Simply put, hot water is a necessity in a home—not only for showering and personal hygiene but also for laundry, dishes, and beyond. So having a water heater in working order is crucial. However, on average, water heaters only last 8 to 12 years.
So, if you haven’t already experienced a water heater replacement Metro Detroit homeowners, you may be soon.
We put together the ultimate guide to help you prepare for or walk you through the process if you need a replacement water heater. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about water heaters and how to replace yours when necessary.
How Does a Water Heater Work?
Like many homeowners, you may appreciate hot water but not truly understand how it heats up. For the most part, the most common type tank-style water heaters operate on a simple principle. Cold water enters the tank through an inlet pipe and is heated by a gas burner or electric heating elements.
As the water warms, it naturally rises to the top of the tank due to convection. When you turn on a hot water tap, the heated water is pushed out through the outlet pipe at the top of the tank, while cold water simultaneously enters at the bottom to be heated.
This cycle continues, maintaining a ready supply of hot water. The temperature is regulated by a thermostat, which signals the heating element to activate when the water temperature drops below a set point, typically around 120°F (49°C). This efficient system ensures that hot water is available whenever you need it.
The Types of Water Heaters
Of course, a tank-style water heater isn’t the only style you can install. Today, there are a variety of water heaters available. One of the most popular alternatives to a standard water heater is a tankless water heater, while solar water heaters are gaining popularity among eco-conscious consumers.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters heat water directly as it flows through the device. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where it’s heated by either a gas burner or an electric element.
Advantages: energy-efficient, provide hot water continuously, save space
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters use energy from the sun to heat water. There are two types of solar water heater systems: active systems that use pumps to circulate water and passive systems that rely on natural convection. Regardless, solar collectors absorb sunlight and transfer the heat to a fluid that flows into the water tank.
- Advantages: environmentally friendly, low operating costs
Signs Your Water Heater Needs to be Replaced
Knowing when to replace your water heater is crucial for maintaining a comfortable home and avoiding unexpected cold showers. Luckily, several signs indicate it’s time for a replacement. Here’s what to look for or consider:
- Age: Age is a primary factor; most traditional tank water heaters last 8-12 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding these timelines, it’s wise to consider replacement.
- Color of water: Rusty or discolored water suggests internal corrosion.
- Noises: Any strange noises like rumbling or banging can indicate sediment buildup.
- Visible leaks: Leaks around the tank’s base are a clear sign of failure and require immediate attention.
- Low water pressure: Decreased hot water output or inconsistent temperatures might signal that your heater is struggling to meet demand.
Lastly and most alarming, if you notice a significant increase in your energy bills without a change in usage, your water heater might need to operate more efficiently. Regular maintenance can extend a water heater’s life, but if you’re experiencing multiple issues or frequent repairs, it’s often more cost-effective to invest in a new, more efficient model.
How to Replace Your Water Heater
Replacing your water heater is rarely a DIY project unless, of course, you’re a homeowner with plumbing experience. It involves many steps, depending on the type you get. Here’s a quick glimpse of the general steps so you can get an idea of how it’s done:
- First, the power or gas supply and the main water valve will be shut off. So be prepared to be without water during the process.
- Next, the old tank will be drained and disconnected from the water and power/gas lines.
- The old unit will be removed, with care, due to its weight.
- The new water heater is placed in the same position, ensuring its level.
- Then, the cold and hot water lines are connected using dielectric unions to prevent corrosion if connecting copper to steel pipes.
- The gas line and vent pipe are attached to gas heaters, and the wiring is connected to electric models.
- Then, the pressure relief valve and discharge pipe will be installed.
- Finally, the tank will be filled, and the plumbing professional will restore power or gas and light the pilot or switch on the circuit breaker.
Once completed, the professional will allow the tank to heat up and check for leaks. Depending on the size, layout, and professional you hire, the job should take anywhere from two to three hours.
The Final Word: Water Heater Replacement Metro Detroit
All in all, if you own a home you’ll likely have to replace your water heater at some point in your lifetime. So, it’s always best to be prepared and not only understand how your current hot water heater works, red flags to look for when it needs to be replaced, and how it will be replaced, with what types when it’s time to replace yours.
If you’re searching for water heater replacement Metro Detroit homeowners, you’re in the right place. WaterWork Plumbing proudly serves fabulous Ferndale and the surrounding area with exemplary service, ongoing maintenance, and 24/7 plumbing repairs.
Make WaterWork your go-to service for all things plumbing, residential or commercial. Simply select a preferred date and time with our online scheduler or contact our team to learn more now.