Olathe, KS Traditional Water Heater Installation
Unfortunately, all appliances have a limited shelf life, and that includes traditional water heaters. Traditional water heaters are large tanks that are often located in a utility room or closet that provide your Olathe, KS home with a reserve of hot water. Your tank frequently refills and heats the water in the tank so the second you open a hot water tap, you receive warm water that you require to do dishes, clean clothes, or shower. When your water heater is nearing the end of its life, it can cause cold showers and unsanitary conditions.
Talk to Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing about our Olathe, KS traditional water heater installation services. We can assess your current water heater, provide you with repairs when possible, and recommend the best course of action for replacing your water heater. The team of expert plumbers at Top Notch explains the signs that you need a new water heater, comparing your water heater options, and tips for finding the best water heater for your home.
Signs You Need a New Water Heater
Paying close attention to the signs that your Olathe, KS water heater needs to be replaced can prevent your home from going without hot water or experiencing a costly leak. The biggest factor to consider when thinking about upgrading your water heater is its age. Generally, water heaters last 10-15 years, and if yours is over this age and experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to consider replacing it.
Leaks
If you ever notice puddles of water on the floor around your water heater, then it is likely leaking. Be sure to clean up this water right away and monitor the rate at which water comes back. Leaks are typically caused by corrosion inside the tank, a damaged drain valve, loose gaskets, or faulty cold and hot water connections. A licensed plumber can determine where the leak is coming from and make a recommendation about repairing or replacing the unit.
Reduced Efficiency
As they age, water heaters become less efficient and may need to be replaced. You’ll notice decreased efficiency in spikes in your water bills or energy bills, as it will take more energy to heat the water within the tank. Some common signs of an inefficient water heater include discolored water, leaks, strange noises, water that doesn’t get hot enough, and hot water that turns cold too quickly.
Frequent Repairs
Frequent water heater repairs are an obvious sign that it’s time to upgrade to a new unit. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on frequent repairs, put your hard-earned money toward the purchase of a new heater.
Knocking or Other Noises
A knocking sound often indicates excess sediment or mineral deposits have gathered at the bottom of the tank. Hard water can commonly cause the buildup of sediment in water heaters and other appliances. Consider adding a water softening system to your home to help protect the life of your water heater. The sediment buildup causes a reduced volume of water inside the tank which causes steam bubbles can rise to the top which makes popping or knocking sounds.
Tankless VS. Traditional Water Heaters
When it comes time to install a new water heater in their home, many Olathe, KS homeowners ask us if they should make the switch to tankless models. There is no universal answer to this question as every home situation is different. But if you’re curious about making the switch to a tankless water heater, here are some things to consider when comparing them to tanked models.
Tankless Water Heaters
- Have a longer lifespan. Some models can last 20 years or more.
- Require less space. Can be mounted on a wall instead of taking up floor space.
- Much more energy efficient. Only use energy as needed
- Can be a delay for the water to heat up.
- Require more repairs and maintenance.
Traditional Water Heaters
- Depending on the size of the home or business, tanked models can usually supply all of the hot water needs.
- Often need fewer repairs or maintenance throughout its life cycle.
- Typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years.
- Easier to install and are more affordable than tankless models.
What to Consider When Shopping For a New Traditional Water Heater
When you’ve decided to replace your current traditional water heater, or are looking for a tank water heater to install in your newly built home, there are a few things you need to consider when comparing water heater models.
- Fuel Type – water heaters can use natural gas or electricity to heat water. Depending on the energy rates in your area, one may be more cost-effective to use than another.
- Capacity – Depending on the number of people in your home, you’ll want to consider a larger water heater. Capacity ranges for water heaters usually range from 20-80 gallons.
- Efficiency – Water heaters will have an efficiency rating on them. The greater the efficiency rating, the lower the energy consumption and operating costs.
- Budget – While you might want the biggest and most efficient water heater on the market, know that this will come with a higher price tag. Make sure you have a budget in mind when shopping for a new water heating system.
Contact Top Notch for Olathe, KS Water Heater Installation Services
The expert plumbers at Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing are here to help our customers in Olathe, KS with all their home service needs. This includes repairing and installing water heaters. If your system is leaking or is not dispensing the proper amount of hot water, talk to our team to inspect your water heater. We can find the best solution for your water heater needs that will be both efficient and cost-effective. Give us a call today to schedule an estimate for hot water heater installation services in your home.