Water Heater Services

One of the most common problems with water heaters is the failure to produce sufficiently hot water, which often results from issues with the heating element or thermostat. Sediment build-up in the tank, causing noise or reducing heating efficiency, is another typical issue.

Yes, many issues with hot water heaters can be repaired. Common repairs include replacing malfunctioning heating elements, fixing thermostat issues, or addressing electrical connection problems. However, if the tank itself is leaking, replacement is usually necessary.

It’s recommended to service your water heater annually. Regular maintenance includes checking and cleaning the heating elements, inspecting the thermostat, flushing the tank to remove sediment, and checking the pressure relief valve.

The average lifespan of a water heater is about 10-15 years. However, this can vary depending on the unit’s type, usage, maintenance schedule, and water quality in your area.

If your water heater isn’t working correctly, start by checking simple solutions such as the pilot light (for gas heaters), circuit breakers (for electric heaters), and thermostat settings. If these basic checks don’t solve the issue, it’s best to call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the problem, as attempting more complex repairs yourself can be dangerous.

Upgrading to a tankless water heater can bring significant advantages to your home. These heaters are known for their energy efficiency, as they only heat water on demand rather than continuously heating a stored supply. This on-demand heating can lead to substantial energy savings over time. Additionally, tankless water heaters provide a constant supply of hot water, which is particularly beneficial in households with high hot water usage. They also have a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank heaters, often lasting up to 20 years or more. Another key benefit is their compact size; tankless heaters can be mounted on walls, saving valuable floor space in your home.

When choosing the size of a new water heater, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure it meets your household’s hot water needs. The number of people in your home greatly influences the demand for hot water. Your family’s water usage patterns, including peak usage times and simultaneous water usage (like showering and running the dishwasher at the same time), will also play a significant role in determining the right size. For tank water heaters, the First Hour Rating (FHR) is crucial as it indicates the amount of hot water the heater can supply in an hour. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are sized based on the flow rate required at peak usage, making their sizing criteria different from traditional tank heaters.

The time required to install a new water heater can vary, depending on the type of heater and the specifics of the installation. Typically, replacing a tank water heater with a new one takes about 2-3 hours. However, installing a tankless water heater can take longer, often around 6-8 hours. This extended time is usually due to additional steps such as installing new gas lines or venting systems, which are often necessary for tankless models. The installation time can also be affected by factors such as the accessibility of the installation site and whether any modifications to the existing plumbing are needed.

Tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than traditional tank water heaters, but they still need some regular care. An important maintenance task for tankless units is descaling or flushing, which should be done annually to prevent mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water. This helps maintain their efficiency and prolongs their lifespan. Some tankless models also have in-line filters that need to be cleaned periodically. Despite their lower maintenance needs, it’s still recommended to have tankless heaters inspected regularly by a professional. In contrast, traditional tank water heaters require annual draining and flushing to remove sediment, along with regular checks and possible replacement of the anode rod to prevent corrosion, and inspections of the pressure relief valve.