Types Of Water Heating Systems & Common Water Heater Repair Tasks | Irving, TX

Your home in Irving, TX, may house one of a few types of water heaters. Most likely, there will be a standard storage-tank model on the property, and this may be the type that you are most familiar with. One of the reasons that traditional storage-tank water heaters are so popular is because they house and heat a large amount of water. The capacity of most tank water heaters ranges from 20 to 80 gallons.

If working at full efficiency and not in need of water heater repair, your tank water heater can maintain a large volume of water at a steady temperature. The EPA recommends that water is kept at a consistent 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is hot enough to help prevent disease, not hot enough to cause scalding, and is a relatively energy-efficient temperature for most small families.

The most common alternative to a standard tank-style water heater is a tankless heater, which is much smaller as they’re not designed to hold water continuously. Instead, a series of sensors and additional components initiate heating and water supply on-demand when a hot tap or other fixture that uses water in your home is turned on. Tankless heaters are known to be more energy-efficient, not only assisting with sustainability but positively affecting energy costs. However, one downside of purchasing and installing a tankless water heater is that they are more expensive to purchase and install.

Potential alternative heating options:

• Hybrid water heaters and heat pumps

Hybrid heaters are similar to modern electric tankless heaters, but they include a conventional water tank. While these types of heaters are more efficient than standalone storage tank water heaters or tankless heaters, they require more vertical space which often restricts the areas they can be installed safely.

• Solar-powered water heaters

The most environmentally-friendly option available is a solar-powered water heater. However, they are also the most expensive, if you don’t already utilize solar panels at your Irving, TX property. These can be low-maintenance heaters, reducing the likelihood of water heater repair costs, but this depends on the climate.

• Condensing water heaters

If your home has a gas-powered furnace, you might wish to utilize a condensing water heater. These cost less than other types of heaters and capitalize on heat funneled from your home’s existing gas furnace to keep water to sinks and showers warm.

Common Water Heater Maintenance and Repair Tasks

Water heaters can be susceptible to a wide variety of issues if not maintained correctly. Some of the most common tasks that a water heater repair technician may be called to deal with include:

Fixing broken dip tubes

The dip tube transports cold, fresh water from the municipal water supply. It then passes through the tank of the water heater to the bottom where the heat exchanger transfers energy. The water rises to the top of the tank as it warms. If the dip tube is broken, cold water deposits at the top of the tank where it will mix with heated water and reduce the overall temperature. Broken dip tubes are the most common cause of a sudden drop in hot water supply. However, they are easy to fix as part of a water heater repair service.

Fixing faulty thermostats

If your home has no hot water or not enough hot water, this could be an issue with the upper thermostat. If the water is too hot, your thermostat could simply be set too high or it requires recalibration. Slow hot water recovery is a common issue that indicates the lower thermostat is faulty and may need replacement. Also, if the high limit switch keeps tripping, your thermostats need to be looked at in more detail. To determine the exact cause of incorrect temperatures, a water heater repair technician will need to investigate and fix any issues found.

Replacing heating elements

Electric-powered water heaters have two heating elements inside the tank that raise the water temperature. If one burns out, you’re likely to experience lukewarm water from shower heads and faucets. Qualified water heater repair technicians can replace broken elements inside the tank for you. Technicians will also ensure that heating element connections are appropriately tight.

Repairing faulty burners

Naturally, one of the key components used to heat water stored in a gas-powered water heater is its burner. Rust, or dirt, on the burner itself, is a common cause of water heater repair callouts. Burner obstruction will lead to ignition troubles. Gas supply blockages and low gas flow may also cause poor heating and ignition issues. As with all repairs that involve your Irving, TX, home’s gas supply, water heater services that include inspecting, repairing, or replacing components linked to natural gas need to be undertaken by a qualified professional.

Inspecting and repairing pressure valves

Temperature and pressure valves fitted in all types of water heaters are designed to safely relieve high-pressure and high-temperature situations that may cause injury. Malfunctioning water heaters can explode, cause damage, and injure people and property, so it’s essential that a qualified water heater repair technician investigates any potential issues. Technicians can safely check and test temperature and pressure valves, clean out any built-up sediments and deposits that may be affecting these factors, and replace any faulty components.

Inspecting and repairing fuel connections

Another common issue that water heater technicians often deal with is faulty fuel connections. Typically, during scheduled water heater maintenance visits, a technician will check gas lines, electrical connections, and any fittings to make sure there aren’t any leaks, loose connections, or any other type of damage that may result in water heater services down the line.

Tioga Plumbing & Electric is a trusted provider of a multitude of water heater services, including tankless water heater installation and repair, pipe replacement, gas-powered system repairs, backflow repair, and more. An emergency 24/7 service means you can get repairs completed any time you need them. Call now to discuss water heater repair and our financing options that can help you get your water heater back on its feet as quickly and affordably as possible.

Photo By cmannphoto at istock