When most people think about plumbing, they picture clogged drains, leaky faucets, or the occasional water heater replacement. But the truth is, the plumbing industry is undergoing a quiet revolution — one that’s reshaping how homeowners and rental property owners manage their homes.
To get a closer look at the cutting edge of plumbing technology, we sat down earlier this week with John Osborn, our fearless leader here at Action Plumbing. John and his team of technicians see firsthand how new innovations are changing the way we live, work, and protect our homes — and why these changes matter even more in coastal communities like ours.
To view this audio interview on YouTube, click here.
Action Plumbing: Hi John! Thank you for joining me today.
John Osborn: I’m very happy to be here, thank you for inviting me. Whatcha got for me today?
AP: OK, first question: What disruptive technologies are making the biggest impact in plumbing right now?
JO: “One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is in smart plumbing systems and leak detection. Homeowners can now install Wi-Fi-enabled shutoff valves and leak detectors that monitor water flow in real time. If a pipe bursts or a toilet runs, the system sends an alert to your phone—and in some cases, it’ll automatically shut off the water to prevent flooding. For high-value vacation rentals, this technology gives owners peace of mind, especially those who don’t live here year-round.
We’ve been at the forefront of this with Moen Flo, and our customers love it. It’s a Wi-Fi-enabled system that provides a lot of valuable data on a companion app, giving homeowners more control and visibility over their water usage. A site survey is required to ensure there is a power outlet and Wi-Fi connection available for installation, and it’s also crucial to know the location of your manual water cutoff, which we can help you find or even install a cutoff box near the water meter.”
AP: Tankless water heaters have been around a while. What’s new there?
JO: “Tankless is still a smart choice, but what’s truly new and relevant is how these systems are becoming more intelligent. We’re big fans of Rinnai tankless water heaters. They’re not only space-saving, but many models now come with an intelligent recirculation pump that learns your hot water usage patterns. This is a great feature for custom homes and saves on energy bills.
This makes them a great option for high-volume vacation rentals. The ability to use smart scheduling and adjust performance based on demand is all about comfort and efficiency—making sure guests never run out of hot water while keeping energy costs in check..”
AP: We’ve been hearing more in the news these days about water quality concerns in coastal areas. Is that something you’re noticing here in the Outer Banks?
JO: “Homeowners are more aware of what’s in their water than ever before. Concerns about PFAS — the ‘forever chemicals’ — along with saltwater intrusion in certain coastal wells are driving demand for whole-home filtration systems. Even point-of-use purification systems, like under-sink filters, are on the rise. It’s not just about taste anymore; it’s about health and long-term protection of plumbing systems.”
AP: Beyond comfort and safety, what are you hearing in the industry regarding innovations around sustainability?
JO: “Some forward-thinking homeowners are starting to explore greywater recycling and smart irrigation systems. These systems reuse water from showers, sinks, and laundry for things like irrigation. While it’s not mainstream yet, it’s gaining attention — especially among homeowners who want to lower utility bills and reduce environmental impact. On the Outer Banks, where we’re mindful of water resources and rising costs, I think we’ll see more interest in this space in the coming years.”
AP: Outside of any emergencies, how can homeowners proactively maintain their plumbing systems to ensure peak performance and longevity?
JO: “That’s a great question, because maintaining your plumbing system is absolutely key to its performance, especially in high-use vacation rentals. We always recommend a proactive approach with a clear maintenance plan. You’ll want to think about a few key things.
First, schedule regular maintenance. Instead of waiting for a problem to pop up, having a schedule for routine check-ups is the best way to catch minor issues before they become major emergencies.
Second, consider upgrading aging fixtures. Toilets, faucets, and shower valves all have a lifespan, and their performance declines over time. For instance, toilet technology is far more water-efficient today than it was even a decade ago, and faucets or shower valves generally perform well for about 10 years before they might need a replacement.
And finally, we always suggest planning for preemptive swaps. While a water heater can last up to 15 years, if you like to stay ahead of potential repairs, consider a preemptive swap of an old unit. The more you can do in the off-season, the more time, energy, and stress you’ll save yourself when things get busy.”
AP: If you had to sum it up, what’s the biggest difference between plumbing today and plumbing 20 years ago?
JO: “A lot has changed in just the past five years, never mind twenty. Homeowners today expect more control, more efficiency, and more protection for their property. Twenty years ago, plumbing was reactive — you fixed things when they broke. Now, with connected technology and smarter systems, it’s becoming proactive. That’s a big shift, especially for rental property owners who can’t afford downtime or unexpected damage.”
AP: Certainly is amazing to see these changes in technology. I appreciate you taking the time to speak with me today. And I think our audience will appreciate it too.
JO: “I appreciate the chance to share what’s happening in plumbing today. We care deeply about the people and homes we serve here in the Outer Banks, and my door’s always open for anyone who wants to learn more or talk through their options.“
What It Means for Outer Banks Homeowners
The Outer Banks has always been a unique place to own property. Between salt air corrosion, hurricane risks, and the demands of short-term rentals, homes here face challenges you don’t often see inland.
For local homeowners, the new wave of plumbing technology isn’t just about convenience — it’s about protecting investments and improving the guest experience. A smart leak detector can save a rental season by catching a burst pipe early. A hybrid water heater can ensure a full house of guests never runs out of hot water. And whole-home filtration provides peace of mind in a region where water quality is a growing concern.
As John puts it, “The goal isn’t just to fix problems when they happen. It’s to stay one step ahead — giving homeowners tools that make their homes safer, more efficient, and better prepared for whatever comes next.”
Plumbing’s Role in Home Technology
Plumbing may not always make the headlines, but the changes happening now are as impactful as anything in the world of home technology. For Outer Banks homeowners and vacation rental owners, staying informed about these disruptive technologies could mean the difference between costly repairs and years of worry-free ownership.
