Water Heaters 101
As summer winds down, parents will be looking forward to sending their kids back to school. This time of the year is a time when things start to return to a routine. One of the advantages of having a routine is learning about stuff that homeowners should know. Replacing a water heater or installing a new tankless water heater can be a confusing process to navigate. With this quick guide, homeowners have a primer to understand common terms relating to new water heaters and maintenance tips to get the most out of their current water heater.
Different Types of Water Heaters
There are a few basic things to know to understand how to shop for them when it comes to learning about water heaters. Water heaters can be described by the following criteria:
- Style: Storage water tanks are a conventional water heater style. This style uses a large tank to heat and store water for later use. Contrasted with conventional water heaters, tankless water heaters have a smaller footprint and heat water on demand. The technology is newer, but they are gaining popularity in new construction and retrofits.
- Size: Storage tanks are rated by their size in gallons. General rules help plumbers advise what size is best depending on the number of people in the household or the demands of a business. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are designed to provide flow rates. Plumbers can help homeowners calculate maximum flow rates to help determine sizing.
- Utility Source: Both storage water heaters and tankless water heaters can get power from gas or electricity. One can find Energy-efficient units for both styles and utilities. Often homeowners select one utility source based on what utility is already present in the home.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Making appliances last longer is essential to saving money. Luckily, maintaining the appliances that are already present is more cost-effective than just leaving them alone. Here are a few maintenance tips that can be done by homeowners or professionals that can make water heaters last longer:
- Drain and flush the tank once a year to remove settled solids
- Check heating elements or burners for buildup that can kill efficiency
- Inspect fittings for corrosion
- Check the anode rod
- Test the pressure relief valve
How To Tell Water Heater Repairs Are Needed
Even with good maintenance, one may need water heater repairs. Some of the signs that water heater repair is in the near future are:
- Inadequate supply of hot water
- High gas or electric bills
- Unusual noises like thumping or hissing
- Leaks in the tank or fittings
- Corrosion on any of the metal on the tank or piping
Repairing water heaters on time will help ensure they last a long time. It can also reduce overall costs by keeping efficiency where it should be.
About Albert Nahman Services
Albert Nahman Services has been helping Berkeley, CA customers for decades. A strong commitment to excellence and quality has made them the best in the area. Competitive warranties and satisfaction guarantees give peace of mind to their customers. Call now for water heater services.
