Repair or Replace | Water Heater Repair Fort Worth

Water heaters are largely ignored until they give trouble. So how do you know when to replace a water heater or to provide water heater repair in Fort Worth? A professional plumber is the best source for identifying the cause of water heater issues, and the determination to provide water heater repair in Fort Worth or to replace the appliance. In the following, common water heater issues are discussed to assist you in the decision to repair or replace a water heater.

Water Heaters Basics

Conventional water heaters are available in two models, gas and electric. If you’re replacing a water heater, you’ll most likely replace it with the same type of water heater. Upgrades you may be considering include a larger size and greater energy efficiency. There are other upgrades available such as a geothermal hot water heater, but for the purposes of this blog we will be discussing conventional water heaters.

When planning to replace a water heater, these features should be considered:

• Gallon capacity
• Recovery rate (the number of gallons the water heater will heat in an hour)
• Dimensions (width and height – measure your space to ensure the new water heater will fit)
• The energy efficiency rating (there should be a sticker on the water heater providing the estimated annual cost of operation for the appliance)

A licensed plumber should be used to install a gas water heater. Working with gas lines isn’t a task for the homeowner and requires a certified professional trained in the appropriate installation. Homeowners won’t have the equipment to test and inspect for gas leaks after a completed job as a plumber will.

Replacement or Water Heater Repair in Fort Worth

How long a water heater will last depends upon several factors. First among these is water chemistry. A water supply that’s considered ‘hard water’, which is high in minerals, won’t last as long as a water heater receiving filtered and softened water.

The level of maintenance provided is the next factor affecting a water heater’s longevity. If sediment is flushed at least once per year the appliance will last longer than one that receives no care.

The quality of installation is an important factor in longevity, safety and proper operation. As a general rule, when the existing water heater is 8 years old or older replace it. If the appliance experiences the need for frequent water heater repair in Fort Worth, you will be better off going ahead and replacing it with a new, more energy efficient model.

Common Hot Water Heater Problems

A common complaint is that the water isn’t hot enough or the water heater isn’t heating at all. Check for a thrown breaker or blown fuse to ensure the problem isn’t due to this.

Other potential causes of tepid or cold water is a defective heating element in an electric water heater, the temperature was turned down, or a faulty thermostat. When your water isn’t hot enough utilize the following tips:

Electric Water Heater

• Make sure that the appliance is receiving power by checking the breaker in the home’s electrical panel.
• Check the thermostat temperature and ensure it’s set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Then reset the thermostat.

If these steps don’t resolve the problem, call our dedicated plumbers for water heater repair in Fort Worth.

Gas Water Heater

• Make sure that the pilot light is lit. Check to ensure there is gas in a propane tank. If the supply is natural gas ensure the meter hasn’t been shut off. Paying the bill isn’t insurance against an error.
• Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat.

Contact a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing plumber for water heater repair in Fort Worth.

Other common problems

Unusual noises in the electrical water heater – Sediment may have collected in the tank. Drain the tank until the water clears. The heating elements are likely to require replacement by a plumber in Fort Worth.

As sediment can lead to corrosion, it’s possible the water heater will require replacement. Corrosion typically begins inside the water heater and works its way out. Rusty water may be caused by corroded galvanized pipe, a sacrificial rod within the water heater in need of replacement, or rusting of the appliance’s tank. If the tank has rusted water heater repair in Fort Worth won’t help, the water heater will require replacement to prevent potentially damaging leaks to the home and foundation.

When Replacement is Required

If you’re a fairly handy DIY homeowner, you may be considering replacing the water heater yourself. Consider the following before you decide to self-install a water heater:

• Look into the local codes which may require a licensed plumber for installation. If you will be working with gas, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to provide the job safely.
• Water heaters are bulky and heavy, you will require assistance.
• Do you have the tools to provide the installation?
• Do you have the experience to safely install the water heater?

Water Heater Maintenance

Water heaters require routine maintenance to ensure proper operation, the best possible efficiency and to increase longevity. Hard water, a lack of routine maintenance and the failure to provide water heater repair in Fort Worth will significantly shorten its service life and reduce efficiency.

Recommended maintenance tips:

• Drain the water heater at least annually to flush sediment and prevent life shortening corrosion and to maintain its efficiency.
• Set the temperature on the thermostat to 120 degrees. This will prevent the risk of scalding, reduce potential damage due to overheating, and will prevent bacterial growth that may occur on a lesser temperature.
• Insulate visible hot water pipes. Though not maintenance, it will help to maintain the water temperature as it travels through pipes, reducing wear on the appliance.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers licensed professional plumbers for your plumbing needs. Our experienced plumbers provide service with expertise for reliable plumbing repair. When you need water heater repair in Fort Worth, assistance in making the decision to repair or replace, or other plumbing services, call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. We serve Fort Worth, Arlington and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.