Category: DIY Guides

Drain Cleaning Services in Eagle, Idaho: When a Simple Snake Works (and When You Need Hot Water Jetting)

February 16, 2026

Fast relief is great—lasting relief is better

A slow kitchen sink, a tub that won’t drain, or a toilet that keeps backing up can disrupt your whole week—especially in a busy Eagle household. The tricky part is that not all clogs are the same. Some are “one-and-done” blockages you can clear quickly. Others are symptoms of buildup in the line that keeps coming back until the pipe walls are actually cleaned.

Below is a practical, homeowner-friendly guide to drain cleaning services in Eagle, Idaho, including when a traditional cable (snake/auger) is enough and when hot water jetting (a professional form of hydro jetting) is the smarter choice for long-term results.

What “drain cleaning” really means (and why clogs return)

Most recurring drain problems aren’t caused by one single item. They’re usually the result of layers of buildup that slowly reduce the inside diameter of your pipes—then one “normal” day (extra dishes, a longer shower, or a laundry-heavy weekend) pushes the system over the edge.

Common buildup patterns we see in homes and small businesses include:

Kitchen lines: grease, soap film, and food particles that stick to pipe walls (especially after holiday cooking).
Bathroom lines: hair, soap scum, and product residue.
Main lines: accumulated sludge, mineral scale, or root intrusion (more likely when the clog affects multiple fixtures).

If the pipe walls aren’t cleaned, a cable can restore flow—then the drain gradually slows again as new debris catches on what’s still stuck inside. Many plumbing sources note that snaking often clears the “spot” but doesn’t fully clean the pipe interior the way jetting can. (heatonplumbing.com)

Snaking vs. hot water jetting: the real-world difference

Think of these as two different tools for two different jobs:

Drain snaking (auger/cable): Breaks through or pulls out a blockage to get water moving again. It’s often the right first step for simple clogs like hair or small debris. (heatonplumbing.com)
Hot water jetting: Uses high-pressure water to scour the pipe walls and flush out grease, sludge, scale, and other buildup. It’s designed for stubborn clogs and recurring issues, especially in larger lines. (bens.plumbing)
Feature
Snaking
Hot Water Jetting
Best for
Simple, localized clogs (hair, minor debris)
Recurring clogs, grease, sludge, mineral buildup; deeper line issues
How it clears
Creates a path through the clog
Cleans pipe walls and flushes debris out
Long-term results
Good, but buildup may remain
Often longer-lasting due to thorough cleaning
Pipe considerations
Generally gentler for older/fragile lines
May require inspection first if piping is compromised
Many jetting processes start with a camera inspection to confirm the pipe condition and pinpoint the problem area before applying high-pressure cleaning. (bens.plumbing)

How to tell what you likely need (before you book)

If you’re trying to make the most practical decision—especially when you’re balancing time, budget, and the hassle of repeat problems—use these clues:

Snaking is often enough when:

The clog is in one fixture (one tub, one sink, one toilet).
The issue is new (first-time clog) and you haven’t had slow drains for months.
You suspect a physical obstruction (kids’ item, buildup right near the drain opening).
 

Hot water jetting is often the better choice when:

You’ve had recurring clogs (clears, then returns weeks/months later).
Multiple fixtures are affected (example: a shower drains slowly and the toilet gurgles).
Kitchen drains keep slowing—often tied to grease buildup that snaking may not fully remove. (highspeedplumbing.com)
You want a “reset” clean to reduce future maintenance calls (especially in commercial or high-use homes).
A key safety note: jetting is powerful. If your pipes are already damaged or severely corroded, professionals typically evaluate suitability first to avoid making a bad situation worse. (bens.plumbing)

Did you know? Quick drain facts that prevent emergencies

• Many “kitchen sink clogs” start with everyday items that don’t seem harmful—like grease, coffee grounds, and starchy foods—building up over time. (realsimple.com)
• Snaking can restore flow fast, but it may leave residue on the pipe walls—one reason some clogs come back. (heatonplumbing.com)
• Jetting is commonly described as a pipe-wall cleaning method, not just a clog punch-through method. (bens.plumbing)

Step-by-step: what to do when a drain slows down in Eagle

If you’re dealing with a slow drain, this sequence helps you avoid wasted effort and reduce the chance of making things worse.

1) Identify the scope

Check other fixtures nearby. If more than one drain is slow, or you hear gurgling, the issue may be farther down the line than a single sink trap.
 

2) Stop using chemical drain openers (especially repeatedly)

Chemical products can be harsh on plumbing systems and often don’t address the underlying buildup. If the clog returns, it’s time for mechanical cleaning or professional jetting.
 

3) Use prevention-friendly habits for kitchens

Keep grease out of the drain. Wipe pans with a paper towel before washing, and put fibrous or starchy scraps in the trash/compost instead of the disposal. Many plumbers warn that grease, pasta/rice, and similar items can contribute to blockages. (realsimple.com)
 

4) If the drain is repeatedly slow, ask about a “clean + confirm” approach

For recurring issues, many professionals recommend inspection to confirm pipe condition, then jetting to remove buildup (instead of repeatedly clearing the same choke point). (bens.plumbing)
 

5) Treat backups as urgent

If sewage is backing up, water is coming up in a shower when a toilet flushes, or you have water where it shouldn’t be, it’s time for professional help right away to minimize property damage.

A local angle: why Eagle homes often notice drain issues at the worst times

In Eagle and across the Treasure Valley, drain problems often show up when homes are busiest—holidays, visiting family, or weeks when everyone’s on a tight schedule. Practically speaking, that’s when kitchens see more cooking oils and dishes, bathrooms see more showers, and laundry runs more frequently.

If your kitchen line slows down more in colder months, grease tends to congeal faster as temperatures drop, which can accelerate buildup in the line. (That’s why prevention habits in the kitchen matter so much during heavy cooking seasons.)

Best preventive move
Keep fats, oils, and grease out of the drain; wipe cookware first and dispose properly. (realsimple.com)
Best “don’t wait” sign
Two or more fixtures affected, gurgling sounds, or repeated clogs—those are strong cues it’s not just a minor local blockage.

Need drain cleaning in Eagle, ID?

Cloverdale Plumbing has been serving the Treasure Valley for decades with responsive service and practical recommendations. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, frequent slow drains, or an after-hours backup, we’ll help you choose the right solution—whether that’s targeted drain snaking or a deeper clean with hot water jetting.
If this is an active backup or suspected main line issue, contact us right away for 24/7 help: Emergency Plumbing Services.

FAQ: Drain cleaning in Eagle, Idaho

How do I know if my clog is in the main sewer line?

If multiple fixtures are affected (for example, a toilet backs up and the shower gurgles), or you see water backing up in a lower-level drain, the problem may be in the main line rather than a single fixture branch.

Is hot water jetting the same as hydro jetting?

It’s a form of jetting that uses high-pressure water to clean the inside of pipes. Many explanations describe hydro jetting as a pipe-scouring method designed to remove grease, sludge, and buildup more thoroughly than a cable alone. (highspeedplumbing.com)

Will snaking fix a clog permanently?

Sometimes—especially for simple, first-time clogs. But if the line has buildup on the walls, snaking may restore flow without removing the residue that causes repeat blockages. (heatonplumbing.com)

What should I never put down my kitchen drain or disposal?

Avoid pouring grease down the drain, and be cautious with items that clump, expand, or tangle—like coffee grounds, fibrous scraps, and starchy foods. These are commonly cited by plumbers as frequent contributors to kitchen line clogs. (realsimple.com)

Is jetting safe for older pipes?

It can be safe when done professionally, but suitability depends on the pipe’s condition. Many industry explanations emphasize evaluating compromised or severely corroded lines before using high-pressure jetting. (bens.plumbing)

Glossary (quick definitions)

Drain Snaking (Augering)
A mechanical cable tool used to break through or retrieve a clog so water can flow again.
Hot Water Jetting / Hydro Jetting
A professional cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to scour pipe walls and flush out grease, sludge, and buildup.
Cleanout
A capped access point that allows a plumber to service and clean drain/sewer lines more directly.
Soap Scum
A sticky film created when soap binds with minerals and body oils, commonly contributing to slow bathroom drains.

Drain Cleaning Services in Caldwell, ID: How to Prevent Clogs (and Know When It’s Time to Call a Plumber)

February 5, 2026
 

Practical guidance for homes and small businesses in the Treasure Valley

A slow sink or gurgling shower drain can feel like a minor annoyance—until it becomes a full backup at the worst possible time. In Caldwell and across the Treasure Valley, the most common clogs tend to come from everyday habits (grease, “flushable” wipes, hair) plus local realities like aging plumbing in older neighborhoods and mineral buildup from hard water. This guide breaks down what causes recurring clogs, what you can safely try at home, and when professional drain cleaning is the smarter (and safer) move.

What “Drain Cleaning” Actually Means (and Why Method Matters)

“Drain cleaning” can describe several different approaches, and the best option depends on what’s clogging the line and where it’s located (a sink trap vs. a main sewer line). A quick plunge might fix a localized blockage, while recurring clogs often require deeper cleaning of pipe walls—especially when grease, soap scum, mineral scale, or roots are involved.

A professional drain cleaning service should do two things: restore flow and reduce the chance the clog comes right back. That’s why the right tools—and a careful diagnosis—are important.

Common Causes of Clogged Drains in Caldwell Homes

1) Fats, oils, and grease (FOG)

Grease may go down as a liquid, but it cools and sticks to pipes. Over time, it narrows the line, catches food particles, and can lead to serious backups. Running hot water or the garbage disposal doesn’t solve it—it just moves the problem farther down the line where it can harden and build up.

2) “Flushable” wipes and hygiene products

Even wipes labeled “flushable” can hang up in bends and joints, snagging other debris and forming dense blockages. If your toilet occasionally backs up or you hear gurgling, this is a common culprit.

3) Hair + soap scum in tubs and showers

Hair binds with soap residue and forms a “net” inside the drain. This is one of the most frequent causes of slow bathroom drains—especially in households with kids.

4) Mineral scale from hard water

Hard water minerals can build up on pipe walls. Over time, that reduces the pipe’s interior diameter and makes clogs more likely. If you’re seeing frequent fixture issues or reduced flow, the drain problem may be part of a bigger water-quality picture.

Did you know? The U.S. EPA notes that the average American home can waste more than 10,000 gallons of water per year from leaks. A drain issue and a leak issue can overlap—especially when backups stress fittings or push water where it shouldn’t go. Catching problems early saves water and prevents damage.

Warning Signs You Need Professional Drain Cleaning

  • Recurring clogs (you clear it, and it returns within days or weeks)
  • Multiple slow drains at the same time (often points to a main line issue)
  • Gurgling in toilets or drains when water runs elsewhere
  • Sewage odor from drains or around floor drains
  • Water backing up into a tub/shower when the toilet flushes
  • Standing water around a floor drain or cleanout

If any of these are happening, store-bought chemicals can be risky (and often ineffective), especially on older pipes. A plumber can identify whether you’re dealing with a local clog, a venting problem, or a main sewer line restriction.

Step-by-Step: Safe, Homeowner-Friendly Ways to Clear Minor Clogs

Step 1: Stop using the fixture

If water is draining slowly, continuing to run water can turn a partial blockage into a full backup. Give yourself a chance to clear it before it worsens.

Step 2: Try plunging (correctly)

Use a sink plunger for sinks and a toilet plunger for toilets. Make sure there’s enough water to cover the cup, create a tight seal, then plunge steadily (not violently) for 20–30 seconds before checking drainage.

Step 3: Remove and clean the drain stopper (tubs/showers)

Many tub clogs are right under the stopper. Pull out hair and debris, then rinse and re-test. Add a simple hair catcher afterward to reduce repeat clogs.

Step 4: Use a hand snake for shallow clogs

A small hand auger can help for bathroom sinks and tubs. Feed slowly, rotate, and pull debris back out. If you hit strong resistance or the clog returns quickly, the blockage may be deeper or the pipe may have buildup along the walls.

Avoid: Repeated chemical drain cleaners. Besides being harsh on pipes, they can create a safety hazard for anyone who later opens the line to service it.

Drain Snaking vs. Hot Water Jetting: What’s the Difference?

Method Best for What it does When to choose it
Drain snaking (auger) Localized clogs (hair, paper, small obstructions) Breaks through or retrieves a blockage When you need quick restoration of flow and the clog is likely “one spot”
Hot water jetting (hydro jetting) Grease buildup, sludge, scale, recurring clogs, some root intrusion Scours pipe walls to remove buildup and improve flow When clogs keep returning, drains are slow across the home, or buildup is suspected

If your drains clog repeatedly, jetting can be a strong option because it addresses the buildup that snaking may leave behind. For the right homes, it can be an excellent “reset” for the line.

Learn more about professional jetting options here: Hot Water Jetting & Drain Cleaning and Drain Cleaning Services.

Quick “Did You Know?” Facts That Help Prevent Backups

Grease + hot water isn’t a fix. Utilities consistently warn that pouring grease with hot water still leads to clogs as it cools and sticks inside pipes.

A “minor” slow drain often signals buildup. If it’s happening more than once, it’s rarely a one-time blockage—it’s often pipe-wall residue narrowing the line.

Small leaks add up. The EPA estimates an average home can waste over 10,000 gallons per year from leaks—worth checking when plumbing problems start showing up.

A Simple Prevention Routine (Monthly + Seasonally)

Monthly habits

  • Kitchen: Wipe greasy pans into the trash before washing; use sink strainers.
  • Bathroom: Clean hair catchers; remove and rinse stoppers to prevent hair mats.
  • Toilets: Keep wipes, feminine products, paper towels, and floss out of the bowl.
  • Quick leak check: Look under sinks for moisture and listen for constantly running toilets.

Seasonal habits (great for Treasure Valley homes)

  • Before winter: Address slow drains early—cold-weather gatherings increase kitchen usage, and backups tend to happen when guests are over.
  • Spring: If you have mature trees, watch for signs of root intrusion (recurring main-line slowdowns).
  • Anytime: If hard water scale is a recurring issue, consider a water treatment approach that supports your plumbing system long-term.

If you’re also dealing with mineral buildup or appliance issues, you may benefit from a broader solution: Water Softening & Treatment Systems.

Local Angle: What Caldwell Homeowners Should Watch For

Caldwell has a mix of newer builds and older homes. In older areas, drain lines can have more joints, older materials, or slight settling that creates “low spots” where debris collects. If your home has a history of recurring clogs—or if multiple drains slow down at once—it’s worth having the line evaluated before the next backup.

For households balancing busy schedules, kids, and day-to-day life, the goal isn’t just clearing a clog—it’s restoring confidence that you can run laundry, dishes, and baths without worrying about what’s happening beneath the floor.

Need drain cleaning help in Caldwell or the Treasure Valley?

Cloverdale Plumbing has served Treasure Valley families and businesses since 1953, with a team equipped for everything from stubborn kitchen clogs to main line backups and preventative jetting.

FAQ: Drain Cleaning Services in Caldwell, Idaho

How do I know if the clog is in my home’s plumbing or the main sewer line?

If only one fixture is slow, it’s often localized. If multiple drains are slow or backing up (especially the lowest drains in the home), it can indicate a main line restriction. Gurgling toilets and water backing into tubs are also common red flags.

Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?

Occasional use may be marketed as convenient, but repeated use can be harsh on pipes and creates safety hazards during repairs. If clogs return, professional cleaning is typically safer and more effective.

What’s better: snaking or hot water jetting?

Snaking is great for breaking through a discrete clog. Hot water jetting is ideal for removing grease, sludge, and buildup that coats pipe walls—especially when clogs are recurring.

How can I prevent kitchen drain clogs?

Don’t pour fats, oils, or grease down the drain. Wipe pans before washing, use a sink strainer, and treat the garbage disposal as a convenience—not a trash can.

When is a clogged drain an emergency?

If sewage is backing up, water is rising in tubs/toilets, a floor drain is overflowing, or you can’t use essential plumbing (toilet, kitchen sink), treat it as urgent—especially to prevent water damage and sanitation risks.

Glossary (Helpful Plumbing Terms)

FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease): Cooking byproducts that cool, stick to pipe walls, and contribute to major drain and sewer clogs.

Drain snake / auger: A flexible cable tool used to break through or retrieve a blockage inside a drain pipe.

Hot water jetting (hydro jetting): High-pressure water cleaning that scours pipe walls to remove grease, sludge, and buildup that contributes to recurring clogs.

Main sewer line: The primary pipe that carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer (or to a septic system).

Water Heater Installation in Nampa, ID: What to Choose, What to Expect, and How to Avoid Costly Mistakes

February 4, 2026

A homeowner-friendly guide to reliable hot water in the Treasure Valley

If you’ve ever had a water heater fail at the worst possible time, you already know this isn’t a “nice-to-have” appliance. The right installation affects comfort, safety, energy use, and even how long the unit lasts. Below is a practical, locally relevant breakdown of water heater options, sizing, common installation pitfalls, and the maintenance habits that keep hot water consistent in Nampa homes.

1) Choosing the right type of water heater

Your best choice depends on household size, fuel source, how quickly you use hot water (showers back-to-back), and the space you have available. Most Nampa homeowners compare three common options:
Standard tank (gas or electric)
A familiar and usually budget-friendly option. Great for predictable hot-water needs, and straightforward to service. In many homes, a correctly sized tank with proper maintenance is the simplest path to reliable performance.
Tankless (on-demand)
Delivers hot water as needed rather than storing it. Good for homes that want space savings and long showers without “running out,” but performance depends on correct sizing, venting, gas line capacity (for gas units), and water quality management.
Heat pump water heater (hybrid electric)
Often very efficient, but it needs adequate airflow and the right placement. The U.S. Department of Energy notes important safety/storage considerations (for example, avoid storing flammables near these units) and highlights that owners should follow maintenance instructions like cleaning filters as required. (energy.gov)

2) Sizing: the most common reason people feel “we never have enough hot water”

A new unit can still disappoint if it’s undersized (or the wrong type for your usage). Sizing should factor in:

• Number of people in the home and morning/evening routines
• Simultaneous uses (shower + laundry + dishwasher)
• Fixture flow rates (older showerheads can demand more hot water)
• For tankless: “peak” gallons-per-minute demand and incoming water temperature

If your household routinely stacks hot-water activities (especially with kids), it’s worth having a plumber evaluate realistic peak demand rather than guessing based on the old tank size.

3) Installation details that protect your home (and the warranty)

Water heater installation isn’t only about “hooking up” hot and cold lines. Done right, it includes safety and longevity details such as:

• Proper shutoff, bonding/grounding, and secure connections to reduce leak and electrical risk.
• Temperature & pressure relief (T&P) valve discharge piping installed correctly so it can do its job safely.
• Venting/combustion safety for gas units, including ensuring exhaust is drafted safely.
• Expansion control (when needed) to reduce stress on the system in closed plumbing systems.
• Drain pan + drain routing when appropriate, especially in interior locations where a leak could damage floors or ceilings.

A quality install is also a “system check”—verifying pressures, checking for existing corrosion, and identifying any piping issues that could shorten the life of the new heater.

Quick comparison table: which option fits your home best?

Type
Best for
Watch-outs
Maintenance focus
Tank (gas/electric)
Most households; simple replacement; stable performance
Can “run out” if undersized; sediment reduces efficiency
Annual flushing; anode rod checks
Tankless
Homes that want space savings and continuous hot water
Must be sized correctly; scaling can reduce performance
Descaling schedule; inlet filter checks
Heat pump (hybrid)
Efficiency-focused homeowners with good placement options
Needs airflow/space; keep flammables away
Filter cleaning + manufacturer maintenance

Did you know? (Fast facts homeowners can use)

120°F is a common target setting for many homes to balance comfort, safety, and energy use. The U.S. Department of Energy notes most households only require 120°F and that higher temps increase scald risk and energy waste. (energy.gov)
A WaterSense showerhead can cut hot-water demand because WaterSense-labeled showerheads must use no more than 2.0 gpm, compared to 2.5 gpm for standard models. That can reduce both water and water-heating energy use. (epa.gov)
Local water hardness matters for heater life. Nampa water is often reported around 3.6 grains per gallon (moderately hard), which can still contribute to scale over time—especially in water heaters where minerals drop out of hot water and settle. (aquatell.com)

Step-by-step: how to plan a smooth water heater installation (without surprises)

Step 1: Confirm the real problem (repair vs. replace)

If the unit is older, leaking, or producing rusty water, replacement often makes sense. If it’s inconsistent heat, popping sounds, or slow recovery, it could be sediment buildup or a failing component. A quick evaluation can prevent replacing a unit that only needs service.

Step 2: Choose the right capacity and fuel strategy

For tank units, capacity and first-hour rating should match your peak routine (mornings are the usual stress test). For tankless, sizing is about flow rate and temperature rise—incorrect sizing is the #1 reason for disappointing “lukewarm” performance.

Step 3: Protect the new unit from scale and pressure swings

If mineral scale is a concern, consider treatment options and a maintenance plan (flushes, descaling, anode checks). If the plumbing system is closed or pressure is high, your plumber may recommend expansion control or pressure regulation to protect fixtures and the heater.

Step 4: Set temperature responsibly

Many homes do well around 120°F, which the U.S. Department of Energy commonly recommends for residential comfort and efficiency. If your household needs higher storage temps for a specific reason, ask about mixing/tempering solutions to reduce scald risk at the tap. (energy.gov)

Where water heater installs go wrong (and how to avoid it)

Most installation issues aren’t obvious on day one. They show up months later as leaks, noisy operation, short life span, or unreliable temperatures. Common avoidable problems include:

• Reusing old connectors/valves that are already near failure
• Skipping pressure/expansion considerations
• Poor drain planning (no pan, no safe discharge route)
• Under-sizing tankless systems for real-life peak use
• Ignoring water quality (scale) until performance drops

If you want a “set it and forget it” experience, the goal is a code-compliant install with the system built to handle your home’s water conditions and usage patterns.

Local angle: water heater considerations for Nampa & the Treasure Valley

Nampa homeowners often balance busy family schedules with a mix of older and newer housing stock. A few local factors can influence the “best” installation approach:

Moderately hard water: Nampa is commonly listed around 3.6 gpg. Even moderate hardness can contribute to sediment and scale in tanks and tankless heat exchangers over time. (aquatell.com)
Utility room realities: Many homes store cleaning supplies near mechanical equipment. If you’re considering a heat pump water heater, follow manufacturer guidance and keep flammables/corrosives away from the unit. (energy.gov)
Smart efficiency upgrades: Lower-flow fixtures can reduce hot-water demand. WaterSense-labeled showerheads are capped at 2.0 gpm while maintaining performance requirements. (epa.gov)

If your home has recurring drain backups or slow fixtures, it’s also worth addressing drainage health alongside water heater work—plumbing systems perform best when supply and drain lines are both in good shape.

Need a water heater installed (or replaced) in Nampa?

Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953 with straightforward recommendations, careful workmanship, and 24/7 emergency help when you need it. If your water heater is leaking, underperforming, or you’re planning an upgrade, we can help you choose the right system and install it correctly the first time.

FAQ: Water heater installation in Nampa, Idaho

How do I know if I need a new water heater or just a repair?
Active leaks from the tank body, severe rusting, or repeated breakdowns often point to replacement. Intermittent hot water, rumbling/popping, or slow recovery can sometimes be solved with service (flushing sediment, replacing a thermostat/element, or addressing scaling).
What temperature should my water heater be set to?
Many households set water heaters to about 120°F for comfort, safety, and lower energy use. The U.S. Department of Energy notes most homes only require 120°F, while hotter settings increase scald risk and waste energy. (energy.gov)
Is tankless worth it in Nampa?
It can be—especially if you want continuous hot water and have the right gas/electrical capacity and venting path. The key is correct sizing for your household’s peak flow demands and planning for descaling based on local water conditions.
Does water hardness affect water heater lifespan?
Yes. Minerals can settle as sediment in tank heaters and can scale heat exchangers in tankless units, reducing efficiency and stressing components. Nampa is often listed around 3.6 grains per gallon, which is moderate but still worth managing with maintenance and (when appropriate) treatment. (aquatell.com)
Can I reduce hot-water use without sacrificing comfort?
Often, yes. One easy change is upgrading older showerheads. EPA WaterSense-labeled showerheads are independently certified to use no more than 2.0 gpm compared to 2.5 gpm for standard models—reducing both water and water-heating energy. (epa.gov)

Glossary (quick definitions)

Anode rod
A sacrificial metal rod inside many tank water heaters that attracts corrosion to help protect the tank lining.
First-hour rating
A tank heater performance measure estimating how much hot water it can deliver in a busy hour (stored hot water + recovery).
Scale / scaling
Mineral deposits (often calcium/magnesium) that can build up in heaters and pipes, reducing heat transfer and restricting flow.
T&P valve (temperature and pressure relief valve)
A critical safety device designed to open if temperature or pressure inside the tank reaches unsafe levels.
Water hardness (gpg)
A measurement of dissolved minerals in water (grains per gallon). Higher hardness can increase scaling and maintenance needs.