Sunday, August 25, 2013

Water Heater Replacement Overview

By Carol Richardson


Believe it or not, the water heater ranks as the third most energy-consuming appliances in your household. To keep it in good working condition, perform regular water heater maintenance every six months. Doing this spares you from costly repairs in the long run. If you think your water heater is getting rusty, consider buying a replacement right before your old unit breaks down. This will give you enough time in looking for the best heating system for your household.

There are several factors to consider if your water heater needs to be replaced. Have you been using it for more than a decade? An aging unit will eventually heat water inefficiently that can cause a great inconvenience to you and your family. Ask help from a specialist to determine if you need a timely water heater replacement.

Before carrying out any repairs, do not forget to shut down the electricity or gas connected to the water heater. This is important to protect you from fatal accidents and mishaps. Neglecting this step can put your life at risk while performing water heater repairs. Always ensure to have a safe environment to work with, since water heaters can pose serious dangers.

Electric water heaters can last up to fifteen years while gas-fired units last about ten to twelve years. Consider buying a tankless water heater since it lasts longer compared to traditional units. You may find it expensive, but you'll be surprised how much electricity you can save in using a modern and energy-efficient heating system.

Do not wait your water to contaminate before buying a replacement unit. Excessive sediments and hard water mineral deposits can affect your water quality, resulting to discolored water that comes with a foul odor. Contaminated water, once ingested, can cause major health complications since it is filled with chemicals and bacteria. At times like this, look for a replacement water heater to protect your family from harm.

If you see signs of moisture near your unit, check your tank for leaks. Your pipe fittings and valves may be loose, causing water to leak easily. Look for rust stains around the tank to help you spot the cause of the leak. Tighten the valves and the fittings and replace those that are badly damaged. This is important to protect other parts of your water heater.

Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular to homeowners. Forget insulating your water heater and keeping it free from rust. This kind of heater will not have many problems as it only heats water on demand. No need to save a large space in your basement for a huge storage tank. These heaters are more expensive but are definitely worth your money since they consume less electricity than your old unit.

Deciding when to replace a water heater is important. You don't want to commit the mistake of buying a new unit too soon, especially if the issue can still be repaired. If you find the damage beyond repair, it is better to replace it as soon as possible. When in doubt, ask professional advice from a specialist.




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