"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."
i’m a problem solver who can McGyver just about anything. I’ve got a strong background in handyman work and a real passion for electrical systems. I like figuring things out, making repairs that last, and finding creative fixes when parts or tools are limited.”
Excessive pressure (above 80 psi) puts too much stress on plumbing pipes, joints, and fixtures. This can lead to leaks and burst pipes. Plus, it shortens the lifespan of appliances, can waste water, and can raise your utility bills. High water pressure might feel like a gift, but it’s actually a silent threat to plumbing.
You have more options for water heaters than ever before. The best one for your home depends on your hot water usage and budget. Some of the more common types of water heaters are the conventional gas heater, a heat pump water heater, or a tankless heater for smaller homes or those with less water demands. Some uncommon types are solar and point-of-use systems. Some homes may have a combination of two units, such as a large heat pump heater and a backup point-of-use system.
A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
Basements, specifically those without any air conditioning, are the best location for a hybrid water heater. These rooms are less likely to experience extreme temperature fluctuations, which can affect your hybrid water heater’s efficiency and performance. Basements often have more than enough space for their tanks and proper air circulation. Hybrid water heaters can also be a bit noisy, but putting them in your basement will keep the noise away from your main living areas.
When replacing an old unit, you might want to switch from a gas water heater to an electric water heater or vice versa. To do this, you will likely need to add infrastructure to the area. For example, you likely don’t have a gas line that served your old electric water heater. You’d have to call a plumber to put in a new gas line. If you’re replacing a gas unit with an electric one, the plumber will need to safely cap the old gas line. You will then need an electrician to add wiring for the new electric unit.
The Ubly, MI homeowners’ guide to water heater services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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.
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.
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.
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.