Running out of hot water as you shower can ruin a perfectly good morning. But, you don’t have to stress about water heater problems when you have our eagle-eyed plumbers on your side.
Knowing how to spot common water heater issues before they become a major concern can also help you avoid being caught by surprise.
Whether you need to replace a part or are ready to upgrade to a new energy-efficient model, our team at Total Air & Plumbing is here to help you with all of your water heater replacement and repair needs.
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Signs of Water Heater Failure
- Finding a water leak near the unit
- Hearing strange whistles or pops coming from the water heater
- Receiving high utility bills
- Feeling the water run cold too fast
- Noticing the unit runs constantly
- Seeing discolored hot water
Getting caught by a cold blast of water in the shower is a shockingly clear sign of a water heater issue. But, you might be able to spot other signs of problems before it reaches this point.
Common Causes of Water Heater Problems
- Sediment buildup
- Faulty temperature valve
- Defective drainage systems
- Loose pipes
- General aging
Sometimes, our eagle-eyed plumbers can diagnose water heater problems based on the symptoms. For instance, a deteriorating anode rod or sediment buildup can cause discoloration that you see when you run the hot water.
In other cases, we might need to do a little detective work to find the source of a water leak coming from the system. Knowing these common reasons for water heater failure can help you begin to prepare for our visit to your home.
How Do You Know If You Need a Water Heater Replacement Vs. Repairs?
Conventional storage tank water heaters tend to last for around 10 years. If your current unit is close to that age and is showing signs of wear and tear, then replacing the system might be your most cost-effective option.
We may also recommend a replacement if the unit has needed multiple repairs in a short period of time. Our plumbers can sometimes resolve a water leak by tightening a fitting or replacing a valve. But, you might need to explore a replacement for major water leaks that pose a risk for property damage.
In some cases, we might even be able to fix a faulty water heater with a general maintenance service. Flushing the tank can sometimes eliminate sediment that is causing problems. We’ll perform a thorough inspection before making our honest recommendation for the best option to restore your home’s hot water.
What Types of Water Heaters Are Available?
- On-demand units
- Tankless units
- High-efficiency systems
- Conventional hot water heaters
- Solar-powered units
How Do You Care for a New Water Heater?
Annual water heater inspections are essential for catching small problems early when repairs are more likely to be possible. During annual water heater maintenance sessions, our plumbers can perform multi-point checks to look for cracks, leaks and other areas of concern.
If necessary, our plumber can flush the system to prevent sediment buildup. We might also recommend adding a water softening system to your home to reduce the effects of hard water on a new unit. For your part, we recommend contacting us immediately at the first sign of a leak, slow heating or any other issues that cause you concern.
What Are the Benefits of Routine Water Heater Maintenance?
Routine maintenance and repair services help to improve your hot water heater’s performance and extend its longevity. When the system is running properly, you’ll notice increased energy efficiency that may help reduce utility costs. You’ll also benefit from having a unit that operates quietly and efficiently to supply your home with hot water.
Water Heater Repair and Replacement FAQs
When time is in short supply, like your hot water, then these quick questions and answers can help you find solutions faster.
How long does it take to install a new hot water heater?
In most cases, we can replace a hot water heater with a similar unit within as little as a few hours. If you opt to switch to a new model, then it might take a little longer to ensure the connections are correct.
Can you switch from a gas to an electric water heater?
Some people switch water heater types to achieve goals for reducing energy use or increasing hot water access. But, you might need to carefully consider the need to add or remove utility lines and plan for more time to meet permitting and inspection guidelines in your Plano community.
How much does a water heater repair or replacement cost?
Repairing or replacing a failing hot water heater is worth it to prevent water damage and improve hygiene and sanitation in your home or commercial building. Our technicians will provide you with a personalized cost estimate that takes factors such as the type of unit and time involved into consideration.
Does homeowners' insurance cover water heater replacements and repairs?
Most of the time, you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket for replacing aging units or repairing problems caused by normal wear and tear. Homeowners insurance will sometimes cover water heater issues when they are listed under add-ons or part of dwelling coverage during a catastrophe, such as a house fire.
Is a new water heater installation a DIY project?
Unless you are a licensed plumber, it’s best to leave this project to the professionals. We know how to safely move heavy equipment and work with potentially dangerous gas lines and electrical wiring. We can also offer guarantees and warranties on our work, which gives you greater peace of mind.
