A Brief Lesson In Water Heater Basics
The time has come to get the kids ready for school once again. That means getting the right supplies, figuring out a lunch plan, and ensuring they get out the door on time every morning. While the kiddos get an education, what’s to stop the grownups from doing a little learning of their own?
One thing every homeowner can stand to know more about - especially with cooler weather around the corner - is their water heater. Armed with a little knowledge, homeowners will be able to extend the life of their water heaters with proper maintenance, spot signs of trouble early on, and make a more informed decision when it comes time for an upgrade or replacement.
Different Kinds of Water Heaters
Tankless or “on-demand” water heaters heat water only when a hot water faucet or fixture is opened. This not only drastically reduces the amount of energy used, but it also means the hot water will never run out, provided the unit is properly sized. Tankless units come in both gas and electric models.
Other newer water heater designs may be somewhat more expensive but offer even greater energy efficiency by utilizing renewable energy sources for all or part of their heating power. These include hybrid heat pump water heaters, condensing water heaters, and solar water heaters.
Simple Water Heater Maintenance
No matter the type, every water heater requires periodic maintenance to last longer and continue functioning properly. Gas-powered units will need to have their pilot lights and burners inspected and cleaned and their ventilation conduits checked for clogs or leaks - all of which should be done by a licensed professional due to the dangerous nature of natural gas.
The homeowners can perform other tasks once per year, as long as the instructions in the owner’s manual are followed precisely. On conventional models, one should test the T&P (temperature and pressure) relief valve, the anode rod should be checked (and replaced if need be), and the storage tank flushed to remove mineral deposits. Tankless units will also need to be flushed out and their filters thoroughly cleaned.
How To Tell If a Water Heater Needs Repairing
Being able to spot signs of water heater trouble is one of the best skills homeowners can develop. Fortunately, the signs are usually fairly obvious. The most common ones include a lack of hot water, short-lived hot water, fluctuating water temperature, all of which point to an issue with the thermostat, heat source, or safety devices.
Smelly or discolored water may point to mineral buildup, but it could also mean the anode rod is depleted, and the tank is corroding. Popping noises from the unit also indicate sediment buildup, which can eventually cause the tank to crack. Evidence of leaks around the unit may be caused by a cracked tank but could be as simple as a faulty valve or loose pipe connection.
If any of these signs are observed, it’s best to schedule water heater repairs immediately before the issue gets worse - a cracked or corroded tank will require a full unit replacement, and issues with heat sources and safety devices can be very dangerous.
About Anytime Plumbing, Inc
The experts at Anytime Plumbing, Inc have been proud to serve the Las Vegas, Nevada community since 1982. They stand behind their work with unbeatable warranties and even provide free estimates on select services. They also offer competitive up-front pricing and 24/7 emergency water heater service.
