One of the most common complaints about plumbing in the Bronx is that there’s no hot water. What’s behind this pervasive issue? There’s two ways to look at this concern. First is the temperature of the water, and second is the supply.
If your hot water isn’t hot enough, or if it gets hot but doesn’t stay hot, the issue may be your water heater. Water heaters have an expected useful life of about 20 years, but the fact is that they can wear out much sooner if your family uses a lot of hot water or if the water heater is in less-than-ideal environmental conditions.
However, it’s important to know when replacement becomes necessary rather than just a consideration. A good rule of thumb is to evaluate if your water heater is over 10 years old. At this age, even if it’s functioning, it may not be operating efficiently.
Another critical factor is maintenance costs. If you find yourself spending half the cost of a new unit on repairs within a 12-month timeframe, it might be more economical to invest in a replacement.
Key Indicators for Replacement:
- Age: Over 10 years old
- Repair Costs: 50% of the cost of a new unit within a year
These guidelines can help ensure you’re not caught off guard by a sudden failure and can plan for an upgrade when it makes the most sense financially. Keep an eye on these signs to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home.
When looking at your water heater, keep an eye out for these red flags:
“Leaks and puddles. The number one job of your water heater is to keep water inside of it. If the water is getting out, it’s time to call your Bronx plumber for help.”
A leak in your water heater isn’t just a nuisance—it could be the tip of the iceberg. Here’s why a quick response is crucial:
- Underlying Issues: Leaks might indicate a larger problem lurking beneath the surface. Ignoring them could lead to more extensive damage.
- Repair vs. Replacement: Not every leak signals a death sentence for your heater. An experienced technician can determine if a simple repair will do the trick or if a replacement is necessary.
- Extend Your Heater’s Life: Addressing leaks promptly can add years to your water heater’s lifespan, saving you time and money in the long run.
Getting professional help ensures that your water heater gets the attention it needs—keeping the hot water flowing and your home running smoothly.
Any damage to the tank or components. Sometimes water heaters get damaged, either by the weather, or by items being shoved into them. Thermostats and controls can sometimes be repaired by your Bronx plumber.
Noises, including bangs, hisses, and squeals. A water heater should operate fairly quietly. Any noises, especially those that are loud enough to be heard from a distance, are worth investigating.
Sometimes the issues isn’t the temperature of the hot water. Rather, it’s the amount and pressure of the hot water. This instance will result in your Bronx plumber doing some investigative work. What are they looking for? Leaks. Leaky pipes can have a significant impact on your hot water supply. Not only does a leaky pipe leave you standing in a icy cold shower, but those leaks can damage your property. On top of that, you pay for every drop of that water – both to heat it, and then to waste it. Having leaking pipes fixed can save you money.