Category Archives: Water Heaters

The Importance Of Regular Routine Water Heater Maintenance

January 11, 2017DC Plumber, Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Water Heatersmatt

Your water heater is an essential part of the plumbing system for your home or business. Because your water heater is the device that delivers hot water throughout your home or business, it’s important to keep your water heater in good condition. Your water heater should be both tested and maintained on a regular basis in order to ensure that it’s running efficiently. A professional plumber is the best person to test and maintain your water heater.

Save Money On Utility Bills

Keeping your water heater in good condition will help your home or business save money on your utility bills. And since your water heater is used more frequently when cold weather strikes, saving money on your utility bills is pretty important.

Types Of Water Heaters

There are many different types of water heaters such as gas, electric, and hybrid water heaters. A professional plumber has the skills and knowledge to repair or replace any type of commercial or residential water heater.

Routine Upkeep And Maintenance

Regardless of the type of water heater that you have routine upkeep and maintenance are essential in order to keep the unit running properly. You should have a professional plumber test and flush your water heater on a regular basis typically in autumn before the weather gets too cold. Testing the water heater ensures that it’s running like it should. Flushing the water heater is the process that removes the sediment that can build up in the unit over time and cause it to run slowly or to break down.

Other Simple Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Water Heater

There are a few simple things that you can do to both conserve water in your home or business while getting the most out of your water heater. For example if you run your wash machine and dish washer only during the evening hours it can reduce the stress on your water heater and save water at the same time.

Spacing Out Your Showers

Taking showers one right after the other, not only puts unnecessary stress on your water heater, but it also causes the hot water to run out faster. And since no one likes a cold shower, it’s a good idea to wait at least ten minutes between showers. And if you have overnight guests in your home, politely ask them to do the same.

Find Water Heater Repair In Your Area

If you need to find a professional plumber to make water heater repairs in your area, word of mouth is the best way to go about this. If you’re looking for DC water heater repair, for instance you can always ask a friend, family member, a neighbor or even someone you work with for a trusted recommendation. You can use the internet too but that may require more research and effort on your part. Word of mouth recommendations are a quick and easy way to find a company that provides the specific services that you need. And when you ask someone you know for a recommendation you can also ask questions about pricing and customer service that may not be shown on a company’s website.

Common Water Heater Problems

December 4, 2016Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Water Heatersmatt

You may not give much thought to your water heater, but it’s an important appliance in your home. And with colder temperatures right around the corner, keeping your water heater running efficiently is even more important. Here are a few common problems to look out for when it comes to your water heater. The first and most obvious problem that can go wrong with a water heater is a lack of hot water. If you have no hot water or not enough hot water you should contact a licensed, certified plumbing professional right away.

Common Problems

One common problem with water heaters is discolored water. Discolored water can not only stain your clothes, sinks, tubs, and toilets, it can cause wear and tear on your appliances and fixtures. It is also unsafe for you and your family to use. If you have discolored water, call a plumber as soon as possible. And never drink water that’s discolored because it can pose serious health risks. A noxious smell like rotten eggs is another indication that you may have a problem with your water heater. And finally if you hear any strange rumbling or popping noises coming from your water heater, it could mean there’s a problem with your unit. If you’re experiencing any of these issues get in touch with a professional plumber as quickly as possible to make the necessary repairs.

Preventing Problems With Your Hot Water Heater

There are a few things that you can do to prevent problems with your hot water heater. For example, you can have a certified, licensed plumbing professional conduct seasonal maintenance checks on your water heater to avoid problems in the future. Things like flushing, temperature checks, and testing the pressure release valve are important things a professional should do. You should also make sure that the water heater that you purchase has an extended warranty so you’re not responsible for repair costs. And it’s a good idea to buy a high efficiency water heater. This can save you up to twenty-five percent on your utility bill.

Choosing The Right Company To Repair Your Hot Water Heater

If you do have a problem with your water heater, there are a few things to keep in mind when you select a company to repair it. For instance, make sure that the company offers twenty-four hour emergency service. And if the company has to replace and repair your water heater, ensure that they will complete the job as quickly as possible so you’re not without a functioning water heater for an extended period of time. And finally, check to see that the company has good reviews and that the service technicians are trained, certified, and licensed.

Finding Water Heater Repair In Your Area

Finding the right company to repair your hot water heater is simple. The internet is your best resource. If you’re in DC for example, simply type DC water heater repair into your preferred search engine. If this doesn’t give you the information that you need, try asking a friend, family member or a co-worker for a trusted recommendation. These simple tips will ensure that your water heater is running efficiently for years to come.

Water Heater Maintenance Tips

December 3, 2016Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Water Heatersmatt

Maintaining your water heater on a regular basis will keep your family warm and comfortable no matter what time of year it is. You might not think much about your water heater until there’s a problem. But keeping the unit well-maintained will prevent the need for costly repairs and will save you from the inconvenience caused by the lack of hot water in your home. Without hot water, you and your family won’t be able to take baths or showers, wash dishes or do the laundry. So keep these maintenance tips in mind in order to keep your unit running smoothly year round.

Leave Water Heater Maintenance To A Trained Professional

If you’re in need of water heater maintenance or repair, don’t try to do it yourself. Hire a certified, licensed, trained professional. A professional plumber will be able to flush the water heater’s tank for you or complete any other necessary repairs. Flushing the tank is important because doing so will remove any sediment that can clog your water lines and cause the unit to leak or run less efficiently. In addition to flushing your hot water heater’s tank, a plumbing professional can also check the unit’s temperature pressure and relief valves, light a pilot that has gone out (if you have a gas water heater) as well as repair any leaks or drips in your unit.

Installing A New Water Heater

When and if you need to have your water heater replaced, a professional plumber that offers water heater repair in DC can do that for you too. And it doesn’t matter if your water heater is gas or electric because an experienced plumber will know how to install both types. No matter what type of water heater you have, it’s important to ensure that it’s well-insulated and inspected regularly by a trained professional. This is the best way to prevent problems with your water heater in the future. A professional plumber can also switch types, like from a conventional storage tank water heater to a tankless. They can also handle any additions and changes to the plumbing needed to upsize or downsize from the current size you have.

Water Heater Installation Costs

The cost of installing a new water heater will vary depending on the type of water heater you choose. You need to discuss this with your plumber, as he can first explain the pros and cons for what types of water heaters fit your situation and needs. Not all types will work in all homes without major changes being necessary. He can also help you narrow down which type will benefit you the most within your budget. Some models are more energy efficient and may save you money after the initial investment, and might be worth it in the long run. Talking to a professional plumber is the best way to find out what kind of water heater is right for your family, your budget, and your home. Using these tips will help with your water heater decisions and maintenance.

What To Do During A Plumbing Emergency

December 1, 2016DC Plumber, How To, Plumbing Advice, Water Heatersmatt

Plumbing emergencies can happen when you least expect them. But what do you do if a plumbing emergency does happen? Well the first thing that you should do is call a licensed certified DC emergency plumbing professional to take care of the problem for you. But here are a few tips that might make dealing with a plumbing emergency a little less stressful.

Shut Off The Water

If you’re in the middle of a plumbing emergency, one of the first things you may need to do is turn off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent flooding in an emergency situation. In order to shut off the main water valve, most often you will have to turn the valve clockwise. It is always good to locate your shut off valve prior to any problems, so you know where to go in case of an emergency situation.

Spot Small Leaks

Look around your home for any small leaks that you can take care of as soon as possible. Put rags, towels, or buckets around leaks to temporarily address the problem until a professional plumber arrives. It may be a good idea to have some plumber’s tape handy as well.

Watch Your Water Heater

In a plumbing emergency be sure to keep an eye on your water heater. You may need to turn it off in order to prevent further damage. Water heaters, electric, and gas are dangerous things and should only be worked on by professionals. If you feel you may need to turn off your water heater, explain what is happening to the plumber on the phone, and ask him if you need to do anything before he arrives. He’ll know best, and be able to offer guidance.

Drains And Spigots

After you shut off the main water supply, there will be water in the pipes. Remember to open the drains and spigots so that the water can drain away. This holds true for drains and spigots on both the inside and outside of your home. Don’t use any harsh chemical drain cleaners, because they can cause even more damage.

Listen

During an extreme emergency you may be ordered to leave your home for your own safety. If you’re instructed to do so, do as you’re told. It could save the lives of both you and your family in an emergency situation.

Examples Of Common Plumbing Emergencies

So how do you know if your plumbing problem is an emergency? Plumbing emergencies are any situation that compromises the health or safety of you or your family. Some examples of plumbing emergencies are things like extremely hot water. If your water is hot enough to burn your skin, it’s an indication of a problem with your water heater. Leaking water heaters should also be considered a plumbing emergency. Other examples of plumbing emergencies are things like frozen pipes or leaking pipes, overflowing toilets, waste smells, gas leaks or noisy garbage disposals. If you encounter any of these situations call a professional plumber right away.

Water Heater Options

November 13, 2016Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Water Heatersmatt

Most people individually consume far more than they produce. Despite this being true, most individuals do not consciously label themselves as “consumers.” Though the reasons for this lack of labeling may be many and varied, one reason people do not label themselves consumers may be rooted in the term’s perceived negative connotations. Of course, this doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, there is a movement towards becoming what is sometimes referred to as a “conscious consumer.” Not only does this movement exist today through publications like Consumer Reports, it has historically been able to gain traction among a much larger segment of the public.

Do A Little Research

The first step toward becoming a conscious consumer is understanding the options you have available before purchasing. Too often, people simply default to whatever option a salesperson presents or whatever option they observe or hear about from fellow consumers. A smarter consumer takes the time to understand their options and, most importantly, the difference between the options and which option might thus work best for their unique, individual situation. When it comes to purchasing things like cell phones, advertising and socio-cultural trends make the different options obvious to consumers. With less flashy items, people may not understand that there are different purchase options at all. Here is a look at one of those purchase items: the water heater. There are actually many water heater options available to consumers and each may be beneficial depending on an individual’s circumstances.

Conventional Storage

Conventional storage water heaters are the most popular option. They involve a storage container which offers a ready-supply of hot water. Conventional storage water heaters work by maintaining hot water at the top of the tank that is released when the hot water tap is turned on—cold water then comes in through the bottom of the tank to replace the lost hot water. They may be powered by a variety of fuel sources including natural gas, propane, fuel oil and electricity. One drawback to these systems is that because they maintain a constant supply of hot water, they use energy even when hot water is not being used.

Tankless

Tankless water heaters, otherwise referred to as demand-type water heaters, provide hot water only when needed. This solves the aforementioned problem of energy loss inherent in conventional storage water heaters. With tankless systems, when the hot water is turned on, cold water fills the unit which is then heated by either gas or electricity. Another benefit of these systems is that the supply of hot water they provide is constant, rather than limited to the certain stored amount in a conventional system. A drawback to a tankless system is its constant heating of a smaller water supply limits its flow rate.

Heat Pump

Heat pumps are usually used in a home’s HVAC system to heat and cool the home, but they may also be used to heat water. Sometimes they function as the sole source of hot water, other times they operate as a supplement in a multi-part system. Heat pumps work with the heat that already exists (has already been generated) within a home’s energy system. Heat pumps use electricity to move heat where it is needed, rather than heat the water directly. Heat pumps can be multiple times more energy efficient than conventional water heaters, which work against the electricity of the house rather than with it.

Other types of water heaters include solar powered water heaters, tankless coil, and indirect water heaters. Another aspect of being a conscious consumer, of course, is proper maintenance of your purchases. Contact a DC water heater repair company if you think you may be interested in installing, upgrading or maintaining your water heater.