Advantages of Commercial Water Heating Maintenance

Save Money on Energy Bills and Get Other Benefits With Water Heater Maintenance

Water heaters are an essential part of modern life, but routine maintenance and checkups with a trusted professional are essential to keep water heaters in top shape and reduce energy expenses, whether it’s a commercial or residential water heater. Neglecting maintenance can exacerbate minor, inexpensive problems into costly repairs or breakdowns. Thankfully, people can rely on the pros to maintain water heaters, leading to significant advantages. Here’s how professional maintenance for commercial water heaters can benefit property and business owners. 

Lower Energy Costs

save money When a commercial water heater runs optimally, it uses less energy. Conversely, when a water heater is left unserviced and maintenance is neglected, it will suffer from issues that impact energy efficiency. This inefficiency forces the unit to work harder, increasing utility bills.

One of the largest culprits of inefficiency with water heaters is sediment buildup. A sediment buildup prevents water heaters from maintaining a consistent temperature, reducing energy efficiency and raising operating costs. However, an essential task during maintenance is to drain and flush the water heater to remove the sediment, allowing the system to operate more efficiently and save money on water heating. 

    Reduced Risk of Damage

    water heater When it comes to water heaters, smaller problems eventually give way to bigger ones. By the time an issue becomes apparent, the damage could be extensive and costly to repair. However, with routine water heater maintenance, many problems can be prevented, avoiding repair costs, and smaller issues can be caught early before becoming more costly problems.   

    During a maintenance appointment, a professional will perform important tasks to prevent and catch problems like:

    • Inspecting the heating element
    • Checking for leaks and other issues
    • Flushing and draining the tank
    • Checking the pressure relief valve
    • Inspecting and replacing the anode rod

    Improved Longevity

    Water heater replacement can be costly, so it’s imperative to preserve them as long as possible. Routine maintenance can extend a water heater’s lifespan and delay the need to replace it. Routine maintenance involves numerous preventative measures to help keep a system in top shape for longer. 

    Additionally, catching and fixing problems during maintenance visits prevents them from becoming bigger problems that may require replacing the water heater instead of only needing repair.  These maintenance checkups, along with repair when necessary, are crucial to help keep a water heater running at peak efficiency for as long as possible.

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

    Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a residential and commercial water heating company serving the Phoenix Metro Area. Since 1968, they’ve serviced over 1.2 million water heaters and boast 24/7 service to ensure that minor problems don’t lead to big breakdowns. Contact them for commercial water heater maintenance and services in Mesa, AZ.

    Why Should You Install a Water Softener?

    Advantages of a Water Softener Installation to Combat Hard Water

    Water softeners are devices designed to remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water, often replacing them with sodium ions through a process called ion exchange. During ion exchange, hard water passes through a resin bed inside the water softener tank. The resin beads, made of a natural material, attract and hold onto the mineral ions while releasing sodium ions into the water to take their place.

    Once the resin is saturated with calcium and magnesium ions, the bed goes through a process called regeneration. This is done by automatically flushing the resin bed with a brine solution containing high concentrations of sodium ions, which displaces the calcium and magnesium ions and recharges the resin. These water softener systems are very effective at eliminating hard water from the home and the negative impacts of hard water. Here are several benefits of installing a water softener in the home. 

    More Effective Cleaning Around the Home

    hard water Hard water can cause various cleaning challenges around the home, such as leaving spots and residue on dishes, glasses, and utensils after washing them in the dishwasher, as well as stains and deposits on bathroom fixtures and surfaces that take longer to clean. Additionally, laundry washed in hard water may fade quicker and feel stiff due to the mineral content in hard water.

    However, installing a water softener can significantly improve these cleaning tasks and save time. Softened water prevents the formation of scale deposits on fixtures and surfaces, making cleaning easier, less time-consuming, and more effective. Soft water is also gentler on fabrics, leading to longer-lasting clothes that retain their color and texture, and it allows dishes to come out of the dishwasher looking cleaner. 

    Protection for the Plumbing and Appliances

    Hard water can also cause several issues for plumbing and water-using appliances. It all starts when hard water causes scale buildup, which can cause water pressure issues and clogs in the plumbing, in addition to reduced efficiency and higher operating costs in appliances like water heaters. Additionally, hard water can shorten the lifespan of the plumbing and appliances and speed up corrosion, which can cause leaks to form and require earlier replacements. 

    A whole-home water softener removes the minerals contributing to these problems, leading to the plumbing and appliances lasting longer. It also helps improve the efficiency of appliances that use water, saving homeowners money. Additionally, inconveniences like low water pressure and clogs will become less likely. This helps homeowners reduce costs and prevents plumbing and water heater problems. 

    Protecting Skin and Hair Health

    dry hair Another remarkable benefit that often goes unnoticed when discussing whole-house water softeners is improving skin and hair health and hydration. Hard water, which is high in minerals, can be harsh on hair and skin, leading to dryness, itchiness, and dullness. This is because these minerals prevent water from properly dissolving soaps and shampoos, leaving a residue that may clog pores and dry out the skin and hair. 

    However, water softeners remove these minerals and can significantly improve the condition of both skin and hair. Soft water allows soaps and shampoos to lather more effectively, rinsing off cleanly and leaving the skin and hair feeling more hydrated and smoother. The result is a noticeable improvement in texture and hydration and a reduction in the irritation and itchiness associated with hard water exposure.

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

    Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding areas for over 50 years. They provide same-day service, flat rate pricing, and professional and transparent service. Call them today for water softener installation and repair services in Phoenix, AZ. 

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    Why Should You Install a Tankless Water Heater?

    Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters 

    Tankless water heaters are the latest innovations in heating water for a home or business. The technology has been around for a couple of decades, but over the years, it has become refined enough to the point where it is in demand. 

    Despite some owners’ familiarity with the technology, many have recognized the benefits and decided to make the switch. This article is intended to explain those benefits for those who don’t know and convince them that 2024 is the best year to upgrade to a tankless water heater

    Better Energy Efficiency 

    save money Conventional water tanks are energy hogs. They have to keep heating water all day to maintain the setpoint temperature, so they waste a lot of energy. This is evident on monthly bills but also contributes to a home or office’s overall carbon output. 

    Instead of wasting as much as 20% of the monthly utility budget on heating water, why not save money? The inefficiencies of water tanks make them the second-highest line item on most budgets, so it makes sense that finding an alternative can be lucrative.

    With tankless water heaters, water is only heated when it is needed. This allows the unit to sit idle until there is a demand. The moment hot water is needed, powerful burners or heating elements come on and heat water to the desired setpoint instantaneously.

    While tankless water heaters usually cost a little more upfront, they make it up over the years with drastically lower energy bills.

    An Endless Supply of Hot Water 

    tankless water heaterConventional water tanks have been around for ages with just a few advancements. The truth is the technology to heat water and store it in a large tank doesn’t allow for much innovation. This leads to the same drawbacks in every system, the most upsetting of which is a loss of hot water. 

    Once the water tank is depleted, everyone is stuck with cold water until the tank recovers. With tankless water heaters, the hot water never runs out. Instead, the unit will continue reliably providing heated water until the demand is met. 

    Another drawback is the bulkiness and heaviness of water tanks. Floors must be reinforced to accommodate them, and they waste space. Tankless water heaters are lighter than their traditional counterparts, and they are mounted on the wall. This frees up the structure of the home and floor space that could be better allocated.

    Increased Reliability and Life Expectancy 

    As mentioned, tankless water heaters usually cost a little more upfront. However, they save money in two more ways than simply improved efficiency. 

    First, tankless water heaters are more reliable than water tanks. Since they can sit idle for long periods, they suffer from less wear and tear, reducing the repair bills that come with a water tank. 

    The second way tankless water heaters save money is through longevity. Water tanks last around ten years before they start having trouble. Tankless water heaters last an average of 20 years. This means that the owner will save thousands of dollars in ten years by simply avoiding a water tank failure. 

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

    Water Heaters Only, Inc. handles tankless water heater installation for homes and businesses. Their specialized crews can find the right tankless water heater for any situation. Call today for quick and reliable water heater service in Mesa, AZ.

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    The Ultimate Guide to Recirculating Pumps

    Why a Home May Need a Hot Water Recirculating Pump

    In today’s fast-paced world, convenience and efficiency are paramount in everyone’s daily lives. One often overlooked aspect of daily routines is the simple act of accessing hot water. 

    Whether it’s for a refreshing shower, a relaxing bath, or a load of laundry, hot water is a necessity many take for granted. However, traditional water heating systems often fall short of delivering instant hot water, leading to frustration and wasted resources. 

    This is where hot water recirculation pumps come into play, revolutionizing how people access hot water in their homes and businesses.

    What Are Hot Water Recirculating Pumps?

    water recirculating pumpA hot water recirculating pump is designed to circulate hot water through a home’s plumbing system, ensuring that hot water is readily available at every faucet and showerhead. 

    The pump works by constantly circulating hot water from the water heater through a dedicated return line, connected to a series of pipes that supply hot water to various fixtures throughout the home. 

    This continuous circulation ensures that hot water is always available, eliminating the need to wait for water to heat up once the tap is turned on. 

    Reasons to Install a Hot Water Recirculating Pump

    save money Installing a hot water recirculating pump offers numerous benefits that can transform people’s daily routines and save them money. Some of the advantages of having a recirculating pump include:

    • Instant Hot Water: With a recirculating pump, owners can enjoy instant hot water at every faucet and showerhead, eliminating the need to wait for water to heat up.
    • Water Conservation: By reducing the amount of water wasted while waiting for hot water to arrive, recirculating pumps help conserve water and reduce water bills.
    • Energy Efficiency: Recirculating pumps also reduce energy consumption by minimizing the number of times the water heater needs to turn on and off.
    • Increased Property Value: Installing a recirculating pump can increase a property’s value, making it more attractive to potential buyers or renters.

    Hot water recirculating pump installation is best done during the initial construction of a home or business. Of course, hot water recirculation pumps can be installed during renovations. Talk to local plumbing experts to learn more about retrofitting a house with a hot water recirculating pump. 

    Signs of Trouble With a Hot Water Recirculating Pump

    While recirculating pumps are designed to provide years of reliable service, they can still experience issues that require professional attention. Some common signs of trouble with a hot water recirculating pump include:

    • Leaks 
    • Water damage
    • Reduced water pressure
    • Unusual noises
    • Inconsistent hot water temperature
    • Hot water that isn’t immediately flowing 

    Hot water recirculation pumps are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy instant hot water while conserving water and energy. While they require minimal maintenance, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that may arise, ensuring prompt, professional attention when needed. 

    By understanding how recirculating pumps work and their benefits, homeowners, and businesses can make informed decisions about installing these innovative devices, revolutionizing how they access hot water forever.

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

    Water Heaters Only, Inc. specializes in comfort by providing the latest water heaters, tankless water heaters, and hot water recirculation pump repairs. They offer flat-rate pricing on all their services to keep prices low and convenient. Call today for excellent service in Phoenix, AZ. 

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    Three Signs That Call for Water Heater Replacement

    Know When It’s Time to Get a New Water Heater 

    Few experiences are as aggravating as a malfunctioning water heater. Instead of enduring the chill and waiting for better days, homeowners have options––and one of those options involves installing a new unit. In this comprehensive guide, homeowners can learn some common signs that water heater replacement is needed. 

    Corrosion of the Water Heater 

    old water heater Corrosion and rust on the water heater tank’s exterior typically indicate that the inside is corroding, too, necessitating a replacement. This is because:

    • A rusted tank jeopardizes the unit’s integrity, leading to chronic leaks, reduced water pressure, and possibly higher energy bills.
    • Corrosion can cause water damage by creating leaks, potentially damaging property such as flooring and sideboards.
    • Rust poses safety hazards, as it can weaken the tank’s integrity, potentially resulting in bursting and flooding. This could damage property and create electrical hazards if water comes into contact with electricity, rendering the home unsafe.

    Besides visible rust and corrosion on the water heater, other signs can indicate a corroded water heater, such as rusty-looking or discolored water or water with a metallic smell. 

    The Water Heater Doesn’t Heat Water as Well 

    cold shower If a water heater fails to deliver hot water, the hot water runs out faster, or the water is lukewarm, it may also be time for replacement. After all, what’s the purpose of keeping and maintaining this device if it doesn’t do its job correctly? A water heater may fail to produce hot water for many reasons, including: 

    • The heating element has problems. Although this part can be replaced, replacing the entire system may be more cost-effective, especially if it’s over ten years old. The water heater’s life expectancy can be a factor in determining when to replace it. 
    • There are issues with the pilot light. This ignites the heating element and warms the water in the tank. If there’s an issue with the pilot light, it may indicate broader component problems.
    • Homeowners experience gas supply problems. This can disrupt the operation of gas-powered water heaters and pose safety concerns in homes.

    The Water Heater Constantly Needs Repairs or Is Too Old

    While it’s normal for water heaters to require occasional repairs, frequent issues justify system replacement. Frequent repairs:

    • Inconvenience homeowners who don’t want to deal with water heater problems constantly.
    • Add up in terms of cost, making replacement more cost-effective than paying for consistent repairs and higher water heating costs.
    • Disrupt daily life by leading to cold showers and ongoing concerns about repairs.

    Additionally, older water heaters should be replaced. Typically, storage water heaters that are over ten years old are recommended to be replaced. Tankless water heaters last longer, around twenty years, but they should also be replaced when nearing the end of their lifespan. Older units are less efficient, leading to higher energy bills, and experience more problems. 

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc. 

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

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    How Important Is Water Heater Maintenance?

    Don’t Be Left Without Hot Water 

    Readily available hot water is essential for homes. It’s used for showering, bathing, hand washing, and washing dishes and clothes. Losing hot water is incredibly inconvenient for a home, so protecting the hot water heater with routine maintenance and repairs when necessary is something that all homeowners should do to ensure the home has hot water and the water heater stays safe. Here is a quick guide about water heater maintenance and when repair is needed. 

    Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance 

    save money Water heaters are a vital part of every home, so it makes sense to protect them with routine maintenance. Scheduling professional water heater maintenance is proven to lower the risks of problems needing water heater repairs. It can also add years to the longevity of the unit. 

    Not only does water heater maintenance keep the water heater more reliable and last longer, but it also lowers the overall cost of heating water by improving the unit’s energy efficiency. Avoiding unnecessary repairs, extending the life of the water heater, and reducing water heating costs with routine maintenance can save homeowners a lot of money. 

    What Tasks Are Done During Water Heater Maintenance?

    water heater service When professionals handle routine water heater maintenance, they cover every potential point of failure, verify safety devices, and ensure the unit is heating efficiently. Some of the steps they take to make this possible are: 

    • Inspecting the anode rod to look for pitting and corrosion and replacing it when necessary to prevent tank corrosion
    • Checking the water heater for leaks and corrosion
    • Draining and flushing the water heater to remove solids from the tank that can cause problems like inefficiency and corrosion
    • Cleaning the burner or heating elements
    • Verifying the correct operation of all valves and safety devices 

    When to Call for Professional Water Heater Repairs 

    Water heaters do a lot of work every day, and they can suffer when not properly cared for with routine maintenance. But while maintenance leads to fewer issues and required repairs, it’s also essential to have water heater repair done when necessary to keep the system operating well and safely. Some of the signs that indicate water heater repairs are needed are:

    • Spikes in the energy bill
    • Issues with the water temperature 
    • Leaks from the water heater
    • Hot water looks cloudy or rusty
    • Odd noises from the water heater
    • Visible signs of corrosion 

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

    Water Heaters Only, Inc. has more than 50 years of expertise serving Phoenix and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, same-day service, and on-time service. Call them today for water heater maintenance and repair in Phoenix, AZ

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    Important Things to Know About Hard Water and Water Softeners

    Does Arizona Have Hard Water? What Is It? 

    There’s no getting around it. According to the City of Mesa, the city has hard water, generally evidenced by the white, chalky substance around faucets and showerheads. But what is hard water? 

    Hard water is when excessive sediment and minerals are in the water supply. Arizona gets its water from the Colorado River, the Salt River, and other groundwater sources. This water naturally has many minerals, most harmless but still not desirable. This post will share what water softeners do, their benefits, and common signs of hard water that can indicate to homeowners that they need a water softener. 

    The Function of a Water Softener 

    water softener Mesa residents don’t have to endure hard water and all its side effects. Instead, they can install a whole-home water softener that removes these minerals from the home’s water supply and provides many benefits for homeowners and households. Here’s a general overview of how these devices work: 

    • Water enters the house from the water main.
    • The water goes into the water softener, which contains sodium-charged resin beads. 
    • The resin beads attract the iron, calcium, and magnesium ions from the water––essentially swapping places with the sodium ions. 
    • The water exits the plumbing fixtures, free of these hard water minerals. 

    Homeowners Should Know the Signs of Hard Water 

    hard water Some signs of hard water in a household include: 

    • Frequent clogs or low water pressure: The minerals in hard water can deposit and build up in the home’s pipes, causing obstructions that impede water flow, which lead to plumbing issues like clogs and low water pressure. 
    • Spotted glasses: The minerals in hard water can cause unsightly spots on the surface of glasses and dishware after they have been washed in the dishwasher. 
    • Clothes that fade and feel rough: The minerals in hard water can take their toll on fabric in the wash, making them more likely to feel rough and fade quicker. 
    • White mineral deposits on fixtures: Hard water minerals can cause a white scale to build up on plumbing fixtures. 
    • Dry skin and hair: Showering and bathing with hard water can cause people to have dry and itchy skin and dry and dull hair due to the minerals and their reaction to soaps. 

    When washing their hands with hard water, a homeowner may also feel a film on their palms afterward. That’s due to a chemical reaction between the calcium in the water and the soap. It joins together to create a nasty soap scum. 

    Water Softeners Offer Many Benefits 

    After a water softener installation, homeowners may notice benefits such as: 

    • Cleaner dishes: Homeowners won’t have to deal with spots on dishware and glasses that don’t look clean when they come out of the dishwasher. 
    • Healthier skin and hair: Hair and skin can feel more hydrated and healthier with a water softener without itchiness. 
    • Better water pressure: Without minerals depositing inside the water supply pipes, homeowners can reduce the risk of clogs that can cause poor water pressure. 
    • Clothes that stay soft and bright: With a water softener, clothes that get washed will stay brighter and softer for longer. 
    • Save homeowners money: Water softeners can help save money by reducing plumbing problems and improving the lifespan and efficiency of appliances that use water. 

    About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

    Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving Mesa and the surrounding areas for more than five decades. They offer flat rate pricing and on-time and same-day service. Call them today for water softener services in Mesa, AZ

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    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.