Electric water heaters are appliances that are usually connected between a cold water supply or inlet and an outgoing hot water outlet or system of outlets, mainly pipes, which then supply the heated water to faucets and other appliances.
Classification of Water Heaters
Water heaters can be either gas powered or electrical powered.
Most standard heaters have a lifespan of between 8 to 12 years and will require replacement in the face of water leaks or if they fail to efficiently and effectively heat up.
Water heaters can be classified as conventional, tank-less, hybrid heat-pump or solar heaters.
Tips on Replacement of Water Heaters
- Safety
Even though some repair and replacement work on the water heater may be simple, and one can conduct the activity themselves, it is strongly advised to consult a professional when one is replacing a gas or electric water heater.
It is important to note that installing a new water heater or a replacement is a dangerous exercise, and even if done by oneself, one needs to have the new installation inspected by a professional who makes sure that all safety features are properly configured according to the local plumbing code.
The professional also inspects the installation for proper venting of exhaust gases, gas leaks, proper plumbing and clearances.
- Choice of a Water Heater
As stated earlier, the standard water heater will last between 8 to 12 years.
Needless to say, most home owners will have gotten used to that particular type of a heater after using it for that long.
It is most likely at replacement time that the home owner will pick a similar unit. However, the choice of a water heater will be largely driven by the specific needs.
For instance, an average family of about four persons taking two showers a day will utilize a 65 gallon unit. One should further seek assistance of an expert at the local center to help in sizing the best unit.
- Cost, Energy Consumption & Efficiency
One needs to check the annual operation cost of the unit. This is clearly shown on a sticker at the side of the heater.
Costs are mostly unique to each individual project and also on the type of installation.
It is however advisable for one to consider newer models since such are up to around 20% more efficient translating to a good annual savings on energy costs over the unit’s lifespan.
- Diagnosing Problems With The Heater
The most common problem with a heater is probably the fact that the water may not be hot enough to your liking at times.
Under such circumstances, one should check whether the thermostat is in good working condition or the heating element, which may be faulty.
For electric heaters, one could also reset the thermostat flush sediments out, insulate the hot water pipes, raise the thermostat temperature setting or even replace it.
For gas heaters, one could check gas connection and pilot light status, clean the gas burner and replace the thermocouple.
- Heater Maintenance After Replacement
To increase heater efficiency, it is advisable to do the following:
i). Drain the heater at least twice annually to flush out sediments that cause corrosion.
ii). Occasional testing of the pressure release valve and replacement if it fails to work properly
iii). Setting the temperature knob to vacation mode when gone for long to save on water and heating bill and finally.
iv). Lowering the temperature setting on the thermostat to an appropriate value to reduce damage to the tank as a result of overheating.
