Are you waiting, and waiting, and waiting for the water in the shower to warm up, but it’s still ice cold? You could have a problem with your water heater that needs to be repaired. To have your unit repaired or replaced, call Scott Plumbing for services in Huntsville, AL. Our trusted plumbers provide straightforward pricing and on-time services!
Are you looking for a more energy-efficient water heater? Learn about our tankless water heater services.
Benefits of Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters are the most common type of unit residents use in Huntsville. These systems use electrical currents that are driven through the thermostats to heat one or more elements. These elements heat the water to a pre-specified temperature.
These water heaters come with thermostats pre-set to standard temperatures. This temperature is adjustable; however, we recommend that you do not attempt to adjust it due to the risk of electric shock.
Thermostats and elements often fail, and that’s where Scott Plumbing comes in. We can replace individual components of the heater, or install a completely new unit for you, hooking up both the waterlines and the electrical components.
Electric water heaters come in sizes ranging from 30 gallons up to and exceeding 75 gallons, with a larger variety of dimensional options than gas heaters.
What To Know About Gas Water Heaters
Gas-fired water heaters use a small flow of natural gas to ignite a burner. This heats the water inside.
Gas water heaters are popular because of their relatively low price, high efficiency, and useful lifespan (about 8-14 years average). They have a reasonably fast recovery rate, and can be set to temperatures as high as 130 degrees Fahrenheit. They divert the heat generated by the combustion chamber through a flue, or vent pipe at the top of the heater. This vent pipe usually joins into the vent system for the home’s heating and air unit.
Gas water heater sizes range from the standard 40 gallons, all the way up to large residential and commercial sized units exceeding 100 gallons. Scott Plumbing installs and services them all, repairing the vent pipes, gas control valve, burner assemblies, and gas lines. We install several water heaters every week and are very familiar with the service options of your particular water heater.
When a pipe bursts at your property, you need expert help immediately. Call us for burst pipe repair services in Huntsville.
When To Replace Your Water Heater
To avoid a disruption of hot water in your household, it’s essential to watch for signs that can indicate you need to install a new water heater. Some symptoms that can show your unit is failing include:
- Age: Your unit is getting older and nearing the end of its estimated 10- to 20-year lifespan.
- Losing efficiency: Your system needs to work harder to function.
- Rust and corrosion: You notice rust or corrosion on the unit or rust in the water.
- Leaking: There are leaks coming from the unit.
- Water is not warm enough: The system is no longer able to properly heat the water.
- Cracks: There are cracks in the tank or in the system.