Frequently Asked Questions About Water Heaters

December 12, 2018

At some point as a homeowner, you’re going to have to replace your water heater. When the time comes to get the job done, you’re probably going to have a lot of questions about the process.

We’ve compiled answers to several of the most frequently asked questions we receive about water heater installation in Vacaville, CA. If you have further questions, our team will be happy to guide you through the process of determining whether or not the time is right for replacement, and if so, what type of water heater would best fit your home’s needs.

Q: Do I need to purchase a new water heater, or can I repair my existing one?

This is probably the most common question we receive, and the answer really depends on a variety of factors. We’re going to need to inspect your existing unit first before we can give you a truly accurate answer.

One of the biggest factors that indicates you’ll probably need to replace rather than repair is if you’re suffering from leaks in the water heater. This means the structural integrity of the water heater may be beginning to fail, and if you don’t replace it you could end up with a flooded basement or utility closet.

If you’re having a hard time getting hot water to your showers, sinks and washing machine, then this could also be a sign that you need to replace the appliance, though there are some repairs that could potentially resolve the issue.

Finally, the age of your water heater is also going to be a factor you’ll need to consider. After about a decade, there’s a good chance its efficiency will begin to plummet. If you have an old water heater that’s having problems, it makes much more sense to replace it than if it were only a couple years old.

Q: What type of water heater is ideal for my house?

You’ll find both tankless and conventional tank-style water heaters on the market. Tankless systems are newer and offer greater energy efficiency, though you’ll still find plenty of conventional heaters that offer plenty of efficiency of their own. Other factors that go into the decision include the amount of hot water you use, how big your house is and the way you use hot water around your home. Here again, a professional technician can offer you some recommendations based on these and other factors.

Q: What will I need to do to maintain my water heater?

Whether you’re repairing an existing water heater or getting a brand new one, it’s important to stay on top of regular preventative maintenance. Annual inspections help keep your water heater in good condition and help you uncover signs of rust and corrosion. Flushing the system can get rid of sediment in your water and keep the unit working efficiently. As a general rule, schedule maintenance once a year or so, and make sure you call a plumber immediately if you see any signs of leaks, corrosion or rust.

For more information about water heater installation in Vacaville, CA, contact the team at ABC Plumbing today.

Categorised in:

ABC Plumbing, Water Treatment, Filtration and Well Services