Water heaters have come a long way in the last 50 years. Older systems, even those directly attached to furnaces, were often cumbersome and inefficient. They often took longer to heat water, so larger tank systems were necessary. When these older water heater tanks leaked, the flooding damage was frequently extensive and expensive.
While replacement was often required in such circumstances, other problems arose from flooded water heaters. Water damage to finished basement areas, mold growth, and personal property loss often cost thousands of dollars.
Broken Water Heaters
Over time, all older water heaters can leak or break, causing flooding. This is frequently because of the age of the tank parts, rusted or worn-out seals, or broken gaskets.
In addition to the risks involved, older water heaters are significantly less efficient. Compared to a new system, an older water heater can cost homeowners an extra $340 to $400 a year to operate.
Today’s Modern Hot Water Heater Systems
Unlike consumers in the past, today’s homeowners have many options than when choosing their power source and water heating capacity. These are the main categories.
Standard Hot Heater Tanks
Most water heaters today are powered by electricity, oil, or gas. These are tanked systems in which water comes directly into the tank from your water source and is heated to about 120°F. The water in the tank remains at the desired temperature until used. The system refills the tank and heats the new water as the water reserve is used. The temperature is set at a default of 120°F when you purchase it but can be adjusted by you or a professional mechanic to better suit your personal needs.
Solar Powered Water Heaters
Solar water heaters are direct heating instruments. Your water source will pump water through the solar panels on your roof or other panel system location. The system collects energy from the sun, which heats the water up to 120° F or the desired temperature setting. The system uses a nominal amount of electricity except at night and on cloudy days when the back-up electric power source kicks in.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are gaining popularity. They are compact and require little space because of their small water reserve. These systems heat your water quickly on an as-needed basis. The benefit of these systems is that they are very efficient and cost less to operate because they don’t keep water heated in reserve. However, in the event of a power outage, you will not have any backup water supply to rely on until the power comes back on.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
The average lifespan of a water heater is 10 to 15 years. Getting ahead of a significant hot water breakdown with timely replacement is essential to help you avoid the cost of a burst water heater or tank failure, which can leave you without hot water until a new appliance is installed.
If you’re in Compton, CA and need water heater repair or replacement, contact our professional service technicians at Frausto Plumbing.
