Water Heater Repair, Installation, and Replacement

Tuesday, 30 June 2020 11:29
Water Heater Repair, Installation, and Replacement

What You Need to Know About Water Heater Repair, Replacement, and Installation 

There are many aspects of our homes that we take for granted: being able to take a warm shower or give our kids a bath. Washing a sinkful of dishes or putting in a load of laundry. While these are seen as “chores,” they can quickly begin to feel like luxuries when there is an issue with your water heater. Going without hot water is an inconvenience, and it can make your daily life a lot more difficult. What do you need to know about water heater repair, replacement, and installation?

 

Signs Your Water Heater Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

How do you know if your water heater needs to be repaired? It’s not a trick question! Many of us think that “no hot water” is the answer. And it is - but there are other signs to be on the lookout for:

  • Fluctuations in water temperature. If your water runs hot, cold, cool, and tepid - often all within the same shower - it’s a big clue that something is amiss. It may be that mineral deposits have accumulated around the heating elements or that the elements need to be repaired or replaced. Thermostats could be failing, or the “dip tube” may have failed.
  • Low pressure. Mineral deposits can also block pipes, which reduces your water pressure. 
  • Leaks. Not many of us make it a habit to inspect our water heaters, but give it a look-over every month or so as part of your home cleaning/maintenance routine. If you see a leak, get in touch with a plumber as soon as you can.
  • Rusty, cloudy, and/or smelly water. Rusty water can indicate that you have corrosion somewhere in lines, pipes, or the water heater itself. If left unchecked, rust can completely destroy your tank. Cloudy and/or strange-smelling water also indicates that you likely have a buildup of minerals.
  • Things that go bump in the night. If you have cracking, banging, or popping sounds coming from the water heater, it may mean that it is overheating. If you let it continue, the tank will likely start leaking. Do you have a thermal expansion tank? If on a public water supply it is a must to protect your home and heater. If you have a thermal expansion tank, is it pressured by air to the correct setting?

In many cases, a plumbing service will be able to repair your water heater. However, in other cases, you may need to replace it. Leaks, excessive corrosion, strange sounds, and visibly altered water may mean the damage is too far gone to repair. 

Another consideration is the age of your unit. They are typically good for about 10 years. If yours is older, you may need to switch to a new (and much more efficient) water heater. You may also wish to upgrade to a tankless or solar water heater for cost- and energy-savings. Our plumbers are happy to help you make the right call for your home and needs. 

Water Heater Installation 

If you do need a new water heater, your plumbing service can help you select the right model for your household and budget. Options include:

  • Conventional tank water heaters. These usually run on propane or electricity and hold between 20 and 100 gallons. The size of the tank will depend on the water demand of your household 
  • Solar water heaters. These eco-friendly, solar-powered units can reduce your hot water costs by 14 - 18 percent. Call for an evaluation of your site to see if the orientation makes solar an option.
  • Tankless water heaters. Tankless options are smaller and more streamlined, and they heat water faster than conventional units. They are “on-demand,” meaning they only heat water when required, saving energy. 
  • Hybrid water heaters: This is the most energy efficient heater available today. It is a combination of heat-pump technology and a water tank. If you have the right location for one, basement, garage, etc., please consider this option. It is amazing.

Installing a water heater is not a DIY job. You need a licensed plumber to ensure it is done properly and safely. Your plumbing professional will help determine optimal placement and ventilation, install all the gas or electric elements, ensure compliance with applicable local codes, and help you maximize performance and energy savings.

Action Service Co. has over 60 years of experience. Not only do we understand the technical side of water heaters, we understand that you need a solution that works for your household, lifestyle, and budget. Our team will help you find the perfect fit for your home. Especially when it comes to a water heater selection, please consider getting our input as so many things need to be considered; (Water quality, amount of hot water needed, energy source options etc.)

Water Heater Maintenance

Whether you have an existing unit or a newly installed water heater, it is essential that you take steps to maintain it. This includes scheduling annual servicing. Your plumber will look for leaks, signs of wear, signs of corrosion, ensure components are working properly, and flush the tank to remove sediment.

Is your morning shower frigid? Is bath time even more of a hassle because your kids’ teeth are chattering? Can you finish a whole load of dishes before the hot water runs out? Does your glass of water look and taste like rust? Give us a call today. Action Service Co.’s experienced plumbers know water heaters - conventional, solar, tankless and  HYBRID- inside and out. We’ll take care of your repair, replacement, and installation needs - so you can get back to your chores!