Water Heater
Services

How Often Should You Schedule Water Heater Inspections?

Routine water heater inspections are essential to prevent breakdowns and extend your system’s lifespan, especially if you rely on hot water daily. For gas water heaters, annual inspections help detect early issues like gas leaks, ventilation blockages, or pilot light failures. These inspections ensure safety and consistent performance, especially for systems over 5 years old.

Electric water heaters also benefit from yearly checkups, where technicians examine thermostats, heating elements, and circuit connections. These inspections can identify electrical malfunctions before they turn into costly repairs or result in a full system failure. If your water heater has seen several winters or shows irregular heating, don’t delay scheduling a visit.

What Are Signs You Need Water Heater Repairs?

Aside from a tripping thermostat, there are many other signs your water heater may need professional attention. Ignoring these red flags can lead to worsening issues, higher energy bills, or full system failure.

Here’s what to watch out for to determine whether you need repairs:

• Slow hot water delivery: If hot water takes too long to reach your taps, heating elements may be wearing out.
• Low hot water pressure: Mineral deposits or sediment buildup in the pipes or tank could be restricting flow.
• Water with a metallic odor: This usually indicates rust inside the tank or decaying anode rods that need replacement.
• Pilot light won’t stay lit: A persistent outage could point to a faulty thermocouple, dirty burner, or gas supply issue.
• Visible rust or corrosion on the tank: External damage suggests age and the possibility of an internal leak forming soon.

Do You Require a Water Heater Replacement?

Sometimes, repairs won’t be enough, and replacing your water heater becomes the best option. Knowing the warning signs can save you from unexpected cold showers and expensive emergency calls.

If you’re seeing any of the following issues, it’s likely time for a replacement:

• Inconsistent water temperatures: Fluctuating hot and cold water is often a sign of a failing heating element or damaged thermostat.
• Frequent repairs: If you’re calling for service more often than you used to, your water heater may be reaching the end of its lifespan.
• Unusual noises: Loud banging or rumbling sounds can mean sediment buildup is causing your system to overheat and deteriorate.
• Water leaks around the base: Even small leaks can signal cracks in the tank that can’t be patched or repaired.

Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters: Which Upgrade Is Right for You?

Choosing between gas and electric water heaters depends on your home setup, energy usage, and long-term budget goals.

Gas water heaters are often more cost-effective in the long run, especially if your home already has a gas line. Electric models, however, can be more efficient and simpler to install, especially in homes without gas access.

To determine what’s right for you, consider your household size, how often hot water is used, and your region’s energy costs. A consultation with our team can help you weigh upfront installation costs against long-term operating expenses. We also consider local utility rebates, space requirements, and your current water heater’s configuration when recommending the best system.

Why Is Your Water Heater Thermostat Tripping?

If your water heater thermostat keeps tripping, it’s often a warning sign. One of the most common reasons for a tripped thermostat is a malfunctioning heating element. When a faulty element overheats, the thermostat shuts the system down as a safety precaution. This kind of tripping protects against scalding water or tank damage but also signals that repair or replacement may be needed.

Another frequent cause is a buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank, which causes the system to work harder and overheat. In some cases, faulty wiring or a damaged high-limit switch might also be responsible. No matter the root cause, a professional inspection is crucial to diagnose the issue and get your hot water flowing again.

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Water Heater Services

• Typical water heater service usually revolves around the following items: Gas control valve, igniter, element failure and pressure relief valve
• Servicing a water heater can sometimes be an hour job of cleaning the igniter or possible a longer job of replacing the gas control valve

Should You Shut Off Your Water Heater During Vacations?

For shorter trips, it’s generally best to leave the water heater on to avoid temperature fluctuations and startup strain when you return. However, many modern water heaters have a “vacation” or “low” setting that reduces energy usage while keeping the system primed for quick recovery.

If you’re leaving for an extended period, shutting the unit off can save energy and reduce wear, especially with electric water heaters. That said, completely powering down the system might cause complications when turning it back on, such as sediment stirring or component stress in older models.

As a safer alternative, consider turning the thermostat down to its lowest setting or using the vacation mode. It’s also wise to turn off the cold-water supply valve if you’re concerned about leaks while you’re away.