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  • Things That Homeowners Should Know About Water Heater Replacement

    A Quick Guide to Water Heater Replacement 

    Nobody wants to get stuck without hot water. Luckily, there are signs homeowners can watch out for indicating water heater replacement is needed. This water heater replacement guide will share some important basics to know about replacing a water heater, including signs it’s needed, its benefits, and choosing between a gas and electric water heater. 

    Signs That Water Heater Replacement Is Needed

    dirty water A water heater works hard, providing hot water for the household, until it can't anymore. However, water heaters show signs they need replacing before this point. Recognizing the signs indicating water heater replacement is needed and calling a plumber for a new water heater installation can help prevent unexpected cold showers, leaks, and more problems.

    One clear sign to replace a water heater is corrosion. However, besides visible rust and corrosion on the water heater, other signs of a corroded water heater can include rusty or discolored water flowing from hot water taps and hot water with a metallic smell. The deterioration of a water heater due to corrosion not only affects the hot water quality but can also lead to leaks and water damage. 

    A water heater’s age can also indicate that replacement is needed. Most conventional water heaters last about 8-12 years, so when the water heater has been in service for over 10 years, it may be time for a replacement. Another sign of an aging water heater that can indicate replacement is needed is high utility costs, as the energy efficiency of a water heater declines over time. Other unmistakable indicators to call for water heater replacement include a leaking water heater, insufficient hot water for the household's needs, and units that need frequent repairs.

    Benefits of Water Heater Replacement

    save money Replacing an old water heater and installing a new high-efficiency water heater can deliver immediate advantages. A new, efficient water heater installation improves energy efficiency and reduces water heating costs. According to Energy Star, water heating accounts for around 15% of the energy used in a household, and high-efficiency models can use 10-50% less energy than conventional water heaters. So, replacing an old water heater that has decreased in efficiency due to aging and installing a high-efficiency one can save money on utility bills.

    Additionally, with a new water heater that is more reliable and has a lower risk of needing repair, homeowners can also save on repair costs associated with aging systems that can experience more problems. Beyond the monetary advantages, having a more reliable water heater can prevent cold showers and discomfort from water heater problems, and new water heaters can offer faster recovery rates, meaning less waiting between showers when multiple people need hot water. Modern units can also deliver more consistent water temperatures without the fluctuations common in aging systems. 

    Choosing Between an Electric and Gas Water Heater

    One decision that needs to be made before a new water heater installation is whether to install a gas or electric water heater. Both types offer distinct advantages, so the best choice for a home will depend on what homeowners prefer and factors like the installation cost, monthly operating costs, household size, and more. Plumbers can also help homeowners make an informed decision.

    Electric water heaters cost less upfront than gas models and are easier to install. Safety represents another significant advantage of an electric water heater installation. Unlike gas water heaters, electric models don’t use natural gas to heat water, eliminating combustion concerns and carbon monoxide risks. 

    Gas water heaters, while more expensive initially, can deliver superior long-term value through lower operational costs, saving homeowners money on monthly water heating costs. A gas water heater installation is also beneficial due to their fast heating times and high heating capacity, making them great for large households. 

    About Quahog Plumbing

    Quahog Plumbing has more than 15 years of experience serving the Somerset community. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day services, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for water heater installation and repair services in Somerset, MA. 

  • Keep the Hot Water Flowing With Water Heater Maintenance

    Is Maintaining Your Water Heater Really That Important?

    Like many major appliances, a water heater needs regular maintenance to maintain efficiency. An inefficient water heater won’t keep the hot water flowing for long! Also, several manufacturers require the system to be flushed and inspected at least once a year to keep the warranty valid.

    Checking the water heater once a year does more than just make sure there is always hot water. Regular maintenance extends the water heater's life and prevents unexpected damage from leaking or failing parts.

    What to Expect During Water Heater Maintenance

    water heater maintenanceBefore scheduling water heater maintenance, homeowners should know what to expect. This routine service includes flushing the unit, testing the thermostat and valves, checking and replacing the anode rod as needed, and looking for leaks or rust. Never omit the flush, which is the most crucial part of water heater maintenance. Scaling may occur inside the water heater because of silt accumulation. This can lead to leaks, corrosion, and sluggish water heating. The accumulation could ultimately lead to an early failure of the water heater. 

    An annual flush aids in clearing the accumulated silt and limescale. A licensed plumber will shut off the unit's electricity, empty the tank, and then run hot water through it with the drain valve open to remove any sediment. Once the water heater's sediment has been removed, the plumber will check all valves and the anode rod once the tank has been filled again. Despite the seemingly straightforward procedure, this water heater service is best left to a licensed plumber.

    Advantages of Regularly Scheduled Water Heater Maintenance

    save money Homeowners must prioritize water heater maintenance because the hot water supply and plumbing system rely heavily on the appliance's proper operation. Water heater maintenance is not always a top concern, but there are several reasons why it should be.

    Longer Lifespan

    Corrosion and leaks may result from silt and limescale remaining within the tank. The unit might need to be replaced because the damage isn't always fixable. Annually flushing the water heater to remove this build-up gives the appliance a longer lifespan.

    Improve Energy Efficiency

    One problem that often happens when minerals build up in the water heater is that it uses more energy. This is because the unit isn't working as well as it should be. It typically warms water more slowly than it should. Flushing the storage tank keeps the system working as it should, which improves energy efficiency. 

    Lower Heating Costs

    Flushing the water heater helps ensure it works right, making it more efficient and lowering the energy it uses. Utility bills can also be lowered as the water doesn’t need to run as long before it comes out hot.

    Fewer Issues and Repairs

    Professional maintenance checkups can help you determine what repairs must be done early. It's very important to plan for any water heater repair and to take care of it promptly. This can help keep the system from breaking down and the need for a water heater replacement.

    How Often Does Water Heater Maintenance Need to Be Performed

    Water heater maintenance should be performed once a year. However, there are some exceptions. Professionals recommend scheduling maintenance every six months for people who live in areas known for hard water. This is because sediment and other minerals build up faster in those areas, so the system must be flushed more often for optimal performance.

    About Quahog Plumbing

    With same-day and 24/7 emergency services, Quahog Plumbing strives to keep plumbing systems and equipment in great shape. With over 15 years of experience, their trained technicians use the best tools and the latest technology to tackle jobs. Call today for fast and friendly water heater maintenance services with straightforward pricing in Somerset, MA! 

  • Perks of a Tankless Water Heater Installation

    Thinking About Going Tankless? Here Are the Benefits

    Making changes to the home for the new year may no longer be a novel resolution, but deciding to upgrade to a tankless water heater can be beneficial. Conventional storage water heaters have long ruled the majority of American homes, and most homeowners tend to go with what’s tried and tested. However, there are many reasons why tankless water heaters continue to gain traction and are fast becoming a reliable choice for water heating. Here are the advantages of installing a tankless water heater. 

    Improves Energy Efficiency and Lowers Costs

    save money Tankless water heaters are incredibly energy-efficient and have a leg up over traditional storage tank water heaters in efficiency and lower water heating costs. Although the initial cost for installation of tankless or instantaneous water heaters is more expensive than storage water heaters, they can save homeowners money on their monthly energy bills. 

    This is because tankless water heaters consume energy only when the hot water tap is turned on, unlike conventional water heaters, which continually use energy to keep the water in its storage tank hot and ready for use in case it is needed. This on-demand water heating feature creates efficiency in energy consumption that simply cannot be matched by storage-type water heaters. 

    More Hot Water Supply While Taking up Less Space

    tankless water heaterBecause tankless water heaters can create hot water as needed, they provide a hot water supply that is not only virtually unlimited but also extremely reliable. The days when homeowners had to put up with cold showers simply because their water heaters didn’t have enough hot water left in the tank are no longer a reality. 

    Here’s another great thing about the tankless water heater - its lack of a storage tank makes it smaller, more compact, and easier to install in homes and places where space is an issue. Apartments or condos, tiny houses, older homes whose water heating systems can no longer be updated, or any home can all benefit from a tankless water heater’s more manageable size. 

    Longer Life Expectancy 

    Tankless water heaters have an average life expectancy of over 20 years, so it’s not difficult to see that a tankless water heater will make a worthwhile investment, considering storage water heaters last an average of 10 to 15 years. A tankless water heater's lifespan is longer than the average length of homeownership in the U.S. 

    The longer life expectancy of a tankless water heater can also lead to more savings for homeowners. In addition to the lower water heating costs, fewer water heater replacements mean less money spent on the costly, time-consuming, and sometimes inconvenient scenario of replacing an existing water heater. 

    About Quahog Plumbing

    Quahog Plumbing provides expert and trustworthy plumbing services in Somerset, MA, and the surrounding areas. With over 15 years of experience, their team of licensed and knowledgeable plumbers offers rapid service, flat-rate pricing, and the latest technology. Call them today for tankless water heater installation in Somerset, MA.

  • Why Is Water Heater Maintenance Important?

    Don’t Lose Hot Water This Winter 

    Of all the problems homeowners will have to deal with during their homeownership, one of the worst is losing hot water because of a broken water heater. Surprise repairs and replacements are expensive and can stress the budget, but a loss of hot water feels like being sent back to the Stone Age. 

    Most water heaters last about ten years, so a water heater will likely need to be replaced multiple times during the typical mortgage period. But water heaters that aren’t properly cared for can break down sooner and don’t last as long. Luckily, adding years to the life of a water heater and reducing the operating costs is simple. Water heater maintenance is a manufacturer-recommended service that stops the causes of premature failure and allows them to last longer. Here is a complete guide to water heater maintenance from local professionals. 

    Benefits of Water Heater Maintenance 

    save money When a water heater is well-maintained, it lasts longer, performs better, and uses less energy. Some advantages of scheduling annual water heater maintenance with a plumber are: 

    • Reduces the likelihood of problems
    • Extends the unit’s lifespan
    • Protects or improves energy efficiency
    • Lowers operating costs, saving homeowners money
    • Ensures adequate hot water is always available 
    • Prevents corrosion and leaks
    • Verifies safety devices to protect the home 

    Steps Taken During Water Heater Maintenance 

    water heater In an age where everyone considers themselves a DIYer, as soon as most people hear about water heater maintenance, they take to the internet to figure out if they can do it themselves. While it’s true that some DIYers can successfully perform the necessary tasks, most people decide to let the professionals handle it since they can do it quicker and more precisely. Some of the tasks that the professionals will do during a water heater maintenance visit are: 

    • Drain and flush the tank to remove solids and sediment
    • Check safety devices for proper operation
    • Look for leaks or signs of corrosion
    • Inspect the anode rod and replace it if it’s time
    • Clean the burner 

    It’s important to note that even tankless water heaters need maintenance, not only traditional storage water heaters. 

    When Is Water Heater Repair Necessary? 

    Hot water heaters don’t last too long, especially when they are neglected, but one of the things that causes them to age prematurely is ignoring problems. Water heater repairs are necessary to keep the whole system running smoothly, so it is crucial homeowners know the signs that repairs are needed. Some symptoms that can prompt homeowners to call for professional water heater repairs are: 

    • Unusual sounds like thumping or hissing
    • Leaks around the tank or nearby plumbing
    • Corrosion
    • Leaking safety devices
    • Not enough hot water
    • Slow recovery period
    • Higher utility bills 

    About Quahog Plumbing

    Quahog Plumbing has more than 15 years of expertise serving Somerset and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate pricing, rapid service, and the latest technology. Call them today for water heater services in Somerset, MA.

  • Why It's More Eco-Friendly to Switch to a Tankless Water Heater

    Learn More About Tankless Water Heaters

    Tankless water heaters go by many names. Instantaneous, continuous flow, inline, flash, and on-demand are just some. Still, no matter the moniker, they all refer to the same water heating system that does not use a storage tank and instead relies on a heat exchanger that heats water as it flows, practically on demand.

    While most water heaters commonly found in modern homes still employ storage tanks, there is an argument to be made for switching to a tankless system that aligns with energy efficiency and water conservation. This blog will discuss tankless water heaters and signs to replace an old water heater. 

    When to Replace an Old Water Heater

    cold showerMost water heaters have a life expectancy between 8 to 12 years, and tankless water heaters can last closer to 20 years. But there are times when it might be necessary to replace a water heater before it reaches the end of its intended lifespan. Here are some telltale signs that it might be time to retire that old water heater:

    • Not heating properly: If the water heater gives off inconsistent temperatures or it doesn’t heat water, there is a problem. This can be for several reasons, like a malfunctioning component or lack of maintenance.
    • Constantly needing repair: If the water heater has undergone several repairs and it still fails to work as intended, fixing it might not be enough to solve the problem and may require a replacement.
    • Corrosion on the tank or in the water: If the water tank has some rust forming on any part of it, or if the water coming out of the faucet looks discolored and rusty, it can indicate corrosion and will need replacement.

    How Tankless Water Heaters Work 

    When considering a water heater replacement, it might be more advantageous for homeowners to go green and switch to a tankless water heating system. A tankless water heater works by heating water directly without needing a storage tank. When hot water is needed, cold water travels through pipes and enters the unit, passing over heating elements that warm the water to its predetermined temperature. This heated water is then sent directly to its destination, where it is used immediately. 

    Unlike traditional storage tank water heaters, tankless water heaters don't run out of hot water due to the lack of a large tank that needs to be refilled whenever hot water is used. Tankless models also take up much less space since they are installed directly on the wall and can save homeowners money in the long run, thanks to their increased energy efficiency.

    Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

    saveTankless water heaters provide a great alternative to traditional storage water heaters and offer many benefits. Tankless water heaters are more compact in size, more energy efficient, have longer lifespans, and provide an endless supply of hot water. They can also help homeowners save on utility bills because of their energy efficiency. 

    Because hot water is not stored, it is also not necessary to constantly heat the stored water when it falls out of the desired temperature range. Tankless water heaters only need to use energy when the water is flowing and is therefore being used. This adds up to long-term savings in energy and the cost of replacing the water heater itself. 

    About Quahog Plumbing

    Quahog Plumbing has over 15 years of experience serving Somerset and the surrounding communities. They provide same-day services, flat rate pricing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for tankless water heater services in Somerset, MA.

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