FAQ's About Water Heaters
Water heater services are one of those household appliances that we often take for granted - until they stop working properly. If your water heater isn't heating the water like it used to, or if it's leaking, then it's time for some repairs
Factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your water heater
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The age of your water heater
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The current water heater warranty
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The energy efficiency of your current water heater
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The cost of water heater repair compared to the cost of a new water heater replacement
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How often your water heater breaks down
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The availability of parts for your specific model water heater
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How long do you plan to stay in your current home?
What are the signs of a failing hot water heater?
If you're not sure if your water heater is on its last legs, here are some indicators to watch for:
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Your water heater is more than 10 years old.
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You have to reset your water heater frequently.
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Your water heater makes strange noises.
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Your hot water doesn't last as long as it used to.
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There's water around your water heater.
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Your energy bills have gone up.
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Your water looks rusty.
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Your water has a strange smell.
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Your pilot light keeps going out.
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You have difficulty lighting your pilot light.
A broken water heater system might be a safety hazard, so it's best to avoid an emergency repair. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to contact the water heater repair experts at Hoffman Plumbing.
How long will water stay hot in a water heater without power?
If you're without power and your water heater is turned off, your water will only stay hot for a few hours. This is because the water in the tank will start to cool down once the power is cut off. However, if you have a gas water heater, the pilot light will keep the water warm for a longer period of time. So, if you're without power, it's important to conserve your hot water as much as possible.
Can you run out of hot water with a tankless water heater?
It all depends on the size of the tankless water heater and the demand for hot water in your home.
If you have a small tankless water heater, then it is possible that you could run out of hot water if there is a high demand for it. However, if you have a larger tankless water heater, then it is unlikely that you will run out of hot water.
It is also important to note that tankless water heaters are designed to provide a continuous supply of hot water. So, even if you do run out of hot water for a short period of time, the tankless water heater will quickly heat up more water to make up for the demand.
How often should you drain your hot water heater?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on several factors, such as the type and size of your water heater, the hardness of your water, and how often you use hot water. Generally, it is recommended that you drain your water heater at least once per year. If you have a larger water heater or live in an area with hard water, you may need to drain it more frequently. Conversely, if you have a smaller water heater or live in an area with soft water, you may be able to get by with draining it less often. The best way to determine how often to drain your water heater is to talk to the experts at Hoffman Plumbing.
Do water heaters use a lot of energy?
Water heaters can account for a significant portion of your home's energy usage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heaters are the second largest energy consumer in most residential households, after space heating and cooling.
There are a number of factors that affect how much energy a water heater uses, including the type of water heater, the size of the unit, the efficiency of the unit, and how often it is used. Electric water heaters are typically the most energy-efficient option, followed by gas water heaters. Tankless water heaters are also a more efficient option than traditional storage tank water heaters.
If you're concerned about your home's energy usage, you can install a low-flow shower head, which will reduce the amount of water you use without sacrificing water pressure. You can also insulate your water heater and pipes to help keep heat in and reduce energy loss. And, if you're in the market for a new water heater, be sure to choose an ENERGY STAR® certified model, which can save you money on your energy bills.
What are the costs for repairing vs replacing a water heater?
The cost of water heater repair or replacement depends on a few factors:
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How large is your home? (what size do you need?)
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How old is your water heater? (newer models are more efficient)
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Do you have tankless water heaters?
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What brand is your water heater? (some brands are more expensive to repair than others)
Hoffman Plumbing offers a wide variety of water heaters for you to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your home and budget. So whether you decide to go with repairing or replacing your current water heater, Hoffman Plumbing has got you covered.
For more information on repairing or replacing your water heater, call and schedule a water heater repair service expert at Hoffman Plumbing today!
How long should a new water heater last?
Gas water heaters and electric water heaters have different life expectancies depending on the part of the country you live in, but heaters should last for at least 10 years in our service areas of Carson City, Gardnerville, Hidden Valley, Reno, Sparks, and Lake Tahoe NV. Most residential water heater manufacturers recommend a lifespan of 10 years, and most homes experience a change in their heating needs after that period is up.
However, if your home has never had its original heater replaced, it may be worth replacing the unit before the end of its typical lifespan to avoid a larger repair cost.
If you decide that replacing your water heater is the better option for you, hire Hoffman Plumbing for expert service at affordable prices. Our technicians can recommend the best water heater for your needs and get you back on track after any kind of water heater failure with our professional plumbing water heater repair services in Reno.
What are some tips for prolonging the life of a water heater?
If your water heater is still in good condition and you want to prolong its life, here are some tips to help you do just that.
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Keep the area around your water heater free and clear of debris.
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Turn down the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help prevent scalding, save energy, and prolong the life of your unit's tank lining.
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Drain a quart of water from your hot water tank every three months to remove sediment that can build up at the bottom of the tank and cause corrosion (use caution when draining water; it may be very hot).
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Install a water softener if you have hard water (this will also help prolong the life of your water heater).
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Check the pressure relief valve on your unit every few months. If it's leaking or dripping, replace it with a new one immediately.
Can I do a water heater installation myself?
Replacing a water heater is definitely a big job. If you're not sure what you're doing, it's best to leave the service to a professional plumber in Reno Nevada. Here are three reasons why you should not try to replace your water heater by yourself:
Water Heater Installation can be dangerous - leave it to the professionals.
You could easily get burned if you don't know what you're doing.
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Water heater installation is heavy and not as easy as it looks
Replacing a hot water heater is not an easy service. If you don't have the right tools or knowledge, it can be very challenging.
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The hot water heater might not work
If you don't install it correctly, you could have a much greater issue on your hands.
At Hoffman Plumbing, we are a family-owned business that is trusted and esteemed by the local area. Our water heater installation and repair technicians have been licensed, bonded, and insured in Carson City, Gardnerville, Lake Tahoe, Reno, and Sparks NV for 55+ years! Furthermore, our dedication to trustworthiness has earned us numerous certifications. We guarantee you can rest assured knowing all of your plumbing needs will be met with excellence when you choose Hoffman Plumbing!