Go Back to School With a Guide to Tankless Water Heaters

All About Tankless Water Heaters

This time of year, kids are getting ready to go back to school, and parents are preparing to return to a familiar routine. Parents may enjoy having more time to themselves with their kids in school every day, but that doesn’t mean they should be complacent. Just because they are not in school anymore doesn’t mean parents don’t still need to stay sharp by keeping up with learning. As school goes back in session, take a moment to learn more about tankless water heaters and their advantages. Here is a guide to help everyone get started. 

What Are Tankless Water Heaters?

water heaterA tankless water heater is a type of water heater that heats water on demand, as opposed to heating and storing hot water in a tank like a traditional storage water heater. This means tankless water heaters can provide an endless hot water supply, even during peak usage times, because they aren’t limited by how much hot water is in a storage tank. 

They are also more energy-efficient than traditional storage water heaters, as they only heat water when it is needed rather than having to periodically turn on to keep a big tank of water hot. Because of its lack of storage tanks, tankless water heaters are also smaller and more compact. 

How Do They Work? 

sinkThe secret to a tankless water heater is the powerful burner or heating element that heats incoming water immediately. Instead of taking about an hour or so to heat a full tank of water after the hot water has depleted, like a storage water heater, large burners or heating elements heat water as it passes through a heat exchanger within the tankless water heater. 

As soon as the water starts to flow through the unit, signaled by a faucet or shower turning on, the tankless water heater quickly heats the water to the correct temperature. This quick and only as-needed process is why tankless water heaters are also called instantaneous or demand-type water heaters.  

Reasons to Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater 

Tankless water heaters offer many benefits like: 

  • Endless Hot Water: The main drawback of storage water heaters is that they can run out of hot water, sometimes too quickly. Tankless water heaters continue to heat water as long as it flows through it. This means no more cold showers for the last person in line for the bathroom!
  • Lower Water Heating Bills: Tankless water heaters are more expensive than traditional water heaters. However, they are more efficient and save money on energy bills due to the wasted energy storage water heaters use to keep water in the tank warm while they sit idle. 
  • Longer Service Life: Tankless water heaters have longer life expectancies than storage water heaters.
  • Smaller Size: Because they don’t require a large hot water tank, tankless water heaters are smaller and can be mounted on walls, taking up less of a home’s valuable storage space.  

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving Phoenix and the surrounding areas for over 50 years. They offer same-day service, flat rate pricing, and no additional charges or overtime fees. Call them today for tankless water heater installation or replacement in Phoenix, AZ.

Is Your Home Being Affected by a Faulty Water Heater?

Keep an Eye Out for These 3 Signs of a Broken Water Heater!

The water heater is one of the most essential appliances in any home. So the last thing any homeowner wants is for their hot water heater to break down unexpectedly! Fortunately, water heaters rarely kick the bucket without first showing signs of trouble. This article will lay out three ways homeowners can tell if their water heater needs repair – or to be replaced entirely.

The Water Heater Is Making Loud Noises

sounds

One of the most unmistakable signs that it may be time for water heater repair is if loud or unusual sounds are coming from the water heater itself. Examples of irregular noises include popping, crackling, rumbling, or loud hissing. These noises typically result from sediment buildup inside the storage tank, which can develop over time as dissolved minerals in the water solidify and collect at the bottom of the tank.

The loud noises occur as air bubbles and steam trapped beneath the layers of sediment pop or force their way upwards, shifting the sediment. This can gradually degrade and damage the tank’s inner lining, which exposes the metal tank shell to the corrosive cocktail of water, oxygen, and minerals inside the tank – and once the tank begins to corrode, it’s all downhill for the water heater. Fortunately, homeowners can help prevent this scenario by keeping up with regular maintenance, including flushing the tank to remove the sediment and replacing the anode rod to prevent tank corrosion.

Smelly or Discolored Water 

sink

Another clear (or, more accurately, cloudy) sign of water heater trouble is discolored, mirky, or foul-smelling water coming from the tap – particularly if only the hot water is affected. This can be caused by sediment buildup, tank corrosion, a corroded anode rod, or bacteria growth inside the water heater. 

Corrosion can release rust into the water, giving it a brown or reddish tint and a strange smell. Bacteria can grow in the tank when the water heater sits unused for too long, giving the water a rotten egg or sulfur odor. If bacteria or sediment are to blame, the problem may be solved by flushing the water heater. But if the hot water tank is corroded, water heater replacement is likely the best solution.

The Water Heater Is Leaking

Lastly, homeowners can be sure they need water heater repair or replacement if they see any evidence that the water heater is leaking. In some cases, this could simply be from a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve, a loose pipe fitting, or a worn valve – all of which are relatively quick and inexpensive to fix. But in other cases, a leaking water heater can be caused by something more serious, such as an overpressurization issue or a cracked or corroded storage tank.

Repairing a corroded water heater tank can be futile as corrosion makes the tank more susceptible to leaks, so replacing the whole unit typically makes more sense. But homeowners can help avoid corrosion by having their system serviced by a professional at least once a year. 

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Mesa and the surrounding communities for over 50 years. They provide same-day service, flat rate pricing, and on-time service. Call them today for water heater repair and maintenance in Mesa, AZ.

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All About Hot Water Recirculating Pumps

The Ultimate Guide to Recirculating Pumps

Having hot water to shower or wash the dirt off soiled hands is a great luxury. One of the biggest downsides is waiting for hot water to flow to the tap or showerhead once the water is turned on. This wait can waste precious minutes and several gallons of water. Wouldn’t it be great if every tap had hot water waiting just on the other side? 

Installing hot water recirculating pumps can be beneficial in homes. These devices pump water constantly through hot water lines to keep heated water closer to the points of use. This allows for near-instant access to hot water from every tap and appliance. Here is a complete guide to hot water recirculating pumps. After reading this, homeowners will know what a recirculating system is, why it is beneficial, and signs it is malfunctioning. 

What Is a Hot Water Recirculating Pump?

In a perfect world, hot water would always be immediately available. Unfortunately, that would require water heaters at almost every point of use. In most houses, a single water heater provides the needs for the entire home. This means that a network of pipes must run the entire length of the home to reach every fixture. For fixtures distant from the water heater, it may seem like it takes forever for hot water to show up. 

Recirculating pumps are part of the hot water system. They are installed as part of the network of hot water piping, and they constantly pump hot water through the piping so hot water is readily available. With a hot water recirculating pump, people never have to run water for several minutes to get hot water to flow; the hot water is always just a turn-of-the-knob away. 

Benefits of Installing a Hot Water Recirculating Pump

saveNot every home has a hot water recirculating pump. Some of the reasons people decide to skip them during installation are the upfront cost. With the cost of the pump and the extra piping, they decide that it isn’t worth it. However, they neglect to take into account the benefits. 

The first benefit is luxury. In bathrooms, several rooms away from the water heater, a person taking a shower may have to withstand several minutes of cold water. With a recirculating pump, the water is there in seconds. Another benefit of hot water recirculation pumps is the water cost savings. Running all of that cold water straight down the drain wastes water and energy. For a more water-efficient home, recirculating pumps can be an important part of the strategy. 

Signs of Trouble With a Hot Water Recirculating Pump

pumpFor homes that already have a recirculating pump, it’s important to know when it needs professional attention. Recognizing the signs of pump failure early can prevent dealing with cold water and wasting water. These signs can indicate hot water recirculation pumps are having trouble and may need repair: 

  • Hot water takes a long time to come out of fixtures 
  • Strange noises coming from the hot water recirculating pump
  • Leaks from the pump 
  • Hot water comes from the cold line
  • The hot water recirculating pump won’t start

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Phoenix and the surrounding areas for over 50 years. They provide flat rate pricing, same-day service, and on-time service. Call them today for hot water recirculating pump installation in Phoenix, AZ.

Experience the Benefits of Water Softeners

How Does a Water Softener Help Around the Home?

Hard water is a problem affecting most homes in the U.S. Hard water is water with a high amount of minerals. As water passes through its natural cycle, it picks up minerals that can cause problems once it reaches the home. 

Water softeners work to remove these minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, to make water more beneficial and user-friendly in modern plumbing. This post will share some of the benefits of soft water that homeowners can get when installing water softeners.  

More Effective Cleaning 

cleaningHard water is a common household concern, making washing dishes, laundry, and cleaning bathroom fixtures more difficult and time-consuming. One of the most common complaints regarding hard water is the presence of spots on glassware and dishes after washing. As the water evaporates from the surfaces of these items, the minerals are left behind and can form a cloudy, spotted appearance. Installing a water softener allows detergents to work more efficiently and leaves dishes and glasses spot-free and sparkling after washing.

Hard water can also leave unsightly stains and deposits on bathroom fixtures such as faucets, showerheads, and sinks. As water flows over these surfaces, minerals can accumulate and form scale, a hard, crusty deposit that is difficult to remove. A water softener can prevent scale buildup, saving time and effort spent on scrubbing away scale deposits and prolonging the life of bathroom fixtures.

The interaction between hard water and laundry detergents can also adversely affect clothes and other fabrics. It can leave clothes feeling stiff and rough and cause colors to fade. Additionally, the abrasive nature of the minerals can cause fibers to wear more quickly, reducing the overall lifespan of clothing. A water softener removes the minerals that react with detergents, allowing them to work more efficiently in cleaning and preserving the vibrancy and integrity of fabrics.

Prevents Plumbing Problems 

Faded clothing and dingy dishes may seem like minor problems that don’t necessitate the installation of a water softener. However, the complications of hard water can be very costly when it comes to the plumbing in the home. As hard water flows through water heaters and piping, the minerals can deposit on the inner walls, and scale can build up, which can cause a variety of problems such as: 

  • Corrosion
  • Clogs 
  • Low water pressure
  • Pipe bursts
  • Leaks
  • Shorter lifespan for the plumbing
  • Premature water heater failure
  • The decreased energy efficiency of water heaters and higher energy bills

Installing a water softener prevents mineral scale from building up within pipes, fixtures, and appliances, helping homeowners avoid these negative effects of hard water on the plumbing and helping extend its lifespan. 

Improves the Condition of Hair and Skin 

healthThe minerals in hard water are not inherently detrimental to health, but they can adversely affect skin and hair. To help hydrate and moisturize hair and skin, many people turn to different skin and hair care products. Unfortunately, the cause of dryness may never be solved entirely with these products in a home with hard water. Since hard water can’t effectively wash away soap residue and dirt, these compounds can sit on the skin and scalp, leading to hair and skin dryness, irritation, damage, and even breakouts. 

However, by installing a water softener, household residents’ skin and hair can be kept healthier, more nourished, and hydrated. Water softeners are also beneficial for people with sensitive skin, as hard water can irritate the skin and scalp, and water softeners can help prevent irritation, dryness, and itchiness resulting from hard water. In conclusion, installing a water softener can be extremely beneficial for a home and the people living in it. 

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has served Mesa, AZ, and the surrounding areas for over 50 years. They provide flat rate pricing, same-day service, and no additional charges for emergency repairs. Call them today for water softener installation in Mesa, AZ

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Don’t Forget About Water Heater Maintenance

Neglecting a Water Heater Can Have Disastrous Results

Maintaining a water heater is essential for reliable access to hot water in a home. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect this vital task and end up paying the price with disastrous results. Failing to perform regular maintenance on the water heater can lead to several problems, such as leaks and tank corrosion. 

Leaks can cause water damage to the home and spike water bills if left unchecked. Corrosion of the tank means that it won’t last as long, causing it to have to be replaced sooner than expected. Additionally, energy efficiency will suffer if maintenance is ignored, raising energy bills. Homeowners should not wait until something goes wrong to take care of their home’s water heater. This article will explain some of what goes into maintaining the water heater and why it’s vital.

The Importance of Flushing a Water Heater 

flushDraining and flushing the water heater is vital to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Over time, sediment and minerals can build up inside the tank, leading to several potential problems. This buildup reduces the space in the tank for hot water, resulting in less hot water available when needed. 

In addition, this sediment causes a decrease in the water heater’s efficiency in heating the water, resulting in higher energy bills. Finally, sediment buildup can cause corrosion of the tank and other components inside the unit, leading to additional damage or failure of the system. Flushing out a water heater at least once a year is important to keep it running efficiently and avoid future issues. 

Replacing the Anode Rod and Other Maintenance Tasks

maintenanceOther crucial tasks besides flushing the tank must also be done during water heater maintenance to keep it working dependably. Things that should be done during maintenance visits include: 

  • Check and Replace the Anode Rod: An anode rod protects the steel lining of the tank from corrosion by drawing corrosive elements away from it. The anode rod should be checked during maintenance and replaced every few years as needed.
  • Test the Pressure Relief Valve: The pressure relief valve is a crucial safety component that helps prevent the tank from over-pressurizing and exploding. This valve should be checked during maintenance to ensure it works properly. If it isn’t working or there is rust or corrosion, it should be replaced immediately.
  • Inspect the Unit for Any Issues: During maintenance, plumbers will inspect the water heater for any signs of problems such as corrosion, leaks, faulty electrical connections, etc. If any issues are found, they must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.

Benefits of Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance of a water heater can provide many benefits for homeowners. One of the most important is that it helps to extend the lifespan of the hot water system. By regularly having their water heater inspected and serviced, homeowners can help prevent future breakdowns or serious problems from occurring. This can save both time and money in the long run due to avoiding costly repairs and unnecessary water heater replacement.

Routine maintenance also helps ensure that the water heater runs as efficiently as possible. This can reduce energy costs and also provide households with an ample supply of hot water when needed. Additionally, maintaining a water heater helps keep homeowners and their families safe by ensuring all components function correctly.

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned company with over five decades of experience serving Phoenix and the surrounding areas. They provide same-day service, flat rate pricing, and no extra charges for emergency repairs. Call them today for water heater maintenance in Phoenix, AZ

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Water Heater Problems? Time to Go Green With a New Tankless Water Heater

Why Get a Tankless Hot Water Heater?

A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand or instantaneous water heater, is a water heating system that heats water only when it is needed. It does not store hot water in a tank like a traditional storage water heater. Instead, it heats up the water as it passes through the heater. This allows for an unlimited supply of hot water since the tankless water heater will heat up as much water as needed when needed. 

Tankless water heaters are more efficient than traditional water heaters because they only use energy when the hot water is being used, rather than constantly heating and reheating water in a tank. This blog post will discuss tankless water heaters, their benefits, and signs to replace an old water heater. 

Warning Signs Indicating the Need for Water Heater Replacement

showerA water heater is often neglected until something goes wrong. However, a home’s water heater will typically show signs that it needs attention before it completely breaks down. Signs it may be time to replace the water heater include: 

  • It is over 10 years old
  • No hot water or inconsistent temperatures
  • Hot water doesn’t last as long as it should
  • It is leaking
  • Corrosion has occurred, or water appears discolored and rusty
  • Frequent repairs are needed

How Tankless Water Heaters Work  

A tankless water heater is an energy-efficient alternative to traditional hot water heaters that uses a heat exchanger to quickly and efficiently warm up cold water as it enters the unit. Unlike other types of water heaters, tankless units do not hold or store hot water in a large tank but rather provide on-demand heating when the hot water tap is turned on. 

Tankless water heaters also have some additional features that make them attractive to homeowners. For example, they offer an unlimited supply of hot water for multiple fixtures without running out, so cold showers can be a thing of the past. They also provide temperature control that gives the ability to adjust the water temperature for each individual faucet and fixture, allowing for greater customization.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

saveTankless water heaters offer many advantages to homeowners. The most notable is their energy efficiency. Because tankless water heaters are on-demand, they only activate when hot water is needed and do not need to constantly keep a large tank of hot water available. This saves energy since the water heater does not need to work as hard to maintain high temperatures, leading to lower energy bills.

Another advantage of tankless water heaters is the space-saving benefit of having a compact size that takes up minimal space. This space-saving feature makes tankless water heaters ideal for small living spaces where space is at a premium. In addition, tankless water heaters have longer lifespans and can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving Mesa, AZ, and the surrounding communities for over 50 years. They provide flat rate pricing, same-day service, and 24/7 live answers. Call them today for tankless water heater services in Mesa, AZ

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Signs That it is Time to Consider Water Heater Replacement

When is it Time to Break Up With the Water Heater? 

Nothing lasts forever, including water heaters. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these appliances can typically last around 10 to 15 years. This blog will share common signs that indicate it’s time for water heater repair or replacement

There’s Corrosion on the Water Heater Tank 

corrosionThere are many reasons why a water heater may develop corrosion on its tank. For instance, if the anode rod isn’t replaced on time and the tank isn’t flushed during maintenance, sediment can build up inside the tank and cause corrosion. Other causes can involve chronic leaks and the pressure relief valve. 

If a professional notices corrosion on the water tank early, they could remove the rust and prevent further problems. If not, however, replacing the entire water heater may be the only real option and more cost-effective than repairing it. 

Not Enough Hot Water 

If a water heater stops producing hot water or hot water runs out quicker than it should, a professional can try addressing the problem. However, depending on the cause, the unit’s age, and if the problem keeps happening, a replacement could be a better solution than repairing it. A professional can assess the water heater, identify any problems, and possibly suggest replacement. 

Some reasons why a water heater might stop producing consistent hot water include the following: 

  • Routine maintenance has been neglected.
  • The water heater’s heating element is broken. 
  • Too much corrosion in the water tank affects the appliance’s overall function. 
  • The pilot light isn’t working. 

Higher Energy Bills 

billRising energy bills can be a sign of an inefficient water heater. Over time, water heaters run less efficiently and require more energy to maintain the same temperature. If homeowners notice their energy bills increasing but cannot pinpoint why it could be a sign that their water heater is running inefficiently and needs replacing. 

If homeowners notice these signs, they should contact a professional to inspect the water heater before any damage worsens. It’s a good idea to get a water heater inspected annually as part of regular maintenance. Doing so can help detect problems early and prevent costly repairs or replacements down the road. Taking care of the water heater can help keep energy bills low and protect the home from potential problems.

About Water Heaters Only, Inc. 

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Phoenix, AZ, and surrounding areas. They offer flat rate pricing, same-day service, and no additional charges for emergency repairs. Call them today for water heater installations and replacements in Phoenix, AZ

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New Year’s Resolution: Get a New Water Heater

Three Benefits of Installing a New Water Heater 

Nothing’s worse than an old or poorly-functioning water heater. It can mean cold showers or spotty dishes––even after being in the dishwasher for hours. This new year, homeowners should consider the benefits of getting a new water heater. They can read about three of these benefits below. 

Lower Energy Bills and Better Efficiency 

The energy efficiency of an old and outdated water heater decreases over time. This means it takes more energy to heat the same amount of water, resulting in higher energy bills. By replacing an old water heater with a newer model, homeowners can regain the efficient performance it originally had. 

A new water heater will be much more efficient than an old one, resulting in lower energy bills. Additionally, newer models come with features such as better insulation and advanced temperature controls that can help homeowners save even more money on their energy bills. Replacing an old water heater is an easy way to start saving money today! 

Better Hot Water Recovery Rate

waterWhen looking for a new water heater, it’s important to consider the hot water recovery rate. This rate tells how quickly the unit can replenish hot water after it has been depleted. A higher recovery rate means people won’t have to wait long for hot water to come out of the tap, which is especially important with a large household. If a home has multiple bathrooms, having a water heater with a better recovery rate can make all the difference. So if homeowners want to ensure that everyone will get hot water when needed, look for a water heater with a good recovery rate. 

Upgrading to a new water heater can give homes the benefit of a better recovery rating. Newer models have improved technology, allowing them to heat the water more efficiently and quickly, so people won’t have to wait for hot water after someone else takes a shower. This is a great way to improve a home’s hot water supply and ensure the whole family is comfortable.

Save Space 

heaterHomeowners want to make every square inch of their home count because there is no such thing as too much storage space. Today’s water heaters are not only more efficient but can also take up much less space than conventional storage tank water heaters. This makes tankless water heaters an excellent choice for those looking to save space. 

These small units can be mounted on a wall, freeing up valuable storage space in the home. They are also more energy efficient than their traditional counterparts and can save on water heating costs. Tankless water heaters also last up to twice as long as traditional tank systems, making them an excellent long-term investment. A tankless water heater is a perfect choice for those who want to save precious space and energy.  

About Water Heaters Only, Inc. 

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business with over 50 years of expertise serving Mesa, AZ, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate pricing, same-day service, and on-time arrivals. Call them today for a water heater or tankless water heater installation in Mesa, AZ.

Why Water Heaters Need Insulation in the Winter

Get Your Hot Water Heater Ready for Winter

Homeowners may need to insulate their water heaters in the winter to prevent heat loss and keep utility bills low. The water heater is one of the most important pieces of home hardware because it provides the home with hot water for bathing, cleaning, and other essential tasks. During the winter, cold temperatures may put extra strain on the water heater, which causes energy bills to rise. 

This blog post discusses why homeowners should add insulating water heaters to their winter to-do list. Preparing the water heater for the coldest months of the year will help homeowners save money and even improve the water heater’s lifespan. Failing to insulate the water heater can lead to unnecessary spending on energy bills and increase the home’s carbon footprint. 

Why is Water Heater Insulation Important?heater

Water heaters are often located in the home’s basement or garage, where the temperatures may fall below freezing during the winter. Because the air and water entering the water heater are colder than normal in the winter, it takes more energy for the water heater to heat and keeps the water warm. Both electric water heaters and gas water heaters can benefit from an extra layer of insulation during the cold winter months. 

The benefits of insulating a water heater in the winter include improved efficiency, saving money on utility bills, decreased wear and tear on the unit, and having more hot water when it is needed. The hot water tank contains gallons of water pre-heated to be available whenever the homeowners need it. While the water sits in the tank, it can lose some of its heat. This is called standby heat loss, and insulation can also help decrease it.

Do All Water Heaters Need Added Insulation?

There are multiple factors for homeowners to consider when considering whether or not they need to insulate their water heater. New water heaters are engineered with better insulation than older models. The older the water heater is, the more likely it is to need insulation, especially in the winter. Aging water heaters can also be less efficient overall, and adding insulation can help. 

The R-value of the water heater is a unit of measurement used to indicate how well-insulated the hot water tank is. The higher the R-value, the better the hot water heater is insulated. If the R-value of the water heater is less than 24, the homeowners should insulate it to promote more efficient performance. The R-value is often listed on the manufacturer’s sticker or manual. 

How to Insulate a Water Heater

insulationTwo common water heater insulation methods are water heater blankets and reflective foil. Water heater blankets are typically made from fiberglass, mineral wool, or vinyl foam and tightly wrap around the water tank. The water heater blanket keeps water warm by helping to reduce the water’s heat loss. It is important to ensure water heater blankets are securely fastened and fit tightly around the water tank for optimal insulation efficiency. 

Reflective foil is another popular material used for water heater insulation. Reflective foil can be found in various sizes and shapes and works by reflecting heat back into the water tank. It is important to ensure reflective foil insulation is installed correctly and sealed with no gaps for the best performance. Homeowners should consult a qualified professional if unsure which water heater insulation material best suits their needs. 

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding areas for over five decades. They provide flat rate pricing, same-day service, and financing. Call them today for water heater services in Phoenix, AZ

Make Sure the Water Heater is Ready for Winter

Watch Out for These Signs of Water Heater Failure 

Fall is here, and colder temperatures are coming with it. With the cooler temperatures, everyone tries to remember the strategies they used to get them through the last colder season. No doubt one of those strategies was a hot bath or shower. 

Unfortunately, too many people will run to the shower this fall and winter to warm up, only to be met with cold, frigid water. Further investigation will undoubtedly reveal that the water heater has failed and left them out in the cold. 

Luckily, water heaters rarely fail without giving some indications that problems are in the future. Noticing and reacting to these signs can prevent families from being stuck without hot water to wash clothes and dishes and bathe. Here are some common signs that the water heater isn’t ready for winter and needs professional attention. 

shower

Unpredictable Temperatures 

Before water heaters go completely cold, there are usually some signs that something is amiss. The first sign to look out for is temperature fluctuations that warn of a complete loss of service of the water heater to follow. Watch out for inadequate delivery temperature of the water and insufficient hot water volume. 

The inadequate temperature of the water is an indication that the burner or heating elements need attention. Sometimes adjusting the temperature at the water heater can help, but usually, the problem is more complex. Calling a professional for help can prevent a loss of hot water. 

An insufficient amount of hot water or when the shower gets cold too fast is almost always due to a lack of water heater maintenance. Over time, scale builds up in hot water tanks, inhibiting water from heating. Professional maintenance, including draining and flushing this sediment, can usually restore performance without the need to replace the water heater. 

Leaks leaks

Leaks in water heaters are serious problems that can have serious consequences. Water tanks are pressurized vessels that can cause injuries and burns when complications from leaks arise. Despite safety features, people are burned or fall victim to injury or property damage every year when water tanks explode. Instead of taking chances, keep an eye out for water leaks, which indicate that the tank is compromised. 

There are two kinds of leaks in a water heater, visible and hidden. The signs of visible leaks are:

  • Rusty spots on the outer jacket of the water tank
  • Corrosion around pipe fittings
  • Crusty scale that’s visible on piping

The signs of hidden leaks are: 

  • Sizzling or popping noises
  • Ignition faults
  • Constantly relighting the pilot light

If homeowners notice signs of a leak, they should reach out to a water heater technician immediately. The leak could not be from the tank and a minor problem easily fixed by the professional, or it could be on the tank from corrosion, meaning a water heater replacement will be necessary. 

Old Age and Wear and Tear

Another indicator that the water heater could be about to fail is age. Most water heaters have warranties that last for 7-10 years. After the warranty period, homeowners can start to expect problems. Some of the other signs that accompany old age and are indicative of too much wear and tear on the water heater are:

  • Numerous repairs over a short period
  • Fluctuating water temperatures
  • Corrosion

Water heater replacement might be the best option if the water heater is older or has experienced too much wear and tear. That way, homeowners can regain their peace of mind and ensure they won’t be left without hot water. Plus, utility bills will decrease with a new, more efficient water heater.  

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving Mesa, AZ, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide flat rate pricing, same-day service, and no overtime fees. Call them today for water heater services in Mesa, AZ.