Home Water Heaters
Keeping your water heater in top shape keeps everyone in your home happy. A water heater’s lifespan can vary greatly depending on how well you maintain the unit. Generally, you can expect about ten years from a standard water heater. When you schedule regular maintenance to flush the system, that will help you get the most out of your heater.
There are several types of water heaters on the market. Most homes have traditional gas or electric heaters in a closet or the basement. A large family needs a bigger unit or possibly more than one. Tankless water heaters are becoming more commonplace due to their efficiency, and they take up less room. Abend Services can take care of all your service needs regardless of what type of water heater you have.
Signs Water Heaters Need Service
You’ll find numerous signs your water heater needs servicing. The most evident and everyday sign is a leak. Eventually, water will corrode the heater, and fractures or cracks will develop. If the unit isn’t old, a licensed technician may be able to fix the leak. Repairs can be a fraction of the price of replacing the heater. If your water heater has been around for a decade or so, it’s probably time for a new one.
Other signs to look for aren’t as obvious but still pretty easy for you to spot. Is your hot water running out quickly? If you have low water pressure and rusty or discolored water, your unit needs servicing or possibly replacing. You’ll want to call a professional if your water heater starts sounding like a percussion band. Paying for ongoing repairs can cost you more money than replacing your heater with a new, more energy efficient one.
Common Water Heater Repairs
Several areas of repair are common for gas or electric water heaters. The dip tube brings the cold, fresh water into the tank and to the bottom so it can heat up. If it breaks, the cold water will be at the top leading to lukewarm water coming out of the faucets. Repairing a broken heating element is a relatively quick and common water heater repair. If your heater is gas, it’s best left to professionals for your safety.
Navien Tankless Water Heaters
Do you have a Navien tankless water heater, or are you considering installing one? The installation technician must be Navien certified in installation and maintenance. It will last longer than traditional heaters, and Navien only has 2% of its units returned. They have been around for over 20 years and have an outstanding reputation.
Is Hard Water An Issue?
Hard water, as the name implies, is hard on almost everything it touches. Look for white limescale buildup at faucets or any of your plumbing. You can expect to replace your water heater a few years earlier if you have hard water due to its corrosive nature. Be diligent with scheduling your heater’s maintenance to help the unit last longer.
Servicing Your Water Heater
As with any vital system in your home, it’s best to have regularly scheduled maintenance. A standard hot water tank must be flushed and connection points checked and serviced as needed. If you’re a DIY person, flushing a traditional water heater tank is straightforward. It will rid the tank of built-up sediment.
Most water heater repairs are best left to the professionals. When problems arise, or it’s time for maintenance, call Abend Services and keep your hot water flowing!
