Learning About the Different Types of Water Heaters
It's the time of year when summer plans wind down and kids start thinking of going back to school. As a homeowner, there's no excuse to stop learning. As the kids head back to the classroom, take every opportunity to learn that is available. In this article, plumbing contractors want to help homeowners out with quick knowledge about their water heaters.
Taking the time to learn about options and maintenance of water heaters can save homeowners headaches and lots of dollars by allowing them to make informed decisions. Here's a quick guide to help homeowners brush up on their water heater knowledge.
How Many Types of Water Heaters Are There?
- Gas: Gas water heaters are generally cheaper due to low natural gas prices but not all homes are outfitted for propane or natural gas service. Advances in technology have allowed gas water heaters to be very efficient.
- Electric: Electric water heaters are reliable and cheaper to purchase than gas water heaters. Easy installation means that these are usually cheaper upfront.
In the end, likely the best choice will be whatever utility is already present in the home. Installing gas or electric service to accommodate a new style is usually very expensive.
Apart from choosing the utility that powers a water heater, two main types of water heaters are generally installed:
- Conventional Hot Water Tanks: These units are usually cheap to install because they are likely to replace existing water tanks. These units heat a tank full of water where it waits to be distributed around the home.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Tankless water heaters are more expensive upfront, but they increase energy efficiency by providing instant and endless hot water on demand.
Maintenance Tips for Any Water Heater
Water heaters are expensive appliances that one should take care of if they are expected to last long. Regardless of the style of the water heater, there are a few maintenance practices that can help homeowners get the most out of their water heaters:
- Drain the tanks annually
- Flush sediment from the empty tank
- Inspect heating elements of electric tanks
- Clean burners in gas units
Most of these steps can be done by the homeowners, but local plumbers offer tune-up packages to take the hassle out of the job for homeowners who don't want to mess with it.
Signs a Water Heater Needs Repairs
Homeowners may not be shopping for a new water heater yet, but still, everyone should pay attention to these signs that indicate they may need water heater repairs:
- Insufficient hot water
- Water isn't hot enough
- No hot water at all
- Discolored water
- Thumping or hissing noises
- Tripped breakers
If any of these problems are present, water heater repairs will be necessary. In most cases, one can quickly make repairs, but eventually, a water heater replacement will be the most cost-efficient option.
About B&L Plumbing
B&L Plumbing has been solving plumbing problems in Colorado Springs, CO since 1999. Their technicians always take the time to educate their customers and design custom solutions to their problems. With B&L Plumbing, their emergency service won't break the bank because they never charge extra for overtime hours. Call now for water heater services.
