Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Hot Water Heater Replacement - What To Do

By Brian Winters


To ensure proper water heater installation, it is necessary to have the right tools and knowledge. However, a thorough inspection is required to check if your unit can still be repaired or not. Inspect the severity of the damage to help you decide if you need to replace your water heater immediately.

How long have you been using your heating system? Gas water heaters usually last 8 to 12 years and an electric-powered unit can last up to 15 years. Expect your decade-old water heater to consume more energy since it has a lesser heating efficiency.

Once you see rusty-colored water coming out of your tank, you may have to replace the water heater anytime soon. This is an indication that the sediments inside the tank are now too heavy for your unit to handle. Oftentimes, this contaminated water comes with a foul odor at the same time. At this point, you have no choice but to replace the unit. Ingesting water filled with bacteria and chemicals can result to serious health issues in the long run.

Check the heating element if your unit is producing insufficient hot water for your household. Open the hot water supply valve after allowing water to heat for a few hours. Doing this helps you inspect if your temperature dial is working properly. If the problem persists, contact a specialist right away.

If you hear strange noises even after draining the tank empty, ask for professional help as soon as possible. Your water heater can convert into a dangerous appliance since it can overheat and blow up. However, it is normal to hear little noises from the tank. Do not put your family's life at risk and have the unit checked by an expert.

Is your water heater experiencing varying temperatures? Check the thermostat settings to see if the temperature is adjusted correctly. If not, adjust the dial between 115 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid scalding accidents. There is no need to adjust the settings once you have a stable temperature.

The internal tank can corrode easily if the sediments at the bottom of the tank are not removed immediately. Prevent this from happening by checking the anode rod every 2-3 years. This sacrificial rod serves like a magnet that absorbs all charged water molecules inside the tank. Doing this prevents your tank from completely corroding. Once you see metal wiring around the rod, replace it as soon as possible.

Consider the size of the replacement unit to see if it meets your hot water demands. Nowadays, there are a lot of modern units that come in many sizes. A larger tank is recommended for those who use hot water frequently. If you want to save space, search for tankless water heaters that heat water only on demand. They can cost more, but are more durable compared to traditional units.

If you need help in choosing the best water heater for your household, call a specialist for professional advice.




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