In many cases, a repair will be the key to fixing your water heater. However, there may come a time when repairs can no longer help. In this case, you'll need a replacement.
Many homeowners and business owners opt for a traditional tank water heater. They're reliable and come in a variety of sizes, letting you select how much hot water you'll need, from 30 gallons to 50 gallons and beyond. A good rule of thumb for finding how much water you'll need is to start at 20 gallons and add another 10 for every person in your household after yourself.
However, tankless heaters are gaining a lot of popularity. When in use, water passes by their heating element as it's used. This ultimately saves on energy costs and water usage while removing the limit on how much hot water you can use at a time. That said, they often cost a lot more upfront than the traditional models.
When To Call the Professionals
For the most part, trying to DIY water heater maintenance isn't a good idea for the average homeowner. Any problems you have are best dealt with by a professional. Signs that your water heater might need to be looked at by a professional include:
- No hot water: The most obvious would be if you suddenly run out of hot water. If your tank has had ample time to fill and hasn't been used excessively before, there's likely something wrong.
- Brownish or stinky water from your plumbing: If the water that comes out looks or tastes dirty, that's also an issue. It could be a matter of age, with rust dissolving into your tank's water supply. It could also mean that an animal or the like found its way inside and is decomposing. Whatever the problem's root, it's best to have a professional check it out.
- Water heater making noise: A noisy water heater might also cause concern. While a wooshing or even banging noise can simply mean your tank is filling, frequent loud sounds like grinding, rattling, or whistling could indicate something out of the ordinary. Likewise, any kind of leak needs to be handled ASAP. Not only does that waste water and lower your heater's efficiency, it can also cause rot, rust, and so many other bad things.
Water Heater Maintenance
Maintaining your water heater is one of the easiest ways to get the most out of it. Regular maintenance on at least a yearly schedule can extend your water heater's lifespan by potentially years. Maintenance can catch minor issues before they get major, saving you on the bill and preventing breakdowns.
These breakdowns are the most common reason the professionals come out to work on water heaters, but they don't have to be. If you contact a specialist for regular maintenance, you're less likely to need repairs. That said, if you're encountering any of the issues outlined before, it's still best to call for a repair before things get worse.
Trusted Water Heater Repair and Replacement in Central Florida
Your water heater is essential, so you should treat it as such. If your water heater needs repair, replacement, or servicing in Central Florida, look no further than 1-800-Plumber +Air.
Our team is standing by to help you with any of your plumbing, water, or HVAC issues, so if you're ready to fix it, contact us today.
