Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I improve my home’s water quality?

    Your water should be as pure as your intentions (or at least close). We offer top-tier water filtration and conditioning systems that remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants- softer on your skin, easier on your appliances, and better for your overall well-being.

    Edmonton's water quality is closely monitored to ensure safety and compliance with health standards. EPCOR, the city's primary water utility, regularly publishes detailed water quality reports, including monthly bacteriological summaries and annual operations reports. These documents provide comprehensive data on various water quality parameters, such as microbial content, chemical composition, and treatment processes.

    In terms of water hardness, Edmonton's water measures approximately 174 milligrams per liter (mg/L), which classifies it as "hard" water. This level of hardness can lead to mineral buildup in plumbing systems and appliances, potentially affecting their efficiency and lifespan.

    For residents interested in enhancing their water quality, options such as water softeners and filtration systems can be considered to address specific concerns like hardness and potential contaminants.

  • What’s the benefit of a tankless water heater?

    Endless hot showers. Enough said!  But seriously- tankless water heaters are energy-efficient, take up less space, and provide hot water on demand without the bulky tank. We install and service these beauties so you never have to worry about a cold shower again.

    While specific statistics for Edmonton or Alberta are limited, adopting an energy-efficient tankless water heater can lead to notable cost savings. On average, tankless water heaters are 35% to 80% more energy-efficient than traditional storage tank models. This increased efficiency can result in up to a 30% reduction in natural gas consumption, leading to lower utility bills. Additionally, tankless systems eliminate standby heat loss by heating water only when needed, further enhancing energy savings.

    For homeowners, investing in a tankless water heater not only offers potential cost savings but also aligns with energy efficiency goals, contributing to a more sustainable household.

  • Can you install the fixtures I’ve already picked out?

    Absolutely! If you’ve been strolling the aisles of the hardware store, imagining your dream faucet or the sleek, modern showerhead you’ve always wanted, we’ve got you covered. But if you haven’t quite landed on the perfect fixture yet, we’re here to help with that too. Whether you need guidance on selecting something that suits your style or advice on what’s best for your space and plumbing, we’ll offer our expertise to make sure you pick the right fit.

    The thing is, while installing plumbing fixtures might seem like a simple DIY project, it often turns into a headache if you’re not careful. From mismatched parts that don’t fit to water pressure issues, or worse- an unexpected leak that could flood your bathroom- things can go wrong fast. It’s easy to get frustrated or overwhelmed, especially when you're working with a high-end fixture that requires precise installation to function properly. That’s where we come in. We’ll handle the details so you don’t have to worry about damaging your new fixtures or dealing with future plumbing problems.

    No DIY disasters, no second guessing-just expert installation, a job well done, and your new fixtures working perfectly the first time. Let us help you select the best option and ensure it’s installed right, so you can sit back and enjoy the transformation.

  • How do I know if my water softener needs an upgrade?

    If your shower feels like a chalkboard or your dishes are dotted with spots, it’s a clear sign your water softener might need an upgrade. Edmonton’s moderately hard water (174 mg/L) leaves calcium and magnesium deposits in your plumbing and appliances, leading to limescale buildup, reduced efficiency, and higher energy bills.

    Have you noticed how hard it is to clean your humidifier or those cloudy shower glass doors that never seem to stay clear? That’s mineral buildup from hard water. A new water softener can prevent this by reducing limescale, keeping your appliances and surfaces cleaner, and making your skin feel softer.

    Upgrading ensures your water works smarter, saving you time on cleaning, improving appliance efficiency, and reducing your energy costs.

  • How often should I replace my water heater?

    A well-maintained water heater typically lasts 8-12 years, but several factors influence this lifespan, especially with traditional tank-style units versus tankless systems. Traditional water heaters are more prone to wear and tear, especially due to sediment buildup, which can cause corrosion and decrease efficiency over time. In fact, studies show that about 25-30% of a water heater’s energy efficiency is lost due to sediment accumulation (U.S. Department of Energy). This sediment build-up can also shorten the lifespan of your water heater and make it work harder to heat your water, costing you more on your energy bill.

    Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are designed to last longer—up to 20 years—because they don’t store water and are less prone to the same buildup. They also offer higher efficiency rates, often up to 30% more efficient than traditional models, as they heat water on demand without constantly keeping a large tank of water hot. This on-demand heating means you're only paying for the water you use, reducing energy waste.

    If your water heater is making strange noises (a common sign of sediment build-up), struggling to keep up during peak usage times, or just showing signs of age, it's time for an upgrade. Replacing an old, inefficient unit not only ensures you’ll have consistent hot water but can also save you up to 20% on energy bills annually by upgrading to an energy-efficient model.

    Our team can help you select and install a water heater that’s both energy-efficient and built to last, ensuring reliable service for years to come and saving you money in the long run.

  • What makes Jack Pine Plumbing Different?

    At Jack Pine Plumbing, we don’t just fix leaks- we offer a complete experience. We combine top-tier expertise, sustainable solutions, and just the right amount of wit to make plumbing feel effortless. Whether you're dealing with premium service repairs or installing high-end water systems, our team is obsessed with getting it right every time.

    What sets us apart? It’s our unwavering commitment to customer service. We take the time to listen, understand your needs, and provide tailored solutions that work for your home and lifestyle. Plumbing should be simple, seamless, and stress-free- and with us, it is.

    We’re not just experts in our craft; we’re dedicated to making your life easier. That means no surprise costs, no jargon, and no confusion—just clear, honest communication from start to finish. Plus, our work is built to last, ensuring that your plumbing systems are not only functional but reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly.

    With Jack Pine Plumbing, you get more than just a service- you get a partnership you can trust, with every detail handled with care. Whether you’re upgrading your water system or tackling a complex repair, we’re here to make sure your water works flawlessly, every time.