Understanding Your Water Heater: Types, Maintenance, and When to Replace

Your water heater plays a crucial role in your home's comfort, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. However, like all home appliances, it has a lifespan and needs regular maintenance to run efficiently. In this blog, we’ll cover the different types of water heaters, how to maintain yours, and signs it may be time for a replacement.

Types of Water Heaters

There are several types of water heaters, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are the most common options:

1. Traditional Tank Water Heaters:

These are the most common water heaters, typically storing 30 to 80 gallons of water. They heat the water in the tank and maintain it at a preset temperature. Pros include lower upfront costs and the ability to serve multiple fixtures at once. However, they use more energy to keep the water hot 24/7.

2. Tankless Water Heaters:

Tankless systems, also known as on-demand water heaters, heat water as you need it, so there’s no need for a large storage tank. They save energy and provide an endless supply of hot water but have higher upfront costs. They are perfect for homes that prioritize energy efficiency and want hot water fast.

3. Heat Pump Water Heaters:

These systems use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat the water, making them more energy-efficient than traditional electric water heaters. They can cut energy consumption by up to 50%, but they perform best in warm climates and have a higher initial cost.

4. Solar Water Heaters:

Solar water heaters use solar panels to heat water, making them extremely eco-friendly. They can significantly reduce energy costs, but installation can be expensive, and they rely on sunlight to work effectively.

Water Heater Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your water heater and improve efficiency. Here are a few tips to keep your system running smoothly:

1. Flush the Tank Annually:

Sediment buildup in the tank can reduce efficiency and damage the heater. Draining and flushing the tank once a year helps prevent this.

2. Inspect the Anode Rod:

The anode rod helps prevent rust from forming inside the tank. It should be inspected every few years and replaced if it’s worn down.

3. Check the Pressure Relief Valve:

This valve is crucial for safety. It should release a burst of water when you lift the valve’s lever. If it doesn’t, it may need replacement.

4. Set the Temperature to 120°F:

This is an ideal temperature for balancing energy efficiency and preventing scalding. Lowering the temperature can also extend the life of your heater

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Even with proper maintenance, all water heaters eventually need to be replaced. Here are some signs it might be time for a new system:

Age: Most traditional water heaters last 8–12 years. If yours is approaching this range, it may be time to start looking at replacements.

Rusty Water: If the hot water coming from your taps is rusty, it could indicate the tank is corroding from the inside.

Noisy Operation: Rumbling or banging sounds often signal sediment buildup, which can shorten the heater's lifespan.

Inconsistent Hot Water: If you’re frequently running out of hot water or noticing fluctuations in temperature, your heater may be struggling to keep up.

Need Help with Your Water Heater?

At Better Built Heating and Cooling, we provide expert water heater services—from maintenance to installation. Whether you need help choosing the best system for your home or want to extend the life of your current heater, our team is here to help.

Call us today to schedule your water heater inspection or installation!