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How You Can Tell It’s Time for Water Heater Replacement
The water heater is one of those appliances you rarely think about. Although it is always working hard behind the scenes, you can easily forget about it since you don’t get to see it every day. However, this does not make the appliance less important. Considering that your water heater supplies your house with the hot water you need for daily baths and showers, laundry, and dishwashing, it is one of the most important appliances in your home. Although modern water heaters are quite durable, they don’t last nearly as many years as residential plumbing systems in general. Therefore, as a homeowner, there will come a time you will need to replace your water heater. Unfortunately, water heaters are quite pricey appliances, and you definitely do not want to spend money on a replacement water heater unless you must. In other words, the timing of your water heater replacement has to be spot-on. But how exactly can you tell it is time to start considering investing in a replacement water heater? Below is a rundown of the signs it’s time to replace your water heater.
Your Water Heater Is Over A Decade Old
As mentioned above, the water heater is not designed to serve you for a lifetime. Indeed, the average lifespan of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. However, this does not mean that your water heater will automatically stop working on the day it turns 12. But around that time, it might start developing issues that could make it more difficult to run. For instance, its heating elements might start failing, causing the water heater not to heat water as expected. Besides, your water heater might start to perform inefficiently, causing your energy bills to skyrocket. The good news is that you can avoid such challenges by simply ensuring that your water heater is replaced on time. Indeed, if your water heater is over a decade old, you need to start thinking about investing in water heater replacement services. If you do not know the age of your water heater, you can check the serial number or ask your plumbing contractor to help you determine when the water heater was manufactured.
Your Water Heater Requires Frequent Repairs
Frequent calls to your water heater repair service can be quite costly. The good news is that modern water heaters are quite reliable, and they rarely break down as long as they are installed, serviced, and used appropriately. However, as your water heater nears the end of its life, it might start breaking down on a more frequent basis. This is because some essential components of the water heater will wear out more rapidly as it gets older. Therefore, an older water heater might cost you a lot of money to maintain. The good news is that you can avoid such costs by simply getting your water heater replaced on time. Therefore, when you notice that your water heater is breaking down too frequently and you need to make a call to your water heater repair service every few days or weeks, then this might be the reminder you need to start thinking about the need to invest in a replacement water heater.
Your Water Heater Is Giving You Discolored Water
The water coming from your water heater should be clean and clear. Therefore, if you have noticed that it is discolored, your water heater could be having serious problems. In most cases, the water from a water heater gets discolored as a result of rust. Your water heater is most likely made of steel. Although steel is the toughest material in the world, it can easily get damaged by rust. However, water heaters come with a component known as the anode rod, which prevents rust. However, with time, the anode rods can wear out and lose its effectiveness. If it is not changed on time, your water heater’s tank might start rusting away, causing your water heater to give you discolored water. Of course, whether the issue can be fixed by a simple repair or your water heater will need to be replaced will depend on the age of the water heater and the extent of corrosion. Therefore, your water heater will inspect the water heater, and if it is established that the water heater is stood corroded and it’s over a decade old, changing the anode rod may not solve the problem; you may be advised to get your water heater replaced.
Your Water Heater Is Not Heating Water At All
Your water heater is essentially supposed to supply your family with hot water, and therefore, if the water coming from your water heater is cold, this is perhaps the most obvious sign of failure. Many issues can cause your water heater not to heat water as expected, and the right solution will depend on the issue at hand, the cost of repairing it, and the age of your water heater. For instance, if the reason your water heater is not working has to do with a malfunctioning thermostat and your water heater is not too old, changing or repairing the thermostat may solve your problem. However, if your water heater is too old and it is established that the reason it is not heating water has to do with a damaged heating element, replacing the water heater could be the more economical solution. In a nutshell, if your water heater is approaching the end of its life and it is not heating water at all, then it might be time for you to start thinking of a water heater replacement.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many signs that should prompt you to start thinking about investing in water heater replacement. However, you will need a plumbing expert to confirm your suspicion. If you are looking for a reliable plumbing contractor to guide you when it comes to replacing a water heater, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice. Feel free to get in touch with us today for more information about our company and service.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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Top Questions to Ask Before Water Heater Replacement
Have you seen a new water heater at the local store and considering getting it? Before getting your checkbook or ATM card, you need to ask yourself a few questions to evaluate the importance of water heater replacement. A water heater is a significant investment that requires careful consideration to enable you to make an informed decision.
Are You Considering Buying a New Water Heater?
Experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach have created a list of top questions you need to ask your plumber before installing a new water heater.
What Is the Ideal Tank Size?
When replacing your water heater, you need to consider various factors, including the amount of hot water you need. The size of the tank is directly influenced by the size of the household or home. Homeowners often prefer family-size water tanks against commercial-size water tanks due to functionality and space. However, you still need to consider the level of use in the home when deciding.
Your chosen size should meet the needs of your household without forcing you to ration water to other sections of the house. According to experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach, your water tank should range between 20-50 gallons depending on the size of the household. Have the plumber assess your hot water usage and determine the best tank size.
How Long Does It Take to Install?
Replacing your water heater means going for a few hours or days without hot water as the new unit gets fitted an integrated with your plumbing and electric/gas system. A professional water heater replacement should be able to remove and install your new unit within the shortest period to avoid any inconveniences. Typically, it should take three-five hours for the plumber to complete the task with all factors held constant.
A water heater replacement expert is aware of the discomfort and inconveniences occasioned by an interrupted water supply; this means they will work faster to restore the supply.
Tankless or Traditional Water Heater?
Technological advancement has made it easy for homeowners to have multiple options when choosing water heaters. You can choose between a tankless or traditional water heater for your home based on your preference and needs. Both options have distinct advantages and disadvantages that influence a buyer’s decision.
The type of heater should directly link to your household in terms of number and level of use. You should also consider the operational costs and efficiency of each option before making a final decision. During installation, talk to the plumber about your utility concerns, energy conservation, and budget to find the best option.
What Is the Energy Efficiency?
With the rising awareness for sustainable homes, people are looking for ways to make their homes energy efficient and reduce their carbon footprint. Manufacturers are also striving to make energy-efficient water heaters to promote sustainability as well as lower energy bills in the house. Your choice should feature the latest tech features that promote energy efficiency.
The upfront cost of these features is pricey, with the investment paying off in a few years. Homeowners looking to conserve energy can consider tankless over traditional water heaters. These units provide instant hot water, unlike traditional options that need preheating for you to access hot water.
What Is the Frequency of Preventive Maintenance Appointments?
Like any installation, your water heater needs regular inspection and servicing for everything to operate at its peak. Plumbers recommend annual inspection and maintenance to keep your unit in pristine condition. During the plumber’s visits, they are able to run diagnostics, identify hidden damages, and recommend the best course of action.
Some of the services to expect during maintenance are inspecting the anode rod, pressure release valve, burner assembly, filters, and power supply. The plumber may recommend tank flushing in case of dirt and mineral build-up. Regular visits by the plumber will ensure your system is running optimally and you can enjoy a consistent hot water supply.
How Do You Dispose Your Old Water Heater?
When installing a new water heater, you need to figure out how to dispose of the old unit safely. Working with a reputable firm such as Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach means you can enjoy disposal services. The company ensures your old water heater is correctly disposed of, saving you the worry of staying compliant with local laws.
Some firms offer this service at an extra fee, while others as a complementary service. Consult your plumber on the best disposal practices to get the best deal.
Which Is the Best Brand?
Choosing a specific brand of water heater can be challenging, especially with the numerous options currently in circulation. Before replacing your water heater, you need to choose a brand based on its reputation and efficiency.
Your plumber will likely recommend a few options based on their experience. In some cases, the brand has partnered with a plumbing company, meaning you will get discounted prices on your unit. However, don’t limit yourself to the options provided by the plumber; take time to review other options based on research and recommendations. Installing a water heater is a significant investment that requires you to think first.
Does It Have a Warranty?
One of the most important questions you need to ask about the new water heater is the warranty agreement. A new unit is less likely to develop problems; however, over time, it will need repairs and maintenance. A warranty agreement is one of the best ways to protect yourself in case you have a faulty unit.
While most manufacturers provide warranties of up to five years, it’s wise to ask before making the purchase. Go through the agreement to understand the benefits and terms of the document.
Visit Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach for Quality Services
Water heater replacement is a significant investment and should be given careful thought. You need to ask the right questions to make a decision on the best unit for your home. Contact us at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach for information on water heater installation, repair, and maintenance.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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Plumbing Problem? Call A Plumbing Company In Myrtle Beach, SC
It’s normal to worry or even panic when something goes wrong with your plumbing system. You won’t know what’s costing the problem or how much it will cost to fix, which can be very upsetting.
If you plan to fix the problem yourself, you may want to reconsider. Plumbers undergo years of professional training and apprenticeship to learn to diagnose and repair plumbing problems, and you can cause further damage if you don’t have the required training.
If your plumbing system experiences any of the following problems, you should call a plumbing company right away.
A Problem With the Water Heater
Water heater problems can affect your daily life. Some issues can affect the water temperature and quality, and some can put your home and family at risk. Water heater issues must be addressed immediately because allowing the problem to persist can escalate the problem, and it will cost more to fix.
If your water heater exhibits any of the following signs, you should call a plumber immediately.
- Moisture or water pooling around the unit
- The unit makes a clanging or popping sound
- You don’t have hot water
- The water doesn’t get hotter than lukewarm
- Poor hot water pressure
- Discolored hot water
- You run out of hot water often
A DIY repair isn’t recommended because you could cause more damage to the unit. Also, a DIY repair will void the warranty, so repair or replacement costs won’t be covered, and you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
A plumbing company will send a tech to your house to look at the unit to determine what’s causing the problem. When they make a diagnosis, they’ll fix the problem, and a repair is impossible; the tech will install a new water heater, and your warranty will remain valid.
Dripping Faucet
Most people don’t worry too much when the faucet starts to drip, and many ignore it. They get used to the dripping sound and won’t even hear it after a day or two, but this problem shouldn’t be ignored. A dripping faucet wastes 11 or more gallons of water a day, causing a significant increase in your water bill. Also, if the problem persists, the dripping can escalate to a steady stream that you can’t stop, and you’ll waste even more water.
A few issues can cause the faucet to drip, such as a worn-out gasket or washer, loose O ring, or corrosion in the valve seat. Most faucets last 15 years, and if your faucet has reached the end of its lifespan, it can drip and must be replaced.
A plumbing company can send a plumber to your house to check the faucet to determine why it’s dripping, so they can fix the problem or replace the faucet.
Drain Clog
Drain clogs are annoying because the clog will cause the water to drain slowly or prevent the water from draining. You can only let the water run for a short time if it drains slowly because the sink will overflow. If the tub drain is clogged, you’ll be standing in several inches of water after a shower, and it’s best to hire a plumber.
Some people use liquid drain cleaners to eliminate clogs, but this isn’t a good solution. These chemicals contain harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes, and you can’t be sure if the whole clog was removed. If part of the clog remains, it won’t be long before the water starts draining slowly or not at all.
A plumber has the tools and skill to eliminate the clog without damaging the pipes, and they can use a drain camera to ensure that no part of the clog remains.
It’s best to call a plumber immediately because the clog will continue to escalate until it’s removed.
Toilet Clog
You’ve likely had to deal with a toilet clog at least once in your life, and most clogs aren’t a cause for concern. Most clogs can be eliminated with a plunger, allowing you to flush the toilet without overflowing, and plunging the toilet should take less than a minute. If you try to plunge the toilet, but it doesn’t affect the clog, you can’t use it until it is eliminated. This is a serious problem if you only have one bathroom.
A plunger often can’t help a large or solid clog and may not affect clogs that are too far down the drainpipe. If this is the case, you need to hire a plumber.
A licensed tech can use a drain auger to break up the clog in the pipe so you can flush the toilet. They can also remove the toilet if necessary to reach the clog. When the plumber eliminates the clog, you can use the toilet again.
Appliance Installation
If you buy a new water-based appliance, such as a washing machine, dishwasher, or refrigerator with a water dispenser and an ice maker, a DIY install isn’t recommended. If you make a mistake installing the appliance, you could cause damage or flood your home. Also, the warranty will only remain valid if licensed professional installs the appliance, so hiring a plumber is best.
Licensed plumbers are trained to install water-based appliances, and you can be sure it was done correctly and the warranty will remain valid.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach Can Help
If you have a plumbing problem and need to call a plumbing company, look no further than Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach.
Our plumbers are professionally trained and were apprentices before they came to work with us. Their knowledge and experience have allowed them to handle some of the most challenging jobs in the plumbing industry.
If a plumbing issue arises that must be addressed immediately, don’t panic. We have plumbers available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for emergency service calls. We’ll get someone to your house as quickly as possible to resolve the problem before it escalates or causes further damage.
If you need an appointment for plumbing repair or any other service we provide, give us a call today.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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Signs You Need a Professional Water Heater Replacement Service
A water heater is one of the most essential systems in our homes. From laundry, dishwashing, and bathing to cooking, we rely on this appliance to get hot water for our everyday chores. Unfortunately, like all other home appliances, your hot water system can malfunction to cause inconveniences and discomfort. It is important to recognize signs of trouble so that you schedule a water heater replacement ahead of time.
This blog discusses the signs you need to water heater replacement services.
Rising energy bills
One way to know your water heater has lost efficiency is skyrocketing energy bills. If your energy bills are rising, yet you have not added new appliances, it may be time to replace your water heater. Poor efficiency means your unit is working twice as hard to heat the same amount of water. The longer it runs, the more energy it consumes, giving rise to higher bills.
Your water heater is aging
Most standard water heaters will run optimally for ten years. Beyond this time, your appliance will likely be prone to many issues that impact its efficiency and performance. Check the serial number if you are unsure how old your water heater is. If you can’t locate the date, feed that serial number into the manufacturer’s website for more details. Although you can squeeze a few more years out of the system, you need to consider buying a new one if the unit has hit the 10-year mark.
Doesn’t produce hot water
If you have experienced a blast of ice-cold water in the middle of your hot shower, there is an issue with your heater. As the heater ages, it becomes inefficient at heating water due to sediment buildup. If your heater is relatively new, the problem could be a damaged heating element. You can call the plumber to replace the faulty old unit or the heating element in your new heater.
Growing demand
Sometimes there is nothing wrong with the water heater, but you still need to replace it due to the rising needs in your household. If your unit is too small and the number of people or tasks that need hot water has increased, you may need to upgrade the water heater. A bigger unit will run for longer and produce higher quantities of water at greater speed.
Leaking water tank
Leaks in your water heater are a bad sign. Leaks tend to develop with time as the water tank is subjected to recurrent heating and cooling. If you notice water that pools around the base of the heater, it is time to replace your heater. Contact a licensed plumber to inspect the unit and diagnose the cause before it becomes a big problem.
Strange noises
Never ignore strange noises coming from your water heater. If you hear banging, rumbling, cracking, or any other odd noise, contact a water heater plumber. These noises are primarily attributed to several issues:
- Banging/rumbling sounds: these noises are primarily attributed to excess sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. When there is too much sediment in your water heater tank, it will react with the heating element to create audible mini-explosions. Have a technician drain out the water and clean the tank.
- Crackling/hissing: crackling and hissing sounds are common with electricity-powered water heaters. It is normal for these systems to produce the sounds, and whenever you perceive an occasional crackling sound, you need not worry. However, if these noises persist, there is a deeper underlying issue that requires the attention of a licensed plumber. It could be due to a damaged electrical component.
- Screeching/whistling: a high-pitched screeching or whistling sound from your water heater is likely due to loose valves that let air out of the tank. It could also be caused by pressure-releasing valves, temperature valves, and inlet/outlet valves that are not properly adjusted. If you cannot readjust the valves on your own, have a plumber rectify the issue. If the problem persists, you may need a water replacement installation.
Rust and corrosion
The presence of rust and corrosion inside the water tank is a sign of an end of productive life for your unit. If you notice rust in water coming from the shower or tap, you need to replace your water heater. Rust develops in worn-out components, and ignoring it could damage your plumbing system, specifically the piping works, due to clogging.
The drain valve is not working
As mentioned earlier, the bottom of your water heater will collect sediment with time. The buildup of sediment will eventually damage the interior of the tank and clog the drain valve. This problem is what is blocking your water from coming out. Flash out the water to open up the drain valve. If the problem persists, call a licensed plumber to replace the heater. If the blocked drain valve has caused leaks, you may need water heater replacement.
Metallic smell and taste
If you have noticed a strange smell and taste in your water, it is a sign your water heater is breaking down. This problem is likely due to corrosion from the inside of the tank. The issue may also be caused by rusting water tanks or worn-out heating elements. When the metallic elements inside the water rust, it poses several health risks for you and your household. To avoid health issues, have the water heater replaced immediately.
Recurring repairs
Frequent hot water system repairs are not only frustrating, it is also quite costly. If your unit keeps breaking down to require recurrent repairs, it indicates the system is already worn out. There is little that repairs can do to old, worn-out water heaters. The amount of money you use on these repairs could be higher than the cost of buying a new unit. If the repair cost is becoming unbearable, invest in a new unit.
Contact the experts for quality replacement services
When something is wrong with your water heater, it may range from a simple inconvenience to a major disaster. No matter the agency of the problem, never attempt a DIY repair on your unit. Hot water heaters are complex systems that require the attention of professionals. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing provides same-day water heater repair and replacement. Our licensed and insured plumber will quickly diagnose the problem and recommend a solution. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation regarding our water heater replacement services.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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Signs You Need to Call a Professional Water Heater Repair Service
The water heater is among the most important appliances in your house. It works around the clock to ensure that you and your family have access to hot water at any time of the day or night. But like any other electromechanical appliance, your water heater is not perfect, and it can have mechanical or electrical problems that can affect its performance and even pose serious safety hazards in your house. Considering the importance of your water heater and the dangers or inconveniences, it can cause if it malfunctions, most water heater issues you might run into will need to be fixed urgently. Therefore, you may be tempted to repair your water heater on your own instead of calling and waiting for a professional plumbing contractor. However, without the right skills, experience, and tools for the job, trying to fix your broken water heater yourself could cost you more time and money and even leave you with serious injuries. Therefore, you need to have a professional water heater repair expert who can help you handle any water heater problem you might run into. Below is a rundown of the most common water heater issues that can make it necessary for you to seek the assistance of a professional
Discolored Water From The Water Heater
The water coming from your water heater should be as clear as the cold water coming through other water outlets. Therefore, if you have noticed that the water coming from your water heater is discolored, there could be a problem with the water heater. In most cases, the issue is caused by rust. If your water heater is rusting away, the water coming from it will have a brownish or reddish pigment. While rusty water may not have any impact on your family’s health, it can damage your appliances and stain your clothes. Therefore, when you notice that the water coming from your water heater is discolored, you need to make a quick call to your water heater repair expert. The expert will assess the extent of the rust and help you determine if the issue can be resolved by changing the anode rod or whether you will need to replace the water heater entirely. If the water heater is not corroded, changing the anode rod might fix the issue. However, if it is too corroded, you may have to start thinking about investing in replacement water heater.
Water Leaking From Your Water Heater
Under normal circumstances, no water should be leaking from your water heater. Therefore, the area around the appliance should be fairly dry. As such, if you have noticed that the area around your water heater is too damp or you can see water oozing from your water heater, you have a legitimate reason to be concerned. There are many issues that cause water your water heater to leak. For instance, water heater leaks might be caused by loose pipes, a damaged valve, or physical damage to the water heater. But whatever the cause of the problem might be, it can have many negative effects if it is not fixed promptly. For instance, a leaking water heater can create dampness that might invite mold infestation, which might compromise your indoor air quality. Besides, even if the leak seems negligible, failure to fit it promptly could cause the problem to worsen and end up costing more to fix. Therefore, it is imperative for you to make a quick call to your water heater repair service as soon as you notice any signs of water heater leaks.
No Hot Water From Your Water Heater
If the water coming from your water heater is too cold or not hot enough, then the water heater could be broken. There are many reasons your water heater could fail to heat water. For instance, if the thermostat is broken, it may not prompt your water heater to start heating water when necessary. Besides, your water heater might fail to heat water if the pilot light assembly has malfunctioned or if the heating elements are damaged. But whatever the cause of the problem might be, you need to call a professional plumbing contractor to help you with the diagnosis. Professionals deal with such issues daily, and they have adequate experience and skills to easily pinpoint the underlying cause of the problem and ensure it is fixed decisively.
Unusual Noises Coming From Your Water Heater
The water heater is not designed to work entirely silently. Even under normal circumstances, you will most likely hear the sound of water boiling in the water heater when the appliance is operational. However, the sound of your water heater should not be bothersome. Therefore, if your water heater is producing an unusual sound, you have a legitimate reason to be concerned. Different water heater noises may point to different problems. For instance, if your water heater is producing popping sounds, it may point to a huge accumulation of sediments in your water heater tank. While the sound itself may not cause any harm, the accumulation of sediments in your water heater could negatively affect its performance, leading to a sharp rise in your energy bills. Therefore, if you have noticed that your water heater has become too noisy for some reason, you need to call a professional water heater repair expert to help you diagnose the cause of the problem and ensure it is addressed promptly.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many water heaters issues you might run into in your house. Therefore, you need to have a professional plumber you can call in the event of a water heater breakdown. If you are looking for a dependable plumber to help you handle all your water heater issues, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice. We have been dealing with water heaters for a long time, and we are a household name in our community. Feel free to get in touch with us for more information about our company and services.
See our most recent blog on this topic here.
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