Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest difference. Something as simple as hot water goes a long way toward making a house feel like home. We rely on it for a hot shower at the end of a long day, squeaky-clean dishes, and fluffy, bright-white towels. So whether you need a new hot water heater installation, or hot water heater repair on any type or brand, Ace Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning is at your service just as we are for the rest of your home plumbing in Sacramento.
Types of Water Heater Installations in Sacramento
Looking for a new hot water heater? You’ve got options.
Tank Hot Water Heater
Traditional tank water heaters use a gas burner or electric element to heat between 20 and 100 gallons of water to your desired temperature and keep it at that temperature all day. The upshot of this is that if the water heater is sized properly, you’ve got access to hot water for your needs. If it’s improperly sized, or if it’s not working properly, you may find yourself running out of hot water. And this method isn’t as energy-efficient as the alternatives.
Tankless Water Heater
Also known as an on-demand water heater, a tankless heater doesn’t continually heat the same water supply. Instead, water is heated as it’s used. Besides being more compact, there are fewer parts to wear out, and it’s more efficient.
Hybrid Water Heater
Similar to a tank water heater, a hybrid water heater stores and heats the water. But rather than using a burner, it works in much the same way as a heat pump for Sacramento homes. Higher energy efficiency tends to offset the up-front cost, but be aware that these heaters are larger and require more clearance, than the other types, so they won’t be right for every home.
How Long Do Hot Water Heaters Last in Sacramento?
As the old saying goes, “individual mileage may vary.” But if we average it out, it looks like this:
- Hot tank water heaters last eight to twelve years on average
- Hybrid water heaters last an average of 13 to 15 years
- Tankless water heaters last up to twenty years
As we’ve already seen, service life isn’t the sole determinant of a water heater’s worth. It’s also worth noting that with proper maintenance, it’s hardly uncommon for water heaters to last far longer than average, though you’re prone to notice a drop in efficiency over time. If you’re not sure how long your water heater has been in service—which is common if you’re not the first homeowner—call us. We can evaluate your system and let you know whether it needs replacement, or is fine as it is.
Troubleshooting Common Hot Water Heater Problems
As a homeowner, what can you do before calling us to repair or replace your hot water heater? Some problems, like leaks, discolored water, or a strange odor from your hot water, indicate problems a homeowner won’t have the knowledge to address. And electric water heaters, which typically operate on 220V current, are dangerous to tinker with if you’re inexperienced. For others, there are a few simple steps to follow.
- Make sure the gas is on.
- Check the pilot light to see if it’s lit.
- Check the circuit breaker, resetting it if needed.
- Check the hot water heater’s reset button, and perform a reset.
- Check the thermostat to make sure it’s set correctly (between 115 and 125 degrees Fahrenheit). Some water heaters have two thermostats; make sure both are on the same setting.
Call Ace Plumbing For Hot Water Heater Installation or Replacement in Sacramento
Whether you’re making your home more efficient or environmentally-friendly, or simply installing a new water heater to accommodate a growing family, there are more considerations than just choosing the right kind of water heater, or picking a brand you can trust. What’s just as important is finding a plumber you can trust. So why not pick a plumber trusted by generations of Sacramento homeowners? Call 916-455-4548 or contact Ace Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning for all your home plumbing services today!