Above-ground plumbing systems allow homeowners to create bathroom spaces in areas without existing plumbing fixtures or support. These systems add convenience to homes while preventing the need for concrete breaking or structural renovations.
However, like any other home improvement project, ensuring your utmost comfort and enjoyment requires finding the right solution. Here are the most crucial elements to consider when searching for the best above-ground plumbing system for your basement bathroom or anywhere else in your home.
1. Focus on Quality Over Price
First, it’s crucial to look for quality systems. When it comes to home improvements, the saying “you get what you pay for” certainly rings true. Plumbing systems are an integral part of residential properties, so you must opt for high-quality solutions that can withstand regular use.
While it’s important to remain within budget, opting for a quality system can help you save money over time by preventing the need for constant repairs. Durable materials and well-made fixtures enhance a system’s longevity and contribute to an efficient home, making the investment well worth it.
2. Evaluate the Manufacturer
Similar to quality, evaluating the manufacturer can tell you a lot about the system you plan to invest in. Manufacturing processes impact the quality of the final product, and opting for a company with in-house manufacturing or a close manufacturer relationship ensures you can gather as much information as possible about the process, materials, maintenance requirements, recommendations and more.
3. Understand Installation Requirements
Each above-ground system can have different installation requirements. Although these solutions work in similar ways, their unique components and capabilities can have varying requirements. It’s crucial to consider space constraints, ideal system sizes and similar aspects to determine whether a system will suit your home.
A versatile model will grant you the freedom to install solutions nearly anywhere in a home. Additionally, see if you can customize elements like the shape of the toilet bowl, empowering you to embrace style and convenience within one model.
4. Consider the Customer Service
Whether you purchase your plumbing system from the manufacturer directly or a retailer with a manufacturer relationship, it’s worth considering your custom service experience. A team with great customer service can provide peace of mind that you can access the support you need if you ever face any issues.
Responsive and comprehensive customer service will often provide quick turnarounds and worthwhile solutions and highlight how much your supplier cares about your satisfaction. Available online resources and tools can also depict the level of care from your supplier.
5. Ask About System Warranties
Many above-ground plumbing systems come with some type of warranty. A one-year warranty is common in the industry, but it’s worth investigating the specific and general warranty terms of each system.
Like a traditional system, your above-ground plumbing system will likely experience pain points over the years. A comprehensive warranty can make repairs more affordable while ensuring you can access the specific components your system needs to thrive. Warranties can also depict actions you should avoid to properly care for your system and increase its life span.
6. Compare the Cost to Other Systems
While price should not be the only factor to consider, it will undoubtedly impact your final decision. However, evaluating costs spans beyond the initial price tag. You must consider the cost of utilizing and maintaining your system, as well.
If you opt for a high-quality system with a higher price tag, you could end up spending less money over time due to avoiding unnecessary maintenance costs or premature repairs. Alternatively, opting for a cheaper system could require additional spending over time to ensure system efficiency.
Ultimately, finding a cost-effective solution will vary by homeowner, but it’s important to understand your budget and expectations for the short term and long term to make an informed and effective decision.
7. Check That the System Meets Compliance
When browsing for an above-ground plumbing system, meeting compliance is one of the most important elements to consider. Compliance information depicts regulations and requirements for products and processes to protect your safety, reduce accidents and promote responsible product usage. Reputable companies will invest in product testing and ensure compliance with plumbing codes.
For instance, macerating technology utilizes electricity-powered pumps. If water makes contact with an electrical product, you could face a hazardous situation. A complaint plumbing system will minimize or eliminate these risks, allowing you to use your system with peace of mind.
8. Determine Whether You Can Insure the System
Insurance is often at the forefront of many residential property changes because it can help lower costs if problems occur. Some brands offer product insurance, while others do not. Companies with insurance typically carry certifications highlighting their ability to protect property and ensure the health and safety of product users. Using solutions from these companies can help you be more confident in your above-ground system selection.
9. Be Aware of All Maintenance Needs
All systems need some kind of maintenance, but what one homeowner considers a small preventive task, another may want to avoid. To get the most out of your investment, you must follow proper maintenance recommendations and administer the necessary care to keep all components in proper condition.
As you compare plumbing systems, ask about the maintenance requirements, the types of problems you can expect, how to avoid these issues and any other care measures. This information can help you make sure your system operates efficiently for as long as possible and you can get a better idea of which products best meet your needs.
Find Effective and Durable Plumbing Solutions From Star Water Systems
Star Water Systems has been pioneering the manufacturing of water pumps since 1866 and continues to uphold a commitment to excellence. With extensive expertise in our industry, we understand the plumbing problems many homeowners face and how to address them with quality solutions that stand the test of time.
We invest in the latest technology and innovations while complying with industry standards and regulations to deliver comprehensive solutions. We consider each of our products to be a testament to our integrity, craftsmanship and dedication, so you can feel confident in our ability to help you find a quality solution that enhances your at-home experience.
If you’re looking for a durable, cost-efficient and effective above-ground plumbing solution, trust us to help you find the perfect system. Our Powerflush Optima model is ideal for residential properties, blending functionality, customization and ease of installation. Find a retailer near you to learn more about this model or any of our other home solutions!
