Modern Water Heaters provide a new standard of energy efficiency that is unlike anything from the past; size and capacity have taken a huge leap forward as manufacturers are phasing out older models. Not many homeowners know all the ins and outs of water heater installations, and that’s okay because we can help explain everything. Here are some things to keep in mind:
When to Replace Your Water Heater
There are several indicators that you need to replace your water. Age is the main thing. You should take a look at your current water heater and determine how old it is. The Department of Energy recommends that you replace your water heater if it exceeds seven years in age.
Another indication that you need to install a new water heater is when you’re current one is leaking and does not provide nearly as much hot water as it should. If this is happening to your water heater, then your device is defective. Some other signs of failure include calcium buildup, not having access to hot water, and loud noises emitting from your water heater.
Why High-Efficiency is Important
Your water heater accounts for roughly 15% of your utility bills, and you could end up saving a lot of money annually by installing a new water heater that is energy efficient. The average family will save around $600 per year by switching out their current water heater for a newer one, according to the Department of Energy. Cutting back on your energy usage will cut back on costs, and this will also allow you to conserve water and make our current energy infrastructure more sustainable.
Calculating Your Energy Efficiency
Every water heater has a rating according to their energy efficiency, and it is determined by monitoring the performance of your water heater during a normal 24-hour period. The specific amount of energy that you use during that time is the main factor in determining your water heater’s energy efficiency. Lower ratings also indicate that you should install a new water heater.
Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters
Many people ask us about the differences between traditional water heaters and ones without a tank. When you compare the two, you will find that both options offer their own unique benefits:
Tankless Water Heaters:
First and foremost, tankless water heaters are much more efficient than traditional water heater: they conserve a lot more water and energy, which benefits the environment and helps you save money on your monthly electricity bill. Tankless systems also offer you greater access to hot water and they are a lot smaller so they take up much less space.
Traditional Water Heaters:
Although a tankless system offers more energy efficiency and conserves a lot more water, the upfront cost to install a traditional water heater is much cheaper.
Going tankless represents a significant upgrade in terms of performance and efficiency, and more companies will recommend that you opt for a tankless water heater over a traditional one.
Preventing Future Plumbing Problems
The last thing that you want to happen is for your water heater to stop working abruptly. Then you will have to make a decision on the spot, rather than taking your time to determine the kind of installation that is best for you. Not having access to hot water for an extended period of time can also cause a great strain on you and your family, so we suggest that you take action early on to prevent any unexpected breakdowns.
Greater Access to Hot Water
What appeals to most homeowners about installing a modern water heater is that they will have virtually unlimited access to hot water. Older models did not have the capacity to provide nearly as much hot water as newer models are capable of today. You will no longer have to worry about running out of hot water when you install a more efficient and water-conserving system.
Installing the Latest Technology
You never want to wait to install the latest technology, especially when it comes to your home’s plumbing. New technological advancements for water heaters are emerging every year, and you want to stay ahead of the game to reap all the rewards of a worthwhile upgrade to your plumbing. Also, newer technology focuses more on conservation and energy efficiency, so investing in a new water heater will greatly benefit the environment.
Professional Installation Services
Hiring a professional to install your new water heater is the way to go. A licensed plumber will closely adhere to all of the safety standards that are in place and they will ensure that you will not have to deal with any issues after they install your water heater. Also, with a proper installation service, you prevent any costly repairs from occurring in the future.
Hiring a professional will also help you save a great deal of time when it comes to the installation process. Although you could install your water heater without any professional help, it could end up taking you a lot of time to get it done, and during that time you will be without access to any hot water.
Hiring a professional plumbing service will give you some peace of mind when you install your new water heater. You should always consult a reliable service provider when it comes to all of your plumbing needs to determine what is best for you and your family moving forward.
If you have any questions, we strongly encourage you to speak with one of our representatives today! They can tell you everything you need to know about water heater repair and replacement services.