Replace Your Water Heater Today: 5 Things to Consider

We all understand the importance of having reliable water heaters installed in our homes. In Austin, Texas, without a working water heater, you'd never be able to take a hot shower, do dishes or even clean your clothes. That's why, when it's time to replace your existing water heater, it's critical that you take the time to consider the best options available to you.

In this article, we're going to discuss the five most important things to think about when it is time to replace your water heater in Austin, Texas (zip code 78731). We're going to explain the basics of water heater replacement, reviewing your options for different types of water heater models, the cost savings available with energy-efficient systems and the benefits of having an expert plumbing crew install your water heater.

Let's get started!

1. Different Types of Water Heaters to Consider

When it comes to choosing a new water heater, Austin homeowners have a variety of options to choose from. The two most popular are traditional tank water heatersand tankless water heaters. Traditional tank systems are common in both residential and commercial buildings, and they come in a variety of sizes and fuel types. Tankless systems are becoming increasingly popular because they heat water on an as-needed basis, meaning you don't have to store large amounts of water and heat it continuously.

A. Traditional Hot Water Heaters

Traditional tank water heaters are powered by natural gas, propane, or electric energy sources, and they are the most common choice for many residential buildings. These will typically include a large insulated tank with a heating element that keeps the water heated and ready to use. The two types of traditional hot water tanks are direct vent heaters and traditional gas water heaters.

Direct vent units are great for areas with limited ventilation or low space, as the units use a single vent for both intake and exhaust air. Direct vent heaters are also quite energy efficient, as they are able to recover the heat lost during exhaust. Traditional gas water heaters are more common and affordable than direct vent units, but they use two separate vents, one for intake and one for exhaust.

B. Tankless Hot Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are quickly becoming a popular choice among residential homes for several different reasons. Tankless units are far smaller in size than traditional tank units, and they use less energy to heat the same amount of water. They provide an unlimited supply of hot water, as the unit only needs to turn on when water is needed.

Tankless units are also much more efficient, as they don't have to constantly work as hard to keep the water hot. Additionally, they can last up to twice as long as traditional tank units, and they are much easier to maintain and repair.

2. Choosing the Right Size Hot Water Heater

When selecting the right size and type of water heater for your home, there are a few things to consider. The number of people living in the residence, the amount of hot water required by the occupants, and the amount of time water is used all play a role in choosing the right size and type of water heater.

It's important to realize that upgrading to a larger tank size than what is required could result in higher energy bills and wasted energy, as the water heater would need to keep the larger tank of hot water heated and ready for use. On the other hand, choosing a tank size that is too small could result in insufficient hot water and an inability to meet the hot water demands of the home.

3. Cost Savings with Energy-Efficient Water Heaters

Recent advances in water-heating technology have improved the efficiency of hot water heaters, resulting in energy savings for homeowners. Tankless and direct vent electric heaters typically provide higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional tanks, and this can save homeowners money over the life of the unit.

Additionally, there are often federal and state rebates available for installing energy-efficient water heaters. Researching the available incentives, especially local energy incentives for Austin, TX, customers, can help to further decrease the cost to install a more efficient unit.

4. The Benefits of Professional Installation

When it comes to installation, safety should be top priority. Gas water heaters require connections to natural gas lines, and without proper venting, there is a risk of dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

It's also important to note that even though a water heater might be the correct size for the home, if it is installed incorrectly, it won't be able to heat water as expected.

For these reasons, it's important to use a professional plumbing service that can ensure that the water heater is installed correctly and with a minimum of risk. Professional plumbers can also ensure that the unit has proper ventilation and is properly sealed and connected for optimal safety and performance.

5. Regular Maintenance to Extend Water Heater Life

Water heaters of any type should receive regular maintenance as part of a proactive home maintenance plan. This should include making sure the unit is clear of dirt and debris, checking connections and venting, and regularly testing the water for the presence of hard water elements.

Additionally, the water heater should be evaluated annually for signs of rust or corrosion, and the anode rod should be inspected at least every two years to make sure it is not corroded or damaged.

Wrapping Up

Finally, it's important to keep in mind that water heater replacement isn't something that should be done hastily or without proper research and consideration. Whether you're looking to replace an existing unit or install a brand-new unit, be sure to consider all of your options and weigh the costs and benefits of each unit.

When it's time to replace your water heater, be sure to research local plumbers in your area, such as Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbers, to make sure your installation is done correctly and your new system performs as it should for many years to come.

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