You’ve decided it’s time to address the water problems in your home. It’s time to set up a water consultation with a local water professional. When they meet with you, they will conduct a water analysis, plumbing audit, and provide a solution to your problems. One aspect to not overlook is the plumbing audit, which details the location of the water equipment. During your plumbing audit, your water professional will consider equipment size, the size of space, the temperature of the area, and electrical and drain needs.
The first factor in determining equipment location is the physical size of the equipment. Sizing is based on the water flow rates needed and incoming water quality (hardness and iron). Improperly sizing equipment can lead to pressure loss and hardness bleed within the home.
There are different areas where water treatment equipment can be installed: a basement, garage, utility room, closet, or crawlspace. The equipment’s installation depends on the main water feed and accessibility to a drain. Basements are the most common space. When installing in a basement, consider future needs or remodeling. Over time, basements become living spaces, and the water treatment equipment may need to be moved, or the drain relocated.
When basements are not an option, homeowners need to find an area in the garage, utility room, closet, or crawl space. A garage installation must be temperature controlled in the winter to prevent freezing. Some homeowners will build a box and heavily insulate the area to reduce temperature changes in the winter months.
Installing in a utility closet has challenges and requires creative problem-solving. Utility closets often have the least space due to other appliances (furnace, water heater) in the area. If your equipment is installed in a utility closet, consider how full you should fill your brine tank.
Installations in a crawl space should consider the height of the crawlspace and any drastic temperature changes. Depending on the crawlspace height, a hole may need to be dug to fit the equipment. There must be enough space for a service technician to service the equipment. Since the brine tank needs to be filled regularly, place the brine tank near the crawl space opening or in a closet on the main floor. If your crawlspace isn’t insulated, consider the temperature change cold weather months will bring. There is a potential for equipment freezing, which will cause damage to your water treatment equipment.
Take these suggestions into account when installing water treatment equipment. It’s best to consult with a water professional. They will give you peace of mind your equipment is installed in the best location and follows all local plumbing codes. When you feel the time is right to improve your water, call us at 815-385-3093.
