Water heater repair and replacement are necessary services that all homeowners will need at some point. A water heater is an appliance in your home that provides hot water for bathing, cleaning, and other household needs. If it breaks or malfunctions, you will need to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
What Are Water Heater Leaks?
Water heater leaks can occur for several reasons. The most common cause is a faulty or damaged water heater tank. Other causes can include loose fittings, corrosion, or sediment build-up in the tank. This can lead to leaks in the tank itself or at the connections between the tank and the water supply lines that connect to it.
It can be serious, as it can cause extensive damage to your home if left unchecked and can lead to dangerous mold or mildew growth. It can also be tricky to spot, as they may not be immediately apparent. There are devices that will immediately turn off the water supply to the water heater if it detects a leak from the heater.
What Are the Common Water Heater Repairs?
Your water heater may need a few different repairs, and each one will have a different price tag. Knowing what the repair is and how much it will cost can help you decide if repairing or replacing your water heater is the best option.
The most common water heater repairs include:
Flushing the tank: Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater tank, which can cause it to be less efficient and lead to premature tank failure. This is recommended by manufacturers, but very little sediment is removed when flushing.
Fixing the dip tube: The dip tube is a plastic tube that runs from the cold-water inlet to the bottom of the tank. It can become brittle and break, which can cause your water heater to not function properly. Replacing it is a relatively easy repair.
Venting: It is extremely important that your hot water heater be properly vented. Improper venting which allows carbon monoxide to enter the living space.
Air Supply: Inadequate air supply is very common in homes that have had the attic fully insulated with foam. Other caused of inadequate air supply could be to the amount of clutter stored around your hot water heater.
When Is Water Heater Replacement Necessary?
Although water heater repair can be a great option, there are some instances where replacement is a better solution. This can help you avoid frequent repairs, save money in the long run, and provide you with a more efficient unit.
Here are a few signs that replacement is necessary:
An aged water heater: If it is more than 15 years old, it may be time to start shopping for a replacement. This is because they will become less efficient over time and eventually need to be replaced.
Leaking water heaters: Each water heater will sooner or later leak because water will rust your tank and end up causing tiny holes or fractures. This is a sure sign that it’s time for a replacement.
Making strange noises: If you hear strange noises coming from your water heater, it could signify that the tank is starting to rust. This is one repair that you won’t be able to do on your own, and replacement will be necessary.
Have an unknown smell: If you can’t quite place the smell, but it’s coming from your water heater, you should call a professional. This could be a sign of gas leaks or other problems that require replacement.
What Are the Different Types of Water Heaters?
Water heaters come in various types. Each has its advanced technologies and power efficiency gains, so it’s well worth your time to learn about them all to make an informed choice.
Here are the most common types of water heaters:
Electric Water Heater
An electric water heater uses electricity to heat water and is the most common type of water heater. They’re less expensive than gas models, but they may cost more to operate because of the higher cost of electricity.
Gas Water Heater
A gas water heater uses natural gas or propane to heat water. Gas models are typically more expensive than electric models, but they’re also more energy-efficient than electric.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater doesn’t have a storage tank, so it doesn’t waste energy by heating and reheating water that’s not being used. Instead, it only heats water when you need it, saving you money on your utility bills.
Solar Water Heater
A solar water heater uses the sun’s energy to heat water. They’re environmentally friendly and can save you money on your utility bills. Still, they require a sunny location and may not work well in cloudy weather.
What Is the Expected Life of a Water Heater?
Water heaters typically last about 10-15 years, but this can vary depending on the type of water heater, the quality of the unit, and how well it’s been maintained. Some tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more. If you’re not sure how old your water heater is, you can check the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker, which is usually located near the top of the unit.
The Importance of Calling an Expert to Check, Repair, Replace a Water Heater
Calling an expert plumbing company such as Al Bourgeois Plumbing & Heating for checking, repairing, and replacing a water heater helps to ensure that your home’s water heater is operating safely and efficiently. If it’s time for a new water heater, we can help you select the best type of water heater for your home and install it properly so you can enjoy many years of hot water. While water heater replacement is a big job, it’s important to hire a licensed professional who has the experience and expertise to do the job right without damaging your home.
Water heater repair and replacement can be a daunting task. It is important to know what you are getting into before making any decisions. With a little research and the help of a trusted advisor, you can be sure to make the best decision for your home.