Technology is affecting and disrupting all industries, including plumbing. As we approach 2020, there are a lot of cool new technologies and trends to look forward to that 

Here are some of the hottest plumbing trends and pieces of news in 2020.

Barner Murphy proudly provides plumbing services in the Bucks Country, PA. Get a head start on fixing up your plumbing for 2020 by calling Barner Murphy today.

1. Water Consciousness

Environmental awareness has been slowly on the rise for decades, but it seems that’s ramped up in recent years, especially in regards to water usage and pollution.

The average American family uses at least 300 gallons of water every day; it makes sense that people are seeking out ways to cut down their water consumption and reduce their environmental footprint. On top of that, families are looking for ways to free up room in their budget, and decreasing water usage can aid them in cutting their expenses.

One way this is being done is with water-efficient appliances. Such as dishwashers or high-efficiency (HE) laundry washing machines. These appliances can accomplish their designated tasks using much less water than before (and HE washing machines require less detergent as well), saving massive amounts of water.

2. Hands-Free Fixtures

Once reserved primarily for businesses, hands-free/touchless fixtures are making their way into homes as well. These fixtures can reduce the spread of germs by reducing physical contact between human hand and fixture.

They’re also more convenient. No need to turn a handle to get the right amount of water flow or push a lever to flush the toilet; just wave your hand and the fixture does its thing for you.

3. Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things or IoT for short is a network of physical objects that exchange data with each other in order to communicate. These physical objects are usually things in your home such as your fridge, thermostat, or coffee maker.

In 2020, we can expect to see the IoT implemented into plumbing scenarios. For example, smart toilets exist that can alert you to leaks and other issues, as well as provide data on your water usage.

Plumbing fixtures that use the IoT are not financially accessible to many at the present; however, as manufacturers continue to innovate and find ways to make these fixtures more inexpensive in 2020, more people will get to take advantage of this technology.

4. Luxurious Fixtures

People are moving away from basic fixtures and towards a more luxurious look and feel.

For example, curbless, walk-in showers are growing in popularity. Originally meant to help seniors get in and out of the shower without slipping, people outside this demographic are installing curbless showers for the convenience and the look.

These showers, along with more luxurious faucets, can turn a boring old bathroom into what feels like a spa.

Plumbing emergencies occur either as a result of neglecting to fix something or as a DIY attempt gone wrong.

Here are some of the most common. If you experience one of these plumbing emergencies, call a plumber like Barner Murphy right away. 

1. Burst Pipes

Many factors can cause or contribute to burst pipes:
Cold weather - If indoor temperatures reach 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the water inside could freeze
Irregular/unregulated water pressure
Corrosion/rust - Weakness the pipe walls
Clogs in pumps or toilet - Increase pressure inside pipes

You can actually cause your pipes to burst if you don’t know what you’re doing. Pipe sizes can be hard to tell apart at the store, but picking the wrong pipe can lead to corrosion or leaks.

Pipe issues are usually best left to professionals.

2. Leaky Pipes

Leaks happen for many of the same reasons as burst pipes, as they are essentially the precursor to a pipe bursting. The factors mentioned above can cause cracks to form in the piping, allowing water to leak out.

Trying to fix leaky pipes yourself might not work if you aren’t skilled at it. Failing to tighten joints the right amount or using the wrong materials can at best, not fix the leaky pipes; at worst, you might cause different problems elsewhere with your plumbing.

3. Sump Pump Failure

Your sump pump, usually located in your basement and in crawl spaces, prevents flooding and water damage by draining it away from your home.

Without a working sump pump, you’re putting yourself at risk for thousands of dollars in water damage. Sump pumps are a doable DIY project, but they’re not easy; many prefer hiring a plumber to do the work instead.

4. Clogged Fixtures

Clogs are inevitable in your home’s fixtures. Whether it’s waste, hair, grease, pieces of food, paper towels, toilet paper, or even clothing, a clog can cause plumbing joints to overflow and leak.

Toilet clogs aren’t too hard to handle on your own. If a plunger or toilet snake doesn’t work, pouring half a cup of dish soap in, waiting a few minutes, then pouring in boiling water should do the trick.

If not, you’ll want to call a plumber.

5. Water Heater Malfunction

You’ll know if your water heater’s malfunctioning if your water tastes or smells strange, comes out too hot or too cold, or makes excessive noise.

Water heater leaks require a professional. However, if your water heater is not leaking, you might be able to at least eliminate the funny taste/smell by flushing the heater’s water tank.

When in Doubt, Call a Plumber Instead of DIY

The truth is many plumbing emergencies come from DIY attempts on plumbing repairs. Some simpler repairs, like leaky faucets, can be done on your own if learned properly; but things can go wrong even with these quick fixes.

When in doubt, your best bet is to call a plumber. The professionals here at Barner Murphy are highly trained in providing all manner of plumbing services in Bucks County, so if you have a plumbing issue but you’re not confident in your ability to solve it, contact Barner Murphy today!