard water is a big deal here – If you live in Palm Desert, Indio, Palm Springs, or anywhere in the Coachella Valley, your water is loaded with minerals like calcium and magnesium.
• It’s not just about plumbing – Hard water buildup damages pipes and appliances, but it can also dry out your skin and make your hair feel rough.
• Other water quality concerns – Some areas in the valley have seen issues like arsenic and other contaminants, which can impact health.
• There are solutions – Water softeners, filtration systems, and regular plumbing maintenance can help you get cleaner, healthier water.

Coachella Valley water: What’s coming out of your tap?

If you’ve noticed white spots on your dishes, dry skin after a shower, or gunk around your faucets, you’re not imagining things—that’s hard water in action.

The Coachella Valley’s water supply comes from an underground aquifer stretching 65 miles from the Whitewater River to the Salton Sea. This aquifer naturally picks up minerals like calcium and magnesium, making the water “hard.” This leads to build up in your pipes, appliances, and even on your skin.

But hard water isn’t the only thing to watch out for. Some areas have reported elevated levels of arsenic—a naturally occurring element that, in high amounts, can pose health risks.

How hard water affects your home and health

Most people assume their plumbing will last forever—that as long as water flows, everything’s fine. But that’s not how it works. We’ve seen what happens when hard water is left unchecked, and the damage goes deeper than most homeowners realize.

Hard water isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s an active threat to your plumbing, appliances, and even your health. Over time, minerals don’t just sit there—they build up, react, and corrode, forcing your home’s systems to work harder, wear out faster, and break down sooner.

Ignoring it means shortened appliance lifespans, rising utility bills, and hidden leaks eating away at your plumbing. And if you think it only affects your pipes? Your skin and hair take a hit, too. 

Let’s break it all down.

Wreaks Havoc on Your Plumbing

Hard water doesn’t just clog pipes—it actively damages them. Over time, mineral deposits restrict water flow, corrode pipes, and weaken plumbing fixtures.

• Clogs pipes over time – Minerals like calcium and magnesium collect inside pipes, shrinking water flow and leading to low pressure, slow drains, and eventual blockages.
• Speeds up appliance breakdowns – Hard water buildup forces water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines to work harder, shortening their lifespan.

Causes corrosion & hidden leaks – When minerals react with metal pipes, they speed up corrosion, which can weaken plumbing and cause leaks over time—a common issue in older homes and vacation homes with pipes that sit unused for longer periods.

Messes with Your Skin & Hair

Ever stepped out of the shower feeling drier than before you got in? That’s hard water stripping away your skin’s natural moisture.

• Causes dry, itchy skin – Hard water leaves behind a film, preventing moisture from absorbing properly.
• Weakens & dulls hair – Minerals cling to hair, making it harder to rinse shampoo and conditioner. This buildup can cause breakage and a dull, weighed-down look.

Worsens skin conditions – Studies have linked hard water to worsened eczema and skin irritation.

Tastes kind of funny, too

• Chalky, mineral taste – Some people notice a slightly “off” taste from the high mineral content in tap water.

What happens when you treat hard water?

We’ve worked with homeowners who thought their water was “just fine”—until their water heater failed years earlier than expected, their pipes corroded from the inside out, or they spent a fortune on skin and hair products trying to undo what their water was doing to them.

Hard water damage isn’t always obvious—until it is. And by then, it’s expensive. But the moment you treat it, you see the difference:

• Water pressure improves – Pipes and fixtures stay clear of scale buildup, keeping water flowing strong.
• Lower utility bills – Appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines run more efficiently, using less energy.
• Soap lathers better – No more battling mineral-coated skin that won’t rinse clean.
• Fewer plumbing repairs – Corrosion and leaks become less frequent, meaning fewer unexpected repair costs.
• Water tastes better – No more chalky or metallic taste—just clean, crisp water.

The difference is night and day—and the right solution depends on your home’s needs.

Hard water’s gotta go: Tips & solutions

California has strict laws on salt-based water softeners, and in many parts of Riverside County, they’re outright banned due to their impact on wastewater and the environment.

But hard water is still a major issue—so what can you do? There are better, more eco-friendly solutions that keep your plumbing protected and your water clean.

HydroFlow West

As California’s only dealer for HydroFlow West, we offer a revolutionary, salt-free way to treat hard water without chemicals, maintenance, or waste.

HydroFlow uses electromagnetic waves to break up mineral deposits before they form, preventing scale buildup and corrosion in pipes and appliances.

No salt. No filters. No maintenance. Unlike traditional softeners, HydroFlow requires zero upkeep and is completely legal in all of California.

Whole-Home Filtration Systems

Filtration removes sediment, chlorine, and certain contaminants before they reach your taps, improving taste and water quality.

• Great for reducing chlorine, sediment, and metals
• Meets California’s environmental regulations
• Works with existing plumbing

Water Purification Systems

For concerns beyond hard water—like arsenic, bacteria, or nitrates—water purification systems offer the most thorough filtration.

• Reverse osmosis to remove dissolved contaminants
• UV purification to kill bacteria and viruses
• Whole-home or under-sink options available

Routine Plumbing Maintenance

Even with the best water treatment, hard water takes a toll over time. Regular plumbing maintenance can catch buildup and corrosion early, saving you from expensive repairs.

• Extends the life of pipes & appliances
• Ensures strong water pressure & efficiency

Ready to take control of your home’s water quality?

You don’t have to live with chalky water, clogged pipes, or dry skin. The right filtration and softening systems can make a huge difference in your home and health. 

Ready for better water? Schedule your service today!

Selecting the right water heater can be a puzzle with so many options available. Let’s break it down to make it easier for you to decide which water heater installation suits your Palm Springs home best.

A typical tank water heater in a Palm Springs home. They are the most affordable option upfront,
and serve large households well.

By storage type: tank vs. tankless

Conventional tank water heaters

These are the most common type, featuring a large tank that stores hot water.

Advantages:

• Lower initial cost compared to more advanced systems.
• Reliable and can supply hot water during power outages if gas-powered.
• Can store a large amount of hot water, making it suitable for large families or frequent visitors.

Ideal For: Larger households with significant hot water needs.

Tankless water heaters

Also known as on-demand water heaters, these units heat water only when needed, without storing it in a tank.

Advantages:

• Energy-efficient, as they only heat water when you need it. For homes that use 41 gallons of hot water or less, they can be 24%–34% more efficient.
• Provides endless hot water, perfect for those long, relaxing showers after a day in the desert sun.
• Space-saving design, ideal for the smaller homes and condos common in Palm Springs.

Ideal For: Homes with high hot water demand and limited space.

A gas tankless water heater is a good choice if you have access to natural gas and want hot water
on demand.

By heating source: electric, gas, or indirect

Gas or propane water heaters

These use natural gas or propane to heat the water, typically more quickly than electric heaters.

Advantages:

• Lower operating costs compared to electric heaters.
• Faster heating times, ensuring a quick supply of hot water, even for large households.
• Can continue operating during power outages, which is crucial during storms.
• Benefit from rebates in Southern California for selected efficient gas heaters.

Ideal For: Homes with access to natural gas or propane, and high hot water usage.

Electric water heaters

These units use electric resistance coils to heat the water.

Advantages:

• Easy to install and can be placed almost anywhere.
• Reliable with fewer maintenance requirements compared to gas units.
• Ideal for homes without access to natural gas.

Ideal For: Homes without access to natural gas or where gas heating is not preferred.

Indirect water heaters

These systems heat water using the home’s boiler or furnace, typically storing it in a separate tank.

Advantages:

• Energy-efficient when paired with a high-efficiency boiler. They can be the cheapest way of heating water.
• Can utilize the existing heating system, saving on installation costs.
• Reliable and long-lasting, suitable for year-round residents.

Ideal For: Homes with a boiler heating system and significant hot water demand.

Our plumbers in Palm Springs attended a repair call for a condensing water heater.
Choose this model type for extra energy saving.

Energy-efficient and eco-friendly options

Condensing water heaters

Water heating is the second-largest expense in American homes, accounting for 12-14% of utility bills. So it makes sense to find a heater that helps you save. Condensing units use the exhaust gases from the water heating process to heat the water, further increasing efficiency.

Advantages:

• Highly energy-efficient, reducing energy costs.
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions, making them environmentally friendly.

Ideal For: Homes with high-demand for hot water looking to save on energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint.

Hybrid water heaters

These combine a heat pump with a conventional storage tank to heat water more efficiently.

Advantages:

• Extremely energy-efficient, potentially saving significant amounts on electricity bills.
• Can handle high hot water demand while maintaining efficiency.
• Environmentally friendly due to lower energy consumption, a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

Ideal For: Homes looking to reduce energy consumption while maintaining ample hot water supply.

This electric tankless heater takes up so little space it can even fit inside a closet, making it ideal
for providing water to a specific zone of the house.

Localized heating solutions

Point-of-use water heaters

These units are installed near fixtures to provide hot water quickly without waiting for it to travel from a central heater. They can be small under-cabinet water heaters.

Advantages:

• Reduced water waste, as hot water is available immediately.
• Energy-efficient and convenient.
• Simple and quick installation, ideal for home additions or guest houses.

Ideal For: Remote bathrooms, kitchens, or additions where extending plumbing would be costly.

So, which is the right choice?

Choosing the right heater depends on several factors, including household size, hot water needs, energy preferences, and space availability. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Evaluate your hot water needs: Larger families with high hot water demand might benefit from conventional storage tank or hybrid systems.
• Consider energy efficiency: If reducing energy bills and environmental impact is a priority, consider condensing, hybrid, or tankless models.
• Assess space constraints: Tankless, under-cabinet, or point-of-use heaters can be a great fit for homes with limited space. Also, here’s a guide to help you determine your heater size.
• Check fuel availability: Depending on whether your home has access to natural gas, propane, or only electricity, you might opt for electric, gas, or propane heaters.
• Think about installation and maintenance: While some systems might have a higher upfront cost, they can offer long-term savings in energy costs and maintenance.

Remember, selecting the right water heater is crucial for comfort and energy efficiency. Take your time to understand the options and choose the one that best fits your home and lifestyle.

I distinctly remember the day a customer called me in a panic because water was cascading down her staircase, flooding the new oak floors. It turned out her plumbing system had suddenly switched from open to closed, causing a pressure build-up that led to significant water damage.

What could’ve avoided it? An expansion tank. From that moment on, I knew that recommending an expansion tank with every water heater installation was a must.

Here’s why you should consider adding an expansion tank to your water heater system and how it can save you from unexpected headaches and costly repairs.

The Importance of an Expansion Tank

An expansion tank is like a safety net for your plumbing system. It steps in to handle the extra water volume that occurs when your water heater heats up. Without it, this extra volume can increase pressure in your pipes, potentially causing damage.

Open vs. Closed Plumbing Systems

One big reason we advocate for expansion tanks is that it’s tough to tell if your home has an open or closed plumbing system. An open system lets excess pressure flow back into the municipal water supply. A closed system, however, keeps all that pressure within your home’s plumbing, which can lead to problems.

Why Every Installation Should Include an Expansion Tank

Given how easily your home’s plumbing system can switch from open to closed, it’s smart to include an expansion tank with every water heater installation. This small addition can prevent unexpected water damage and save you from costly repairs.

Lifespan of Expansion Tanks

Expansion tanks usually last as long as water heaters. So, when you replace your water heater, it’s a good idea to replace the expansion tank too. This ensures everything works smoothly and keeps your plumbing system in great shape.

Is an expansion tank required in California?

Yes, California requires a thermal expansion tank or equivalent in water heating systems for closed systems. According to the Plumbing Code (Section 608.3) and Mechanical Code (Section 1005.0), these tanks are necessary to prevent pressure spikes and leaks by absorbing excess pressure when water heats up and expands. Additionally, they are mandated if your water heater is equipped with a pressure regulator or backflow preventer.

Do you need an expansion tank? Give us a call to schedule a plumbing inspection if you live in any of the following cities:

• Palm Springs
• Indio
• Rancho Mirage
• Cathedral City
• La Quinta
• Coachella Valley
• Desert Hot Springs
• Bermuda Dunes
• Indian Wells
• Palm Desert
• Thousand Palms

Final Thoughts

Installing an expansion tank with your water heater isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. It’s a small investment that can prevent major damage and expenses. Whether you realize it or not, your plumbing system can change, and being prepared with an expansion tank is a wise choice.

If you have any questions or need help with your plumbing, give us a call. We’re here to offer expert advice and top-notch service, keeping your home safe and efficient.

Palm Springs is a fantastic place to live, but our unique climate and landscape can bring about some specific plumbing challenges. Let’s dive into a few of these issues and discuss some practical solutions to keep your Palm Springs home’s plumbing running smoothly.

4. Water Heater Issues

In Palm Springs, a reliable water heater is essential for comfortable living. However, hard water can cause sediment buildup in your water heater, leading to decreased efficiency and even damage over time. You might notice lukewarm water or a longer wait time for hot water as signs of a struggling water heater.

Solution: Flushing(or descaling) your water heater regularly can help remove sediment buildup. This maintenance task involves draining the tank to clear out the minerals. Additionally, setting the thermostat to the recommended temperature (usually 120 degrees Fahrenheit) can prevent overheating and extend the lifespan of your water heater.

Why Palm Springs? The high mineral content in the water means that water heaters here tend to build up sediment faster than in other areas.

6. Sewer Line Problems

Sewer line issues are less common but can be quite serious when they occur. Tree roots seeking water can invade your sewer lines, causing blockages and even breaks. This can lead to unpleasant odors, slow drains, and in severe cases, sewage backups.

Solution: Regular sewer line inspections using a camera can help detect problems early. If tree roots are the culprit, a plumber can use specialized equipment to remove them. In some cases, more extensive repairs might be needed, such as trenchless sewer line replacement, which minimizes disruption to your yard.

Why Palm Springs? Similar to outdoor plumbing issues, the aggressive root systems of trees in search of water in the arid climate can damage sewer lines.

Final Thoughts

Living in Palm Springs offers many perks, but our unique environment means that plumbing issues are a part of life here. By staying vigilant and addressing problems early, you can keep your plumbing system in top shape. And remember, whether it’s a minor clog or a major leak, your local Palm Springs plumber is just a call away, ready to help you with any plumbing challenge that comes your way.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining a healthy plumbing system. Stay cool, Palm Springs!

Imagine never running out of hot water again while saving up to 34% on your energy bills.

With a lifespan of up to 20 years, electric and gas tankless water heater installations are smart, long-term investments. If you’re still wondering about the basics of water heater systems, or considering upgrading to a tankless model, this guide will help you understand why a tankless hot water heater might be the perfect next step for your home.

What you need to know about tankless water heaters

Did you know 15% of your home’s energy usage comes from water heating? Here are some essential points about tankless heaters that could change how you think about hot water:

• Cost savings: Tankless heaters offer significant savings on energy bills, ranging from 8% to 34%, depending on how much water is used in your home. Also, they require almost no replacements, making them the most cost-effective choice​.
• Energy efficiency: Tankless hot water heaters are significantly more energy-efficient because they heat water only when needed. Tank units always keep a large volume of water hot, leading to significant energy waste you don’t want in your bills.
• Longevity: These units typically last up to 20 years, compared to tank heaters’ 10-15 year lifespan.​ (Of course, good maintenance is key.)

Wondering how a tankless water heater works?

Tankless units operate on demand, heating water instantly as it flows through the unit. Here’s a closer look at how they function:

1. Activation: When you turn on a hot tap, cold water (at around 50ºF, cold enough to keep you from wanting to shower) travels through a pipe into the tankless unit.
2. Heating: A gas or electric burner heats the water as it passes through the heat exchanger.
3. Continuous supply: The heated water is delivered directly to your tap without the need for storage. Tankless heaters can provide hot water at a rate of 2–5 gallons every minute, giving you an endless supply whenever you need it.

Gas or electric tankless water heater? Pros and cons

Deciding between a gas and electric tankless water heater installation can be tricky because it depends on several factors, like your hot water needs, the cost of fuel in your area, and installation considerations.
Here’s a breakdown of electric and gas tankless water heaters pros and cons:

Tankless gas water heater

Ideal for:

• Larger households
• Homes with existing gas lines
• Those looking for peak efficiency despite higher tankless gas water heater installation costs

Electric tankless water heater

Ideal for:

• Smaller households or point-of-use.
• Homes without gas lines or enough ventilation.
• Those looking for a simpler tankless water heater installation.

Let’s talk about tankless water heater maintenance

Keeping your unit in good shape for many years requires regular maintenance, whether a gas or electric tankless water heater. Here’s what you have to do to avoid common tankless water heater problems:

• Descale and flush regularly: Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your unit, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to great damage. You should do this at least once a year.​
• Check supply: Maintaining the gas supply and electrical connections can help avoid ignition problems.
• Clean pipes: Cleaning and inspecting the exhaust pipes regularly can prevent blockages that increase the risk of malfunctions.
• Inspect for leaks: Periodically inspect the system for any leaks. Early detection and repair can prevent water damage.
• Upkeep filters: Check and clean the water line and air filters regularly to keep the system running smoothly, maintain a nice water flow, and efficiently heat the home.​

While you can handle regular upkeep tasks, hiring a professional for thorough annual tankless water heater maintenance is a good idea. A pro can inspect the system, perform detailed cleaning, and catch any problems you might miss.

Things to consider to avoid having tankless water heater problems

Switching to a tankless water heater installation is a significant investment, so here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Initial cost: The upfront tankless water heater costs can be higher than those of tank models.
• Installation complexity: To accommodate a tankless unit, you may need to upgrade your home’s gas lines or electrical system​.
• Right-sizing: Low hot water output can occur if the unit is undersized to meet your home’s needs. Ensure the chosen unit can handle your household’s peak hot water demand​.

BONUS: How to save energy, water, and money at the same time!

• Don’t let the water run: Avoid letting water run while brushing your teeth, washing dishes, or doing other tasks. Simply turning off the tap can save a lot of water and energy over time.
• Install heat traps on your water heater tank: If you haven’t gone tankless, heat traps can save $15–$30 on your water heating bill. They prevent heat from escaping up the pipes.
• Take shorter showers: Reducing your shower time can save significant hot water. A short shower uses less water than a bath, and turning off the water while soaping up, shampooing, or shaving can lead to even more savings.
• Use cold water for laundry: Washing clothes in cold water can save energy and reduce utility bills (and avoid unexpected shrinking!). Most laundry loads don’t require hot water, and using cold water helps protect your clothes from wear and tear while saving energy.

Ready to make the switch?

If your water heater needs replacing, upgrade to a tankless heater today and enjoy endless hot water, energy savings, and peace of mind.

So, are tankless water heaters worth it?

Still asking yourself if a tankless water heater is worth it? With rising energy costs and a growing focus on sustainability, switching to a tankless unit is more relevant than ever.

It’s time to start reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint. Switch to a tankless heater for reliable, eco-friendly, and money-saving hot water.