Water Heaters & Tankless Water Heaters in Chandler

Types of Water Heaters

Let's delve into the two most common types of water heaters—gas and electric—and how they operate.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters operate based on the energy provided by natural gas or propane. The gas, traveling through a distinct line, fuels a burner within the system. This burner, containing a flame, is responsible for heating up the water tank, which subsequently provides hot water for use. This process makes gas water heaters a suitable option if your home is already setup with natural gas or propane.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters utilize a thermostat lodged towards the bottom or middle section of the tank. The thermostat monitors the water temperature and can trigger the warming process when required. To function efficiently, electric water heaters necessitate a 220-volt circuit that supplies power to the heating elements. These elements, located inside the water heater, generate heat to warm up the tank, and hence, the water.

Which Type of Water Heater is Better?

When it comes to deciding between a gas or electric water heater, various factors come into play: availability of resources, energy efficiency, costs, and longevity.

Typically, electric water heaters offer a slew of benefits that make them a preferable option. Most electric models boast a longer lifespan compared to their gas counterparts. This extended service life can result in considerable savings over time, as it reduces the frequency of replacement. Also, electric heaters tend to be more energy efficient, which not only curbs your monthly utility bills but also contributes to the environment by reducing energy consumption. That being said, the choice of the water heater largely depends on individual preferences and specific home setup. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with an expert before making your choice.

Know when it's time to replace your water heater

When it comes to household amenities that contribute significantly to your comfort and well-being, the water heater secures a top spot. It ensures that you have access to hot water for showers, cleaning dishes, laundry, and more. However, like all appliances, a water heater won't last forever. Knowing when it's time to replace your water heater can save you from unexpected breakdowns and potentially high repair costs. Let's delve into the signs indicating that it might be time for a new water heater.

The Water Doesn't Get Hot Enough

One of the prime indicators that your water heater is failing is when the water doesn't get hot enough, despite setting it at a high temperature. This issue might be due to sediment buildup inside the tank, which creates a barrier between the burner and the water, reducing the heater's efficiency. It could also signal that the heating elements (in electric water heaters) or the gas thermocouple (in gas water heaters) are failing. If adjusting the thermostat doesn't solve the problem, it may be time for a replacement.

The Water is Smelly or Discolored

Clean water is fundamental for a healthy home environment. If you start noticing smelly or discolored water only when using the hot water tap, this could point towards an issue with your water heater. The presence of rust inside the tank or bacterial contamination could be the culprits. While some degree of repair might rectify the issue temporarily, such conditions often suggest that the water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan and a replacement may be necessary.

The Water Heater Tank is Cracked or Leaking

The sight of water pooling around your water heater is a clear sign that the tank might be cracked or leaking. Corrosion over time can lead to minute fractures, which eventually become larger and noticeable leaks. Once a tank starts leaking, the situation can only worsen, leading to potential water damage in your home. In such cases, replacement is not just recommended; it's imperative.

If Your Water Fluctuates in Temperature

Experiencing sudden changes in water temperature during use can be both annoying and a sign of a failing water heater. This inconsistency might be due to the buildup of minerals affecting the heating elements, or it could indicate a malfunction of the thermostat. If a flush or thermostat replacement doesn't fix the issue, considering a new water heater might be the next step.

Your Faucets Have Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure from hot water faucets can stem from sediment buildup in the water heater. Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank and can hinder water flow. This issue might also affect your plumbing system, leading to further complications. While cleaning the sediment can sometimes improve the situation temporarily, a significant and persistent drop in water pressure usually signals the need for a water heater replacement.

Hot Water Heater Tank Makes Strange Noises

Aging water heaters often start making rumbling or banging noises towards the end of their life cycle. This noise occurs due to the hardening of sediment at the bottom of the tank, which causes the heater to overwork, producing the sounds as water boils beneath the sediment. Not only does this reduce your water heater's efficiency but it also puts excessive wear and tear on the system. These sounds are a harbinger of the impending failure of your water heater.

Recognizing the Signs Early

Early recognition of these signs and timely intervention can prevent you from enduring days without hot water and potentially save you from more expensive repairs or water damage. Consider consulting with a professional if you notice any of these issues. A licensed plumber can offer a thorough inspection and guide you on whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution.

The Next Steps

If replacement is your best course of action, modern water heaters offer improved efficiency and technology that can significantly lower your monthly energy bills and provide a more reliable hot water supply. Exploring options like tankless water heaters could also offer long-term benefits, including a longer lifespan and on-demand hot water without the footprint of a large tank.

The importance of a functioning water heater in maintaining the comfort and hygiene of your home can't be overstated. By staying vigilant for the signs that it's time to replace your water heater, you can ensure a continuous supply of hot water, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and possibly reduce your energy bills with a more efficient new model. Remember, investing in a new water heater is not merely a purchase; it's an investment in your home's comfort and your family's well-being.

Reach out to Above All The Rest Plumbing and Sewer LLC today! Our specialists can guide you in choosing the right type of heater for your home and execute the water heater repair or installation with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Let us help you ensure an efficient hot water supply in your home, leading to your peace of mind and comfort.