Water heaters make our lives more comfortable by heating water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. They’re an essential part of modern life, yet we often take them for granted until they start leaking or stop producing hot water. Unfortunately, it’s usually too late to save the unit by then, and you’re stuck with an expensive repair or replacement. If you’re having problems with your water heater, it’s best to act fast and contact a professional water heater repair technician in Irving, TX.

If you live in Irving, TX, you can rely on Tioga Contractors for water heater installation, maintenance, or repair services. We’re a family-owned and operated business with more than 25 years of experience, and we’re dedicated to providing our customers with honest, reliable service. Our water heater repair professionals are available 24/7 to help you with any plumbing problems you may be having.

Common Water Heater Problems a Plumber Can Fix

The average water heater will last between 8 and 12 years. However, during this period, issues may develop in the unit that calls for a professional service. Common water heater problems a plumber can fix include:

#1. Water Leaks: Water heaters can develop leaks due to multiple causes, including discrepancies in water pressure, a damaged gasket, an overheated unit, a stuck valve, a leaking water tank, etc. While leaks might not seem like a big deal for most homeowners, they can lead to severe issues, such as water damage, mold growth, and electrical problems, if left unaddressed.

#2. Inconsistent water temperature: The primary purpose of your water heater is to supply consistently hot water across every outlet in the home. If the water temperature is too hot, it can become a scalding hazard. And if it’s too cold, it can be frustrating and prevent you from completing certain tasks, such as washing dishes or taking a hot shower.

Inconsistency in water temperature is caused by various issues, including a broken thermostat, sediment build-up, or a leaking heating element. Call a water heater repair professional as soon as you notice the problem to avoid further damage to the unit.

#3. Water heater makes strange noises: Most water heaters will make some humming noise while operating. However, if you notice your water heater is making strange noises, like banging, popping, or screeching, it could be a sign of; sediment build-up, a faulty heating element, or another serious issue. Don’t pretend that everything is fine. Schedule a water heater repair service to determine what’s wrong and rectify the problem ASAP.

#4. Water smells like sulfur: Water heaters can develop a foul smell for many reasons. The most common cause is bacteria growth, which can occur due to standing water in the unit. If you notice a musty smell coming from your water heater, it’s essential to contact a professional right away. They’ll be able to clean the unit and get rid of the bacteria to avoid further problems.

#5. Low water pressure: Water heaters are designed to supply a consistent flow of hot water at a specific pressure. If you notice your water pressure is lower than usual, it could be due to a faulty circulator pump or clogged pressure relief valve. Low water pressure can significantly impact your daily operations as it takes more time to complete simple tasks, such as washing, bathing, and many other essential activities.

Scheduling a meeting with a licensed water heater repair expert can help you determine the cause of the pressure decrease and subsequently fix the issue.

#6. Thermostat issues: The thermostat is responsible for maintaining the water heater’s temperature. If it’s not working correctly, the entire unit can be thrown off, resulting in too much or too little hot water. Water that’s either too cold or too hot can be a hazard in the home, so it’s crucial to fix thermostat issues as soon as possible.

#7. Discolored water: Water heaters can cause water to become discolored for many reasons, including rust build-up, anode rod degradation, and sediment accumulation. A rusty or corrosive anode rod can cause your water to take on a reddish hue, while sediment build-up can make it appear cloudy. Again, a professional water heater repair would be able to determine the exact cause and solution to this problem.

#8. Old age: Most water heater problems occur due to old age. As mentioned earlier, most of these units have a lifespan of about 10-12 years. Water heaters that are well-maintained can last a little longer, but if you’re already experiencing some of the issues listed above, it might be time to invest in a new unit.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

You might wonder, “How often should I replace my water heater?” The answer to this question depends on certain factors, such as the type of water heater you have, how often you use it, and how well you’ve maintained it. Typically;

• Most water heaters will need to be replaced every 10-12 years. And if you can’t remember the last time you had your unit serviced, it’s probably time to start shopping for a new one.
• Lack of warm or hot water is another telltale sign that you may need a new water heater altogether.
• If you call a water heater repair service every few weeks or months, you might be better off getting a new water heater. The latest models are more energy efficient.

Need Quality Water Heater Repair Service? Contact Tioga Contractors

If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, don’t wait until it’s too late. Water heater problems only worsen with time, so it’s vital to call a water heater repair professional as soon as possible. Tioga Contractors have serviced all types of water heaters in Irving, TX, for many years. We’re licensed, insured, and well-equipped to handle any repair or maintenance issue you might be facing. What’s more, our services are fast, reliable, and reasonably priced.

Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 469-789-1293 to schedule a consultation today.

Photo By Minerva Studio at Shutterstock

Your family needs hot water for washing, cooking, and bathing. This is because using cold water is not only uncomfortable but also ineffective. Therefore, the importance of having a properly functioning water heater in your Flower Mound, TX home cannot be overstated. Unfortunately, like any other electromechanical appliance, your water heater can sometimes break down and fail to work as expected. Considering how important your water heater is, a water heater breakdown can cause serious disruptions in your home, making it necessary for you to ensure that it is fixed within the shortest time possible. But no matter how quickly you want to see your water heater fixed, you should never be tempted to do the job on your own. Instead, you need to have a professional water heater repair expert you can trust to help you deal with any water heater problems in your house. But what exactly can prompt you to make a quick call to your water heater repair services provider? Below is a rundown of the most common water heater problems homeowners face.

No Hot Water

This is perhaps the most obvious sign of a water heater failure. Your water heater is supposed to ensure that you have a constant supply of hot water, and therefore, if it is not giving you hot water at all, there could be a serious underlying problem. This problem can occur due to issues such as a faulty gas connection, a broken pilot light, or damaged heating elements. Whatever the underlying cause of the problem might be, you can trust a professional water heater repair expert to help you address it. Professional water heater repair experts have the necessary tools and expertise to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of any water heater problem and ensure that it is fixed decisively.

Water Leaks

Under normal circumstances, no water should be leaking from your water heater. Therefore, if you notice a puddle of water collecting around your water heater, then you need to make a quick call to your water heater repair expert. Water can leak from your water heater due to several reasons. For instance, corrosion can cause holes that might leak. Besides, high pressure can cause cracks that can cause water to leak. Unfortunately, if the leaking water is hot, it can put your family and pets at risk of sustaining burn injuries. Besides, the leaking water can encourage the growth of mold, which might negatively affect your indoor air quality and make your family ill. Depending on what the cause of the leak might be, your water heater expert should advise you on whether to repair the leaks or replace your water heater altogether.

Slow Water Heater

When you run out of hot water, your water heater will obviously take some time to make hot water available again. This can take twenty to forty minutes, but if you have used your water heater for several years, you know how long it takes to heat water under normal circumstances. If you have noticed that your water heater is taking longer than usual to heat water, then you could be facing a serious water heater failure. This problem can occur due to issues such as malfunctioning heating elements or too much sediment covering the heating elements. Whether you need new heating elements or your water heater needs to be replaced, you can count on your water heater repair expert to get the job done correctly.

Too Hot Water

Although your water heater is supposed to heat water, the water reaching the various outlets should be moderately hot. If the water coming from your water heater is too hot, it can pose a severe safety hazard. This problem can occur as a result of an incorrect setting on your thermostat. If the thermostat settings seem okay, the thermostat might be broken. To prevent serious burn injuries, you need to ensure that you get in touch with a professional water heater repair expert as soon as you notice that the water coming from your water heater is too hot. The professional will assess the condition of your thermostat and ensure that it is fixed accordingly. If the thermostat needs to be replaced, the professional will guide you in getting the right thermostat for your water heater.

Water Heater Noise

Your water heater is not necessarily designed to work completely silently. However, under normal circumstances, the sound coming from your water heater should be negligible. Therefore, if you have noticed that your water heater is producing an unusual sound, you could be facing serious water heater failure. This is because unusual water heater noise could be a sign of extremely serious underlying problems. For instance, if your water heater is producing cracking and popping sounds, then your water heater could be having too much sediment. While the sound itself could be harmless, an excessive buildup of sediment in your water heater could negatively affect the efficacy and efficiency of the appliance. Therefore, you should make a quick call to your professional plumber as soon as you notice that your water heater is getting excessively noisy.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that there are many problems that can affect the performance of your water heater. Some water heater problems can also compromise your family’s health and safety. Given the importance of the water heater in your Flower Mound, TX home and the sensitivity of some water heater problems, you need to have a professional plumber you can trust to help you implement any water heater repair needs you might come across in your house. If you are looking for a reliable water heater repair expert in or around Flower Mound, TX, Tioga Contractors is the answer. We have been handling water heaters for a long time and are familiar with most water heater issues, including the most complicated ones. Contact us today for more information about our company and the services we offer.

Photo By Tomjac80 at istock

Water heaters are an essential part of any home. They provide hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. Over time, however, water heaters can develop issues and stop working altogether. And in most cases, you don’t realize there is a problem until you turn on the shower and are greeted with a cold stream of water. Therefore, to avoid this situation, it’s best to allow a water heater repair expert in Keller, TX, to inspect your water heater regularly to ensure it’s in good working order.

The trained and licensed professionals at Tioga Contractors understand how important a fully functioning water heater is to our clients, and that’s why we quickly respond when you call us and provide quality workmanship. We’ve been in business for over 25 years, and our experience guarantees that your hot water heater repair will be done quickly and to your satisfaction.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

Water heaters are sophisticated machines and can develop different issues over time. It’s thus crucial to be aware of the signs that your water heater needs repair, so you call in a professional before the problem worsens. Some common signs that indicate you need water heater repair include:

Water is leaking from the tank: A leaking water heater is not something you should ignore. Water heater leaks can indicate that the tank is rusting, and if left unchecked, this can lead to a complete tank failure. Leaks can also lead to water damage or possible mold growth that can compromise the health of your household.

The water isn’t hot enough: If the water from your water heater isn’t as hot as it should be, it may need service. Water heaters have thermostats that control the temperature of the water, and if the thermostat isn’t working correctly, it can result in lukewarm water. Additionally, sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank can cause water to be heated less effectively.

The water is too hot: An overheating water heater can be just as much of a problem as one that isn’t heating the water correctly. Too much hot water can cause scalding or explosion due to the pressure buildup in the tank. Common causes of water being too hot include:

• A stuck pressure relief valve
• A faulty thermostat
• A failing heating element
• A problem with the gas supply

The water heater is making strange noises: Water heaters shouldn’t make much noise, so if you notice your water heater is making banging, popping, or rumbling noises, it could be a sign that the tank is starting to fail. Additionally, if you notice water around the base of your water heater, call a water heater repair professional immediately to inspect your unit.

Rusty water: Rusty water from your faucets can indicate that your water heater could be damaged and rusting. It could also indicate that your water pipes are corroding. A professional plumber can diagnose the problem and determine if you need water heater repair or replacement.

Technicians have the knowledge, tools, and experience to repair or replace any water heater. So, it’s best to leave repairs to the professionals when it comes to something as important as your water heater.

Potential Risks of DIY Repairs

Although you may be tempted to try to fix your water heater by yourself, we strongly advise against it. If done incorrectly, it can lead to bigger problems down the road or even cause serious injury. Here are a few reasons to leave water heater repair to the professionals:

Electrical hazards: Water heaters use electricity to function, and if you’re not experienced in dealing with electrical wiring, you could be putting yourself at risk for electrocution. Sometimes, water heaters also require a gas line hookup; if this isn’t done correctly, it could lead to a gas leak. Let experts handle your water heater repair to avoid any potential electrical hazards.

Water damage: If you attempt to repair your water heater and something goes wrong, you could end up with a flooded home. Water damage is expensive to fix and can lead to mold and mildew growth. These can cause serious health problems, particularly for people with allergies or respiratory issues.

Voiding the warranty: Most water heaters come with a warranty, and if you try to repair it on your own, you could void this warranty. Water heater repair isn’t always easy, and it’s best to leave it to the experts to ensure that it’s done correctly and that your warranty stays intact.

Body injury: Water heaters are heavy, and if you drop one while trying to move it, you could seriously injure yourself. Water heaters also require power tools; if these tools aren’t used correctly, you could end up with cuts, burns, or other injuries. Expert plumbers have the proper safety gear to protect themselves from harm.

Exposure to harmful chemicals: DIY repair may seem fun and exciting until you become exposed to toxic chemicals. A water heater uses certain chemicals to heat water, and if you mishandle these chemicals, they can have grave consequences. Professionals have the proper training to handle these dangerous chemicals. They’ll also take the necessary precautions to protect you and themselves.

Explosion risks: You should remember that handling a gas water heater yourself is extremely dangerous. A wrong move can release gases at a high rate propelling the heater at a speed of up to 330 mph. A large water heater moving at that speed can cause extensive damage to your Keller, TX home. In the worst-case scenario, an explosion can also occur.

Need Quality Water Heater Service? We’ve Got You!

Tioga Contractors is here to help with your water heater repair needs. We have a team of experienced and certified professionals who can properly repair or replace your water heater. We’re licensed, insured, bonded, and committed to providing our customers with the best possible service. Get back to comfort when you choose Tioga Contractors for water heater service in Keller, TX, or surrounding areas. Contact us at 469-789-1293 today!

Photo By KatarzynaBialasiewicz at istock

Every appliance in your Irving, TX home serves a purpose to make your life more convenient. Every appliance is essential, but there are some you can live without. For example, if your dishwasher breaks down, you can wash the dishes by hand. If the washing machine or dryer breaks, you can go to the laundromat. There are a few appliances you can’t live without; one is your water heater. A water heater is technically an appliance, and it’s also an essential part of your plumbing system.

When water fills the water heater, it’s cold, and the unit heats and stores the water, so you always have hot water available. If something goes wrong with the water heater, it can affect the water’s temperature and quality and even flood your home.

If your water heater experiences any of the following problems, it’s best to call a plumber specializing in water heater repair immediately.

#1 You Have No Hot Water

If you turn on the hot water tap and it comes out cold, you may need to schedule an appointment for water heater repair. Before you make the call, you should check a few things first.

• Electric water heater: Make sure there is power going to the unit and a circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
• Propane or oil-fueled water heaters: Make sure that there is fuel in the tank and the pilot is lit.
• Natural gas water heater: Make sure the pilot is lit, and check your records to ensure your bills have been paid. Also, check with a neighbor or the gas company to rule out a widespread outage.

If everything checks out, it’s time to call a plumber specializing in water heater repair. The most common cause of this problem is a faulty heating element. If the unit is over ten years old, it may have reached the end of its lifespan and isn’t capable of heating the water.

#2 The Water Isn’t Hot Enough

If you turn on the hot water in your home, and it doesn’t get hotter than lukewarm, check the thermostat. The EPA recommends setting the thermostat to 120 to 140 degrees, which is hot enough but not so hot that the water can cause scalding. Adjusting the thermostat should solve the problem if the thermostat is set too low. If the thermostat is set correctly, it’s best to call a plumber specializing in water heater repair. A few issues can affect the water temperature, including:

• The heating element isn’t getting hot enough to heat the water to the desired temperature.
• The thermostat is faulty.
• The unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and can no longer function efficiently.

A licensed plumber can inspect the unit to figure out why the water isn’t getting hot enough so that they can resolve the problem and restore your hot water.

#3 You Frequently Run Out of Hot Water

Do you run out of hot water often? Have you had to take cold showers? If so, you should call a plumber specializing in water heater repair.

If your water heater cannot meet your family’s hot water demand, you’ll run out of hot water frequently. The only way to resolve this issue is to install a larger water heater or a tankless model that provides hot water on demand.

If your family’s size isn’t the issue, it could be due to sediment buildup in the tank. When large amounts of sediment form, there won’t be as much space for water storage. A plumber may not be able to flush this much sediment from the tank, and if they can’t, you’ll need to replace the water heater.

#4 Poor Hot Water Pressure

Adequate water pressure is essential for daily tasks. Poor hot water pressure will make simple tasks like washing the dishes and washing your hair take longer, and your hot water-based appliances won’t function at peak performance. If your water pressure is suddenly reduced, you should call a plumber specializing in water heater repair.

When sediment builds up in the tank, it can break apart and clog the waterline, restricting the water pressure. A plumber can clear the waterline and try to flush the sediment, but if they can’t, you’ll need to replace the water heater. If you don’t, the waterline will keep getting clogged, and you’ll spend a fortune on water heater repair.

#5 Brown or Rust-Colored Hot Water

If the water coming from the hot water tap in your Irving, TX home is brown or rust-colored, you should schedule an appointment for emergency water heater repair.

When sediment builds up in the tank, the hot water can cause it to break apart, contaminating the water. A plumber can try to flush the sediment, but you’ll need to replace the water heater if they can’t.

If the unit is over ten years old, the inside of the tank could be breaking down, and tiny metal shards of metal can contaminate the water.

It isn’t safe to use contaminated water, making this problem an emergency. It’s best to avoid using hot water until the issue is resolved. If you have to use the hot water, you should boil it first.

#6 Pooling Water

If you see water pooling around the water heater in your Irving, TX home, call a plumber immediately. The pooling water indicates a crack in the tank that can result in 50+ gallons of water flooding your home.

A cracked water heater can’t be fixed, and you’ll need to replace the unit.

Call Tioga Contractors Today

If your water heater isn’t working correctly, call Tioga Contractors. We are a full-service plumbing and electric company, serving customers in the area since 1953, and are experts in water heater installation, maintenance, and repair.

Our plumbers are professionally trained, highly skilled, and have the knowledge and experience to handle any job. If you have a plumbing issue that can’t wait, don’t panic. We provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and will get a plumber to your home as quickly as possible.

To schedule an appointment for water heater repair or any other plumbing service, give us a call or book online at https://tiogacontractors.com/schedule-an-appointment/.

Photo By DG FotoStock at Shutterstock

It is very likely that the last thing on your mind when you wake up in the morning is your water heater. As long as hot water comes out of your shower and faucets, there’s no reason to worry about it, right? Well, no, that’s not completely true, because you never know when you may be in the middle of a nice, hot shower when you suddenly get hit by a blast of ice-cold water.

Think of it this way, your water heater endures a lot of stress because it works all day long, every day of the year. At that rate, it shouldn’t be a surprise when it breaks down. It is at that moment when you are shivering under an ice-cold shower, trying to rinse off as quickly as is humanly possible, that you will start thinking about the importance of the water heater in your home, and worrying about finding the best water heater repair in town. So, to avoid this scenario, here are the signs that will help you know you will soon need water heater repair in Flower Mound, TX.

You Start Noticing Variations In the Temperature of Your Water

It can happen that you will notice that one day your home’s water will come out nice and hot and the next it will be cold and will take much longer to warm up. These variations in the temperature of your home’s water will be a very good indicator that something is happening and you might need water heater repair. In most cases, these temperature variations are due to minerals in the water accumulating over a period of time, coating your water heater’s elements and preventing them from working correctly. If this is your case, there’s a possibility that repairing or replacing the damaged heating elements will solve the problem.

With this in mind, the first step you should take is to get a professional plumber to inspect your water heater to try to determine what could be causing the problem. It is also a good idea to try to figure out how old it may be. If your water heater was installed only a few years ago, you should have it repaired, but if it’s been in your house for too long, or even since before you moved in, your best move may be to replace it. The replacement of an old water heater will save you the money you would have to spend in multiple repairs, but, in any case, you should get a professional’s opinion before making any drastic decisions.

Your Water Starts to Look Discolored

If you suddenly start noticing changes in the color of your water, and it comes out looking brown or rust-colored, it could be a sign that you may need water heater repair. Changes in the color of your water can be due to the accumulation of sediment in your water heater’s tank. When this happens, the condition might be serious enough to pose a potential hazard to your family’s health. In this case, you should call a professional water heater repair service to clean the tank, or, if the problem continues, to help you evaluate the need for a complete replacement.

Your Water Heater Is Making Strange Noises

A new water heater shouldn’t make any noise, but an old one will start making strange rumbling or buzzing noises. While these sounds could make it seem like your water heater is about to explode, the truth is that it’s quite normal for your water heater to make some noise. The problem starts when a normal rumble or buzz turns into banging, cracking, or even a popping noise. If this is your case, you should call a professional water heater repair service before the problem becomes overly serious and you find you have to replace your water heater completely before it starts leaking and causes costly damages to your Flower Mound, TX home and furniture.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that the lifespan of a water heater is normally 8 to 12 years of continued use. If you want it to be in top condition for longer than that, a good maintenance schedule is the best thing you can do. Most water heater problems can be avoided outright by providing proper maintenance to your appliance, so, before your water heater starts giving you grief, you should get a professional to take perform the necessary maintenance and cleaning.

Your Water Heater Has Started to Leak

When the structure of your water heater becomes weak and worn, it could spring a leak. This problem becomes quite obvious when you find a puddle of water under the water heater’s tank. This can be a serious and dangerous problem if you have other electrical connections in the same area. If your water heater is leaking you should call for professional water heater repair as soon as possible, in order to get the problem solved before it becomes a potential hazard to your family and your property.

Do You Need Water Heater Repair?

When you are in need of professional water heater repair in Flower Mound, TX you should always call the experts at Tioga Contractors for the best service in the area. Having an inexperienced person attempt to repair your water heater can result in potentially expensive damage and even more problems than you had before.

Calling in the pros will guarantee excellent service and high-quality repairs, which ensures the life of your water heater is extended beyond its expected lifespan. At Tioga Contractors we have the experience and the knowledge that you need when your water heater is acting up. So, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We are trained in all the different types of water heaters on the market today and can solve any problem with your existing water heater or make suggestions in case a replacement is needed. So, if your water heater is giving you grief, pick up the phone and contact us today!

Photo By cofotoisme at istock

Did you know that your water heater is one of the biggest energy consumers in your Keller, TX home? If you’re looking for ways to conserve energy and save money, your water heater can be a great place to start! In this article, we will discuss 6 tips for conserving energy. Implementing even a few of these tips can make a big difference in your monthly energy bill and save you from costly water heater repairs. So let’s get started!

Set Your Water Heater to the Correct Temperature

One of the easiest ways to conserve energy with your water heater is to set it to the correct temperature. The recommended setting for most water heaters is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It is hot enough to kill bacteria and other waterborne pathogens but not so hot that it poses a scalding risk.

If your water heater is set too low, it will have to work harder to maintain the water at a safe temperature, leading to increased energy consumption. Working harder also increases the unit’s wear and tear, leading to costly water heater repair services.

On the other hand, if it is set too high, you risk scalding yourself or wasting energy by heating water to a temperature you will never use. In either case, it pays to take a few minutes to adjust your water heater to the recommended setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Doing so could save you money on your energy bill and prevent breakdowns that will require costly water heater repair services.

To find out what temperature your water heater is currently set at, consult your owner’s manual or a water heater professional.

Insulate Your Water Heater

While most water heaters come with some level of insulation, adding extra insulation can make a big difference in conserving energy. This will help keep the water hotter for longer, so you won’t have to run the heater as often. For example, a simple insulation blanket can help to reduce heat loss and lower the water heater’s operating costs by around 10%.

In addition, insulating the water heater can help to extend its lifespan by preventing corrosion and other damage caused by extreme temperatures. This will save you from water heater repair services and help you to avoid the expense of buying a new water heater altogether.

Drain the Sediment from Your Water Heater

Over time, sediment will build up in your water heater, making it less efficient and causing it to use more energy. This sediment can insulate the heating element, making it harder for the water to get hot. As a result, your water heater will have to work harder and use more energy to heat the water. Therefore, the sediment can cause your water heater to overheat and fail prematurely.

To avoid frequent repairs triggered by sediment buildup and conserve energy simultaneously, it’s important to drain the sediment from time to time. The frequency with which you need to do this will depend on the hardness of your water and the size of your water heater. However, as a general rule, it’s a good idea to drain the sediment from your water heater every six months. This simple maintenance task can go a long way towards conserving energy and preventing frequent water heater repairs.

Install a Water Heater Timer

If you’re not using hot water, there’s no need to have your water heater running. By installing a timer, you can set your water heater to operate only during the hours you are actually using hot water. For example, if you typically take a shower in the morning and do laundry in the evening, you can set the timer only to heat the water during those times. This simple change can save you significant money on your energy bills.

Not only will this help to conserve energy, but it can also prevent your water heater from overheating and failing. This is especially important for areas like Keller, TX, which experience hot summers. Extended periods of high temperatures can lead to overheating and breakdown, resulting in costly water heater repairs. Therefore, using a timer to conserve energy and prevent overheating is a smart move.

Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency Water Heater

If your water heater is more than a few years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model. Newer models are much more energy-efficient than older ones and can save you significant money on your energy bills. In addition, high-efficiency water heaters often have features that can further conserve energy, such as automatic shut-off valves.

Not only will this help you to conserve energy, but it can also lower your carbon footprint and help to protect the environment. If you’re looking for ways to green your Keller, TX home, upgrading to a high-efficiency water heater is a great place to start. Besides, older models are prone to frequent water heater repair services, so making the switch can save you money in the long run.

Replace the Sacrificial Anode Rod When Necessary

The sacrificial anode rod is a metal rod used to protect the water heater from corrosion. This rod is made of metals that are more reactive than the metal of the water heater, and it sacrifices itself to corrode instead of the water heater. Therefore, preventing corrosion in the tank ensures your water is working efficiently and conserves energy.

However, the sacrificial anode rod will eventually corrode away over time, leaving the water heater unprotected. When this happens, the water heater will start to corrode, which can lead to several problems, such as leaks. In addition, corrosion can cause the water heater to become less efficient and use more energy.

Therefore, it’s important to check the sacrificial anode rod from time to time and replace it when necessary. This simple maintenance task can go a long way toward preventing costly water heater repairs and conserving energy.

Let Us Help You Save Energy

At Tioga Contractors, we are dedicated to helping our customers conserve energy and save money. We are a full-service plumbing company offering a wide range of services to meet your needs. Whether you need a new water heater repair or installation, we can help. We also offer various services, such as drain cleaning and leak detection. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Photo By golfcphoto at istock

Water heaters typically have more issues during colder months. However, summer can present some unique problems. This is especially true for water heaters located in attics or garages that don’t have air conditioning. It doesn’t matter what type of water heater you have, gas, electric or tankless – all types will need water heater repair services at some stage, especially if they’re kept in areas with poor ventilation, such as garages and attics. Water heater repair appointments attended by plumbers in Irving, TX, often include investigating and repairing issues with the pilot light, resolving ventilation problems, and identifying and repairing leaks.

Pilot Light Problems

You may notice that the pilot light on your water heater often goes out when temperatures exceed 100 degrees F. This can be due to two reasons:

The gas valve won’t open if the temperature in the area around your water heater exceeds the thermostat temperature. Alternatively, if the pilot light flame’s heat is too weak to create a natural draft, this causes any oxygen available to quickly burn up. The pilot light then goes out and needs reigniting. If this occurs frequently, you will benefit from a water heater repair service.

Incorrect gas combustion can be caused by poor ventilation. This is because hot air rises, taking oxygen from the heater’s burner. This will cause the pilot light to go out.

Ventilation Issues

Proper ventilation will solve pilot light and incorrect gas combustion issues. If your heater is located in your attic, you can improve these issues by installing a fan or vents to improve air circulation. Insulating your attic may also be a good idea to keep the hot air from entering your living area.

Another way to resolve continuing ventilation issues that cannot be solved through a standard water heater repair service is to replace your existing water heater with a newer, more appropriate type. Replacing your hot water heater with a tankless model gives you the option to install the new heater in better-ventilated locations. A tankless heater has many benefits, including:

• It takes up less space than a tank-mounted hot water heater.
• You save money because you use less energy than older models that have tanks
• Hot water is available on demand
• A tankless water heater requires less maintenance

How to Tell If Your Water Heater Has Combustion Issues

You can check the heater’s sight glass to confirm you have a fuel combustion problem. The gas flame will change from light blue to yellow, and then to red. Despite improper combustion, at first glance, the burner may appear to be lit properly, which is why some householders in Irving, TX, go longer than they should before calling a plumber about water heater repair. When there is improper combustion, the flame will eventually look flattened. If you see any warning signs of irregular combustion, it should be addressed swiftly. Combustion issues can not only cause problems with your water heater, but they could also pose a danger to your home.

Water heaters are found in the attic of many homes across the country. Storing a water heater in the attic is a good solution that helps homeowners to avoid taking up usable spaces in basements and garages. However, it can be problematic if you suspect that your water heater is leaking.

Why Is the Attic so Important?

Attic water heaters are often installed in homes built on pad foundations; homes with no basements or crawl spaces. Although they are inexpensive to install, the repair of attic-housed units can be difficult due to their location. Water heaters in homes can also be installed in garages, depending on type. The presence of flammable liquids in gas-fired water heaters, for example, makes alternative locations, such as the garage, inadvisable.

The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety identifies several factors that can increase your chances of requiring water heater repair services:

• Age: Water heaters more than a dozen years old are more likely to fail. Nearly 75 percent of water heaters stop working by the age of 12.
• Poor Maintenance: Flushing the water heater every six months to remove sediment, and having a plumbing professional inspect and replace the sacrificial anode rod in the tank as part of routine inspection and maintenance, will prolong the water heater’s life
• Water Heater Location: Although attic leaks are rare statistically, they can be costly and extensive. Third-floor leaks resulted in 33 percent more losses than basement leaks. Extrapolating from the above, attic leaks can cause more damage, resulting in more extensive repair costs.

Diagnosing a Leak

You should immediately investigate the possibility that your attic water heater is leaking. Most water heaters don’t burst easily, they develop slow leaks that can go unnoticed for several months before a professional plumber is called to provide water heater repair and maintenance.

Luckily, a gadget can be purchased that is designed to sit in the existing metal pan under your attic heater. When it gets wet, it will set off an alarm, indicating that there’s a leak that requires investigation. The metal pan is not meant to stop a 40- to 50-gallon water loss. Its purpose is to drain water from small, slow leaks. If it overflows, it can cause massive damage to ceilings and other parts of your home. Leakages most often occur at the valves and pipe joints, not in the tank, so it can be hard to spot until it’s too late.

You may have a slow leak if you see wet ceilings or drywall. It is possible to limit the damage by moving all furniture and other items away from the area where a leak is occurring. This will increase airflow and help dry out the affected area, but will not resolve the overall issue. A plumber capable of water heater repair will need to isolate and fix the leak.

Repairing a Leak

To repair a leak, you should take the following actions:

Turn off the water supply. Look for the water shutoff valve on the top of your water heater.

Turn off the gas supply. Instructions for gas shutoff can be found on the water heater or in supplied paperwork.

Call a plumber at Tioga Contractors in Irving, TX, and book a water heater repair service. Prompt water heater and pipe repairs are available 24/7/365.

Photo By A-photographyy at Shutterstock