heater Archives - Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

When Is Water Heater Repair or Replacement Needed?

How to Tell When a Water Heater Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

A properly functioning water heater is essential for daily life, providing the hot water necessary for showering, cleaning, and laundry. When the unit starts showing signs of distress, whether it's strange noises, insufficient hot water, or a leak, promptly addressing the issue with professional water heater repair or replacement is critical. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to escalating issues, increased costs, water damage, and discomfort, underscoring the importance of timely intervention.

Signs Water Heater Repair Is Needed

If people notice common signs that indicate the need for repair, it's time to call a professional for a water heater inspection and repair:

A lack of hot water or insufficient hot water
Strange noises from the water heater
A sudden, unexplained spike in utility bills
For gas water heaters, a pilot light that frequently goes out
Discolored hot water, or hot water that smells strange
A leaking water heater

When professionals inspect the water heater, they can determine the cause of the issue and the best solution to fix it. While many water heater problems can be repaired, factors such as the water heater’s age or condition may make replacement necessary.

Signs Water Heater Replacement Is Needed Instead of Repair

Sometimes, repair is just delaying the inevitable. Replacement is usually the best choice if the water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan and is experiencing problems. Most conventional storage water heaters last about 10 to 15 years. If the unit is over 10 years old and showing signs of trouble, replacement may be recommended over a major repair. Additionally, a water heater that needs frequent repairs can also signify the need to replace it, as the cost of these ongoing repairs may quickly exceed the cost of a new, more reliable unit.

Another factor that signals the need for a new water heater installation to replace the old one is the condition of the water heater, as a corroded water heater should be replaced. If the water heater is visibly corroded, or the hot water coming from the water heater is discolored or has a strange taste or smell due to water heater corrosion rather than another issue, such as sediment buildup, it should be replaced.

Benefits of Timely Repair or Replacement

Addressing water heater problems promptly not only restores hot water but also offers several advantages for the household. Prompt water heater repair prevents the issue from escalating into a more severe problem or a total system failure, saves money by avoiding more major, expensive repairs or premature replacement, and restores energy efficiency, lowering water heating costs. Additionally, it can restore hot water and ensure a consistent, reliable hot water supply for the household's daily needs.

Water heater replacement when needed also leads to benefits, as installing a new, more energy-efficient model can reduce monthly utility bills and provide faster hot water recovery, as new units typically have improved recovery rates, ensuring the hot water supply is replenished quickly after use. Additionally, installing a new water heater can provide more consistent, reliable hot water and reduce future repair costs, as it is free of wear and tear and typically under warranty.

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over 20 years of experience serving St. George and the surrounding areas. They provide same-day service, straightforward pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for water heater repair and replacement services in St. George, UT.

Distribution Links +

The Benefits of Choosing a Tankless Water Heater Installation

Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater

If homeowners are frustrated with running out of hot water in the shower or high water heating costs, installing a tankless water heater may be the solution. These instantaneous water heaters don’t require a large storage tank and instead heat water on demand. This post will share some of the most significant benefits of installing a tankless water heater.

Energy Efficiency and Lower Water Heating Costs

Tankless water heaters deliver impressive energy efficiency advantages over traditional storage water heaters, making them increasingly popular among homeowners seeking to reduce their utility bills. Unlike a conventional storage water heater that continuously heats and reheats water in a storage tank so that it’s ready for when hot water is needed, tankless water heating systems only heat water when it’s needed. This fundamental difference eliminates standby heat loss and the energy wasted keeping a tank of water hot.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for homes using less than 41 gallons of hot water or less daily, a tankless water heater can be 24-34% more energy efficient compared to conventional storage models. This efficiency boost translates directly to cost savings for homeowners. The long-term operational savings make tankless systems financially attractive despite higher upfront installation costs.

A Near-Endless Hot Water Supply and Space Savings

One of the most compelling benefits of installing a tankless water heater is the continuous hot water supply it provides for the household. Unlike conventional storage water heaters that keep a limited amount of water heated in a tank and can run out of hot water when it is used until the tank of water is heated again, tankless models heat water directly as it flows through the unit. This on-demand water heating means families can enjoy back-to-back showers without anyone getting left in the cold. Tankless water heaters can provide hot water at a rate of 2 to 5 gallons per minute, ensuring continuous hot water delivery whenever needed.

Beyond the luxury of unlimited hot water, tankless water heaters also offer remarkable space-saving benefits. Without the bulky storage tank that traditional storage models require, tankless units are typically about the size of a small suitcase and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up valuable storage space in utility rooms, basements, or garages. This compact design is particularly advantageous for smaller homes where every square foot matters. The extra space can be repurposed for additional storage or other household needs, making tankless water heaters an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maximize their living space while enjoying enhanced hot water performance.

Superior Longevity

Installing a tankless water heater also offers remarkable durability, as tankless water heaters have a longer life expectancy than storage water heaters. A tankless water heater can last about 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This extended lifespan outperforms conventional storage water heaters, which can last about 10-15 years when properly maintained. The difference means homeowners can enjoy their tankless water heaters longer without needing water heater replacement.

What makes tankless systems last longer? Unlike traditional water heaters that constantly store and heat water in the tank to keep it heated, tankless water heaters only operate when hot water is needed. This on-demand functionality reduces wear and tear, which allows it to last longer. The economic impact of this extended service life is substantial. While the initial investment for a tankless unit might be higher, the delayed replacement cycle and lower water heating costs can create significant long-term savings.

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air is a reliable heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company serving St. George, UT, and the surrounding areas. They provide same-day service, straightforward pricing, and 24/7 live answers. Call them for tankless water heater installation services in St. George, UT.

Distribution Links +

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Don’t Let Showers Run Cold During the Winter

Homes are equipped with multiple ways to keep people warm in the winter. The roof keeps everything dry while the heater and insulation work to keep the home warm. One of the biggest advantages that modern homes have during the winter is the water heater. What better way to deal with a chilly day than by relaxing in a hot bath or shower? Likewise, hot water helps keep the home sanitary during cold and flu season.

If the water heater shows signs of failure, it may be better to replace it now before it leaves the family with no hot water during the cold season. Here are some of the most common signs of water heater failure so homeowners can be preemptive about potential water heater problems and schedule water heater installation now.

Common Temperature Issues

The most obvious sign that a water heater is having trouble is temperature issues with the water. This sign is obvious because someone is in the middle of a shower when it malfunctions. After a brisk cleansing, they are generally very motivated to find the root cause of the problem.

Temperature issues with the water heater can stem from several problems. First, the water heater may not have a different volume than it used to because it has become silted in with sediment. Routine maintenance can prevent this problem, but it can't be flushed out if scale is allowed to build up. When that happens, water heater replacement will be the only option.

Another cause of temperature issues in water heaters is bad thermostats or heating elements. These electrical devices can go bad after a few years in service and prevent the unit from properly heating water. In this case, water heater repairs may be an option, but if other signs are present, a replacement of the water heater may be best.

Signs of Leaks

In a conventional water heater, the water tank is one of the most vulnerable parts of the appliance. It is protected by several strategies to reduce the likelihood of leaks, but the protection will fail as the tank ages or becomes damaged. When that happens, leaks will become more likely.

Likewise, tankless water heaters can become prone to leaks as they age. Despite not having a water tank, the repeated heating and cooling cycles can cause thermal stress, allowing water to leak at pipe joints. In either case, water leaks are a sure sign that the water heater is failing and will need to be replaced sooner rather than later. Some of the signs that can help owners spot water leaks are:

Wet spots on the walls or floor near the water heater
Rust or spots of corrosion
High water bills
Sizzling or hissing noises
Moisture or standing water in the drain pan

Old Age and Corrosion

Water heaters are only expected to last for about ten years. At this point, wear and tear and corrosion will have taken a toll, and repairs won’t be the most practical choice. If any of the signs mentioned above are noticed and the water heater is nearly ten years in service, water heater replacement will probably be the best option.

Old age can be determined by checking the label plate or contacting the manufacturer with the model and serial number. Corrosion will be evident in rusty spots or damaged anode rods.

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has offered prompt and professional service for over 20 years. Their teams handle plumbing problems and installations, including water heater installation and service. Call today for plumbing service in St. George, UT.

Distribution Links +

Signs a Hot Water Heater Needs Service

How to Tell When a Water Heater Is in Need of Professional Attention

People rely on their water heaters for a wide variety of tasks in their homes. From baths and showers to daily chores and cleaning, hot water is important. But just like any other mechanical system, the water heater will need service occasionally, including water heater repair, maintenance, or replacement.

There are steps homeowners can take to be proactive about keeping a water heater in good condition, such as routine water heater maintenance, but it’s also important to recognize the signs that the water heater is experiencing problems and needs service. Here are some signs that it’s time to call a plumber for water heater service besides the obvious, like no hot water or a leaking water heater.

Increasing Utility Costs

If utility bills are higher than usual without explanation, it could be because a water heater is operating inefficiently and needs service. Water heaters can become inefficient and cost more to run due to the unit malfunctioning and needing repair, its old age requiring replacement, or maintenance being neglected, indicating that it’s needed.

Once called, a professional can inspect and assess the water heater and determine the cause of its inefficiency and the best solution so households can have an energy-efficient water heater again that costs less in monthly water heating costs.

Unusual Sounds From the Water Heater

When the water heater makes unusual sounds, this is another sign that water heater maintenance or repair services will be needed. These noises can include sounds that may indicate there’s too much sediment in the water heater and water heater maintenance is needed, like banging, popping, crackling, sizzling, or hissing.

A water heater making humming or vibrating noises could be caused by a loose part that needs tightening or repair. Additionally, sounds like ticking and whistling can indicate an issue with the water heater’s water pressure and may require tightening or adjusting the pressure-reducing valve.

Unusual Odor or Color of the Hot Water

Finally, other issues to be aware of that can point to a faulty water heater is when hot water comes out an unusual color or smells strange. This could be due to corrosion of the water heater, which can cause the water to come out discolored, like a rust color, or having a bad, metallic odor.

To help prevent a water heater from corroding, it’s important to keep up with routine water heater maintenance, where a plumber can drain and flush sediment from the tank and replace the anode rod to help avoid corrosion. It’s crucial to help prevent corrosion because a corroded water heater can indicate a water heater replacement is needed.

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has over 20 years of experience serving the St. George area. They provide same-day service, the latest technology, and financing options. Call them for water heater services in St. George, UT.

Distribution Links +

Benefits of Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater

Why Get a Tankless Water Heater

Hot water has been a necessity for comfort and public health for centuries. Because of its importance, it would make sense that the technology for creating it has come a long way, but that is an incorrect assumption.

Once metallurgical technology perfected steel tanks, the development of water heating technology virtually stalled out. Sure, there were minor improvements in efficiency and insulation, but the principles stayed the same.

With 2024 here, maybe it’s time to rethink how water is heated. The truth is, there are newer and better ways to heat water that are far superior to the classic hot water tank. Here is a quick article explaining the benefits of tankless water heater installation so homeowners can start planning for an upgrade.

Improved Energy Efficiency

A home’s energy budget can be broken down into three categories. The first energy hog is always the climate control equipment. The second portion of energy bills is lighting and appliances. The third section is the hot water heater.

For homes still using water tanks, up to 20% of the bills could be from the water heater alone.

A tankless water heater only heats water on demand. The rest of the time, it sits idle and uses no energy.

Allowing the tankless water heater to sit idle while a conventional water tank would need to keep heating the water as it cools can drastically lower energy consumption, saving money on monthly bills and reducing carbon output.

Endless Hot Water and a Smaller Footprint

Over the years, the demand for hot water has grown. More appliances require hot water, and people enjoy their bathing rituals. Both of these have led to an increase in the average water heater size in a home. In most homes, the space for the water heater is maxed out.

How can a homeowner gain more water heater capacity if the tank won’t fit? Tankless water heaters take up far less space than a water tank. This opens up an area for more storage in homes that are crowded.

In addition to saving space and money on bills, tankless water heaters also tout the benefit of endless hot water. Since there is no storage tank, a tankless water heater will continue producing hot water until there is no demand.

Gone are the days of everyone racing to avoid being the last person in line for the shower. Installing a new tankless water heater can easily solve this serious problem.

Increased Lifespan

Since tankless water heaters use less energy, they end up doing less work than a water tank. A tankless water heater’s easy work days add length to their lives that can end up paying dividends in the long run.

A water tank, on average, will last around ten years, even with good maintenance. A tankless water heater will easily last twice as long, more than making up for the increased cost upon installation.

Make 2024 the year to reduce carbon output and save money. Why not enjoy longer showers, too?! Look into tankless water heater installation and start enjoying the benefits now.

About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air

Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air handles tankless water heater maintenance and installation. They always recommend and install the latest technology. Call today for a quick plumbing service in St. George, UT.