Water heaters are an important piece of equipment in the home because they work in conjunction with many other appliances. When hot water isn’t available for showers, laundry, or washing dishes, it can be a huge problem. We understand that lack of hot water can create a panic in the house, so call us right away to get the issue fixed.
Lack of hot water isn’t the only issue people face with hot water heaters. Here are a few other hot water heater problems we can fix:
- Smelly Water
When water coming from the hot water heater starts to smell, it’s often due to bacterial growth. Usually the bacteria produce a rotten egg smell. We can clean out the tank to properly rid it of bacteria.
- Odd Noises
A noisy hot water heater could be the symptom of many issues. The most likely issue is sediment settling at the bottom of the tank and being burned by the heating element. Odd noises might also indicate the heating element is starting to burn out.
- Water Leakage
A leaky hot water tank is a sign that the water heater is past its prime. These leaks could cause major water damage in the home, so it’s best to have us replace it with a new, energy efficient hot water tank right away. Any time there is water found on the floor around the water heater, give All Star Plumbing and Restoration a call.
- Not Enough Hot Water
If it seems like the water heater isn’t putting out very much hot water, the problem may be a simple one. The temperature on the thermostat might just need to be turned up. However, going over the recommended temperature can be a scalding hazard.
- Slow Hot Water
There are a wide range of issues that can be causing slow hot water. Our team can help figure out the issue and come up with a solution.
The two most common types of water heaters found in homes are regular tank water heaters and tankless water heaters. We can work on both types.
Regular Tank Water Heaters
These traditional hot water tanks have a reservoir of hot waterwaiting to be used throughout the day. It constantly heats the water in the tank for whenever it is needed. This type of water heater is a great option for households who use a lot of hot water. They’ve become more efficient over the years, and are the most common option.
Tank water heaters can be electric or fuel-fired. The fuel-fired variety uses natural gas, propane, or oil. Fuel-fired water heaters can heat water to the desired temperature about twice as fast as the electric variety. Electric water heaters simply have a power cable that connects to the electric service panel.
Tankless Water Heaters
Instead of constantly heating a reservoir full of water, this type of hot water heater only heats water when it is needed using flash heating. They are deemed the most energy efficient and cost effective option.
Hot water heaters generally have about a 7 to 15-year life expectancy. Routine maintenance by our knowledgeable plumbing staff can help it reach that 15-year mark, and perhaps even beyond. Older water heaters should be serviced professionally each year. We can clean it out to prevent a bacterial infection or sediment build-up, check the heating element, and be on the lookout for signs of failure.
Along with servicing the water heater, we can replace it with a high efficiency model when it reaches the end of its life. By replacing an older water heater with an energy efficient model, homeowners will enjoy the following benefits:
- Reduced Energy Costs
Water heating can account for up to 25% of the average homeowner’s gas bill. High efficiency hot water heaters use less energy than their standard counterparts, lowering that percentage. This is mostly due to the fact that they take less time to heat the water. They are also better insulated to keep the water at the desired temperature.
- Low Maintenance
These models have lower and less frequent maintenance needs. They are built to a higher standard that guarantees efficiency in hot water supply.
- Durability
Instead of the standard 15-year life expectancy, high efficiency water heaters can last 20-25 years.
We have many energy efficient options available to homeowners in Boise and the Treasure Valley and can find the right option for your home’s needs. Contact All Star Plumbing and Restoration for a free estimate on a new energy efficient hot water heater today.