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Water Heaters

Water Heaters

Is there anything worse than a cold shower when you least expect it? Water heaters are one of those household appliances we don't often think about until something goes wrong. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we know how vital a properly working water heater is to your daily routine. If you're dealing with a sudden lack of hot water or considering an upgrade, understanding your options and knowing when to act matters. Keep reading if you want to learn about common signs your water heater needs attention, and to compare tankless and traditional models so you can make the best choice for your home.

Signs That Your Water Heater Unit Needs Replacement or Repair

Water heaters don't last forever, and knowing the warning signs can save you from a full breakdown at the worst possible time. Here are some common indicators that you might need a water heater tank replacement or repair:

Water Heaters
  • Inconsistent Water Temperature: If your water fluctuates between scalding hot and icy cold, it's likely time to look into a new water heater installation in Savannah. Temperature inconsistency can stem from issues like sediment buildup or a failing heating element, which can often be fixed with timely maintenance or minor repairs.
  • Rusty Water: Discolored or rusty water is a clear sign of corrosion within your water heater tank. If left ignored, this can lead to leaks and other serious problems. In some cases, a full water heater replacement in Savannah may be the best option to prevent more serious damage.
  • Strange Noises: Rumbling, banging, or popping noises coming from your water heater usually indicate sediment buildup. Over time, sediment can harden and cause damage to the tank or heating elements, making your water heater less efficient and more prone to failure.
  • Leaks: Water pooling around your water heater should never be ignored. Leaks are a strong indicator that your tank may have a fracture, especially in older units. Prompt attention from a water heater installer can help determine if repair is feasible or if a replacement is necessary.
  • Age of the Unit: Most traditional water heaters have a lifespan of 8-12 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding this age, it might be time to consider a water heater replacement in Savannah to ensure continuous, reliable service.

Comparing Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters

One of the biggest decisions homeowners face when replacing a water heater is choosing between tankless and traditional models. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

  • Traditional Water Heaters: These units store a large volume of water in a tank, keeping it heated until needed. They are generally less expensive upfront and easier to install, making them a popular choice for many homes. However, they can run out of hot water if demand is too high, and they tend to have higher energy costs due to the need to keep water heated at all times.
  • Tankless Water Heaters: On-demand units heat water directly when it flows through and provides an endless supply of hot water. While the initial cost and installation fees are higher, tankless heaters are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan. They also take up less space and can be installed in tighter areas.

Which to Choose? It depends on your household's hot water usage, budget, and space constraints. For homes with high hot water demands, a tankless option can be a worthwhile investment. However, if budget constraints or space availability are concerns, a traditional hot water heater tank replacement may be the better fit.

The Impact of Water Heater Size on Energy Efficiency

When it comes to water heaters, size does matter. Choosing the right size can impact not only your comfort but also your energy bills.

Reviews

Josiah was our plumber from Mr. Rooter. He was the best! Not only did he arrive on time, he handled everything we needed to replace our kitchen faucets and some pipes in a timely manner. We held our dogs at bay outside; he assured us they, all 4 of them, would not be a problem since it was hot out back. We let them in and they fell in love with Josiah. We appreciate his care and concern for us seniors and will certainly request him again when we need a plumber. Donna and Jeff Youngblood

Jeff Youngblood

Made a call to request service for a leaking garbage disposal system. The phone line went down and I gave them a 1 star review thinking they dropped the call. It was just poor phone signal. They called back and apologized even though it was not their fault. (This just shows they are ready to give you good service.) They came and fixed my garbage disposal in no time. Good people. Great service. I thought I deleted my 1 start review. Apologies that it took sometime for me to make this update. Thank you Mr. Rooter.

Anand Hariharan

Joe really helped me out! Had my whole house backing up and after snaking the drains through a toilet hole he determined the best course of action was the hydro blast the main line, which required a cleanout to be installed. He dug up the line, installed the cleanout, and blasted out the clog all in one day. Pricing was fair and they even honored my membership discount from some work I had done by Mr. Electric (also a Neighborly company) a couple years ago. I will definitely be calling Mr. Rooter again if I have any other plumbing problems!

Cam Reynolds

I had a water emergency over the Easter holiday, called several "24 hour" plumbers and none of them bothered to help me except ONE. Mr Rooter sent Josiah to repair my broken pipe and install a new HOSE bibb that caused the emergency. He was very professional and efficient, and got the repair completed quickly. While it cost more than a normal job, I was lucky to find him on short notice on a holiday. Thanks to Mr Rooter my Easter weekend wasn't a TOTAL WASH OUT!! (pun intended)

Paul H

Felix and Will saved the day! (And our new old house.) I had a competitor company come out to help us with some seriously backed up plumbing. (They snaked one drain and then said the only solution was to reroute our plumbing to the main line, a 4-6k cost!). I called Mr. Rooter for a second opinion. They arrived exactly on time, listened to our issues, worked with our contractor who was there to help, and they were able to clear our entire home’s plumbing in a couple of hours and for less than $400! Felix and Will were polite, patient, and took extra time to make sure every drain in our house was working properly before they left. I’m so grateful. We will definitely keep getting our plumbing maintenanced by this crew. Thank you!!

Nicole Fernandez

These guys were johnny on the spot. I called late one day and they were here @08:00 the next day, very courteous very efficent took less than 1:45 min to do a job that the last crew did and did not botch the job, Josh Owens did a fantastic job i will call for him again if i need plumbing work. Oh and not to mention that mr rooter price was $100 less than the other guy.

Jim Warren

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  • Undersized Water Heaters: If your water heater is too small for your household needs, it could struggle to keep up with demand, leading to inconsistent water temperatures and frequent cold showers. This can also cause the unit to overwork, which increases wear and the likelihood of needing water heater repair sooner than expected.
  • Oversized Water Heaters: A water heater that's too large can lead to energy waste, as it will maintain more hot water than necessary and drive up your energy bills. Larger tanks take up more space, which can be an issue in homes with more limited storage.
  • Finding the Right Size: A professional water heater installer can help you find the correct size for your needs according to factors like household size, peak usage times, and your energy efficiency goals. 

Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Issues

Before you rush to replace your water heater, some common issues can be resolved with a bit of troubleshooting:

  • No Hot Water: For electric water heaters, check the circuit breaker or reset button on the heater. For gas units, ensure the pilot light is lit. If these steps don't solve the problem, it might be time for a water heater repair in Savannah.
  • Low Hot Water Pressure: Sediment buildup in the tank or pipes can reduce water pressure. Flushing the tank can often improve performance, but if the problem persists, it might be a sign of a more serious issue.
  • Smelly Water: A rotten egg smell usually indicates bacteria in the tank, which can be fixed by flushing the tank and adding a bit of hydrogen peroxide to the water. Maintenance services can help prevent this issue from recurring.
  • Water Too Hot: If your water is scalding hot, check the thermostat settings. The recommended temperature is around 120°F. If adjusting the thermostat doesn't resolve the issue, the heating element may be faulty.
  • Pilot Light Keeps Going Out: This is a common issue with gas water heaters and can be caused by a faulty thermocouple or pilot control valve. In such cases, it's best to call a professional for repairs or a new water heater installation in Savannah.

Does Your Water Heater Need Professional Care? 

Whether you need a hot water heater tank replacement, are interested in upgrading to an on-demand model, or require expert water heater repair in Savannah, Georgia, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is here to help. Contact us for a consultation, and let us ensure your home's water heater is up to the task.

Frequently Asked Question

At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Savannah, we understand that you may have questions about our services or how your plumbing system works. Here are some common questions we have been asked:

Why is my faucet leaking? 

A leaking faucet is often due to worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals within the faucet assembly. While these issues can usually be fixed with simple repairs, ignoring them can lead to higher water bills and further damage over time.

How long do water heaters typically last? 

The average lifespan of a water heater is 8 to 12 years. Maintenance tasks like flushing your tank and checking the anode rod will help to extend its life.

What should I do if I smell some gas near my water heater? 

If you smell any gas near your water heater, it’s important to leave the area immediately and contact your emergency services and your gas company. Don't try to fix a gas leak on your own, because it can be extremely dangerous.

How do I know if my sump pump is working properly? 

To ensure your sump pump is functioning, test it by pouring some water into the sump pit. The pump should activate and remove the water. Regular maintenance checks, especially before rainy seasons, can prevent malfunctions when you need the pump most.

Are there any benefits to routine drain cleaning? 

Regular drain cleaning prevents clogs, reduces foul odors, and maintains the health of your plumbing system. It can also extend the lifespan of your pipes and help prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies.

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