Hot Water Heater
There are a variety of water heaters options on the market to meet your water heating needs. Cost, efficiency, climate, size, and various factors play a role in determining the option that is best for your home. Here at SM Mechanical, we can help with all your hot water needs.
The most common water heater options include:
Gas or Propane Fired Tankless Water Heater:
Tankless water heaters can be fueled by either gas or propane. One big perk is that they provide an endless supply of hot water. They are also ideal for space-saving as they are quite compact and don’t require a storage tank. The initial investment is more expensive than a conventional water heater. However, they can last up to 20 years, almost double the time compared to a traditional water heater.
Gas or Propane Fired Atmospheric or Power Vent Water Heater:
One advantage of a gas or propane fired atmospheric or power vent water heater is that you will still have hot water if your electricity goes out. Natural gas is also typically less expensive than electricity so your hot water bill will likely be lower than a traditional electric water heater would be. The initial costs can be more than electric because you need to get a gas line connection, but once that’s in place, your ongoing usage costs will typically be lower than electric. The lifespan is around 8-12 years on average.
Heat Pump Hybrid Electric Water Heaters:
Heat pump hybrid water heaters are revolutionizing home water heating by combining energy efficiency with powerful performance. These innovative systems use heat pump technology to pull warmth from the surrounding air, significantly reducing electricity consumption compared to traditional water heaters. With lower energy bills, eco-friendly operation, and reliable hot water supply, they offer a smart solution for homeowners looking to upgrade. In addition, these water heaters may quality for home performance rebates and Federal Tax Credits. The average lifespan is around 12-14 years.
Electric Water Heater:
If you are looking for a low upfront cost, electric water heaters are a good choice. They are also energy efficient and have been around for a while (1800s!), making them a safe and reliable option. There is no open flame, and newer models have built-in safety features, like built-in thermostats to control temperatures. They are a tried-and-true option that works in all climates. The expected lifespan is around 10-15 years. There is standard maintenance, including flushing the tank to get rid of any sediment buildup, that can help ensure the longest lifespan possible.
Water Heater Repair
If you need water heater maintenance or repair, please contact us; we are happy to help.
The lifespan of water heaters can last anywhere from 6-20 years on average, depending on the type of heater. While repairs are unlikely within the lifespan of a tank, there are some standard maintenance protocols you can do to help extend your tank life.
Flushing your tank, especially if you are on well water, helps remove the buildup of sediment that could lead to clogs, corrosion, reduced energy efficiency, or even a burst pipe if not ever addressed.
If you do, however, notice any unusual signs like leaks, strange noises, temperature fluctuations, or water discoloration, which can indicate sediment built up, please feel free to call us to schedule a visit.
