3 Important Water Heater Maintenance Tips

November 21st, 2019 Posted in Water Heaters
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When was the last time you performed maintenance or service on your water heater? Many people never perform the needed maintenance and may be at risk of a water heater breakdown. While water heaters do not need much service, an annual tune-up can help prevent problems and extend the life of your appliance. Here are three water heater maintenance tips that can help minimize the risk of leaks and premature failure.

  1. Check the pressure release valve. The pressure release valve on water heater tanks is vital to maintaining the correct pressure. When the temperature or pressure become too high inside the tank, the valve releases water. This should be checked to ensure it is working at least once a year and replaced if necessary to avoid pressure build-up that can cause tank leaks or explosions.
  2. Drain the tank. The tank of a water heater can fill with mineral sediment that can cause damage to the inside of the tank. Draining the tank once a year can rid the tank of these minerals, helping your water heater last longer and run more efficiently.
  3. Replace the anode rod. Water heaters have an anode rod that attract minerals to reduce rust and corrosion of the tank. These rods are meant to rust and corrode, needing to be replaced every few years to continue protecting the tank.

Some homeowners choose to perform water heater maintenance on their own, while others call their local plumber. Either way, performing maintenance can help increase the lifespan of water heaters and prevent damaging leaks. If your water heater does need repair, call your local plumber for assistance.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

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3 Signs Your Water Heater is Failing

December 1st, 2017 Posted in Water Heaters
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Water heaters often seem to fail without warning. One day, you jump in the shower and there is no hot water. However, there are usually warning signs that a water heater is failing if you know what to expect. Water heaters tend to last about ten years, but any time after eight years you should be on the lookout for issues.  Here are three signs your water heater may be coming to the end of its lifespan, so you can proactively replace it before it fails.

  1. Strange noises. Is your water heater making more noise than before? Banging, gurgling or popping noises are usually due to sediment buildup. Draining your tank can help, but too much sediment over time will lead to failure.
  2. Leaks. A major tank leak is often the reason a water heater is replaced. However, small leaks can occur that should be a warning that a major leak or failure is around the corner. Watch for moisture around the tank or small puddles.
  3. Hot water issues. Does it seem to take longer to get hot water or the temperature doesn’t seem to be as warm as before? Does your hot water have a tinge of color to it? Changes in your hot water temperature or color can be a sign there is a problem with your water heater.

It is better to replace your water heater on your schedule than wait for the tank to spring a leak or to wake up to a cold shower. Keep an eye and ear open for issues with your water heater once it is several years old. When it begins having problems, call your local plumber and have it proactively replaced before it fails.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

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Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater?

October 8th, 2017 Posted in Water Heaters
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Water heaters can last over a decade, some lasting twenty years or more with good maintenance. It is easy to neglect your water heater and forget that these appliances do need replacement. If you have had your water heater for ten years or more, it is time to start considering replacing your unit before you wake up one morning to a cold shower. Some early signs that your water heater is reaching the end of its life can include:

  • Shorter periods of hot water
  • Water not getting as hot
  • Increased noise from the unit
  • Leaking

While these can also be signs that your water heater needs repair, if it is over ten years old, repairing may be a waste of money. Putting a bandage on an appliance that has already reached the average lifespan may only keep it running for a few more months. Instead, these indications are a sign that it is time to start considering investing in a new water heater.

There are many options when it comes to replacing your water heater. Tank water heaters come in electric and gas models, with various sizes. If running out of hot water has always been a problem, considering getting a larger tank or opting for a tankless model. Tankless or on-demand water heaters are compact, without a tank, and heat water as you need it. This ensures you always have hot water and these models can save quite a bit on your energy bills.

If your water heater is nearing the end of its life, talk to your local plumber about replacement. Ask about upgrading to a tankless model for your home or other options before your old unit finally quits.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

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5 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

December 2nd, 2015 Posted in Water Heaters
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It is easy to take your water heater for granted. Year after year, it continues to give you hot water when you need it, even with little or no maintenance. However, just like any mechanical equipment, eventually parts will begin to wear out and you could be left with only cold water for your morning shower. Here are some warning signs that your water heater made need maintenance or repair.

  1. Water is not getting as hot as it did before. If your water is not heating to the same level, the thermostat may need to be replaced. It also may need to be flushed to remove mineral deposits.
  2. Banging noises. If your water begins making banging noises, it may need annual service to flush out the mineral deposits from the tank.
  3. Leaks. Any leak around the water heater is a critical warning sign to call your local plumber. A small leak can turn into a large disaster in your home, causing major water damage and mold.
  4. Running out of hot water. If you seem to run out of hot water quicker than normal, it could be a mechanical or electrical problem.
  5. Rusty water. If your water has rust, it may be time for a new water heater. Most water heaters only last between eight and fifteen years, so if you have an older heater, it may be time to invest in a newer, more efficient model.

To extend the life of your water heater, it is prudent to have annual maintenance performed to keep the tank clean and to inspect all the parts.   To prevent future problems, talk to your local plumber about scheduling a routine maintenance service, even if have not had any signs of trouble.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

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Have You Been Neglecting Your Water Heater?

March 24th, 2015 Posted in Water Heaters
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Water heaters are often the most neglected of the water appliances, expected to provide hot water day after day without getting much TLC. Most water heaters will last 8 to 10 years, often longer if they are given proper maintenance. An annual tune-up of your water heater can help extend the life and ensure it’s working efficiently to keep your home in hot water. 

Annual Water Heater Service

If you’ve never had your water heater serviced, it’s actually a fairly simple process which can be done by you or your local plumber. To reduce mineral sediment build-up and prevent breakdowns, the water heater should be drained and refilled once a year as part of the annual service. In addition, here are a few other in need of a bit of attention:

  • Check the temperature
  • Clean intake filters
  • Test the water pressure, electric/gas elements and emergency shut-off valve
  • Check for leaks and corrosion

Replacing any parts as needed can improve the performance of your water heater and even save money on your energy bills. It’s estimated a well-functioning water heater can save 15% off your energy bills versus a poorly maintained unit.  Plus, by maintaining your water heater, you may get 2-5 more years of service before you need to replace the unit with a new model.

Most plumbing companies offer an affordable water heater tune-up or maintenance service that includes inspection and cleaning of your unit. This is almost always a worthwhile investment, paying for itself in lower energy costs alone. Call your local plumber today and schedule a TLC appointment for your water heater.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

 

 

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Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

December 31st, 2013 Posted in Water Heaters
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When it comes to heating water for home use, the tankless water heater is one of the first products to shake up the industry in decades. On-demand water heaters are skyrocketing in popularity, and are often a more efficient solution for many homeowners. As with any major appliance, however, they come with their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks which should be carefully considered before a purchasing decision is made. When the time comes to replace your hot water heater, consider the pros and cons of doing so with a new tankless model.

Pros

The benefits of using a tankless water heater are numerous. They take up far less space than a traditional storage tank model, are far more energy efficient and cost significantly less to operate than their storage tank brethren. Instead of heating unused water which is then held indefinitely, you’re only using energy to heat what you need at any given moment.

The average estimated lifespan of a tankless model is up to two decades, which also outstrips the ten to thirteen years estimated for a traditional model. Even with the higher up-front cost of a tankless hot water heater, the increased longevity and energy savings often make it a far more economical option in the long run.

Cons

The primary drawback to tankless water heaters will usually only effect large households, which is the fact that more than one point of demand can reduce the effectiveness of the water heater. If someone in the house is showering while others are doing a load of laundry in hot water and running the dishwasher, the output is going to be reduced for everyone in the house. Tankless water heaters may not be the best solution in high-demand households. Additionally, the increased up-front expense over a traditional water heater may be prohibitive for some families, though the cost is often recouped in fairly short order through reduced energy bills.

Working with a licensed and experienced plumber to determine whether or not a tankless water heater is right for your family is the best way to make an informed and accurate assessment.

Posted on behalf of Kiddco Plumbing

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Purchasing a New Water Heater: Gas or Electric?

August 12th, 2013 Posted in Water Heaters
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The answer to this question, if based solely on energy costs, can vary greatly depending upon where you live. In some regions, natural gas is cheaper than electricity whereas in other areas, the opposite is true. Generally, when it comes to heating water, gas heaters cost less because they are more energy efficient in heating water faster and using less energy in doing so. Left alone, the efficiency of gas heat may persuade you to purchase a gas heater rather than an electric one. However, there are a number of other reasons why you may consider purchasing an electric water heater.

A primary consideration for some is safety. The chances of an explosion from a gas leak and its resulting damage is far greater than any risks associated with electric wiring. Another enticing factor for those who are cost conscience is the ability to install a timer on an electric tank, limiting power consumption to off-peak times. Electric heaters do not require the venting of exhaust through PVC tubing. Gas heaters have space requirements to prevent the buildup of gases; whereas, an electric tank heater can be installed in small, unventilated spaces. The lifespan of an electric water heater is generally greater than a gas water heater. The purchase price of electric heaters is lower than gas heaters of the same size. Electric water heaters also do not have a pilot light to worry about.

It should be noted that new technology has also made improvements into the world of water heaters with options such as solar and tankless systems. Your local plumbing contractor will be well informed of all the pros and cons of various systems, so as to best assist you with the right purchase for your individual needs.

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What’s That Banging Noise In Your Plumbing?

June 6th, 2013 Posted in Water Heaters
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Many people, even if they are homeowners, tend to ignore the occasional banging and groaning of their plumbing pipes, especially if their home is older. Certainly, the systems in older homes tend to make more noise. but, more than likely, it could be something simple that is easily resolved before becoming a real nuisance.

There are several possible causes and solutions to the noises you hear coming from your pipes. You can do several things to try and narrow it down. If turning on the water creates the noise, then chances are a pipe is clanging against another object. Most of the time, you can track down the location of the problem by following the sound and vibration. A pipe could have become loose, striking a wall, or another pipe. The offending noise can then be silenced by creating a buffer with a piece of wood, rubber hosing, tape or insulation.

Sometimes, hot water will create a rumble of steam through your system, an indication to lower the temperature on your hot water heater. Pipes also have air chambers that cushion a shock effect that’s created when running water is suddenly turned off. These chambers can fail or become waterlogged, causing a “water hammer” sound. You can possibly clear this yourself by opening up the noisy faucet with the water turned off, to let it completely drain, so that the chamber can refill with air, restoring the cushion.

As always, whenever you have a concern about the plumbing in your home, it is a good idea to have your system inspected by your local plumbing professional to make sure that everything is functioning properly.

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Water Heater Maintenance: Don’t Overlook It!

November 6th, 2012 Posted in Water Heaters
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Often we take our water heaters for granted until something goes wrong. However, these are expensive pieces of equipment and can last much longer if simple maintenance is done regularly on them. By scheduling a maintenance inspection at least once a year, you can increase the longevity and efficiency of your water heater. The following three items are usually included in a water heater inspection by a plumber.

 Check The Pressure Release Valve

The first step in your annual maintenance is to check the temperature-release valve (TPR). The water supply valve and the power to the water heater should be shut off first. Then a bucket is put under the pipe that leads to the TPR, which should be on the side or top of the heater. The handle on the valve will be lifted to release some water into the bucket and then let the handle go. If water continues to come out, the valve is not working properly and may need to be replaced. 

Check The Anode Rod

On the top of the heater, there is a hex head that contains the anode rod. To remove the anode rod, your plumber will first drain out a few gallons of water from the tank, then unscrew the hex head and pull out the anode rod. If the rod is less than 1/2 inch thick or is corroded, it may be recommended to replace the rod.  

Flush The Tank

The last step in annual maintenance of a water heater is flushing the tank. The water  will be drained out of the tank. Once it is empty, a little water will be added to flush sediment from the bottom and then it is drained again. This is repeated until water comes out clean. 

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Water Heater Problems

April 25th, 2012 Posted in Water Heaters
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When your water heater goes out, you’re natural instinct is to call your plumber to get it fixed right away and while this is an excellent idea, take a few minutes before making the call to see if there is a simple problem that you can fix without an expensive emergency plumbing service call for water heater repairs.

Water heaters are relatively simple devices, but there are several problems that can arise.  A standard water heater is just a large tank with a heating element that heats up the tankful of water and keeps it hot and available to satisfy a demand for hot water.

If your water heater has stopped heating water completely, check the pilot light (if you have a gas unit) to make sure the pilot light has not gone out.  If so, re-light it and see if that solves the problem.  If the pilot light goes out often, have it checked out by your plumber.

If you have an electric water heater, check the circuit breaker to see if it has been tripped.  Resetting the circuit breaker may solve the problem, but if the breaker trips frequently you need to have your plumber inspect the unit.

Low water temperature could be a result of an improperly set thermostat or the thermostat could be working improperly.  If re-setting the temperature doesn’t help, replacing the thermostat might do the trick.

Sediment build up in the tank can also cause heating problems and a reduction in the capacity of the tank.  Your water heater should be periodically drained and flushed to maximize efficiency and service life.  This can be a pretty big job so if you don’t want to tackle it yourself, have the tank drained and flushed by your plumber.

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