Trade Contractor Interview: Dallas Carlock of Carlock Plumbing

We sat down with Dallas Carlock to talk plumbing. He has been a trade contractor for Chris Donatelli Builders and has owned and operated his own plumbing company since 1980. We wanted to tap into his experience and perspective in regards to how plumbing affects a job and what homeowners can look out for.




What is the story with tankless water heaters?

• They only fire-up when hot water is needed, saving energy over the long term.
• A large family with continuous use will create HIGHER energy bill (due to larger burner in the tankless unit)
• New technologies in TANK water heaters and boilers are now more efficient, giving a family a choice to use what fits their lifestyle.
• Proper installation, such as gas line size, is essential.

What is a hot water circulation system?

• "Circ pumps" are installed on a hot water line that does a loop through the home.
• When hot water is needed at a fixture, the homeowner presses a button to activate pump.
• The pipe will circulate the water through the lines while it is heating up, saving water from going down the drain.
• A point of use pump can also be installed, bypassing the creation of a loop in the plumbing.
• These systems can be used with a tank OR tankless water heater.
• Again, proper installation is key. If not done properly, the system can corrode pipes, wear out equipment and cause energy loss.
  

How is water efficiency is increasing?

• Toilets have new designs to flush better using less water.
• Shower heads have new water saving designs that still provide comfortable experience.
• Filltration units now waste less water and provide better taste.
• Essential minerals are no longer wasted and salt is not introduced into sewer system.
  

H0w does fixture choice influence a project?

• Best to make decisions as early as possible.
• Changing a fixture in the midst of the project can lead to re-working waste or water lines, leading to more labor charges to the client.
• Having specifications on fixtures will aid in communication between client and contractors

What is going on with solar thermal systems?

• They combine solar input to water heating systems and lead to less utility usage.
• Work along with water heater and even space heating.
• Proper design and equipment choice is key due to complexity of systems.
• Tax refunds are available to homeowners.
• Solar thermal systems can be MUCH more affordable than solar power systems.

For more information or to discuss anything read here...please call our office at (408) 287-4886.