Should You Get Help Installing a New Water Heater?

September 20, 2022
Water Heater in Somerset, KY

Yes! Today’s modern lifestyle demands heated water for bathing, cleaning, and cooking. A water heater is a crucial component for these tasks. As technology for water heaters advances, there are many new components that, if installed incorrectly, can ruin your new water heater. But first, how do you know your water heater needs to be replaced?

When Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater?

Between bathing, cleaning, and cooking, you’ll use warmed water up to 20 times daily. Multiply that by the number of people living in the home, and you’ll see why a water heater wears down. Most water heaters will last a decade. However, age and use will eventually cause even the best designs to break down.

How do you know when to replace your current water heater?

  • Leaking from the tank or fittings
  • A device more than 10 years old
  • Inefficient heating or delays in hot water
  • Rusty water from the faucets and showers
  • Noises like rattling or banging during heating
  • Rust on the tank walls, inlet, or pressure release valve

Another concern could be the tank size of your current water heater. Many homes come with a minimal tank during the initial construction, and homeowners or renters soon find it inadequate.

At Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing, we’ve run across the problem of incorrect installation more than once in Somerset. For example, a previous owner or less-reputable contractor might have improperly installed a customer’s water heater or accessory components, causing increased wear and tear or a breakdown.

Older water heater designs weren’t as efficient as today’s models, and they could cost more to run. Consequently, an upgrade could save you money over time. Newer units also tend to use energy more efficiently, an important environmental consideration for those looking to live greener.

Finally, a new water heater can bring your property up to code and increase its value. It might even be required to sell your property.

Why a Plumber-Installed Water Heater Is Best

Should you wish to install your own water heater, the first obstacles you would need to overcome would be the permit and building codes. You’ll get fined for not pulling a permit. You could also reduce the value of your property, potentially damage the equipment, and endanger your family and yourself.

Homeowner insurance and product warranties are another concern. Most insurance policies won’t cover damages caused by a self-installed water heater. Manufacturer warranties usually include clauses stating that products not installed by professionals have voided warranty coverage. Trying to save money up-front could cost you down the road, even if you do the work yourself.

Another set of issues is the knowledge and ability required to do the job right. You’ll need plumbing training to ensure proper ventilation, secure gas connections, and proper water flow. Some electrical background is demanded for safe wiring and connections to prevent breaker overloads, shorts, and incorrect grounding. Working knowledge of carpentry is essential for installations, including modifying access points for valves, wires, and pipes.

It takes time to do these things right, especially if you’re trying to learn as you go. Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t have the free time to dedicate to this project. You might also spend more money as you discover other issues to address for a successful installation. Is the dubious savings worth jeopardizing expensive new equipment or home safety?

At Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing, we specialize in this installation, and our company is licensed and insured. In addition, our service team is certified and trained, so they can provide you with top-quality results from walk-through to clean-up when the job is complete.

Our professionals understand local, state, and federal codes, and we can pull a job permit for fast installation. You’ll get a clean install with an efficient and safe water heater. In addition, professional installation keeps the product warranty in place, and your homeowner’s insurance policy coverage remains active.

Our Team Is Ready to Help

When the time comes to install your new water heater in Somerset, reach out to our team at Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing to get the job done safely and quickly. Whether you require installation or repair, our qualified crew can help with all your plumbing, heating, cooling, and indoor air quality concerns. From cleaning your air ducts to performing scheduled maintenance that keeps things working efficiently, we’ll be there when you need us. So, contact us today and discover why our customers say we’re the best in communication and quality service!

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