Is a hot water recirculating system worth it?

• <div><p>If you want instant hot water and to reduce water waste while improving convenience, a hot water recirculating system is worth it, especially if you find your <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/water-heater-not-heating-water-luke-warm-water-comes-shower.htm">hot water heater is not hot enough</a>. These systems can save thousands of gallons of water each year so you don't have to wait for hot water at faucets and showers. The upfront investment can be high, especially for systems requiring additional plumbing, but the long-term savings on water bills and added comfort make them a worthwhile upgrade. </p></div>

Get matched with top water heater pros in Reading, MI

Q: How often should a gas water heater be replaced?

• <div><p>You should replace your gas water heater when it&rsquo;s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-replace-gas-water-heater.htm">replace your water heater</a>. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.</p></div>

Q: How do hot water heater expansion tanks work?

• <div><p>When the water expands in a hot water heater, it puts pressure on your hot water pipes and can cause leaks or a rupture in the hot water tank under certain conditions. Pipes or water heaters may split due to the pressure where there is a backflow preventer that prevents the hot water heater from diffusing pressure by releasing water back to the public water line.</p><p>In these scenarios, a hot water heater expansion tank provides a place for the hot water heater to relieve pressure and prevent bursts and leaks.</p></div>

Q: How often should you replace an anode rod?

• <div><p>Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener. </p></div>

Q: How long does it take to install or replace a water heater?

• <div><p>The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your water heater service project in Reading, MI?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Reading, MI

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Reading, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Heater Service companies in Reading, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

Last update on August 13, 2024

Reviewed in August 2024
Did not need this service, but they said I did. Went ahead and use them, come to find out I had a busted water line and not what they said. Very little communication and took longer than what they said. Way over priced for what I have.
Groundworks
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2022
It was such a pleasure to find a great contractor to install a new water heater and water softening system at my lake house. From the first contact, to the home visit for the evaluation to the installation, 1st Choice Water Solutions is a class act and deserving of Angi's top rating. Everyone...
1st Choice Water Solutions LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2021
We had an emergency with one of sprinklers, it would not shut off and was spraying water everywhere. We had to shut off the water to the entire house. I contacted Mario and he responded immediately. He already had the parts needed for the repair and had everything fixed within 3 hours of our...
Mario Landscaping
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2020
We had a basement that always had water in it almost year round. We decided to sell the house and move to North Carolina. Still trying to sell the home we decided to have a French Drain System put in with a bleeder line, as it would not sell as it was. The Stay Dry team was excellent from start...
Stay Dry Basement Waterproofing Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2020
This is a great company to worked with to solve your water issues. They actually show up when they say they well be there and if something happens unexpectedly they come right out!
Coastal Restoration, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2017
I finally contacted Doctor Flue. After dealing with water inside my fireplace for almost two years, the issue no longer exists. I wish I had called Doctor Flue the first time because they resolved all of my chimney and fireplace issues, worth every penny, very high quality workmanship and very...
Doctor Flue, inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2017
I was told there was a crack at the top of my chimney, allowing water to enter the chimney, was told they sealed it and no more water would get in. The next rain storm, tons of water leaking inside, called them to have them come back, was told someone would be out, no one came, called three more...
Best Chimney & Roofing Co
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2016
Dave from Stay Dry inspected our foundation for a water leak, found no problem, helped me determine that the leak came from a window, referred me to a window company, and then declined to charge me for his service call and help! Quality service from people who care about their customers. Highly...
Stay Dry Basement Waterproofing, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2016
Corey contacted me quickly and worked within my schedule to get new water heater installed painlessly. I'd recommend him to anyone needing a new water heater!
Lee's Plumbing, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2016
I was quite satisfied with the inspection. It was limited because the house was in foreclosure so the electric, gas & water had been disconnected. We could not check those out. And the space below the house & into the attic were narrow, so this was also unable to be checked out thoroughly. But...
Gateway Home Inspection, LLC
Request a quote

Find Water heater pros in Reading

The Grate Haus

4.5(

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Reading, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We called them on Monday morning and they worked us in to get it done the same day. They installed the hot water heater in a timely manner, and did a great job. Very professional and helpful! Would definitely use again."

Recommended by90%of homeowners

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Reading, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The team did a great/wonderful job installing my new water heater!"

Recommended by69%of homeowners

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Reading, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"He was able to quickly diagnose that the water leak from the water heater was a result of a ruptured tank, resulting in the need to replace the entire water heater."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Reading, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"He was very nice to talk with and repaired our washing machine. He even helped sweep the water out."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Request Quote

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

You should replace your gas water heater when it’s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to replace your water heater. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.

If you want instant hot water and to reduce water waste while improving convenience, a hot water recirculating system is worth it, especially if you find your hot water heater is not hot enough. These systems can save thousands of gallons of water each year so you don't have to wait for hot water at faucets and showers. The upfront investment can be high, especially for systems requiring additional plumbing, but the long-term savings on water bills and added comfort make them a worthwhile upgrade.

When the water expands in a hot water heater, it puts pressure on your hot water pipes and can cause leaks or a rupture in the hot water tank under certain conditions. Pipes or water heaters may split due to the pressure where there is a backflow preventer that prevents the hot water heater from diffusing pressure by releasing water back to the public water line.

In these scenarios, a hot water heater expansion tank provides a place for the hot water heater to relieve pressure and prevent bursts and leaks.

Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener.

The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.

The Reading, MI homeowners’ guide to water heater services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Haley Nothstein
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does a Water Heater Gas Valve Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]
Learn about the different factors that go into water heater gas valve replacement costs to see if you should DIY the project or call a pro.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Flush a Water Heater? [2026 Data]
A water heater flush costs $160 on average but can vary based on the unit size, type, labor, location, and more. Keep reading to learn how much you could pay.
Allie Ogletree
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost? [2026 Data]
Tankless water heater costs depend on the size of your water heater, location, fuel type, and more. Keep reading to calculate your expenses.
Taylor Sansano
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Water Heater Frozen? How to Defrost a Water Heater
Worried your water heater might freeze this winter? Learn to spot the warning signs and how to safely thaw your tank or tankless system out if necessary.
Kelly Reilly
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
The Pros and Cons of Hybrid Water Heaters
Hybrid water heaters will have you weighing high initial costs versus long-term savings. Is it the right option for you? Explore the pros and cons of hybrid water heaters.
C.E. Larusso
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.