There are many signs that a person’s water service needs to be
upgraded. It is possible for a homeowner to reside in a home without realizing
that it is time for their service to be upgraded therefore it is important to
look out for a few key signs in order to make sure that the property has up to
date service. One obvious thing to look out for is to be knowledgeable about
the time frame in which the home was built and whether or not the property was
built before newer technologies became available.
Many experts identify homes built before the 1970s as needing their service
upgraded. This is because it is often the homeowner’s responsibility to
advocate for upgraded service and if the previous homeowners did not do this
then it is possible that the home might need upgraded water supply. Older home
require upgrades and while it is quite common for the new owner of the home to
ensure that the inside of the house has been upgraded, something such as the water
pressure can be easily overlooked. The homeowner should keep accurate records
of the improvements made to their home and ensure that the proper water service
upgrade has occurred. If the homeowner is currently experiencing problems with
their water pressure then it is possible that the homeowner might need a water
service upgrade to fix that problem. First however, it is important to ensure
that the water problems are not due to any plumbing issues, the next
recommended step is to investigate the quality of their water supply.
Another sign that a person’s water service needs to be upgraded is if there is
a round cast-iron valve box. This particular box can be found in the alley or
sidewalk or sometimes located in the homeowner’s back yard near the back fence.
The round cast-iron valve box cannot be used in order to get adequate water
service and it does not function as well. It is recommended that the homeowner
upgrade in order to replace the circular box with a rectangular box with a
concrete lid. This box should be larger in size and will help ensure that the
home is meter-ready. It is not recommended for a person to make changes to
their service independently but seek the assistance of a professional plumber
to tend to this.
Another sign that a person might need better water service is if they are experiencing
problems with their current service. Changes in water pressure or an absence of
water is a clear indicator that it is time to upgrade. Any changes in water
usage might require an upgrade as well so homeowners who have expanded the size
of their home or increase the members of their household might require a water
service upgrade. The same will apply to small businesses that plan to inhibit a
building and depending on the type of business might experience an intake of
water. It is advised that people who have experienced a change in water intake
contact their local Water Utility representative.