Your water heater is the unsung hero of your home. You never even think about it until you turn a faucet and no hot water is available. Then, all of a sudden, it demands your full attention. But does it need repairs or is it time for a water heater replacement? The answer to that question depends on several factors like the age and condition of your water heater, its related components and your home repair budget.
Repair or replace? Sometimes the answer is easy: if your conventional storage tank hot water heater is nearing 10-15 years old, it’s likely you need a replacement. A newer model water heater will be much more energy-efficient (up to 25%) and can save you hundreds of dollars in utility costs over its lifetime. However, if your water heater has only been in use for a few years, it may be best to diagnose the problem and invest in repairs. Here’s some valuable information to help you make the best decision.
Conventional-type water heaters are simple in concept and operation. Fresh water enters the tank, where it is heated by a gas burner or electric element. Most water heaters have two heating elements, one placed high in the tank and one placed near the bottom. A thermostat is used to regulate the temperature; these are usually best set between 120- and 140-degrees Fahrenheit for energy efficiency and to prevent scalding accidents. Pressure builds in the tank as the water temperature rises. This pressure is what sends water to the tap when you turn it on.
As you can surmise, the typical water heater has few moving parts, but there are still several things that can go wrong.
A lack of hot water can also be attributed to problems with the related components of your hot water heater, and not the heater itself.
Obviously, some of these problems are simple to detect and fix. Some may require the services of a plumber or electrician, but are still relatively inexpensive. Some problems may be a sign of larger issues elsewhere. A licensed plumber or electrician can evaluate the severity of your problems and give advice on repairs or replacement. Most of the issues above can be repaired for under $400.
Obviously, when a tank becomes corroded or rusted through and begins leaking, it must be replaced. The minerals in water react with the metal components within a water heater tank, eating away at them over time. Hot water itself is murderously corrosive, wearing out a tank’s internal components and even the plumbing that leads to the water heater.
Also, as mentioned above, a conventional tank-type water heater that is nearing 12-15 years old is likely near the useful end of its life. Older water heaters are prone to corrosion and heavy mineral buildup at the bottom of the tank. This makes them work harder, use more energy and be less efficient. Even if the water heater has not presented any real problems yet, you could be nearing a catastrophe, like a huge water leak that could damage your property.
Fortunately, modern water heaters use differing and higher-grade materials to resist corrosion and retain heat longer, making them more energy efficient and longer-lasting. Plus, some models and types of water heaters offer a larger savings through federal tax credits. You will invest more in these models (solar or tankless are two notable examples) for installation but the long-term savings can be worth the initial cost. Talk to a local plumbing expert about the different types and their uses, and how each could benefit your specific situation.
For all the DIY homeowners out there, replacing a water heater involves more than simply disconnecting the old, hauling it away and setting up the new. Your local building, plumbing or electrical codes may have changed since your old water heater was installed, requiring some upgrades. When applying for the necessary permit for replacing your water heater, obtain a listing of the up-to-date requirements for a new installation. They can include:
Most hot water heater manufacturers provide detailed installation instructions, and many building or utility departments that provide installation permits also provide a helpful instruction sheet with drawings or images. However, you should only attempt a DIY water heater installation if it is allowed in your area, and if you possess the proper knowledge and tools to do the job safely and efficiently.
Once you replace your water heater or make repairs, you should perform some simple, routine tasks to help keep it running at its best.
These simple maintenance tasks can help you avoid possible repairs and extend the life of your hot water heater.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.
If you have ever experienced the nuisance of having to wait for hot water, you're not alone. Many homeowners wonder why their water takes so long to heat up and what they can do to fix the problem. Here are some possible reasons why:
Before you make this decision, you should evaluate the risks and necessary skills you will need. Replacing a hot water heater is not often a simple job, and any mistakes in the installation could cause serious damage or injury, and even more costs for repairs. While some home maintenance jobs easily fall into the DIY category, if you have any doubts about your ability to install a water heater, you probably should leave it to a professional.
The average cost to install a conventional tank-type water heater falls between $800 and $1600. This includes the water heater unit and typical labor for a standard installation. Any additional electrical or plumbing (water or gas) work will add to the total cost. A new tankless style water heater can cost considerably more, between $1,000 and $3,000 for the unit and installation.
Most cities, towns and municipalities require a permit for replacing a water heater in your home. Codes will vary across states and towns, so always be sure to check the requirements in your area to ensure you are meeting up-to-date codes.
Hot water is an essential element in our daily lives. Whether it's for taking a refreshing shower after a long day or doing household chores like washing dishes and clothes, we rely on hot water for numerous tasks. However, installing a new water heater can be a complicated task that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Attempting to do it yourself can result in serious risks and damage, both to yourself and your home. In this article, we'll explore the importance of hiring a professional for your water heater installation and why it's crucial to ensure that the job is done right.
Are you a homeowner wondering if your piping is putting the water quality in your home at risk? Many of us don’t consider it, but the quality of our home’s water can have a tremendous impact on everything from our health and wellbeing to our overall comfort. If you have galvanized pipes, it’s essential to consider the hidden dangers that come with them.
Are you ever worried about what goes down your pipes? You’re not alone! Many homeowners, renters, and especially parents worry that they're going to make a mistake when flushing or washing something down the sink that can cause an issue. It's important to know what items are safe for your plumbing system and which ones aren't - after all, you don’t want to call in the professionals unless it's absolutely necessary. Are there any items widely believed to be ok for plumbing that may actually cause an issue? What things can go wrong in our efforts to keep pipes clean? Here at Dignity Plumbing, we'll help answer these questions! Read on as we provide insight into what can and cannot go down your drains safely so you don't end up having a major problem on your hands.
