Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Factors to Consider When Buying a Water Heater?
When shopping around for a new water heater, consider factors such as:
  • Size: You need a properly sized water heater to provide enough hot water and maximize efficiency.
  • Energy efficiency: An efficient water heater will maximize your energy and cost savings.
  • Costs: It helps to compare the annual operating expenses of various models before settling on one.
  • Fuel type, availability, and cost: The energy source or fuel type you use for heating water will affect your unit's annual operating costs as well as its size and energy efficiency.
What Size of Water Heater Is Best for My Property?
Different types of water heaters have varying sizing requirements. To size a tank-style water heater, you need to check its FHR (first hour rating), which will help determine if the water heater can meet your needs during the busiest time period. Sizing a tankless water heater requires you to calculate the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) and temperature rise you’ll need for its application in your property. Our local experts at Charles Krull & Son, Inc. Plumbing & Heating can help you determine what size water heater is ideal for your needs.
How to Troubleshoot Before Calling for a Boiler Repair?
Before calling for boiler repair, try these simple troubleshooting tips that could save you time and money.
  • Check that your thermostat is working and that it’s on the correct setting.
  • Check the power disconnect switch.
  • Confirm that you have fuel oil or check to make sure the gas control valve to the boiler is open.
  • Bleed your radiators to release excess gas.
  • Reset the boiler.
  • Repressurize your boiler so that the pressure is neither too high nor too low.
  • Check the boiler’s fuse/breaker at the electrical panel.
If you’re uncomfortable checking any of these issues call for service and let a certified technician resolve the issue for you.
What are the Most Common Plumbing Issues for Bathrooms, Kitchens, or Utility Rooms?
Plenty of plumbing problems can spring up in the average bathroom, kitchen, or utility room. Some of the most common plumbing problems you’re likely to encounter include:
  • Low water pressure
  • A jammed garbage disposal
  • Running toilets
  • Slow-running tubs
  • Slow-draining sinks
  • Dripping faucets
  • Leaky pipes
  • Clogged toilets
While some of these problems are relatively minor and inexpensive, others are capable of causing structural damage to your property and destroying the contents of your home. If you suspect an issue with your plumbing, contact a professional plumber right away.
A Checklist of Common Plumbing Code Violation Issues In New York.
Both residential and commercial properties in New York are subject to plumbing code violations. For residential properties, plumbing code violations typically involve:
  • Illegal plumbing
  • Plumbing renovations without a permit
  • Tenant and neighbor complaints
For commercial properties, plumbing code violations are usually based on complaints lodged against older buildings and received during building renovations and routine inspections. At Charles Krull & Son, Inc. Plumbing & Heating, our technicians are quick and dependable in handling plumbing code violation issues. Contact us for more information!