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Why Hot Water Heater Replacement Is a Good Idea
The water heater is one of the most important appliances in any home. However, it has a finite lifespan and will eventually wear out.
If you’re experiencing problems with your hot water heater, it’s best to consult a professional. Often, minor issues like sediment build up or a broken thermostat can be repaired rather than replaced. Contact Hot Water Heater Replacement Denver for professional help.
The cost to install a new water heater can vary. Many factors influence the installation price including tank type, size and fuel source. Other costs include labor, water line and gas line extensions, electrical work and permit fees. Installation is best left to a professional plumber, which can save you money in the long run. The price to hire a plumber ranges from $50 to $200 per hour.
If you think your water heater is on its last legs, it may be more cost-effective to repair the unit rather than replace it entirely. It is important to consult a professional plumber about the issue to make sure the repairs are done correctly.
A few common problems with water heaters are leaks, rust and broken components. The first step toward fixing these issues is to turn off the water supply and drain your water heater. You should also test the pressure relief valve, which is a safety feature that protects your home from high pressure. If your pressure relief valve is corroded, you can hire a Carter professional plumber to replace it.
Another sign that it’s time to replace your water heater is an unexpected spike in your energy bills. An aging water heater will have trouble maintaining the correct temperature, which causes it to run more often and use more electricity. A new, more efficient model will reduce your energy bills and save you money.
Whether your water heater is a storage or tankless model, it’s important to consider the size of your household and how much hot water you use. A plumber can help you choose a new unit that is the right size and type for your needs.
Before you install a new water heater, it’s crucial to turn off the water supply and drain the tank. You’ll also need to disconnect the water line that connects to your old heater. This can be a simple task, but it is essential to protect your home from flooding and other damage. Then you can begin the process of installing a new unit.
Energy Efficiency
Water heaters are one of the largest energy-consuming appliances in the average modern household. Upgrading to an energy-efficient model can save homeowners a significant amount of money over time. In addition, it may help reduce the PHA’s overall carbon footprint.
The type of water heater that is best for a particular community depends on the size of a house and how much hot water it uses, among other factors. Some examples of energy-efficient models include ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) and smaller, tankless electric models. However, a gas-powered or solar-powered hot water heater might also be an excellent choice in some locations.
When comparing models, it’s important to look at both upfront purchase price and annual operating costs, including maintenance and utility charges. In many cases, it’s possible to get a better deal on an energy-efficient model by purchasing it through a local utility company or taking advantage of rebates and tax incentives available in the area.
In addition, it’s a good idea to have the new water heater installed by a professional. This ensures that the unit is properly sized and is installed according to manufacturer guidelines for optimal performance.
Once the new water heater has been installed, the PHA should turn off all the water supplies and drain any remaining hot water from the existing system. If necessary, a dolly or similar device can be used to transport the heavy unit to its new location. Before turning on the water supply, it’s important to reset the thermostat on the new unit to the DOE-recommended 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot water above this temperature can cause scalding injuries, and lower temperatures also cut down on energy usage.
A final way to reduce energy consumption is to insulate the hot water pipes in the home. A well-insulated pipe system can cut down on cycling heat losses, where hot water is heated and cooled over long distances in a storage tank or the distribution lines to the sinks and showers. Additionally, small-diameter piping systems such as PEX are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to copper piping for their greater efficiency and lower cost.
Installation
Warm water is a vital part of everyday living. We use it to wash hands, cook food, clean dishes and do laundry. It is easy to take for granted, but a leaking water heater needs to be replaced right away. A professional can help you select a new unit that is energy efficient and provides the hot water you need.
The location of your water heater will affect installation costs. Those that are easily accessible cost less to install than those in tight spaces or barns. The location also impacts labor rates. Local governments set requirements for installation permits and may require inspections before work can begin. A plumbing company will likely handle the permit for you, saving you time and money.
If you are installing a gas water heater, make sure your home is compatible with the type of fuel. You will need a natural gas line, which could increase the cost of the project. Also, you may need to make carpentry changes in your attic to accommodate the tank.
Water heaters are heavy, so plan ahead for transporting and positioning the new one. Consider getting a dolly to help with the task, or have someone help you move it.
Drain the old water heater before removing it. You can do this by turning off the water supply and opening all faucets. Then, using a garden hose, drain the water out of the bottom of the tank. Once it is empty, shut off the gas and electrical connections to the water heater.
Once the new water heater is in place, reconnect the cold and hot water lines. Use copper pipe and solder FIP adapters to the ends of the pipe. If you have a new gas water heater, connect the line to the gas control valve on the top of the unit and close the vent valve.
If the new water heater is taller than your existing unit, shorten the vent pipe by cutting it down to size with metal shears or adding a shorter segment of pipe. Restore power to the water heater circuit by switching on the breaker. Check for leaks by turning on the water and brushing a soapy solution around all water connections. If you find any bubbles, the connection is leaking and needs to be tightened.
Maintenance
Water heaters are silent champions in our homes, turning cold mornings into warm showers and dirty dishes into sparkling clean ones. But even this hardworking appliance eventually needs a little TLC. If it’s time to make a decision between repair and replacement, a professional can help you understand your options and best course of action.
Signs of a water heater that’s nearing the end include leaky connections and fittings, rusty tanks, and the inability to generate hot water. Leaks in the tank or connections can often be repaired by tightening and adjusting, but when there is no other solution available it is likely time for a new water heater.
Rusty water may be caused by a build-up of sediment in the tank, and visible rust on the outside can indicate internal corrosion. Insufficient hot water may also point to a thermostat issue or faulty heating elements. If you smell a sulfur odor, it could be the result of a bacterial build-up in the tank or pipes.
You can extend the life of your current water heater by identifying and addressing problems as they arise. Drain and flush the tank regularly to remove sediment and improve efficiency. Check and replace the anode rod regularly to prevent corrosion. This rod attracts corrosive elements in the water to ensure that they corrode, rather than the tank itself. Check and replace the temperature release valve on gas and electric units annually. This valve will open if the pressure inside the tank becomes too high, preventing a potential explosion of the water heater and any connected pipes.
Other signs that you may need a new water heater include a loud popping sound, which can signal sediment accumulation in the bottom of the tank. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when the vent on a gas unit is obstructed, and it’s important to check for carbon monoxide detectors in your home.