"Frenquently ask questions" The Wonderful World of Water Heaters
After Installing Well Over 5000 Water Heaters in Northern Virginia Area, and vicinities. We Know Hot Water!
A hot bath or shower. Clean laundry. Running the dishwasher. All part of our day. But none of them would be possible without hot water something we take for granted… at least until it’s gone.
AA Rapid Plumbing, Heating, Air conditioning can help keep you in hot water… whether you need a water heater repair or want to replace your old water heater with a shiny new high efficiency one or you want to know more about how you can have instant hot water. Our plumbing technicians are water heater experts and are available to serve all of the Greater Northern Virginia area including Washington DC, and Loudoun County
What is the difference between STANDARD and SUPER efficient water heaters?
There is no structural difference between a Super and Standard water heater. The difference is in the insulation, components used, and warranty options. A Super efficient tank will generally have a much higher efficiency rating, better elements, and most likely a larger anode rod. The warranty will cover manufacturer’s defects for a longer period of time. Many energy companies offer a mail-in rebate if you buy a Super efficient tank. Ask your Install Coordinator about the super efficient water heaters we carry.
Will a TANKLESS style water heater work for me?
Tankless or “on demand” water heaters are a great option for some people. However, they won’t do well in many applications. Tankless units do not store heated water like a tank style, they heat the water seconds before it comes out your faucet. Many factors must be considered to determine if a Tankless style unit is right for you. We offer estimates to help you make a decision. Call today for more details .
What is a THERMAL EXPANSION TANK and do I need one?
When water is heated it expands. If your system is “open” then water can back-flow into the water main and this extra expanded water simply flows out of your home back out your cold pipe.
More and more, home plumbing systems are being closed off and back-flow prevention valves are being placed between homes and the water main. This is done for a variety of reasons.
For example, valves are placed between homes and water mains to protect plumbing systems from inlet water pressure. Water pressure is increasing in many cases in order to meet the demands of more densely populated areas.
If your system is “closed”, then this means when you heat your water and it expands, this increased volume has nowhere to go. This causes sudden increases in water pressure which can damage your water heater, fixtures and other appliances.
A thermal expansion tank is a pressurized tank that sits on your cold line – typically near or on your water heater. The tank contains a pressurized bladder. As water expands, it pushes against this bladder giving the increased volume a place to go, preventing rapid pressure increases due to thermal expansion.
Expansion tanks are currently recommended by all major water heater manufacturers.
Our technician will test your system to determine if it is open or closed. If your system is closed, installing an expansion tank may lengthen – and in some cases double – the life of your water heater by preventing wear and tear. In addition, if your home has a history of leaky faucets or other appliances that wear out prematurely, an expansion tank may fix your problem.
Types of Water Heaters in the Nova Metro Area:
Water heaters in our area may be a gas water heater, electric water heater, propane water heater, or solar water heater. But when it comes to water heaters types, you basically have three choices: traditional tank water heaters; tankless water heaters which provide hot water on demand, or hybrid water heaters which combine features from both traditional and tankless water heaters.
What is the average life of a water heater?
The average life of a traditional tank water heater is 8-12 years and the average life of a tankless water heater is 25 years. You can extend the life of your water heater with regular maintenance. Caution: If your tank water heater is 5 years or older and has not been flushed within the last year, do not flush it as that may cause leaks due to the sediment buildup in the tank sealing minor holes.
A potential danger of an older water heater is failure of the tank integrity. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, by the time a water heater reaches age 12, nearly 75% have failed and 69% of all water heater failures result from a slow leak or a sudden burst. If the tank bursts, 30-50 gallons of water flooding your home can cause major damage.
What Are Signs That You Need A Water Heater Repair?
- Temperature is too hot or too cold
- Not enough hot water
- Water smells or tastes bad
- Gas smell coming from water tank
- Rumbling or banging noises
Learn more about water heater repairs or schedule an appointment for your repair now.
When Should A Water Heater Be Replaced?
- If tank is leaking
- If unit has signs of rusting or water is rusty
- When repair is not cost effective
- If you want to upgrade to a more efficient model
- If it is 8 years or older to be pro-active to avoid potential water damage to your home
How to Choose The Right Water Heater
Consider the following factors for your family’s needs and wants and any space restrictions in your home...
- Size & Gallons Heated Per Hour. A family of 5 all trying to get ready in the morning need a bigger capacity and/or more gallons heated per hour than a couple.
- No Cold Showers, Ever. If you would like endless hot water whenever you want it, a tankless or hybrid model may be for you.
- Water Heater Location. Newer tank models are wider and taller than past models so may not fit in tight spaces.
- Energy Savings are Important. A high efficiency tankless water heater can pay for itself in a short number of years.
- Water Conservation is Key. An on-demand water circulating system is designed to move hot water to your most remote fixture on demand within seconds and the cool water you normally let run down the drain is circulated back to the water heater through the cold water line.
- You Like Being Green. Tankless water heaters and water circulators are very eco-friendly.
Read more about traditional tank water heaters, tankless water heaters and hybrid water heaters or schedule an appointment with one of our water heater experts who will help you choose the right water heater for your family’s needs.
Why choose AA Rapid Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning
- Highly Skilled Team
- Fully Stocked Truck
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
