Investing in a new hot water heater for your home is a big deal and you shouldn’t take it lightly. They are major investments and you always want to ensure that you are going to get the most out of what you spend. Before proceeding with the installation process, you should ask your HVAC specialist several key questions to ensure that you are making the right decision.
1- Should you buy a tankless or traditional water heater?
This is the most common question we get from our clients when they have to replace their existing system. It’s difficult to say which one is better than the other because they both have their advantages and disadvantages. When deciding on your new water heater, we recommend that you consider the number of people currently living in your home. Usage is what your decision will come down to when choosing between the two systems. Furthermore, you should also discuss your budget, energy conservation, and your water-using habits with your specialist.
2 – What size tank do you need?
Again, think about the size of your household and what you are currently demanding from your hot water heater. Most of our clients are homeowners and they are not searching for a commercial size hot water tank. When you make your decision, always keep in mind the number of people living in your home. You obviously won’t need to go too big with only two people living under the same roof. Let your plumber know about your personal needs so that they can install the system that is right for you.
3 – Will your new system be energy efficient?
Most modern water heaters are designed with energy efficiency in mind. The higher the quality of the model, the more energy you are going to save. Although these are systems that will cost you a pretty penny to install, you will recoup your money in savings on your monthly energy expenses. If you want to prioritize your energy conservation efforts, then you should invest in a tankless electric water heater.
4 – How long will the installation take?
A qualified technician will remove your existing unit and replace it in no time. Installations should never take longer than a day to complete under normal circumstances. The complexity and scope of the installation can potentially cause the process to drag on, but again, it shouldn’t take a long to replace everything.
5 – How do you dispose of an old water heater?
Once you purchase a new water heater and hire a specialist to install it, then they will also get rid of your old unit. They will know how to safely dispose of it so that you don’t have to worry about anything. Some plumbers will charge extra to dispose of your old unit and some won’t. You should always ask them ahead of time if you will have to pay extra for the disposal of your old water heater.
6 – What brands can you choose from?
No matter who you hire to install your water heater, you should have the option to choose whatever brand you want. This will encompass gas-powered and electric water heaters. Some companies form partnerships with various manufacturers so that they can provide you a good deal on a particular brand of water heater. If a company is only offering you a couple of brands to choose from, then your options are going to be limited. You always want to ensure that you have access to all the latest technology. If the service provider is forcing you to choose a certain brand, then you shouldn’t do business with them. When making a significant financial decision, you should have more say in the matter.
7 – Should you undergo regular maintenance and cleaning procedures?
It certainly won’t hurt you to hire a specialist to take a look at your hot water heater periodically. And during those annual tune-ups, check to make sure that everything is working efficiently afterwords. You’re not paying a repair specialist to not do anything. A qualified technician will inspect the various components of your hot water heater, including your pressure relief valve, filters, burner assembly, anode rod and power supply. They also flush out your system and remove any sediment collecting in your hot water storage tank. Regularly-scheduled maintenance will ensure greater long-term efficiency.
8 – Does the new unit come with a warranty?
Most manufacturers offer a warranty. However, you should still check ahead of time if they will provide one. With a new water heater, it is unlikely that you will experience any issues in the first couple of years after you install it. However, a worst-case scenario is certainly possible. Your unit could end up being faulty and experiencing a major system failure right after you install it. The average unit will come with a five-year warranty, but you should also check what it covers. If the length of the warranty is worrisome for you, then some manufacturers will offer extended warranties.
9 – Who will install the new unit?
A licensed and qualified technician will perform the installation for you. This isn’t something you should undergo by yourself. There are certain safety procedures that you will need to follow – and the job can be dangerous if you are not sure about what you’re doing. Hiring a professional installation service is going to make your life a lot easier.
If there is something else that you’re curious to know, then feel free to give us a call. The first step in the process is setting up an in-person consultation with a reliable service provider. We offer professional water heater repair services through the greater Las Vegas community. You can always trust us to replace your existing system and install a new one. If you have any questions, then speak with one of our technicians. They can tell you everything you need to know!