Have you been having problems with your water heater? It might be time to get your unit repaired or get a water heater replacement. In this article we’ll talk about the signs it might be time to get a new water heater for your home, and which type of water heater should you install. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a plumber in Bloomington, IL.
Signs you might need to get a new unit:
Water Heater Shuts Off All the Time
How long have you been using your water heater? The tank-type water heater can last up to 10 years while the tankless water heater can last up to 20 years. How long your water heater lasts depends on how well it’s maintained. It might last longer if you know how to care for your water heater. However, each year they tend to lose their efficiency, just like the other appliances in your home. So you may likely encounter problems with your water heater such as not having enough hot water or inconsistent water temperature. When your water heater suddenly shuts off, it might be time to get a water heater replacement. Make sure you only hire a licensed plumber in Bloomington, IL to install the new unit.
Age of the Water Heater
If you just moved into a new home but you keep having issues with the water heater, consider asking the previous owners how old the water heater is. Because if it’s more than 7 or 10 years old, it might be time to get a water heater replacement. If your priority is to conserve energy and save money, we recommend getting a tankless water heater as there’s no standby heat loss with this type of water heater. Call us today if you need water heater replacement so that our plumbers can assist.
No Hot Water
Just because you’re not getting any hot water doesn’t mean you should get a water heater replacement right away. The problem could just be the sediment building up in the tank. Consider draining the water heater first and see if it’s going to correct the problem.
Once a year, all homeowners are advised to flush the water heater to get rid of the sediment build up or it will accumulate and you will have less space for hot water. And if you don’t address the problem, the sediment can also end up damaging the tank. And when the water leaks from the tank, you will have no choice but to get a water heater replacement. Call us if you don’t have hot water so that our plumber can thoroughly inspect your unit and advise whether to get a replacement or repair.
Discolored Water
If the water looks rusty, it’s a sign to call a plumber for water heater repair or replacement. The water heater tank has a coating that can help slow down corrosion but this will wear out over time and rust can then form. To remedy this problem, consider flushing the water heater first and check the water again. If it’s still rusty, we suggest calling a plumber for water heater replacement or repairs. We may ask you to get a new unit especially when your water heater is more than 10 years old.
Leaks
When the water heater leaks, you will need to check if it’s coming from the pipes or the water heater tank. When your tank is damaged, you will have no choice but to get a replacement.
You can avoid problems with your water heater if you know how to properly maintain it. If you have an old tank, make sure you insulate it during winter to conserve energy and save money. And as mentioned, it’s a must to drain the water heater of the sediment building up in the tank or that can affect the efficiency of your water heater. Talk to us if you have questions or need help with replacement or repairs.
Should You Switch to Tankless Water Heaters?
If you’re getting a water heater replacement and can’t decide which type of water heater to install for your home, we suggest you get the tankless water heater especially when your goal is to save money. Below are the benefits of installing a tankless water heater for your home:
Lasts Longer – The only downside to buying a tankless water heater is that it’s more expensive than the tank type. However, it does last twice as long, up to 20 years, when properly maintained. This means you won’t have to keep buying a new water heater if you have the tankless water heater installed.
No Standby Heat Loss – One of the biggest benefits of installing a tankless water heater is energy efficiency. With the tank-type heater, you will have to keep turning it on to have hot water because it takes a great amount of time to heat the water again. With the tankless water heater, you only use energy when you turn on the shower, helping you save money. You also get instant hot water with the tankless unit.
No Need for a Bigger Space – Are you trying to save up some space in the basement? You can if you install a tankless water heater. You can just put the tankless unit in the bathroom wall, no need to worry about having a bigger space for it. Also, when there’s no tank, you reduce flooding in the basement.
Call Covenant Plumbing ASAP
Do you need water heater replacement or repairs for your home in Bloomington, IL? We’re just here to help! We are a reliable plumbing company committed to providing unparalleled plumbing services to all homeowners and businesses. We can help with any repairs or installations. Call us at Covenant Plumbing today for an appointment.
