How to Know if You Need a Water Softener at Home

What Causes Hard Water?

Did you know excessive calcium and magnesium minerals can be mixed in the water supply? As the water passes through rock formations like limestone, it picks up minerals, which can result in hard water. 

Even though it is not harmful to the family’s health, it can still cause issues at home, like scale buildup in pipes, decreased efficiency of water heaters, and problems with laundry, dishwashing, and overall personal care.

The best action plan is to know the signs of hard water and then look for solutions, such as installing a water softener system in your home. To further improve the water quality at home, here’s a quick guide to water softeners and how homeowners can benefit from them.

How Do Water Softeners Make Soft Water?

water softenerThe most common type of water softener undergoes the ion exchange system, where hard water passes through a resin bed filled with sodium or potassium ions. As the water flows through, the calcium magnesium ions are replaced by sodium or potassium, softening the water.

Another common type of water softener is a salt-free water conditioner, which removes minerals using a catalytic medium to prevent them from forming scales. This type of system is ideal for those who want to reduce scale without adding sodium to their water. Both systems effectively reduce the effects of hard water, leading to a smoother, more efficient water flow throughout the home.

Signs of Hard Water

hard water Hard water often causes stains and crusty deposits on fixtures and soap scum that’s difficult to remove. Owners may also observe that their clothes fade quickly and feel stiff after washing. Additionally, scale buildup in pipes can reduce water flow, affecting the condition of the equipment. 

Hard water can leave noticeable signs in homes that indicate the need for a water softener system. One of the most common signs is dry hair and skin because hard water can easily strip away natural oils, leaving skin and locks feeling rough and dehydrated. Another manifestation is the spots and cloudy film on the dishes caused by the mineral deposits left behind by hard water.

Whole Home Water Softeners and Their Benefits

Installing a whole-home water softener provides numerous benefits that enhance a home’s comfort, efficiency, and longevity. A water softener helps prevent costly repairs and prolongs a plumbing system’s life by reducing the wear and tear on fixtures and pipes. Soft water also means less time cleaning scale buildup from bathroom fixtures and kitchen appliances, allowing everyone to enjoy a cleaner home. Ultimately, a water softener saves money by extending the life of appliances, reducing energy bills, and lowering maintenance costs, making it a valuable investment for any household.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. helps homeowners everywhere improve the quality of their water and the performance of their plumbing systems. They offer live assistance and flat-rate pricing on all water treatment systems to make them more affordable. Call today for water softening service in Annapolis, MD. 

Benefits of Commercial Water Heater Maintenance

Why Schedule Water Heater Maintenance?

Water heaters are often essential appliances in businesses and commercial properties. They are used to heat water for all sorts of tasks. But when a commercial water heater malfunctions, it can make things more difficult and inconvenient. To avoid issues with the water heater and ensure it continues working properly, they must receive regular maintenance. Here are some of the most significant benefits of routine commercial water heater maintenance. 

Leads to Better Efficiency and Lower Costs

save money Routine water heater maintenance can save business owners money. Over time, minerals and sediment can build up in water heaters, negatively impacting temperatures and efficiency. This causes the water heater to use more energy to function properly, raising utility bills. The sediment buildup can also speed up corrosion in the water heater. 

Some tasks that are part of water heater maintenance include draining and flushing the tank to remove sediment and replacing the anode rod, which attracts sediment and minerals, to prevent corrosion. These maintenance tasks help keep the water heater working efficiently, which will help property and business owners save on water heating costs. 

More Reliable and Less Likely to Need Repairs

water heater Neglecting regular maintenance on commercial water heaters can lead to unexpected breakdowns, system damage, and costly repairs. Without maintenance, sediment accumulation in the tank, corrosion, and inefficiency in the system’s operation can occur, which can cause additional problems. For example, corrosion in the water heater due to a lack of maintenance can lead to leaks. 

On the contrary, a well-maintained water heater is less likely to suffer from these issues. Regular maintenance allows for the early identification and prevention of potential problems. This proactive approach not only helps avoid problems and breakdowns but also contributes to savings by dodging repair bills. So, investing in routine maintenance ensures more reliable performance with a lower risk of damage. 

Leads to a Longer Lifespan

A commercial water heater is an investment, and business and property owners should treat it as such. Keeping up with water heater maintenance also helps extend the lifespan of the water heater, leading to more savings by delaying the need for replacement. During maintenance, a plumber can perform tasks that help the water heater last longer and find and fix potential problems that could cause additional damage that requires replacing it. 

Additionally, routine water heater maintenance often helps keep warranties active. If a system has a warranty, one requirement may be yearly tune-ups. Ultimately, commercial water heater maintenance has many benefits and can save money in the long run through efficiency and fewer repairs and replacements. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas since 1947. They provide flat rates, live assistance, and unparalleled customer service. Call them for commercial plumbing and water heater services in Annapolis, MD

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How a Water Filtration System Could Be the Best Thing for a Home in the New Year

Why Get a Whole Home Water Filter Installation?

Our homes are our sanctuaries. It is where we are most comfortable, so it makes sense to create an environment where we are healthy, which is why a whole home water filtration system is a perfect fit for such an important part of our lives.

Water filters are meant to keep the water we use and consume at home safe from contaminants that can make us ill at worst and, at best, create a bad taste. Water filtration systems transform water into a better, safer version of itself. This post will discuss how they work, their benefits, and some signs they are needed. 

How a Water Filter Works

water filterAs the name implies, a water filtration system is a device that is meant to filter out or remove contaminants from the water to make it cleaner and safer for consumption. What makes water filters more complicated to comprehend is that there are many ways to achieve clean water, and the different types relate to the method by which it removes contaminants. 

Some of the most popular and common kinds are reverse osmosis filters, carbon filtration, and water softeners. Reverse osmosis water filters use a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids. The membrane has tiny pores that allow water molecules to pass through while blocking larger particles like impurities. 

Carbon water filtration involves passing water through activated carbon, which has a large surface area that can trap impurities in its pores. The carbon acts as an absorbent, effectively removing chemicals and other contaminants from the water. 

Water softeners differ from the other filters in that they remove the minerals that cause hard water instead of cleaning the water itself. They use an ion exchange process, replacing unwanted ions, such as calcium and magnesium, with more desirable ones, like sodium or potassium. This is achieved through a resin bed that attracts and exchanges ions as they pass through. 

Advantages of Having a Whole House Water Filter

clear water Having a whole home water filter can be advantageous. They can remove contaminants from the home’s water supply to make it safer. Then, specific ones like water softeners can remove excess hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium that can cause damage to the plumbing and appliances. 

Whole house water filters are also incredibly convenient and can save money over time. They can eliminate the need to purchase water bottles from the store since they create a clean and safe water source. Needless to say, doing away with bottled water is also good for the environment as it reduces plastic waste.

How to Tell if a Home Needs a Water Filter 

While most homes can benefit significantly from a water filter installation, there are also signs residents can watch for. Some signs a water filtration system installation is necessary are if the home’s water smells or tastes bad or doesn’t appear clear. 

Additionally, a home may need a water softener installation if homeowners notice dry skin and hair or a scale buildup like a white residue on plumbing fixtures. Plumbers can help homeowners determine their water quality and which water filtration system may be needed for their homes. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas. They offer dependable, flat rates, live assistance, and fast, on-time service. Call them today for water filtration system installation in Annapolis, MD

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Common Signs It’s Time for Water Heater Replacement

How to Tell When a Water Heater Needs to Be Replaced

Water heaters are such a staple of everyday life that it’s easy to take them for granted – until they stop working, that is. When the water heater goes on the fritz, homeowners are quickly reminded of how frequently they use their water heater and how essential it is for good hygiene, sanitation, comfort, and cleanliness.

So if the water heater goes out unexpectedly, waiting for it to be replaced can feel like an eternity – especially in the middle of a frigid Maryland winter. So, to avoid getting stuck without hot water, homeowners can learn how to spot the warning signs of a water heater on its last leg. Here are some easy ways for homeowners to know when it’s time for water heater replacement.

Corroded Water Heater

water heater corrosionThe first way to tell that the water heater needs replacing is if the water heater is rusted and corroded. Common signs of corrosion in the water heater are hot water that is rust-colored, murky, or cloudy, or it has a metallic smell. These issues typically indicate that the water heater tank is corroded. Conventional storage water heaters have devices called anode rods inside the tank that attract corrosive substances to prevent them from corroding the tank. However, the anode rod must be replaced periodically to provide continuous protection against corrosion.

Similarly, if sediment and minerals are allowed to build up inside the tank, it can cause temperature issues and damage the tank’s glass inner liner, exposing the tank to corrosion. This is why regular water heater maintenance is so vital for the health and longevity of the unit. Unfortunately, water heater corrosion is generally regarded as the kiss of death – a corroded hot water tank is corrupted and will lead to leaks if not replaced.

A Lack of Hot Water

cold shower One sign of a faulty water heater that will come as no surprise to anyone is a loss of hot water. Whether the shower never gets hot, water comes out cold or lukewarm when the hot water tap is open, or the hot water doesn’t last as long as it used to, a lack of hot water is a sure sign there’s something wrong with the water heater, and it may need to be replaced.

There are several possible causes of hot water loss in storage and tankless water heaters. These include dirty gas burners, malfunctioning heating elements, sediment buildup in the tank, a broken heat exchanger, a faulty thermocouple, and faulty wiring –  to name a few. In some cases, homeowners may simply need water heater repair or maintenance to get things back to normal. However, depending on the issue, its severity, and the age of the unit, replacing the water heater may be necessary.

The Water Heater Is Near the End of Its Life or Needs Repairs Often

Lastly, the age of the water heater may be reason enough to replace it – particularly if it acts up or needs to be repaired often. A typical storage water heater’s life expectancy is 10–15 years, while a tankless water heater’s life expectancy is around 20 years. If the unit is nearing those ages, it’s best to replace it before it breaks down and leaves the home without hot water. Newer water heaters are much more energy efficient than older models, so a water heater upgrade can help reduce water heating costs.

Another reason to replace a water heater is if it requires more frequent repairs and service visits to stay in good working order. Not only is it inconvenient to constantly have to deal with water heater issues, but shelling out for repairs over and over again can add up over time. If it gets to the point where homeowners have to call for water heater repair every year for an older unit, they’re better off investing in a new water heater. Homeowners can consult a plumber to see whether a water heater replacement is best. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They offer dependable, flat rates, live assistance, and preventative maintenance agreements. Call them today for water heater installation or repair in Annapolis, MD

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Is Your House Haunted, or Is That Spooky Sound a Water Hammer?

Water Hammer Sounds Can Be Scary, Here’s How to Deal With Them

Most homeowners know all the everyday sounds that can be heard in their homes, but occasionally, a loud, unknown sound may surprise them. Thankfully, the loud, banging noises in the walls aren’t the sounds of a haunting this Halloween but could be a plumbing phenomenon called a water hammer. 

Understanding What It Is

A water hammer may sound like banging, which is the result of hydraulic shock that transpires when the shut-off valve on a high-pressure water line suddenly locks in place. The sound is caused by a pressure surge when water in a pipe is forced to stop or change direction quickly. 

Most pipes have pockets of air inside them that help cushion against the sound of a water hammer, so if the water hammer sound occurs in a home, this usually means that the air chambers are clogged or filled up with water. It’s important to clear the air pockets in both cases by draining the line. Otherwise, water hammer sounds will persist.

Potential Risks of a Water Hammer

water hammer Unfortunately, the risks of water hammers aren’t just about the inconvenience of dealing with noisy water pipes or banging sounds behind the walls where the pipes are located. There are very real risks to a water hammer that homeowners should take seriously to save themselves from a lot of trouble down the line.

Aside from noisy pipes, water hammers can result in damage to the piping as well as their joints and connectors. This can lead to problems like leaks, broken and ruptured pipes, damage to the pump and flow system, and extensive water damage to the property. So, if someone suspects a water hammer, they should call a plumber to fix it.

Methods for Professional Water Hammer Repair

water hammer service A plumber can determine the best solution for a water hammer based on the situation, which may include one or a combination of the following repair methods:

  • Draining the plumbing system: Because the transient flow of water in a plumbing system is likely to cause a water hammer when the air chambers are full of water, one possible solution is to drain these chambers and clear out the water.
  • Installing a water hammer arrestor: Water hammer arrestors are built to absorb the jolt associated with a sudden water pressure increase. This is because they have air-filled cylinders that are designed for that purpose. It is a good option for most homes since these devices are easy to install for a professional.
  • Adjusting the water pressure: Sometimes, a simple adjustment to the water pressure in the system by adjusting the pressure-reducing valve can do wonders in eliminating the water hammer. 
  • Tightening and stabilizing loose pipes: Banging pipes can sometimes result from pipes that haven’t been correctly fastened in place, creating more movement that can worsen noise and damage. Stabilizing these loose pipes with pipe straps or securing them with studs and screws can help eliminate these loud sounds.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, live assistance, and a maintenance plan. Call them today for plumbing services in Annapolis, MD

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How to Identify Water Leaks at Home

Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips for Catching Leaks 

A leak is one of the most common plumbing problems people encounter at home. While most leaks are relatively easy to find and fix for plumbers, hidden leaks could be neglected because homeowners don’t even know they are there. If leaks are not caught early on, they can result in extensive water damage and high water bills. Homeowners should learn the signs that point to a potential water leak so they can call a plumber to nip the problem in the bud early and prevent it from becoming a major problem.

Signs to Watch Out For

When it comes to water leak detection, the signs can be clear, especially knowing what to look for. The following are some of the most common signs that point to a possible water leak:

  • Low water pressure
  • Presence of mold and mildew
  • Water stains 
  • Peeling paint 
  • Drooping ceiling
  • Damaged floors and carpeting
  • Running water sound when no water is used

Unusually High Water Bill

billApart from the signs mentioned above, one particular indicator stands out as an obvious sign of a leak: a water bill that is higher than usual, especially if there has been no significant change in water consumption from one month to the next. A high water bill is an important signifier of a leak because even small leaks that might not display any of the previous signs can waste a lot of money and be noticed through water costs. 

High water bills are likely due to a leak because it indicates that water continues to run even if no fixtures and water-using appliances are being used. The only explanation for water continuing to run in this manner is if it exits from a leak in the system, either within the network of pipes, from a fixture, or through a loose joint or connection.  

Use the Water Meter for Leak Detection

water meterWhile professional leak detection equipment is the best way to confirm a leak, it is still possible for a homeowner to do this without the help of such devices. A home’s water meter can be used to determine whether a leak is present in the plumbing system. Some kinds of water meters have a leak detector in the shape of a small red or blue triangle that spins when no water is being used in the home to indicate a leak. 

If this leak indicator is not present with a home’s water meter, it is still possible to use the meter to determine the presence of a leak. All a homeowner has to do is make sure all the plumbing fixtures and appliances that use water are shut off and then record the water meter reading. Then, they can come back after a few hours to check if the meter reading has changed without any water having been used in that time. Any change in the reading means that water has continued to run even if it’s not being used, with the most likely cause of the water consumption being a leak in the plumbing system, which alerts homeowners that they need to call a plumber. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing business serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas since 1947. They offer flat rates, live assistance, and fast, efficient service. Call them today for leak repair services in Annapolis, MD

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Get a Fresh Start This Valentine’s Day and Kick the Old Water Heater to the Curb

Signs a New Water Heater is Needed

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate the special people in life, but for some, it may be a time to take stock of the relationship and make a decision. Deciding whether to weather the storm or cut and run can be hard, but it takes careful analysis to make a good decision. 

Deciding to stick with the current water heater in the home can be an equally difficult decision. Water heaters are expensive appliances, so they shouldn’t be replaced without good reason. On the other hand, water heaters are necessary, so if the current model fails to do its job, replacing it may be the best option. Making this decision can be difficult, but luckily, there are relationship advisers in the form of local plumbers. These experts offer advice to help make a wise decision in this difficult situation. 

Corrosion 

corrosionCorrosion is a natural reaction between oxygen and the base metals that make up a home’s water heater and piping. One of the biggest enemies of reliable plumbing over the centuries has been corrosion, and many creative methods have been used to deal with it. In modern water heaters, the tank is protected by a special rod of metal designed to be corrupted before the metal of the water tank. This rod is called an anode rod.

Over time, the anode rod will be corroded away, leaving the tank unprotected. When this happens, rusty spots may appear on the water tank, or corrosion can occur on copper pipes near the tank. Eventually, the tank will begin to leak and need to be replaced. If the water heater is showing signs of corrosion, then it is a good time to schedule a water heater replacement. 

Inadequate Amount of Hot Water 

A water heater has one job: to provide adequate hot water to a family for laundry, cleaning dishes, and performing comfortable hygiene rituals. As a water heater ages, it loses its ability to keep up with the demands placed upon it. Inefficiencies develop, and eventually, someone will be stuck in the middle of a shower with no hot water. 

While a few water heater repairs may be made to restore lost efficiency, the water heater will most likely need to be replaced. Water heater replacement will allow homeowners to select a unit with a faster recovery time so that no one will get stuck taking a shower without hot water again. 

High Energy Bills 

A loss of efficiency in the water heater has consequences other than simply losing hot water. It can also drive up utility costs. Heating water is expensive and can account for more than 10% of monthly utility bills. Over the years, the cost will continue to climb as inefficiencies are more pronounced. Water heater replacement is a great place to start for homeowners looking for relief from high water heating bills. 

A new water heater will inherently be more energy efficient than one more than five years old. In addition, homeowners can select models that are designed more effectively. All in all, installing a new water heater will restore lost efficiency and lower monthly energy bills. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. has served the community of Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas since 1947. They offer flat rates, emergency assistance, and honest, quality service. Call them today for water heater repair and installation in Annapolis, MD

Dealing With Sudden Low Water Pressure

What is Affecting the Water Pressure?

Consistent water pressure in a home is something people tend to take for granted. Modern plumbing systems are designed to allow good water pressure with the most efficient amount of water usage, so when people see a dip in water pressure, there is often a problem that needs to be addressed.

Sometimes only one area of the house shows signs of decreased water pressure, and sometimes it is throughout the house. A finite number of things can cause low water pressure, but there are many variations of the same theme.

Leaky Pipes

leaksWhen a pipe leaks, some water goes in a different direction than it should. Low water pressure may be the first sign of a problem like a leak, especially if the decrease is sudden.

Older pipes tend to become corroded, which can lead to holes in the pipe that allow water to escape and cause structural damage to the home. If there is a pressure problem, especially if it’s throughout the house, the homeowner may need to search for leaks. Once leaks are fixed, the water pressure should return to normal.

Scale Buildup and Sediment Clogs

Aging pipes are not only responsible for leaks, but they can be responsible for clogs as well, which can lead to low water pressure. Hard water can also result in scale buildup and mineral deposits on the sides of pipes that can grow, leading to smaller passageways for water to travel through. This and other debris can get caught in a sink aerator and immediately affect water pressure. Here are a few of the things that can enter pipes that can cause issues:

  • Rust or other corrosion
  • Scale(calcium and magnesium) buildup
  • Dirt, grease, or food waste
  • Contamination from a crack in the main supply line

The solution to these problems may be fairly simple but will require a trained professional to do it right. Pipes may need to be replaced in extreme cases, or it may be a simple matter of flushing the lines and installing a water softener to prevent further buildup. Contamination in the main line can be a serious problem that may lead back to the municipal source.

Problems With Valves and Fixtures

valveIf the water pressure issue seems to be isolated to a single fixture, such as low water pressure in the shower, this could be a problem with the fixture itself. There could be a loose handle or clog in the shower head. A homeowner may need to verify if all connections are tight. Here are a few examples:

  • Corrosion or scale buildup: If this has blocked the individual fixture, it may simply need to be removed and cleaned or replaced. The root of the problem (hard water or corroded pipes) will still be there, but the fixture should go back to normal water pressure.
  • Loose Connections: Sometimes, screws can ream out the threads on valves that control the water, such as sink and tub handles. The pieces can wear out and may not turn on as much as they normally would, leading to a dripping faucet. Replacing these parts is very easy for a trained plumbing technician.

If the entire house is experiencing low water pressure, the issue may be from the main shut-off valve or the water meter valve. If these are closed or are only partially open, then it will result in poor water pressure. These valves are two sides of the same coin. The water meter valve is on the city side of the main supply, and the main shut-off valve is on the home side of the main supply line.

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company with over 70 years of experience serving its neighbors in Annapolis, MD, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat-rate pricing, unparalleled customer service, and emergency assistance. Call them today for plumbing services in Annapolis, MD.

How to Avoid Getting Pinched By Rising Water Bills This St. Patrick’s Day

Go Green This St. Patrick’s Day To Save Green

Forgetting to wear green this St. Patrick’s Day is less important than failing to save green with rising water bills! In this blog post, plumbing experts share their favorite tips for cutting back water bill spending. Water conservation is good for the wallet and good for the environment. By cutting back on water use at home, homeowners can protect their wallets from getting pinched by the price of water bills and reduce their home’s environmental impact.  

Turn Off the Tap While Brushing Teeth tap

This tip applies for all tasks where the tap could be shut off, such as washing hands, washing dishes, or brushing teeth. Being mindful of how much water is being used during daily grooming and cleaning routines can go a long way in cutting back on how much water the household uses. Many people do not think that when water goes down the drain unused, it is essentially the same as money going down the drain. 

Homeowners can upgrade their bathroom plumbing to keep water costs low by installing a touchless faucet in the bathroom sink. Touchless faucets use motion-detecting technology to turn the water off automatically when not in use. This helps to prevent the faucet from being accidentally left running. 

baths vs showers

 

Take Shorter Showers

Most people think that taking a shower vs. a bath will automatically save them more water, but long showers are more wasteful than baths. To keep water expenditure low, homeowners should take five to ten-minute showers. While shampooing hair or shaving, the showerhead should be shut off for maximum water efficiency. Water use can also be limited when taking baths by using less water. 

Another option for making the shower plumbing more efficient is upgrading the showerhead. New showerheads are made eco-friendly and use less water. Low flow showerheads are designed to create more water pressure while using less water. Installing a new showerhead can reduce water use without sacrificing water pressure. 

 

Be Careful Flushing 

A clogged toilet can cause problems for the overall bathroom plumbing and increase water waste. The toilet connects to the main water line, so it can affect the entire plumbing system when a clog occurs. Another reason why clogged toilets may increase water usage is that the homeowner may need to flush multiple times to remove the clog. 

The general rule homeowners should follow is never use the toilet as a trashcan. The only thing that should be flushed down toilets is the appropriate toilet paper or wipes. Any other debris should always be disposed of in the bathroom wastebasket. 

About Heidler, Inc.

Heidler, Inc. has been serving the Annapolis area with outstanding plumbing and heating services since 1947. This trusted local company is family-owned and operated and offers flat-rate pricing, so homeowners don’t have to deal with surprise charges. Call them today to schedule an appointment with an experienced plumber in Annapolis, MD.

Put a New Water Heater At the Top of Your Holiday Wishlist!

A New Water Heater Is the Gift Every Homeowner Deserves This Holiday Season!

It’s not uncommon to wish for new appliances during the holidays. Usually, it’s something to beef up the kitchen like a handy breadmaker, a bigger toaster oven, or even a fancy new smart refrigerator. But for some homeowners, it’s a replacement for that old clunker of a water heater that keeps breaking down. 

The water heater is the heart of the home’s plumbing system. Things can get pretty uncomfortable if it’s constantly malfunctioning or failing to provide enough hot water. It’s only a matter of time before the unit gives out completely and leaves the home without hot water. This article will explain how to tell when a water heater is on its last leg, what problems can be solved with repairs, and how a home can benefit from a water heater replacement.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Water Heater

For the most part, it’s usually pretty easy to tell when the water heater isn’t working properly. Some common symptoms include:

  • The water won’t get hot enough
  • The hot water runs out quickly
  • The water temperature keeps fluctuating
  • The hot water is discolored or has a funky smell
  • The hot water pressure is weak compared to the cold
  • The water won’t get hot at all 

Other signs can be observed not through the water but at the point of the water heater itself, such as evidence of leaks on or around the unit, unusual noises such as popping, rumbling, or hissing. Some units even have status indicator lights to alert the owner of an anomaly or problem.

When To Repair & When To Replace

water heater In some cases, replacing the whole water heater may not be the best option. Water heaters aren’t exactly cheap, so if the problem can be solved with repairs, why shell out all that money unnecessarily? Simply cleaning the burners or replacing a faulty thermostat may resolve temperature issues. A partially closed valve could be responsible for low pressure. A loose pipe fitting or worn relief valve could cause a leak.

Of course, some issues are more serious and can lead to further damage if left unchecked. If the tank’s anode rod is depleted, for instance, the tank may begin to rust if a new rod isn’t installed immediately. Delayed ignition due to dirty burners can crack the heat exchanger – a very expensive fix. If sediment buildup in the tank isn’t flushed out in time, it could cause the tank to crack and leak, which cannot be repaired and will necessitate replacing the entire unit.

If the cost to repair the unit is half the cost of a replacement or more, it may make more sense to go for the latter. This is especially true if the unit is more than a few years old, as the average lifespan of a water heater is around 10 years (or closer to 20 for tankless units). 

Key Benefits of Upgrading the Water Heater

water heater Even if a full replacement isn’t strictly necessary, it does carry some major benefits. For one thing, homeowners can upgrade to a new and improved model that better serves their needs. 

Many people find that their old water heater can no longer keep up with the household demand for hot water – particularly if the family has gotten bigger over the years. This may be the perfect opportunity to switch to a larger unit that can handle the load or even to a tankless water heater. These heat water only as needed, reducing standby energy consumption and making it possible to have an endless flow of hot water.

New water heaters, whether traditional or tankless, are also significantly more efficient than their older counterparts, thanks to continuous advancements in water heater technology. In this way, upgrading to a new water heater can end up saving homeowners money in the long run – truly, the gift that keeps giving!

About Heidler, Inc.

The family-owned and operated Heidler, Inc. has been the trusted local plumber in Annapolis, Maryland, since 1947. They offer up-front pricing, 24-hour emergency response, and a range of rewarding maintenance plans. With their award-winning customer service and tailor-made solutions, they are the clear choice for water heater installation in Annapolis, MD.