Plan smarter plumbing upgrades for kitchens, baths, and additions—built for Treasure Valley homes
Plumbing is the hidden system that makes a remodel feel “done” long after the new tile and cabinets are installed. If you’re planning plumbing remodels in Meridian, Idaho, the choices you make behind the walls—pipe layout, venting, shutoff access, water pressure, drainage slope, and water quality protection—will determine how trouble-free your renovation is for years.
Cloverdale Plumbing has served the Treasure Valley since 1953, and we’ve seen the difference between a remodel that’s simply pretty and a remodel that’s built to perform. This guide walks through the practical decisions homeowners can make to reduce leaks, clogs, slow drains, and surprise repair bills.
What counts as a “plumbing remodel” (and why it matters)
A plumbing remodel is more than swapping a faucet. Any project that changes the way water enters, moves through, or exits your home should be treated as plumbing work—not just “finish” work. Common remodel-triggering changes include:
Moving fixtures: relocating a sink, toilet, shower, tub, laundry, or dishwasher.
Changing drain sizes or routes: reworking drain/vent lines to fit new layouts.
Adding fixtures: new bathroom, wet bar, laundry, utility sink, or pot filler.
Upgrading supply lines: replacing aging piping or improving shutoff access.
Water heater changes: upsizing capacity, relocating, or switching to tankless.
When plumbing is handled early in the remodel plan, you get cleaner walls, better cabinet layouts, correct venting, fewer odors, fewer callbacks, and fewer “why is this drain slow?” headaches.
Meridian remodel reality: permits, inspections, and planning time
In Meridian, plumbing work tied to remodels often involves permits and inspections. The City of Meridian Building Services manages structural, fire, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits, and applications are handled through the City’s online portal. Planning ahead helps you avoid timeline surprises—especially when your kitchen is torn apart or your only shower is out of service.
If your remodel includes changing fixture locations, adding a bathroom, altering drain/vent routing, or replacing significant portions of pipe, it’s wise to assume permitting may apply and confirm specifics with your plumber and the City before demolition begins. (Cloverdale Plumbing can help coordinate the practical steps so the project flows smoothly.)
Quick “Did you know?” facts that affect remodel decisions
Meridian’s water is typically hard. The City of Meridian reports hardness by zone, with a system average around 8.59 grains per gallon—enough to contribute to scale on fixtures and inside water heaters over time.
Small layout changes can require major venting changes. A toilet or shower moved a few feet can affect vent placement, trap arm lengths, and drain slope—details that prevent sewer odors and slow drains.
Cold snaps can expose weak spots. Treasure Valley winters can create freezing risk for lines in garages, crawl spaces, exterior walls, and hose bib areas—important when you’re opening walls during a remodel.
The big decisions that make (or break) a plumbing remodel
1) Layout: keep drains simple and vents correct
Open walls tempt people to “put the sink anywhere,” but drainage works best when the route is efficient. Long horizontal runs, too many turns, or tight cabinetry clearances can lead to slow drains and harder-to-service systems later. A good remodel plan balances aesthetics with practical plumbing geometry so your drains move waste quickly and quietly.
2) Access: add shutoffs and cleanouts where you’ll actually use them
Remodel time is the easiest time to add or improve access points. Ask your plumber about:
Fixture shutoff valves that aren’t buried behind tight drawers.
Main shutoff labeling and a clear path to it (especially important for families).
Drain cleanouts positioned to make future drain cleaning faster and less disruptive.
3) Materials: choose piping with longevity in mind
If your remodel opens up walls and you have older or problem sections of pipe, this can be the best moment to handle a targeted repair or partial repipe. Updating problem areas now can prevent “new bathroom, old leak” situations later. If you suspect aging lines, consider a professional assessment and a plan that fits your budget and timeline.
4) Hot water: design around how your household actually uses it
If your remodel adds a soaking tub, dual shower, or a second laundry load in the same time window as morning showers, your hot water demand changes. That’s a good time to evaluate whether your current unit is properly sized, where it’s located, and whether maintenance or replacement would prevent future “lukewarm shower” complaints.
5) Water quality: protect new fixtures from hard-water scale
New faucets, shower valves, and water heaters can accumulate mineral buildup in hard-water areas. With Meridian’s reported hardness levels, many homeowners choose to address scale proactively—especially during a remodel when mechanical spaces and routing are more accessible. Options can include filtration, water softening, or point-of-use treatment depending on your goals.
Step-by-step: how to plan a stress-lower plumbing remodel
Step 1: Define what must change (and what can stay)
Start with a simple list: fixtures staying put, fixtures moving, fixtures being added, and any recurring problems (slow drains, low pressure, banging pipes, inconsistent hot water). This helps your plumber design solutions that fix pain points instead of rebuilding the same issues behind new finishes.
Step 2: Confirm permitting and inspection timing early
If your remodel affects plumbing systems beyond simple replacements, confirm permit requirements before demolition. Scheduling inspections at the right stage (often before walls close) helps avoid rework and schedule delays.
Step 3: Build service access into the design
Ask where shutoffs, cleanouts, and valve access panels will be located. A remodel that hides everything looks sleek—until you need a 10-minute repair that turns into a cabinet cut-out.
Step 4: Choose fixtures that match your home’s plumbing realities
Oversized rainheads, multi-sprays, or deep soaking tubs can be great—when water pressure, drain capacity, and hot water supply support them. Getting the plumbing plan aligned with your fixture selection prevents disappointing performance after install.
Step 5: Plan for drains (especially if the home has a history of clogs)
Remodels are a good time to address recurring drain issues: grease buildup, hair clogs, older sections with scale, or root intrusion in main lines. Preventive cleaning and maintenance can help your brand-new kitchen or bath stay trouble-free.
Quick comparison table: common remodel plumbing upgrades
| Upgrade | Best For | What It Helps Prevent | When to Do It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Add shutoffs + accessible valve panels | Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry | Emergency water damage, long repair downtime | Before cabinets/drywall go in |
| Targeted pipe replacement/repair | Older homes or recurring leaks | Hidden leaks behind new finishes | When walls are open |
| Drain cleaning / hot water jetting | Homes with slow drains or backups | Backups that damage new floors/cabinets | Before heavy remodel usage begins |
| Water softening/treatment system | Hard-water areas of Meridian | Scale buildup on fixtures, heater efficiency loss | During mechanical upgrades or remodel |
Local angle: Meridian winter + remodel openings = a smart moment to protect pipes
Remodels often expose piping that has been hidden for years. If you’re opening exterior walls, working in a garage, or remodeling near a crawl space, it’s a practical time to address freeze risk. Common winter-proofing moves include insulating exposed runs, sealing drafts near pipe penetrations, keeping consistent indoor temperatures, and disconnecting/draining outdoor hoses and lines before hard freezes.
If you have a past freeze issue (or you’re not sure what’s vulnerable), a quick inspection during your remodel can help prevent a burst pipe that ruins brand-new drywall or flooring.
Talk with a plumber before the walls close
Whether you’re remodeling a bathroom, upgrading a kitchen, or adding a new space, getting the plumbing plan right early can save time, reduce change orders, and prevent future leaks and clogs.
FAQ: Plumbing remodels in Meridian, Idaho
Do I need a plumber if I’m “just” replacing fixtures?
If you’re replacing like-for-like fixtures, it may be straightforward, but professional installation helps reduce leaks, ensures correct connections, and avoids damage to valves and fittings—especially with older shutoffs or brittle piping. If anything is being moved, added, or reworked, a plumber is strongly recommended.
What’s the biggest mistake homeowners make during a bathroom remodel?
Designing the room without planning for drain/vent routing and service access. Beautiful finishes can hide poor venting or inaccessible shutoffs that create odors, gurgling drains, slow drainage, and difficult repairs later.
Is hard water a real concern for new plumbing fixtures in Meridian?
Yes. Mineral scale can build up on aerators, showerheads, and inside water heaters and valves over time. If you’re investing in a remodel, it’s worth discussing water softening or other treatment options to protect that investment.
Should I do drain cleaning before or after a remodel?
If you’ve had slow drains, backups, or recurring clogs, doing cleaning/jetting early can prevent messy surprises during construction and protect new finishes. After the remodel, a light “tune-up” can also help if the system saw heavy use during the project.
What if a plumbing problem happens mid-remodel?
Stop water at the nearest shutoff (fixture shutoff or main), protect the area from water spread, and call for help. For urgent situations, Cloverdale Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency response.
Glossary (helpful remodel plumbing terms)
Cleanout
A capped access point on a drain line used to clear clogs and service the system without removing fixtures.
Drain/Vent (DWV)
The network that carries wastewater out and uses venting to balance air pressure so drains flow correctly and don’t siphon traps.
Trap (P-trap)
A curved section of drain pipe that holds water to block sewer gases from entering your home.
Hot water jetting
A method of clearing drains using high-pressure hot water to remove grease, scale, hair, and buildup inside pipes.
Hardness (grains per gallon)
A measure of dissolved minerals (mainly calcium and magnesium) that contribute to scale buildup on plumbing and appliances.
Helpful links: All plumbing services | Emergency plumbing in Boise & the Treasure Valley
Plumbing Remodels in Boise, Idaho: What Homeowners Should Plan Before Moving a Sink, Shower, or Toilet
January 23, 2026A smoother remodel starts behind the walls
Remodeling a bathroom or kitchen in Boise is exciting—until the plumbing surprises show up: a drain that can’t be moved where you want it, a water line that’s undersized, or a vent that’s missing entirely. The best way to protect your timeline (and your budget) is to plan the plumbing early—before tile, cabinets, and countertops go in. Cloverdale Plumbing helps Treasure Valley homeowners map out remodel plumbing so the finished space looks great and performs reliably for years.
What counts as a “plumbing remodel” (and why planning matters)
A plumbing remodel usually means changing one or more of these items:
• Relocating fixtures (toilet, shower, tub, sink, laundry, dishwasher)
• Upgrading pipe materials or resizing lines for better flow
• Reworking drains, vents, and cleanouts to meet the new layout
• Adding features (pot filler, second shower head, soaking tub, utility sink)
The “hidden” systems—drain slope, venting, shutoff placement, and access—determine whether your remodel feels high-end or becomes a constant source of clogs, slow drains, sewer odors, or weak water pressure. That’s why plumbing layout is best handled during design, not after demo.
If you’re specifically planning a kitchen or bathroom update, visit our remodel service page here: Remodel plumbing services.
The 5 plumbing decisions that shape your remodel’s performance
1) Can the drain move where you want it?
Toilets, tubs, and showers often can’t move “just anywhere” without opening floors, reframing, or rerouting a main line. Drain slope and pipe sizing matter, and older homes may have layouts that limit options. A pre-planning walk-through can confirm what’s realistic before you order fixtures.
2) Is your venting correct for the new layout?
Venting protects traps (the water seal that blocks sewer gas) and helps drains move waste quickly. When a sink or shower shifts even a few feet, venting may need to be updated—especially if you’re combining fixtures or converting a tub to a shower.
3) Do you have shutoffs where you’ll need them?
Remodels are a great time to add accessible shutoff valves at sinks, toilets, laundry, and anywhere a leak could cause fast damage. Convenient shutoffs reduce panic during an emergency and make future maintenance easier.
4) Will your water heater keep up with the upgrade?
A larger shower, dual shower heads, a soaking tub, or a new laundry setup can increase hot-water demand. If the remodel changes how your household uses hot water, it’s smart to evaluate your water heater capacity (and efficiency) at the same time. Learn more here: Water heater installation & service.
5) Are you upgrading fixtures for comfort and water savings?
Better fixtures can improve everyday comfort—quieter fills, stronger shower performance, cleaner aesthetics—while also reducing leaks and maintenance. If you want help selecting and installing fixtures that fit your space and plumbing, see: Plumbing fixture installation.
Quick comparison: cosmetic update vs. plumbing-forward remodel
Remodel Type
What changes
Plumbing impact
Common risk if planning is late
Cosmetic refresh
Paint, hardware, vanity, faucet swap
Low (often same rough-in)
Small leaks or poor fit due to mismatched connections
Layout change
Move sink, toilet, shower, add dishwasher/laundry
High (drain/vent/water lines)
Rework after tile/cabinets, slow drains, sewer odor from vent issues
Performance upgrade
Bigger shower system, soaking tub, improved pressure, repipe
High (sizing + capacity)
Weak flow, temperature swings, hot water shortages
If your remodel includes pipe updates, leak repair, or replacing older lines while walls are open, start here: Pipe replacements & repairs.
Did you know? Fast facts homeowners often miss
• Drain snaking often opens a path through a clog, but hot-water jetting can scour pipe walls and remove buildup more completely—especially helpful for recurring backups. (mitchellplumbing.com)
• Boise water is commonly reported around ~108 mg/L (about 6 grains per gallon), which is considered “hard” and can contribute to scale on fixtures and in water heaters. (aquatell.com)
• In Idaho, plumbing work frequently involves permits and inspections through the state’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL). (dopl.idaho.gov)
Step-by-step: A practical plumbing checklist for your Boise remodel
Step 1: Decide what “must move” vs. “nice to move”
Moving a toilet or a tub usually drives the most cost because it may involve floor work and main line adjustments. If the current location works, you can often spend the budget on better fixtures, lighting, or storage without giving up function.
Step 2: Confirm drain, vent, and water line routes before ordering finishes
This is the moment to confirm: where the trap will sit, where the vent ties in, where shutoffs will be accessible, and whether pipe sizing supports your new fixture set. A little time here prevents expensive rework after cabinetry and tile are installed.
Step 3: Plan for access panels and cleanouts (future-you will be grateful)
Remodels can hide important access points. In the right location, an access panel looks clean but can save hours if a valve, tub drain, or shower mixing cartridge ever needs service.
Step 4: Consider proactive drain cleaning while walls are open
If you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom that’s had slow drains or recurring clogs, it’s smart to address the drain line while the job is underway. For stubborn buildup, hot water jetting can be a strong option when the pipe condition supports it. Learn more: Hot water jetting & drain cleaning.
Step 5: Protect new finishes with a leak-prevention mindset
New flooring and cabinetry raise the stakes. Ask about upgraded supply lines, reliable shutoffs, and best-practice installation details that reduce risk (especially for toilets, dishwashers, and laundry connections).
If you need general service planning across multiple areas of the home, our full service overview is here: Plumbing services in Boise.
Boise/Treasure Valley local angle: older homes, hard water, and winter reality
Older neighborhoods often mean older plumbing layouts.
If your home is mid-century or older, you may run into legacy pipe materials, tight chases, or previous remodel work that wasn’t designed for today’s fixture expectations. A remodel is the right time to evaluate pipe condition and update what’s accessible.
Hard water can quietly reduce performance.
Mineral scale can show up as reduced shower performance, spotty fixtures, or faster wear on water-heating equipment. If you’re upgrading fixtures, it may also be worth discussing filtration or softening options: Water softening & treatment systems.
Remodel timelines often collide with winter plumbing risks.
Boise winters can be hard on plumbing—especially if pipes are exposed during construction. If a line fails after hours, having a local team that answers directly can make a big difference: 24/7 emergency plumbing in Boise.
Ready to plan your plumbing remodel with a Boise team that’s been doing this for decades?
If you’re moving fixtures, upgrading a bathroom, remodeling a kitchen, or building an addition, a quick planning conversation can prevent the most common remodel surprises—slow drains, poor venting, weak pressure, and hard-to-service valves.
FAQ: Plumbing remodels in Boise
Do I need a permit to move plumbing during a remodel in Idaho?
Many plumbing projects require permits and inspections. The requirements can depend on scope and jurisdiction, but Idaho’s DOPL provides plumbing permit and inspection information and scheduling. (dopl.idaho.gov)
Can I relocate a toilet anywhere in the bathroom?
Often, relocation is possible—but the true limitation is the drain path, slope, venting, and what’s under the floor. A planning visit can confirm what’s feasible before you finalize the layout.
Is hydro jetting better than snaking for remodel prep?
For a single, simple clog near a fixture, snaking can be the right first step. For recurring backups or heavy buildup, controlled jetting can clean pipe walls more thoroughly and help reduce near-term repeat clogs. (mitchellplumbing.com)
Should I replace old pipes while walls are open?
If pipes show corrosion, repeated leaks, or past patchwork repairs, a remodel is often the most cost-effective time to update accessible lines—before new finishes make access harder and more expensive.
Will my current water heater handle a new shower system or soaking tub?
Maybe—but it depends on tank size, recovery rate, and the new demand. If your remodel increases hot-water usage, ask for a quick capacity check so you don’t finish the remodel and then discover you’re running out of hot water.
What’s the best way to prevent sewer odors after a remodel?
Sewer odor issues are often tied to venting and traps. Ensuring each fixture has a properly protected trap and the venting is correct for the updated layout is the best prevention strategy.
Glossary (helpful remodel plumbing terms)
Rough-in
The behind-the-wall/under-floor plumbing stage where drains, vents, and supply lines are set before fixtures and finishes are installed.
Vent (plumbing venting)
Piping that balances air pressure in the drain system so fixtures drain properly and sewer gases don’t enter the home.
Trap (P-trap)
The curved section of drain pipe that holds water to block sewer gas from coming back up through a sink, tub, or shower drain.
Cleanout
An access point that allows drain lines to be serviced (snaked or jetted) without removing fixtures or opening walls.
Hydro jetting (hot water jetting)
A professional drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure water (sometimes heated) to scour buildup from pipe walls. (mitchellplumbing.com)
Hard water
Water containing higher levels of dissolved minerals (commonly calcium and magnesium) that can contribute to scale buildup over time. (aquatell.com)
Emergency Plumbing in Meridian, ID: What to Do in the First 15 Minutes (Before the Damage Spreads)
January 22, 2026Fast, calm steps for leaks, clogs, and no-hot-water situations—made for Treasure Valley homes
Plumbing emergencies rarely start as “big” emergencies. They start as a drip, a slow drain, a water heater that’s “acting weird,” or a toilet that won’t stop running. Then the damage compounds—flooring swells, cabinets wick water, drywall stains, and mold risk climbs. If you live in Meridian (or anywhere in the Treasure Valley), the best protection is knowing what to do immediately and when to call a licensed plumber.
Cloverdale Plumbing has served the area since 1953 with 24/7 emergency plumbing support. This guide focuses on the first 15 minutes—because that window often determines whether you’re facing a quick repair or a major restoration.
The “Stop the Water” Priority List (in order)
1) Shut off water at the closest valve you can reach.
If a sink supply line is spraying, close the hot/cold shutoffs under the sink. If the toilet is overflowing, close the toilet angle stop behind it. If a hose bib or outdoor line is leaking, shut off that branch if you have one.
If a sink supply line is spraying, close the hot/cold shutoffs under the sink. If the toilet is overflowing, close the toilet angle stop behind it. If a hose bib or outdoor line is leaking, shut off that branch if you have one.
2) If you can’t isolate it, shut off the home’s main water.
In many Meridian homes, the main shutoff is near where the water line enters the house (sometimes in a mechanical room, crawl space, or utility closet). The City of Meridian recommends everyone in the household knows where that main shutoff is located before freezing weather hits. (meridiancity.org)
In many Meridian homes, the main shutoff is near where the water line enters the house (sometimes in a mechanical room, crawl space, or utility closet). The City of Meridian recommends everyone in the household knows where that main shutoff is located before freezing weather hits. (meridiancity.org)
3) If there’s any electrical risk, shut off power to the affected area.
Water near outlets, a water heater, a furnace, or a dishwasher power connection is a “pause and power down” situation. If you’re unsure, keep clear and call a pro.
Water near outlets, a water heater, a furnace, or a dishwasher power connection is a “pause and power down” situation. If you’re unsure, keep clear and call a pro.
4) Start damage control.
Use towels, a wet/dry vac, and buckets. Move items off the floor. Open cabinet doors under sinks to help surfaces dry.
Use towels, a wet/dry vac, and buckets. Move items off the floor. Open cabinet doors under sinks to help surfaces dry.
Quick “Did You Know?” Facts (that affect your water bill and your home)
A constantly running toilet can waste 200+ gallons per day. That’s not just annoying—it’s a true emergency for your water usage. (epa.gov)
Hard water causes scale. Hardness is primarily from calcium and magnesium, and “hard” water is typically 121–180 mg/L as calcium carbonate (with “very hard” above 180 mg/L). Scale can reduce efficiency in water heaters and narrow pipe interiors over time. (usgs.gov)
Outdoor plumbing freezes fast. The City of Meridian highlights that sprinkler pipes and backflow assemblies can freeze and break when temps drop below 32°F, and recommends winterization steps ahead of cold snaps. (meridiancity.org)
Step-by-Step: What to Do When You Have a Leak
Step 1: Identify “clean water” vs. “dirty water”
Water from a supply line (sink, toilet supply, water heater inlet) is typically clean. Water from a drain, toilet bowl, or floor drain backup may be contaminated. If you suspect a sewer backup, keep people and pets away and stop using all plumbing fixtures until it’s cleared.
Step 2: Shut off the right valve
If the leak is under a sink or behind a toilet, the fixture shutoff is usually fastest. If the leak is in a wall/ceiling or you can’t see it clearly, go straight to the main shutoff.
Step 3: Relieve pressure and reduce spread
After shutting off the main, open one cold faucet on the lowest level of the home to relieve pressure. Place a bucket under active drips and use towels to stop water from migrating under baseboards.
Step 4: Document the damage (quickly)
Take a few photos/video for your records. Then focus on drying. The faster you dry the area, the lower the risk of warping and secondary damage.
Step 5: Call for emergency plumbing support
A professional can locate the failure point, confirm if additional sections are compromised, and repair or replace components safely—especially when the leak is inside a wall, under slab, or tied to water heating equipment.
If you have frozen pipes: The City of Meridian specifically warns never to thaw a frozen pipe with an open flame. Use safe heat methods and call a plumber if you suspect a split line. (meridiancity.org)
Meridian & Treasure Valley Angle: Cold snaps, hard water, and busy households
Meridian winters create a predictable pattern: a warm stretch, then a sudden freeze. That’s when exposed lines (garage walls, exterior hose bibs, crawl spaces) can freeze—and when small weaknesses in older valves, supply lines, or fittings show up as leaks.
Add hard-water conditions (minerals like calcium and magnesium) and it’s common to see scale buildup that affects fixtures and water heater efficiency over time. If your hot water seems to run out faster than it used to, or you hear increased popping from the tank, a maintenance check can help prevent an after-hours emergency. (usgs.gov)
If you’re also planning a bathroom or kitchen update, it’s smart to treat plumbing as part of the remodel—new fixtures, updated shutoff valves, and right-sized drain venting can prevent the “new look, old problems” scenario.
Need an emergency plumber in Meridian right now?
If water is actively leaking, drains are backing up, or your water heater is flooding, don’t wait for “business hours.” Cloverdale Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing support across the Treasure Valley.
Request Service 24/7 Emergency Services
Tip: If you’re calling for an emergency, have your main shutoff location and a quick description of what you see (dripping, spraying, backing up, no hot water).
FAQ: Emergency Plumbing in Meridian, Idaho
What counts as a plumbing emergency?
Any situation where water is actively damaging the home (leaks, overflows), sewage is backing up, a pipe is frozen and you suspect a split, or a water heater is leaking. If shutting off a local valve doesn’t stop it, treat it as urgent.
If my toilet won’t stop running, is that really urgent?
Yes—because it can waste a surprising amount of water. EPA guidance notes a constantly running toilet can waste 200 gallons of water or more every day. Turning off the toilet’s shutoff valve can prevent runaway bills until it’s repaired. (epa.gov)
Should I use a chemical drain opener for an emergency clog?
If multiple fixtures are backing up, avoid chemicals and stop using water—this can be a main line issue. For single-fixture clogs, chemicals can sometimes create hazards for you and your plumber (and may damage certain piping). Professional drain cleaning or hot water jetting is often the safer, longer-lasting fix.
What’s the safest way to handle frozen pipes?
Keep the faucet slightly open, warm the area with safe heat (space heater at a distance, warm air circulation), and never use an open flame. The City of Meridian specifically warns against thawing pipes with open flame due to fire and damage risk. (meridiancity.org)
How can I prevent emergency calls during winter?
Insulate exposed lines, disconnect hoses, keep garage doors closed during cold snaps, and make sure every room with plumbing stays heated. Meridian’s winter tips also emphasize knowing your main shutoff location ahead of time. (meridiancity.org)
Glossary (Quick Definitions)
Angle stop: The small shutoff valve behind a toilet or under a sink that controls water to that fixture.
Main water shutoff: The primary valve that turns off water to the entire home.
Hydro jetting (hot water jetting): High-pressure water cleaning used to clear grease, scale, roots, and buildup in drain and sewer lines.
Scale: Mineral buildup (often from calcium/magnesium) that can form inside pipes and on water heater components. (usgs.gov)
Backflow assembly: A device used to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply (often associated with irrigation systems).