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When Should I Get a Water Heater Inspection?

It’s generally recommended to get a water heater inspection annually. This regular maintenance helps ensure that your water heater is functioning efficiently and safely. Additionally, if you notice any signs of trouble such as strange noises, inconsistent water temperature, or visible leaks, it’s advisable to schedule an inspection promptly to address potential issues before they escalate. Furthermore, if your water heater is over 10 years old, more frequent inspections may be beneficial as older units are more prone to wear and potential failure. By staying proactive with inspections, you can maintain your water heater’s performance and avoid unexpected disruptions to your hot water supply.

What Does a Water Heater Inspection Involve?

Water heater inspections involve a comprehensive assessment of both the physical condition and operational aspects of the unit. A certified inspector typically begins with a visual inspection, checking for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage on the tank and its surroundings. They examine the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure it functions correctly and can safely release excess pressure. Additionally, inspectors often inspect the anode rod, essential for preventing tank corrosion, and may drain a small amount of water to check for sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency. Gas or electric components are inspected thoroughly, including burners, heating elements, and thermostat settings, to verify optimal performance and safety. Overall, a thorough inspection aims to identify potential issues early, ensuring the water heater operates efficiently and reliably while mitigating safety risks and extending its lifespan.

What Signs Indicate I Need a Water Heater Inspection?

Several signs indicate the need for a water heater inspection. These include irregularities in water temperature, such as sudden changes or the inability to maintain desired hot water levels. Visible leaks or moisture around the water heater suggest potential issues with seals or internal components. Unusual noises, like rumbling or banging, often indicate sediment buildup or other internal problems affecting efficiency. An increase in energy bills without an obvious cause could also stem from inefficiencies within the water heater. Additionally, if the water heater is nearing its typical lifespan of 10-15 years, proactive inspections become increasingly important to catch potential problems before they lead to costly repairs or complete failure. Regular inspections help maintain the heater’s performance, ensure safety, and extend its operational lifespan.

What are the Benefits of Regular Water Heater Inspections?

Regular water heater inspections offer several significant benefits:

• Improved Efficiency: Inspections help identify and remove sediment buildup, which can hinder heat transfer and reduce efficiency. Ensuring components like heating elements or burners are clean and functioning optimally also enhances energy efficiency.
• Extended Lifespan: Detecting and addressing minor issues early can prevent them from escalating into major problems that could shorten the water heater’s lifespan. Regular maintenance, such as replacing sacrificial anode rods, can also prolong the heater’s operational life.
• Preventative Maintenance: Inspections allow for early detection of leaks, corrosion, or other potential issues that could lead to water damage or heater failure. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent costly repairs or the need for premature replacement.
• Safety Assurance: Checking safety features like the temperature and pressure relief valve ensures they are working correctly, reducing the risk of dangerous pressure buildup or scalding water.
• Energy Savings: A well-maintained water heater operates more efficiently, potentially reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.
• Peace of Mind: Regular inspections provide reassurance that your water heater is in good working condition, minimizing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns or disruptions in hot water supply.

Overall, scheduling regular water heater inspections helps homeowners maintain a reliable and efficient hot water system, ensuring comfort, safety, and cost-effectiveness over the long term.

Fortunately, water heater inspections are fairly cost effective solutions that can provide a number of great benefits to homeowners and business owners. If you’re interested in a water heater inspection in Chattanooga, TN, the team at Chattanooga Water Heater Co. can be there to provide you with the work you need. Give us a call at 423-718-7342 if you would like to learn more about water heater inspections and how they can benefit you. 

What is the difference between a tank-style water heater and a heat pump water heater?

The traditional tank-tyle water heater heats the water when the burner or element is signaled. Water fills the tank, and the burner or element turns on, using electricity or gas, and heats the water.  With a heat pump water heater, the water is heated using the air’s ambient warmth to heat a refrigerant inside the unit.

Is a heat pump water heater better energy-wise than a traditional tank-style water heater?

A heat pump water heater moves heat from one area to another using electricity instead of directly generating heat. This makes it more energy efficient than the conventional tank-style electric water heater as much as three times more efficient according to the U.S. Department of Energy.  When comparing the energy efficiency of a heat pump water heater to a gas-powered water heater, it has more than 50% improved energy efficiency. 

How often does a heat pump water heater run?

You can have your heat pump water heater installed with a timer and set the times you want it to run. During the busy time of day when your household may have several people taking showers, the heat pump water heater may need to run for a longer time. But the beauty is that you get to choose when it will run with the timer upgrade! 

Are heat pump water heaters expensive? 

Okay, yes, a heat pump water heater will cost up to three times more than the traditional tank-style water heater upfront, plus the installation.  But this is a long-term investment and you’ll save almost $300, maybe more, over a year in energy costs! You could recoup that cost within 3 to 4 years, and then keep saving on energy costs every year after that.

What are the disadvantages of a heat pump water heaters?

In addition to the high upfront installation cost, other disadvantages of a heat pump water heater to consider are: 

• The Installation 

Heat pump water heaters have specific installation conditions. Your home may not be a viable option, so you’ll want a professional to inspect your home and determine if it is your home that is a candidate for a heat pump water heater. They will check the average air temperature surrounding your home and make sure you have a space that is adequate with proper ventilation. 

• Maintenance & Repairs

Every type of water heater will need some level of maintenance, and heat pump water heaters aren’t any different. In fact, because of the components used in them, like a compressor and an evaporator, they need specialized maintenance. This is an additional cost, like having central air conditioning versus window units. 

• The Climate

A heat pump water heater will work better in a moderate climate of consistent temperatures, above freezing year-round.  You can have a heat pump water heater in a colder climate, but the efficiency decreases and the energy consumption increases. 

What is the lifespan of a heat pump water heater? 

The lifespan of a heat pump water heater is another plus! They last longer!  The standard tank-style water heater has an average lifespan of 8 years, some will last up to 12 years, maybe longer. A heat pump water heater, however, has a lifespan of up to 15 years when you follow the recommended maintenance routine. Depending on the quality of the water in your area, you could get up to 20 years. 

Can you use a water softener system with a heat pump water heater?

Yes, you can use a water softener system with a heat pump water heater.  In fact, if there are high levels of calcium and magnesium in your water, resulting in having hard water, it is recommended. A water softener installed BEFORE the water gets to the heat pump water heater will extend the lifespan of the unit and give you better-tasting water. 

A heat pump water heater is an investment, the cost of the unit plus the cost to install it isn’t something you’ll want to do again any time soon. So, taking these additional steps will help extend the service life of a heat pump water heater: 

• Quality: Choose the best heat pump water heater you can afford to get the longest lifespan and best quality. 

• Regular Service: Have your heat pump water heater serviced regularly like you do all of your appliances. If the company that installs the unit offers a maintenance program, take it! 
• Cold Water: Using cold water as much as possible will extend the lifespan of your heat pump water heater. Save the hot water for dishes, laundry, and showers. 
• Install a Timer: Traditional water heaters stay on 24/7/365. To extend your heat pump water heater, have it installed with a timer so that it is only at certain times of the day/night when it is needed. 
• Expansion: When water is heated, it expands and if it doesn’t have anywhere to go, it increases the pressure inside the heat pump, which increases the water volume while decreasing the pressure. Have an expansion tank installed along with the heat pump water heater and timer, you’ll ease the strain on the heat pump. 

In Closing – Is It Worthwhile? 

Yes, for a busy household, a heat pump water heater will be worth the initial expense because of the annual savings in utilities!  However, for a small home with less than 4 to 6 people, it may not be worthwhile to make the investment. 

What is a high-recovery water heater?

Water heater manufacturers offer several types of water heaters. First, they have electric-powered or gas-powered, standard tank-style water heaters, tankless water heaters, and heat pump water heaters. Standard water heaters recover 40 gallons per hour, while high-recovery water heaters recover 55 gallons per hour. 

What makes a water heater a “high-recovery” water heater?

High-recovery water heaters are ideal for households with large families, though they may be overkill for a single-person home or a small family. A household with six or more occupants is an ideal home for an upgrade to a high-recovery water heater.  

For example, an electric-powered 80-gallon water heater set at 62 degrees takes over 100 minutes for the water to heat up in the tank. However, a gas-powered unit of the same size at the same temperature setting will have a higher recovery rate with water heated within 70 minutes or less. 

Why is the gas-powered water faster? They use burners to heat the water instead of elements, so it reaches a higher temperature faster. Some other key factors that can lead to a higher recovery rate include: 

• Tank size: The larger the tank on a water heater, the longer it takes to recover the hot water. The recovery time is longer as the water level in the tank gets lower. 
• First hour: A water heater tank constantly replenishes the water supply, and recovery counts within that first hour. The larger the tank and the power type will determine the high-recovery water heater rating. 
• Fuel type: As described above, an electric-powered water heater takes twice as long to recover hot water as a gas-powered water heater. The downside to a gas-powered water heater is the initial installation expense and the purchase of the water heater. So, is a high-recovery water heater worth that extra expense? That is a personal decision based on your budget and the number of occupants in your home.

What are the disadvantages of high-recovery water heaters?

Yes, high-recovery water heaters have disadvantages, such as expense. The gas-powered option is more expensive than the electric-powered one. Additionally, because the smaller tank gives you a higher recovery rate, you’ll need more frequent professional maintenance, such as flushing the tank. 

But, for a home with a high occupancy level or need for hot water, a high-recovery water heater will outweigh those disadvantages. It will save you money in the long run because you won’t need to run the water longer to get hot water, and that will save you time, too. 

What is the life expectancy of a high-recovery water heater?

A high-recovery water heater that is professionally installed and properly maintained after installation can last ten for up to ten years. Depending on your water quality, it may last up to 12 years. 

What is the best water heater option?

The water heater is the unsung hero in every home. It is always there and reliably ready to provide hot water, even with today’s appliances and technologies. 

So, when it’s time for a water heater replacement, it can be overwhelming with the many different options on the market. Before you choose one, review these basics to help you find the best choice for your family: 

• Fuel Source: Confirm your current power source before shopping for a standard or high-recovery water heater.
• Tank Size: Water heaters come in various sizes. The number of occupants in your home should be the determining factor in choosing the best size. Remember – the smaller the tank, the faster the recovery. 
• Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency is essential for your utility bills. Choosing a high-recovery water heater will likely give you the best energy efficiency, but research others to get the best for your budget. 
• The Cost: Whether you choose a standard or a high-recovery water heater, affordability will be a significant factor in your decision. Shop around at different places and consider the factors we have listed here. 

Watering It All Down

When making a final decision, remember that while you may choose a higher-priced water heater, energy savings, and a high recovery rate can significantly affect what a water heater can do for your home. If you’re shopping for a high-recovery water heater in Chattanooga, TN or nearby cities, we invite you to contact us to learn more about your options. Call us at 423-718-7342 and speak to our professionals about what’s available today.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Water Heater

• Choose a tankless water heater if you prioritize energy efficiency, space-saving design, and endless hot water but are willing to invest in a higher upfront cost.
• Opt for a traditional tank water heater if you have a smaller budget, prioritize lower initial costs and simpler installation, and have a higher hot water demand, especially for larger households.

Consider your household’s hot water usage patterns, budget constraints, and space availability when deciding between a tankless water heater and a traditional tank-style water heater. Consulting with a qualified plumber or HVAC professional can also help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and circumstances.

No matter where you’re at in the process, the experts at Chattanooga Water Heater Co. can help you decide which type of water heater is right for you. Simply give us a call at 423-718-7342 or connect with us online to learn more about your options.

What is the life expectancy of a gas water heater?

A quality brand of gas water heater replacement that is installed by a professional and maintenance and upkeep routines are followed, you can expect a lifespan between eight and twelve years.  In comparison, an electric water heater replacement is typically needed between 12 and 15 years. 

Is a gas water heater replacement better than an electric one?

There are pros and cons to both electric and gas water heater replacements. For example, gas water heater replacements are more expensive, have a shorter lifespan, and use more energy. However, the water gets hotter and natural gas burns cleaning that electricity. 

An electric water heater replacement is less expensive, easier to install, and doesn’t use as much energy. However, the water doesn’t get as hot and electricity doesn’t burn as clean as natural gas.  

Whether you need to purchase an electric or gas water heater replacement will depend on what is currently in place. If you choose to switch from one to the other or to switch to a tankless unit, you’ll need to prepare your budget to include additional work for electricity, gas, and water lines and possible construction changes. 

What indicates a gas water heater replacement is needed?

If your gas water heater isn’t performing as it should, flushing or repairs may be possible. However, any of the following six issues typically are an indication you need a gas water heater replacement:

1. WATER POOLING AT THE BASE

If you find there is water pooling around the base of the unit, there may be a leak at the tank or along the bottom. Puddling water is a sign of eroded connections and/or pipes. It could also be condensation, but the safest thing to do is to have a professional plumber inspect the unit. 

2. RUSTY COLORED WATER 

A common issue in older homes is rust stains in the sinks, toilets, and tubs. This can often be resolved by having a gas water heater replacement. A water heater that is aging will often rust inside the tank, making the water rusty color. 

3. METALLIC SMELL AND TASTE

When the water coming from the water heater has a metallic odor or metallic taste, this indicates the tank’s interior has started corroding and an electric or gas water heater replacement is needed.

4. WATER ISN’T GETTING HOT

If the water goes from hot to tepid and back to hot or isn’t heating up at all, it may be the element inside needs to be replaced. Or it may be time to shop for an electric or gas water heater replacement. A professional plumber can inspect the existing unit and advise what is needed. 

5. AGE

All good things must come to an end, including your gas water heater. Replacement is typically needed between eight and twelve years, with the 10^th year being the average. 

6. FREQUENT WATER HEATER REPAIRS

If you have required several electric or gas water heater repair service calls, and the unit is reaching the 8^th to 10^th anniversary, an electric or gas water heater replacement is needed. 

What is the average cost for a gas water heater replacement? 

The purchase of the gas water heater replacement unit can range between labor costs between $500 and $1,500. The cost of the unit can vary based on the brand and size. Then there is the labor cost added to that amount, which can range between another $800 and $1,500. 

The cost of a gas water heater replacement and its labor is typically higher than with an electric water heater replacement because there is more labor required.  A gas water heater replacement installation takes more materials than an electric unit. There is piping required for venting pipes and different pressure valves. Depending on possible complications, the plumber may need additional materials and additional time to complete the gas water heater replacement. 

Conclusion

Homeowners can sometimes do their own electric or gas water heater replacement. In most cities and municipalities, it is required to have the work done by a licensed plumber. The plumber will need to pull a permit with the local offices and once the job is complete have a city inspector examine the work and remove any hold tags. By having a plumber do the work, you have a warranty on the unit and the labor, which can be beneficial in the long run. And if you do think it might be time for a gas water heater replacement in Chattanooga, TN, just reach out to us. We can be there to help.

What is the life expectancy of a water heater?

The lifespan of a water heater will depend on several factors, starting with the brand and quality of manufacturing.  The next factor that will have an impact on the lifespan is the water quality. A home with hard water will find they need water heater replacements more frequently if they don’t follow recommended maintenance practices, like draining and flushing it twice a year.  

With regular inspection, and maintenance routine of draining, and flushing, a quality brand of water heater will have a lifespan between eight and 15 years. Gas-powered water heaters tend to have a shorter lifespan than electric-powered water heaters. 

When should you choose between water heater replacement and water heater repair? 

As a homeowner, expenses like a roof replacement or water heater replacement aren’t something you ‘want’ to do. They’re typically done because you ‘need’ to replace them.  So, if you can postpone a water heater replacement at a cost of around $800 plus installation, that would be your first choice, right? 

So, how do you know if replacement is what you need versus having it repaired? If you’re experiencing any of the following three things, you need a water heater replacement: 

• The Age: If you have a gas-powered water heater that is 10 years old or an electric-powered one that is 15 years old and is having some problems, it is time for a water heater replacement. If you have upgraded to a tankless water heater, you won’t need a water heater replacement for at least 20 years, maybe longer! 

• Increased Energy Bills: If you’re having to crank the hot water up more and more over time to get the water just right, you’re using more energy, electric or gas, and more water.  This is increasing your bills every month. If you can’t relate this increase to anything other than the water heater, replacement is something you should consider, especially when you consider that the water heater accounts for over 10% of your energy bills.

• Water Geater Repair Cost and Frequency: If you’re able to have your water heater repaired instead of getting a water heater replacement, that’s great. Unless you’ve had to call for repair service more than once a year for the last 3 to 5 years.  Take the cost of these repairs and if they add up to one-fourth or more than a new water heater replacement would cost, it is time to get a new unit. 

What is the average cost of a water heater replacement? 

Again, several factors can determine the cost of a water heater replacement. The brand of water heater will be a big factor along with the size of the unit.  Whether you install it yourself or have it professionally installed is a big factor in a water heater replacement. 

A 40-gallon water heater replacement can start around $600 and reach upwards of $2,000 with the more popular brand.  An 80-gallon water heater replacement can start around $2,000 and cost as much as $4,000 for the more popular brand.  This may or may not include the installation cost, which could be charged by the hour or a flat rate, with each plumber having different billing methods. 

What water heater problems can be repaired? 

As we have mentioned, just because you’re having problems with your water heater, replacement isn’t always the only option. Some problems can be repaired and keep you in hot water for a few more years, such as: 

• Water not getting hot can be caused by a few different things, depending on whether you have an electric or gas-powered water heater. With an electric water heater, make sure the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. If it is, flip it back on and you should have hot water in a few minutes. If it trips back off, call a plumber. 
• For a gas-powered water heater that isn’t heating water, check the pilot light and relight if it is out. If it is winter, the water lines could be frozen, and there is nothing more than waiting for them to thaw. If the pilot is on and the water isn’t frozen, call a plumber. 
• Hot water that smells when it comes out of the water heater is typically caused by water sitting still in the tank for a long period. If this is the case, you can flush the water heater, which will usually get rid of that smell.  If it doesn’t call a plumber. 
• Limescale buildup on dishes, in the pipes, and on the faucets is due to hard water caused by minerals in the water. You’ll hear your water heater banging and clanking when that limescale is getting too built up. Following the drain and flush instructions will usually stop this. You can prevent this from happening by installing a water softener at the water’s entry point into your home. 
• A leaking water heater can be caused by a variety of things, including the PRV (Pressure Relief Valve) needing to be replaced, a buildup of sediment in the bottom of the tank causing the tank to crack along the bottom or sides, a loose drain valve that needs to be replaced, or the anode rod has become corroded and rusted and needs to be replaced. You can also check the water connections on the water heater and at the wall to make sure they are secure and tight. If the water is coming from the sides, you’ll need a water heater replacement. 
• Water that gets too hot is usually because the thermostat has been turned up and simply dialing it back down will fix this.  Sometimes the thermostat or heating element has gone out, and both can be replaced by the homeowner or you may prefer to call a plumber.  If the water isn’t getting hot enough, the thermostat may need to be dialed up or it could need replacing. 

In Conclusion

The first step in getting the longest life possible and delaying needing a water heater replacement is to follow the recommendation of routine draining and flushing the unit. If you have hard water, investing in a water softener will help extend the life of your water heater and appliances. Consider that money well spent! If you’d like to learn more, give us a call today at 423-718-7342.

How often are hot water heaters replaced?

The average lifespan of a water heater is between 8 and 12 years old. So, if your water heater has reached the 20-year mark, it is time to start researching a water heater replacement. Besides the age though, there are other indicators that you should be planning on a water heater replacement sooner than later, such as: 

• COLORED WATER 

The interior of a water heater is a steel liner, and while it is a strong metal, being exposed to water 24/7, it can begin to rust. As the rust slowly spreads, it begins rusting through the steel. At this point, the water coming from the faucets and other water outlets looks rusty, it may be time for a water heater replacement, or it may be an issue with the plumbing. 

Before you make that water heater replacement purchase, drain 2 or 3 buckets of water from the tank. By the 3^rd bucket, if the water is still rusty, purchase that new water heater. 

• NOISE

Another indication that you may need a new water heater replacement is if the current one has started making loud noises like clanking, growling, and rumbling.  This is typically because of sediment build-up over time. 

However, before you purchase a water heater replacement, follow the instructions in the owner’s manual to flush the unit. This should be done every 2-3 years and can lengthen the lifespan. After you’ve flushed the tank, if it continues to make those sounds, proceed with a water heater replacement. 

• WATER LEAKING

As a water heater nears its end of life, it may start leaking water from the bottom or sides. If you’re noticing water on the floor, check all the water connections on the unit and make sure they are tight. If they are, then you should start shopping for a water heater replacement. 

• NO HOT WATER

If you’re not getting hot water, you can’t get a full tub of hot water, a water heater replacement is on the horizon, probably sooner than later. 

How much is a brand-new water heater?

A new water heater replacement cost can vary based on the brand and model, the tank size, and the power source.  They can start around $800 and go up, but remember, this doesn’t include installation. What is the average labor cost to replace a hot water tank? Like the water heater unit, the cost of labor can’t be generalized either. 

Some plumbers may charge a flat rate based on the brand, size, and power source. But most plumbers charge by the hour for labor plus parts, including the water heater replacement and the components and parts needed to install the unit.

Can I install a water heater myself?

If you’re a handyman DIY homeowner with the right tools, yes, you can install your own water. However, in most municipalities, a permit is required for water heater replacement installation and other type of work. To pull a permit, a license and proof of insurance are needed, which a plumber will have. 

Additionally, consider the warranty with the water heater replacement. Most manufacturers will not honor their product warranty if it isn’t installed by a licensed professional. Then there is the plumber’s warranty, if you have any issues once the water heater installation is completed, their workmanship will be warranted. 

What’s included in a water heater installation?

A typical professional water heater replacement installation will take approximately two hours. During this time, the plumber will shut the water off at the main and turn off any electricity or gas power to the unit, and then proceed with the following steps: 

• Cut the water lines between the wall and the tank.
• Remove the unit and drain pan. 
• Position a new drain pan. 
• Attach the new TPR valve (temperature and pressure relief).
• Attach the pipe assemblies.
• Attach the water lines.
• Reattach the vent if you have a gas-powered water heater replacement. 
• Check for back drafting and bubbles.
• Turn the power and water back on and check for leaks.

What is a high-recovery water heater?

In the water heater industry, recovery means how quickly the water heats back up. The recovery rate for a standard 40-gallon water heater is approximately 1 hour. With a high-recovery water heater, a 55-gallon water heater recovers hot water in half that time, on most brands and models. 

Are tankless and high-recovery water heaters the same thing? 

No, they are different. A high-recovery water heater is still a tank-style water heater but is made to heat the water faster than the average tank-style. Whereas with tankless water heaters, they are just that: tankless. It heats the water on demand, so there is no recovery period for hot water.

How do you know if you need a high-recovery water heater?

If your household uses a large amount of hot water every day, then you should consider upgrading to a high-recovery water heater. A typical example would be a large family of more than 6 to 8 people, bath time wouldn’t be so rushed with a hot water heater that has a recovery rate of 50 gallons per hour, (or more).

What is the recovery time for a 50-gallon water heater?

Using an electric water heater as an example, a standard tank-style 50-gallon electric heater with a maximum wattage input of 4500 watts would have approximately a 3-hour hot water recovery. This gives you a 70% recovery rate. That recovery rate will diminish over time as the water heater ages and sediment builds up in the tank. 

A high-recovery water heater would recover in half that time, under 2 hours. Just as with the standard water heater, this recovery time will diminish over time as well with aging and sediment build-up.

Which type of water heater typically has the highest recovery rate?

Electric-powered water heaters have a higher recovery rate compared to gas-powered ones. An electric high-recovery water heater or the standard type, has immersion-style elements, meaning the heating elements are immersed in the tank water. With that, they are able to provide a 100% percent recovery rate. With a gas-powered water heater, some of the energy for heating up the water escapes through the flue. 

What is a drain water recovery system? 

Drain-water heat exchangers are used to recover heat from the hot water that is used in the bathtub or shower, dishwasher or washing machine, etc. They store recovered heated water to be used later, which requires having a storage capacity for that hot water. 

What are the disadvantages of drain water heat recovery?

Typically, there isn’t a storage component to a home’s water system. To have a drain water heat recovery, it would be attached to a drain and need continuous flowing hot water to the area you want to store that hot drain water, like a bathtub. This drain water heat recovery storage can be purchased and installed separately, but it is an expensive upgrade. Purchasing a new high-recovery water heater would be the better solution financially. 

Are longer warranty water heaters worth it?

Yes, for anything you purchase that is used every day like a high-recovery water heater, choosing one with the longest warranty is recommended. This can vary between brands and within the brands, the different models. 

How much money do you save with a high-efficiency water heater?

Choosing any appliance for your home that is ENERGY STAR certified will always be the better option. And today, most products on the market today will have that information easily found on the unit because being certified by ENERGY STAR is a must. 

A high-recovery water heater that is also ENERGY STAR rated is using a different technology that can help your household save up to $500 annually on electric bills. Additional savings on the water bill as well because you’re not running as much water waiting for heat up. 

How long does a high-efficiency water heater last?

Whether or not you choose the standard water heater that is noted for high efficiency or you choose a high-efficiency high-recovery water heater, there are several factors that will determine the lifespan of your water heater. Those factors are: 

• Electric or Gas
• Brand Name
• Model/Series of the Brand
• Maintenance and Upkeep after installation
• Water Quality

What are the parts of a gas water heater?

When you understand the components of your gas water heater, you’ll be able to troubleshoot problems and understand a technician when they’re explaining what is needed. The components of a gas water heater are: 

• The Discharge Pipe, Dip Tube, and Tank: The big cylinder thing of your gas water heater is the tank. The dip tube is inside this tank and extends from the top to the bottom. As the water is heated inside the tank, it rises up inside the tank and is then discharged through a pipe and is dispensed throughout the house to where the hot water is needed. 

• The Assembly and Gas Burner: Under your gas water heater is a gas burner, this is what heats the water when the pilot light turns on. On the exterior, to the side is a control module that functions like a thermostat for changing the temperature which ignites the pilot light. The gas line runs along the tank, a shut-off valve is there so that the gas can be shut off quickly in an emergency.

• The Exhaust Flue: Using a gas water heater generates other gases during the combustion process and the exhaust flue vents these gases and performs heat exchanger duties. The exhaust flue is vented from the top of the gas water heater to the outside.

• The PRV and the Drain Valve: The PRV (pressure release valve) is a safety component that releases any extra pressure & temperature if too much pressure builds up inside the tank. The PRV is an important component because any excessive heat or pressure is dangerous. At the bottom of the tank is the drain valve where you can flush sediment that settles at the bottom of the tank. 

How efficient is a gas water heater?

There are three basic options for gas hot water heaters: 

• Standard gas water heaters: Most of them today have an EF (Efficiency Factor) between .58 and .60.  In layman’s terms, this means between 58% and 60% of the energy is heating your water. 
• Energy Star gas water heaters: Most rank between .67 and .70 EF. This option has better insulation and an electrical igniter for the pilot light. Some have a flue damper control. With all 3 of these upgrades, your gas water heater is between 7% and 10% more efficient.
• Tankless gas water heaters: This on-demand type of water heater is the latest, state-of-the-art type in water heaters, available in electric-powered or gas-powered options. 

How long will a gas water heater last?

If you’re replacing your current gas water heater, you’ll be pleased to know they are manufactured better today. However, to get a maximum lifespan of 15 years, you’ll still need to follow regular maintenance on the unit. This includes a regular schedule with a professional plumber for inspection, draining, and flushing.

Will a gas water heater work without electricity?

A gas water heater will provide you with continuous hot water, even in a power outage, if you have a conventional gas water heater that has a pilot light. If you have a tankless gas water heater, it will need electricity to get the water from the base component to the rest of the house. 

Why is my gas water heater not working?

There can be several reasons why your gas water heater isn’t working. For example, your pilot light may have gone out, the pilot light orifice may be clogged or worn out, or the heating element may be burned out.

If you have checked the pilot light and it is working but if you’re still not getting any hot water, or the gas water heater won’t stay lit at the pilot, call a professional plumbing contractor to inspect the unit. After their inspection and testing, the plumber will advise you on what needs to be done to get it working again, or they may let you know it’s time for a new gas water heater.

Is It Time for A New Gas Water Heater?

If the inspection finds that your gas water heater has retired, you should ask your plumber, “What should I look for when buying a gas water heater?”. So, when replacing a gas water heater, here are five things to keep in mind: 

• FUEL SOURCE
• ENERGY EFFICIENCY
• WATER STORAGE CAPACITY
• SPACE REQUIRED

If you need a gas water heater in Chattanooga, TN, the team at Chattanooga Water Heater Co. can be there to help. Give us a call at 423-718-7342 to schedule your service.

What is a water heater booster and what does a water heater booster do?

A water heater booster is just what the name implies: It boosts water to heat up. It allows your water heater to provide more hot water than the existing water tank can. So, how does a booster water heater work? 

This small device is installed on the water line and mixes cold water coming from the input valve and heats the water, releasing it through the hot water valve. This device is activated when it detects the water temperature in the tank. This can almost double the amount of time you have hot water at your ready and is compatible with electric-powered or gas-powered water heaters.

How long does hot water boost take?

When the water heater booster kicks in, only part of the water is heated to the specified temperature. But it happens quickly in comparison to the normal wait time for an entire water tank to heat. 

In an E-7 system, the water heater booster takes approximately 60 minutes to heat ten percent of the water in the tank. This is sufficient hot water or a standard shower time. In a non-E-7 setup, the water heater booster will take approximately 30 minutes for that same ten percent amount of water. 

The key factor to a water heater booster working faster is where it is installed. An installation at the tank top will only result in 10% water heated in the tank. If the device is installed mid-way of the tank, 30% of the water will be heated by the water heater booster. And when the water heater booster device is installed closer to the bottom, you’ll have as much as 90% of the water heated within 30 minutes. 

Do hot water booster pumps work, are hot water heater boosters worth it?

As previously mentioned, a water heater booster can increase your hot water between 30% and 90%, depending on where it is in reference to the existing water heater tank.  There are other benefits of having a water heater booster:

• Energy Saver: Many water heater boosters offer different modes like Eco Mode or Vacation Mode that will switch off when there isn’t a need for additional hot water.  
• Space Saver: Water heater tanks take up enough space, typically around 60” x 24”. A water heater booster is a small addition that takes virtually no space. 
• Money Saver: A new water heater is an expense most homeowners aren’t readily able to purchase, and the larger the capacity, the more the need for hot water for your family. 
• Easy Install: Installing a replacement water heater isn’t the easiest thing, requires a professional plumber and city inspection. A water heater booster is designed for easy installation. Most will use the same power supply as the water heater tank and the cables needed are included with the water heater booster. 
• Freeze Protector: Water heater boosters can often include a thermistor that detects dangerously low water temperature. This protects your water heater and conserves energy.
• Scalding Protection: Even with the water heater set at the maximum temperature for hot water, a water heater booster acts as a protector, turning the temperature down.

How do you install a water heater booster?

Follow these 5 fundamental Water Heater Booster installation processes: 

1. Turn the water off, prepare the water supply lines and turn the water heater off. 
2. Attach the cold-water supply valve to the water heater booster cold water inlet and the hot water supply valve to the water heater booster hot water outlet.
3. Install the proper connector that allows cold water to flow into the hot water mixing valve.
4. Reconnect all water supply lines to the water heater.
5. When everything is properly reconnected, turn the water on and wait for the water heater tank to fill. Set the water heater thermostat to 140 F and the water heater booster thermostat to the temperature desired.

And your house is prepared to boost the water heater next time there are multiple hot water tasks taking place at the same time! 

In Conclusion – Do You Have A Tankless Water Heater? 

We know that tankless water heaters are a great addition to most homes, but we also know they can be overwhelmed when too many hot water accesses are in use at the same time. 

So, can a tankless water heater be used as a booster? You can purchase individual boosters for your tankless water heater. They are installed at each water connection, like at the kitchen sink or each bathroom sink.

Increase the flow of water with a water heater booster in Chattanooga, TN. The team at Chattanooga Water Heater Co. is here to help, call 423-718-7342 now!