Your home’s access to hot water should never be taken for granted. That’s why having a functioning water heater is so important to ensure the comfortability of you and your family. Here at Swick Home Services, we provide water heater maintenance, repair, and replacement services to the greater Marquette area. Whether you’re running out of hot water too quickly, noticing water leaks, or simply looking for an upgrade, our plumbing contractors can help you find the ideal solution for your home.
Looking for an upgrade? Be sure to ask our staff how a tankless water heater can provide you with a limitless supply of hot water for a lot less!
Types of Water Heaters
There are various types of water heaters that are out on the market today. The type of water heater your home needs depends on factors such as budget, size, usage, and personal preference.
- Gas: A gas water heater is made up of two major components. The first component is the gas system which is responsible for providing the energy needed for heating. The second is the plumbing system which ensures that cold water is circulating into the tank while hot water is coming out. Your gas water heater includes a thermostat where you will set your desired temperature. Once the water in the tank falls below the preset temperature, the gas valve receives a signal, igniting the gas and heating up your water.
- Electric: Electric water heaters operate by using either a thermostat or a control module, which heats the water in the tank to the preset temperature. When the power is activated on the unit, the upper element heats the water in one portion of the tank. After that portion is heated to the desired temperature, the power is switched to the lower heating element which heats the water temperature in the lower portion of the tank until it reaches the set thermostat setting. While hot water is drawn from the upper portion of the tank, the dip tube transports the cold water to the bottom.
Signs Your Water Heater Is Damaged
Water heaters traditionally have a life span of up to ten years. After the ten year mark, they are liable to begin malfunctioning which can be a huge headache and money pit. There are a few ways to know for sure if it’s time to call the professionals for hot water heater replacement service.
- Older Than 10 Years - As stated above, you can expect to experience some trouble with your water heater the older it gets. This is particularly true for units that have gone without proper maintenance or repairs when needed.
- Lack Of Hot Water - Almost nothing is more aggravating than going to take a relaxing hot shower only to find your water refusing to get hot. If you are experiencing the lack of hot water or noticing that it’s taking a lot longer than it should for your water to heat up, it may be time for a new system.
- Leaks - There are many culprits to a leaking hot water heater. From loose valves to corrosion, leaks are an unfortunate factor of having a hot water heater system. If your water heater is leaking, it’s time for water heater repair services.
- Strange Noises - If you begin to notice that your water heater is generating strange, loud noises there may be a severe issue at hand. Culprits such as leaks or buildup are infamous for causing odd noises in your water heater.
- Water That Is Too Hot - No one wants to be scalded when taking a bath or shower. Broken thermostats can be extremely dangerous, especially when children live in the home. To prevent injury, call a trained technician to fix any broken thermostat issues as soon as possible.
If your water heater is leaking water, that’s considered a plumbing emergency. Be sure to contact us 24/7 for immediate care.
Benefits of Installing a New Water Heater
Investing in a new water heater can be a great way to save money in the long run. If you find yourself spending half the money for a new installation just on repair services, it may be time to think about water heater replacement services. Also, if your water heater is getting up there in age, it’s the perfect time for a brand new system.
Another reason to consider a new system is if you’re looking into new ways to be more energy efficient, as newer models are more efficient than older ones. Swick Home Services is the premier resource for all of your heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical needs in the Northern Peninsula of Michigan. Since 1977, we have been providing homeowners with professional expertise and guaranteed flat rate pricing.
