Jan
27
Water Heater Safety Tips
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Water heaters are standard in most residential homes, apartment complexes and mobile homes. They are responsible for converting the cold water that pumps into a home into the hot water used for washing clothes, dishes and ourselves. Even though these heat-producing cylinders are fairly commonplace, they are also a bit of a mystery for many homeowners and renters. Tenants tend to call on the help of a professional maintenance operator to handle any issues that may arise with the heater. This does not mean that safety around a water heater should be forgotten. In order to stay safe around a water heater throughout the year there are certain safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Keep the area around the water heater clean. Make sure that dust, debris and any flammable objects are cleared away from the area. Be sure to sweep and mop the area regularly to prevent any dust build up that may occur. Read more
Jan
12
Everyone is looking for ways to reduce their home energy budget in today’s economy. While small things, like replacing old lightbulbs, can amount to a huge savings over the course of a year; finding large, one time changes may make more sense. So many people naturally turn to the one thing they use every day: water. And when it comes to your home’s water, heating it impacts about thirty percent of an average home’s energy use.
However, one of the top options being brought to the table for a “quick fix” may not be as efficient as many believe. Tankless water heaters are an option that should be explored with care.
Most tankless heaters are a bit more costly up front than their holding tank counterparts. Add in that most models will need an electrical outlet, upgraded gas pipes and also special ventilation systems. This can often make installation costs a bit more prohibitive than people think. Read more
Jan
5
Should My Hot Water Heater Tank Be Running All The Time?
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You are very familiar with the sounds of your home, the drone of the refrigerator, the hum of the heater, the buzz of the lights. These are the little white noises that comprise our day. One of these familiar sounds is the occasional sound of the water heater running. But what happens when this sound never stops? Is it OK for the water heater tank to be running all the time?
In most instances, the answer to our last question is no. If your water heater is constantly running, there is probably a problem. Here are a few potential problems you could be having and a few steps you could take before calling the plumber.
You might have a leak – A leak would be a constant drain on the hot water supply within the tank. To make up for the loss of hot water, your tank would need to run more frequently to keep the same level of hot water as before. If your water heater is constantly running the first thing you should do is check the unit and the pipes immediately around it for leaks. Read more
Nov
30
What are your goals for 2012? Is it to find ways to save money? Is it to find ways to conserve energy, and be kinder to our planet?
While people approach conservation from a many different angles, one of the easiest ways to make a difference both to our planet and to your pocket book is to focus in on what you use every day. Water is our main resource; something we consume every day. From flushing the toilet, to taking showers, to washing clothes and dishes, to using it to cook, water is something we simply can’t live without. And because a lot of what we use runs through our home’s water heater, your water heater is one of the first places to start.
If you are in the market for a new water heater, of course you can shop for an energy efficient model. However, until that time, here are a few things you can do to make your current water heater more energy efficient.
1. Lower the thermostat - One easy way to save energy is to require less. If you lower the temperature on your heater’s thermostat, your water heater will run and heat up water at a slower level. Setting the temperature to 120 degrees will keep the water hot enough for most purposes. Read more
Nov
25
How Water Heaters Heat Water
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When you step into a steaming hot shower or sink into a tub of bubbles, you are enjoying one of the benefits of having a water heater. You probably do not think about your water heater – unless it stops working. However, learning how your water heater works will help you to better maintain its operation.
A properly maintained water heater has a longer lifespan than one that is neglected. Instead of having to invest in a new water heater every few years, you can save your money for other things.
Water heaters, whether they are gas, propane or electric, are constructed in the same, basic manner. Your water heater consists of a water tank within the outer metal wall. This water tank holds a certain amount of water, usually from 30 to 50 gallons. Read more
Oct
21
Whether it’s cheaper gas, sales on groceries, discounts on insurance, or a reduction in monthly bills; we all want to save money. A new trend in the money saving movement has been a transition to more energy efficient household equipment. Consumers can now find just about anything from energy efficient light bulbs to energy efficient appliances.
As you try to go green, save some green, and conserve energy, do you know how to tell if your water heater is energy efficient? Do you know what to look for to help find out?
The Energy Factor (EF) is the measurement for energy efficiency in water heaters. This number measures the percentage of energy that is maintained in the water that your water heater has warmed vs. the loss of energy through heat escaping the unit. A typical new electric water heater has an EF of .95. Ninety-five percent of the energy used to heat the water remains in the hot water. Read more
Aug
31
Your water heater is a vital appliance in your home. You depend on it to work every day, to provide your home with hot water for bathing, cooking and cleaning.
When your water heater fails and you have to purchase a new one, you may not know where to begin. With so many available models, the decision can be a bit daunting. Understanding what to look for in a water heater will help you choose the right model for your home.
First, start with the basics. This includes the type of water heater you need (gas, electric, propane), the size you need based on your family’s use (larger families tend to need larger water heaters) and the size of the space where it will be installed in to ensure you buy one that fits. Read more
Aug
4
We all appreciate the convenience of hot water for showers, dishes, laundry, and so much more. Water heaters are responsible for this wonderful convenience, but they usually are ignored unless there is an issue. So, is there a way to take better care of your water heater to extend its functional lifespan? Here are a few things to consider to help extend the life of your hot water heater.
Install a second anode rod – Over time, elements in the water serve to wear away or corrode the interior of your water heater. Most water heaters have an anode rod installed to attract these elements to itself thereby protecting the water heater from these corrosive elements. One way to improve the life of your water heater is to install a second anode rod. This provides twice the protection from corrosion, Read more
Jul
8
Imagine having to take a bucket down to the creek for water, bringing it back and heating it over an open fire.
Living like our forefathers isn’t something we think much about. Modern conveniences are everywhere, and more than likely you think little about them. Until something goes wrong.
Your water heater is an important part of your home and daily life. You use hot water for a variety of things, including bathing, laundry and cooking. A water heater makes it possible for you to have hot water instantly whenever you choose. But when you turn on the faucet, and only cold water comes out, you begin thinking about how much you use it. And how you’re going to fix it as quickly as possible. Read more
Apr
14
7 Facts About Water Heaters
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Your water heater is an essential appliance in your home. Without it, you would have to resort to “old school” methods of heating your water, such as heating pots of water on the stove. Since this is not the Stone Age, having a water heater is a necessary luxury, making life easier. Whether you are buying your first water heater or your third, knowing the facts about water heaters will help you make an informed decision.
1. About 25% of the energy you use in your home is for heating your water. Since such a large portion of your energy usage is from your water heater, it is important to select a heater that is energy efficient.
2. Most of your water usage comes from taking baths and doing laundry. With an energy efficient water heater, you can worry less about the cost of every bath and load of laundry.
3. The typical tank water heater will last about 10 to 13 years. Tank heaters are normally more affordable than tankless heaters. Read more
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- Quality 1st Plumbing website - Quality 1st Plumbing website
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