How To Know If Water Heater Replacement May Be Necessary
Because they are hidden in basements or concealed in closets, water heaters are usually taken for granted. Depending on the regularity of maintenance and design characteristics, they last around ten years, and may cause few noticeable problems until the shower suddenly turns frigid. Knowing the signs that water heater replacement may be needed saves homeowners money, time, and mental strain.
When homeowners do not relish doing maintenance work, units sometimes escape yearly inspection. One of the more obvious signs of potential trouble is a steady leak surrounding the base. This can become immediately serious if the metal gives way completely, producing a damaging and costly flood. If there are moist areas around the unit that refuse to dry up, shut it down and seek help.
If there is no need to turn on the cold tap when showering, the heating unit is probably functioning at low capacity. When this issue is not logically related to higher-than-normal use patterns, it can be a result of malfunctioning internal heating elements or connections, which mainly affect homes that rely solely on electric power. Units that usually recover quickly may simply be too small for the number of users.
Sediment that builds up inside is disturbing to see, but a very common phenomenon. When connected for long periods, microscopic bits of soil collect in the bottom of the tank, degrading the metal and sometimes resulting in overheating. Yearly flushing helps avoid this issue, but if that has not been standard practice, professional flushing performed by a plumber may be needed.
Other common symptoms can be heard in the form of strange rumblings, clicking, or high-frequency whining sounds. While difficult to accurately pinpoint, the noises are a good indicator of the need for maintenance, and may foretell failure. The noises are also usually the result of a buildup of sediments, and a thorough flushing may help. In many cases, the tank has come to end of its useful lifespan.
Even when there are no overt signs of impending malfunction, replacement will be reflected by the monthly energy bill. Although different regions use a variety of energy sources, a heater accounts for nearly one-quarter of the cost. An old unit may work adequately, but at far greater energy consumption. A modern, efficient model saves money and cuts carbon emission levels.
One alternative is the tankless heater, designed to eliminate traditional storage. Instead of being kept inside a tank, water is heated directly as it passes through, and can provide a flow up to five gallons each minute. That amount may not adequately serve a large household, but without the tank, more than one unit can easily and economically be installed, creating enough capacity.
Some White Hall MD homeowners swap out their own units, but others find the idea overwhelming. Although a replacement of the same type should logically fit the old connections, new threading may be necessary using either solvent welding or soldering. People without the experience, time or patience to do this job turn to a trusted plumbing and heating service to get the work done right.
When homeowners do not relish doing maintenance work, units sometimes escape yearly inspection. One of the more obvious signs of potential trouble is a steady leak surrounding the base. This can become immediately serious if the metal gives way completely, producing a damaging and costly flood. If there are moist areas around the unit that refuse to dry up, shut it down and seek help.
If there is no need to turn on the cold tap when showering, the heating unit is probably functioning at low capacity. When this issue is not logically related to higher-than-normal use patterns, it can be a result of malfunctioning internal heating elements or connections, which mainly affect homes that rely solely on electric power. Units that usually recover quickly may simply be too small for the number of users.
Sediment that builds up inside is disturbing to see, but a very common phenomenon. When connected for long periods, microscopic bits of soil collect in the bottom of the tank, degrading the metal and sometimes resulting in overheating. Yearly flushing helps avoid this issue, but if that has not been standard practice, professional flushing performed by a plumber may be needed.
Other common symptoms can be heard in the form of strange rumblings, clicking, or high-frequency whining sounds. While difficult to accurately pinpoint, the noises are a good indicator of the need for maintenance, and may foretell failure. The noises are also usually the result of a buildup of sediments, and a thorough flushing may help. In many cases, the tank has come to end of its useful lifespan.
Even when there are no overt signs of impending malfunction, replacement will be reflected by the monthly energy bill. Although different regions use a variety of energy sources, a heater accounts for nearly one-quarter of the cost. An old unit may work adequately, but at far greater energy consumption. A modern, efficient model saves money and cuts carbon emission levels.
One alternative is the tankless heater, designed to eliminate traditional storage. Instead of being kept inside a tank, water is heated directly as it passes through, and can provide a flow up to five gallons each minute. That amount may not adequately serve a large household, but without the tank, more than one unit can easily and economically be installed, creating enough capacity.
Some White Hall MD homeowners swap out their own units, but others find the idea overwhelming. Although a replacement of the same type should logically fit the old connections, new threading may be necessary using either solvent welding or soldering. People without the experience, time or patience to do this job turn to a trusted plumbing and heating service to get the work done right.
About the Author:
You can visit www.rgriffinplumbing.com for more helpful information about How To Know When Water Heater Replacement Is Necessary.
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Title: How To Know If Water Heater Replacement May Be Necessary
Author: Karina Frost
Email: nathanwebster335@live.com
Keywords: home improvement, construction, contractors, improvement,
Word Count: 519
Category: Home Improvement
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