Plumbing

The Benefits of Water Heaters

Freyja Morton

Denver Water Heaters provide a host of benefits to households. Whether you’re in need of a new water heater because of failure or simply because you have outgrown your old one, home warranties offer plans and pricing to help with the process.

Water Heaters

These traditional units feature an insulated tank that holds hot water. They can be powered by natural gas or electricity and work by constantly monitoring the temperature of the water in the storage tank.

Water heaters account for a significant portion of a home’s energy consumption, so using one that is more efficient can significantly cut utility bills. The latest models use advanced technology that helps minimize environmental impact, offering a wide range of benefits, including lower costs and an extended lifespan. In addition, they help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet.

Conventional gas water heaters consume large amounts of gas to heat the water in their storage tanks. New technologies that use electric ignition can greatly decrease the amount of gas used to start a fire to heat your water. This not only saves gas but also cuts your energy bill by minimizing standby losses that occur when the water heater is turned off.

Another energy savings option is a gas-fired, tankless model that heats water only when it’s needed. These water heaters can be up to 24%-34% more energy efficient than traditional storage tank units in homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. In addition, many of these water heaters can be sized to match specific water usage patterns to further increase energy efficiency.

If you have natural gas service in your home, a tankless gas water heater may be the best choice. These models use the same technology as their gas-powered counterparts, but they have additional features that boost efficiency. For example, some gas-fired models have a “vacation mode” that automatically cuts the gas supply to the water heater, reducing energy usage when the house is unoccupied.

Electric and gas-powered models that meet new efficiency standards are a good choice for most homes. If you’re interested in an even greener option, a solar-powered water heater is available that harnesses free energy from the sun to heat your water. These models are a good choice for areas that receive abundant sunshine and can be eligible for state or federal tax credits.

Energy efficiency is reported by the water heater’s energy factor (EF), a measurement that takes into account recovery, cycling, and standby losses. The higher the EF, the more efficient the unit. A new standard, which takes effect in 2029, will further improve energy efficiency ratings for both electric and gas-fired storage and tankless models. These new requirements will require electric resistance models to achieve efficiency gains with heat pump technology, and gas-fired instantaneous, or tankless, models to make improvements through condensing technology.

Condensing Water Heaters

While the conversation about water heaters tends to revolve around efficiency ratings and long-term savings, for many homeowners, immediate affordability is a major consideration. In this regard, non-condensing water heaters offer a powerful combination of performance and value.

Traditional tank-style gas storage water heaters operate by heating a large metal tank of water with a burner located inside the unit. Then, when a hot water demand is made, the water flows through the water heater’s heat exchanger where it picks up thermal energy from the exhaust gases that are then pushed outdoors. This is how a gas storage water heater can typically achieve an energy efficiency rating of 83%.

High-efficiency gas condensing water heaters have an impressive efficiencies of up to 98%. They use the same technology as their traditional counterparts, but a few key improvements allow them to operate at a higher level of efficiency: improved insulation, heat traps, and more efficient burners and heat exchangers help these models consume less energy than conventional storage units.

Because these models are capable of capturing and utilizing the heat from the condensation that would normally dissipate into the environment, they also reduce emissions of harmful greenhouse gases. This is a notable step towards addressing global warming, and it shows that you’re an informed homeowner who seeks to harmonize comfort with conservation.

Aside from their exceptional energy efficiency, these models also feature superior lifespans compared to their non-condensing counterparts. In fact, they are so durable that many can be expected to last for 20 years without ever needing replacement.

Another noteworthy benefit is that condensing water heaters are able to efficiently utilize a wide range of venting options. Unlike standard storage water heaters, which require metal venting because of the high temperatures of their exhaust gases, these models can easily be vented with PVC pipes because the exhaust and flue gases are much cooler.

Of course, as a rule of thumb, you must have a professional calculate the size of your family’s hot water demands in order to ensure your new tankless model is properly sized for optimal functionality and longevity. Once your technician has accounted for things like the number of bathrooms in your home, the frequency of hot water usage, and the requirements of any household appliances that need to be heated, they can recommend an appropriately sized model that will serve you well for decades to come.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters use less energy than storage tank models, so they tend to have lower utility bills. They also don’t have the risk of a ruptured tank, but they do need to be properly maintained and sized. The best model for your home will depend on your hot water needs, household size, and whether you want to use gas or electric units.

Most of the tanks we carry are either natural gas or propane powered, which is better for most households as you’ll likely already have a natural gas line, or at least be able to install one easily. However, we do also offer electrical units for those who prefer the lower cost of an electric model.

For those who may live in an area with limited gas or electric capacity, consider looking into a hybrid unit. These have a smaller, more compact footprint and can use both electric and gas to heat your water. For those who have multiple fixtures that need hot water at the same time, look for a point of use (POU) model that’s designed to focus on your immediate hot water needs. These can be activated with a timer, push button, motion sensor, smart speaker, or even your smartphone to automatically turn on, and only send water to the fixture when needed.

Regardless of the type of tankless water heater you choose, make sure it’s installed by a professional to ensure leak-free water, proper venting, and adequate electrical or gas connections. In addition, a pro can help you sign up for annual maintenance that includes cleaning or replacing water and air filters, checking the burner, and flushing the unit. This is especially important in areas with hard water to keep minerals from clogging the unit’s heat exchanger and reducing efficiency.

A good rule of thumb for selecting a tankless water heater is to determine how many appliances or faucets you’ll need running at the same time, plus the maximum flow rate for each. Once you have this information, our experts can select a model that meets your specific needs.

Installation

Water heaters are a vital household appliance that many take for granted, until they stop working properly. When this happens, it is important to find a reliable installer and get the repair done quickly to avoid expensive damage or replacement costs. The installation process is a relatively simple one and can be completed in just a few hours, but it does require a certain level of skill and specialized tools. The cost of a new water heater varies depending on the model, size, and features that you choose, as well as any additional work needed to properly connect it to your home’s plumbing and gas line.

The first step in installing a water heater is removing the old unit. This can be done using a power tool, pipe wrench, or screwdriver to remove the metal tank from its cradle and place it in a suitable location for disposal. If the tank is in a hard-to-reach area, you may need to hire a professional plumber to complete this task.

After the old water heater is removed, a professional plumber will clean any remaining build-up from the inside of the tank with steel wool and solder in copper adapters at each end of the new pipes. Then, they will solder in the new pipe assemblies to the cold water inlet and hot water outlet on the top of the water heater. It is crucial to solder the joints tightly to prevent leakages.

If you have chosen a gas-powered model, the plumber will need to make the necessary gas connections for the supply lines and the venting system. These are usually made from PVC, and they should be made in a manner that will minimize future maintenance issues. In addition, the plumber may need to install an expansion tank that is designed to handle thermal expansion and prevent excess pressure.

Water heaters come in a range of sizes to fit different needs, and they can be installed in a variety of locations within the home. The accessibility of the location and any extra work required to reroute plumbing or ventilation systems can also impact the final cost of the project. Some models have special energy-saving features or anti-scale mechanisms that can help reduce operational costs. However, these can also increase installation time and complexity, so you should factor in any additional expenses when estimating your overall project costs.

Plumbing

Reasons to Consider Water Heater Replacement

Elliot Gibbs

Water heaters are among the most vital household appliances. That’s why it is important to take the time to evaluate your options when considering a repair or replacement.

A leaking water heater is always a sign it’s time for Water Heater Replacement Denver. But there are other less obvious signs it’s time to replace a water heater.

Water Heater Replacement

Water heaters are one of the largest energy consumers in most homes. Choosing a new, more efficient model can dramatically reduce your home’s energy costs. In some cases, the savings can make up for the cost of a replacement unit.

If you notice that your electric bills are higher than they should be, it may be time to replace the water heater. This is a sign that the unit is losing efficiency, which leads to it working harder and longer just to get the same results as it did before. Over time, this can lead to overheating and damage.

Another sign that it’s time to replace your water heater is if you notice rusty water or visible corrosion on the unit. This can compromise the integrity of the tank and lead to leaks, which could cause additional damage to your home. A professional can inspect the unit and advise if it is worth repairing or replacing.

Your water heater may also be causing other problems, such as cloudy or sandy water. These problems are usually due to the build-up of sediment inside the water heater tank. In many cases, this can be fixed by draining the tank and removing the sediment, but in most instances it will require a full replacement.

You also need to consider whether or not the size of your current water heater is appropriate for your household. If you have a large family, you may need to install a larger water heater that can accommodate the needs of everyone.

The location of your water heater is also a factor that can impact installation costs. Water heaters that are located in easily accessible areas will usually cost less to replace than units in cramped or out-of-the-way spaces, such as attics.

Finally, you should think about the type of fuel your new water heater will use. You can find models that are powered by electricity, natural gas, and even solar energy. Make sure the chosen fuel type is available in your area and that it will be compatible with your existing piping system.

Water heaters deal with constant demands every day to provide hot water for showers, dishwashers, washing machines and more. The appliance also has to deal with an influx of particles and minerals found in water that can shorten the water heater lifespan. As time passes, sediment can build up at the bottom of a tank and separate fresh water from heating elements, which means your water heater has to work harder to fulfill your household’s needs, increasing your energy costs. In these cases, it is best to replace the unit before your current one reaches its end of life and leaks.

The average water heater has a lifespan of between eight and ten years. In many instances, however, the need to purchase a new water heater may come earlier than that timeline suggests. This is particularly true if you live in an area with hard water that tends to cause more mineral deposits, which decreases the lifespan of your appliance.

There are several signs that it is time to begin shopping for a replacement water heater. A puddle of water pooling underneath the appliance is one clear warning sign, as is discolored or red water from the hot water taps. This can be caused by rust or other metal-related issues and indicates that the appliance is nearing the end of its useful life.

Another warning sign is when your hot water runs out suddenly and is only warm at best. This can be a result of your water heater reaching its end of life and is typically followed by strange noises like popping or cracking sounds that occur as the sediment at the bottom of the unit hardens.

Depending on the make and model of your water heater, you can expect it to last between 8-10 years. You can increase this lifespan by draining the unit every year and performing annual maintenance, such as testing the pressure relief valve and anode rod, replacing the gas line cap, and re-insulating the water heater. If your water heater is connected to a gas line, it’s important to have an experienced plumber inspect the lines and repair any rust or corrosion, which can create safety hazards.

Your water heater is responsible for heating up your household’s water so that it can be used in your home’s showers, sinks, dishwashers, and laundry appliances. So, when your water heater starts to produce unusual noises, you need to take action quickly in order to avoid serious problems in the future. While the noises your water heater produces are not typically dangerous, they may indicate that it is nearing the end of its life and needs to be replaced.

Sizzling and rumbling sounds are often caused by sediment accumulation at the bottom of your water heater’s tank. Mineral deposits, dirt, and sand can all settle at the bottom of your water tank and interfere with its heating process. An annual tank flush can help get rid of these materials.

High-pitched screeching and whistling noises are usually caused by loose valves. If you hear these sounds, it is best to call a professional plumber to check the valves and to repair or replace them as needed.

Clicking and tapping sounds usually come from heat traps or check valves installed to encourage water to flow in the right direction. These sounds can also be caused by vibrations when water heats and cools in your pipes. If you find these sounds bothersome, a water heater repair plumber can install a pressure-reducing valve to eliminate the noises.

A humming sound is typically caused by the heating element in your water heater tank becoming loose. While this is not a big deal in most cases, the humming sound can be irritating. Tightening the heating element can solve this problem, but this is a multistep process and requires handling dangerous electrical equipment. A professional can ensure the job is done safely and effectively.

Popping and rattling noises can also be signs of sediment buildup at the bottom of your water heater’s tanks. These noises can be prevented by performing an annual system flush and draining your water heater annually. If these measures do not solve the problem, a professional should be called to replace your water heater.

While water heaters may seem like a part of the house that is out of sight and mind for most homeowners, a faulty unit can create serious safety concerns. Among the most important safety issues are water leaks and gas leaks that can threaten your property, compromise home integrity, and even cause mold or structural damage. A leaking water heater should be considered a severe issue, and a replacement should be undertaken immediately to avoid further damage.

A faulty water heater can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which is dangerous for people and pets and kills 200 every year in the The odorless, colorless gas can leak out of the heater and into your home through a crack or vent. Installing a carbon monoxide detector can protect you from this deadly gas.

If your water heater is fueled by natural or LP gas, you’ll need to make sure that flammable materials aren’t kept near the tank or pilot light. This is a major fire risk as the combustible liquids can easily ignite and cause an explosion or fire in the utility closet or garage where many gas water heaters are installed.

Keeping combustible materials away from your water heater isn’t just good practice; it’s required by building codes for some homes. If your new gas water heater has a pilot light, it’s especially crucial that you never store oily rags, jump ropes, cans of paint, or any other combustible material near the unit.

The electrical wiring and connections to your water heater can be a source of concern as well. If the electrical system isn’t properly sized, it can create energy inefficiencies that can damage your equipment and lead to fires. The electrical system can also overheat and burn out if it’s drawing too much current. It’s important to have your electric water heater wired and connected by a professional. A qualified plumber can ensure that the electrical system is safely sized and has proper grounding and overcurrent protection. An electrical water heater should also have a thermal expansion tank to prevent overheating of the components and pipes.

Heating And Cooling
Uncategorized

Heating And Cooling Solutions To Keep Your House On Tip Top Shape

April Goodwin

Keeping your home on top shape is challenging, but not impossible. By maintaining temperature, humidity and reducing wear and tear on surfaces in your home you can keep it looking and feeling newer for longer. The best system to achieve this will vary depending on your budget and comfort expectations.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning can be an effective way to heat and cool a home, providing comfort throughout the year. However, it can be costly to run if it is used unnecessarily. Keeping your home well serviced, operating on timers and shutting doors between rooms when not in use can reduce energy consumption. Planting deciduous trees or adjusting existing ones can provide shade during the hottest parts of the day and let sunlight in through winter.

Heating and cooling account for a significant proportion of household energy use, so it’s important to make wise choices when buying systems. Consider your climate and the size of your home before deciding on a system. For example, a heat recovery system that captures wasted energy from vented warmed air to warm fresh input air can help reduce heating costs.

Furnace

Using heating systems like furnaces, your house gets warm air from outside and distributed throughout your home through ductwork. This type of system is known as a forced-air system and is the most common way to heat a home in the United States. Furnaces use a gas or oil burner to create heat and distribute it through the home by a blower fan. Furnaces are available in both electric or natural gas models and can be single-stage or multi-stage units. A thermostat controls when your furnace will turn on and off to keep your house comfortable.

Older furnaces tend to be oversized, wasting energy by operating too much all the time. If yours is one of them, replacing it with a newer high-efficiency model may cut down on energy usage and save you money. Newer furnaces typically have a blower fan that circulates the warm air into your home through ductwork and registers.

The hot air from your furnace will cool down as it goes through the ductwork and registers in your home, but you can help by placing a filter over the registers to trap dust and debris that would otherwise be blown around your house. You can also improve the quality of your indoor air by getting a HEPA filter for your furnace, which will further reduce dust and other contaminants in your household.

Furnaces can be powered by gas, propane, electricity or oil, with each option bringing its own pros and cons to the table. For example, a natural gas furnace requires access to a city gas line to operate, but it offers the most economical solution overall.

Electric furnaces, on the other hand, have no gas connection and work by converting electrical energy into heat via electric heating elements. This is a more flexible solution, and you can even add dampers to your furnace that allow it to only heat certain rooms in your house at night without waking everyone up.

Boiler heating systems are an alternative to traditional furnaces that can offer a number of benefits, including draft-free radiant heat and lower maintenance costs than a forced air system. However, they can cost more upfront and take longer to install than a furnace.

Ductless Systems

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, ductless systems have many advantages. For starters, they’re much less invasive to install than traditional forced-air systems. Ductless mini-splits require small pipes that only need a hole of less than three inches, so you don’t have to worry about reconstructing walls and ceilings in order to create the ductwork necessary for a conventional system. This makes them perfect for new additions and renovations, and you won’t have to sacrifice square footage just to add a cooling system.

They’re also far more energy efficient than traditional ducted systems, so you can enjoy lower utility bills. Plus, they offer independent temperature control for each zone in your house. If your kids fight over the thermostat, for instance, you can solve the problem by installing a ductless system with zoning capabilities.

Ductless systems are also great for people who have insufficient ductwork. They can easily heat or cool a basement, attic, garage, or home addition. They’re also an excellent solution for homes with older ductwork that’s inefficient or damaged. And they’re a good alternative to using window air conditioners or electric baseboard heaters for rooms that don’t have enough space for a duct system.

However, you should be aware that a ductless system can be more expensive to purchase and install than a conventional central system. And you’ll need to pay a professional to handle the installation of the system and the ductwork. Proper system sizing is essential, and attempting to do it yourself can lead to problems like improper equipment operation and low efficiency.

Despite the initial expense, a ductless system will often pay for itself in lower utility costs over time. And when it’s properly maintained, you can enjoy years of trouble-free performance. That’s why it’s important to have a qualified professional service your system twice a year. And don’t forget about routine cleaning! The ducts will need to be cleaned regularly, and you should change the air filter every month. You should also check the refrigerant level, which needs to be at proper levels in order for your system to work correctly.

Heat Pumps

A heat pump is a heating and cooling system that works more efficiently than gas furnaces and electric baseboard heaters. It uses electricity to transfer thermal energy from air or ground into your home, making cool air warmer and warm air cooler during the summer. It is also more efficient than electric resistance furnaces in the winter, providing three to four times as much heat for the same energy use.

Heat pumps are part of a larger HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system. They can operate alone as a cooling system and can be paired with a furnace for backup heat. They can be installed in homes with or without existing ductwork. In homes with ductwork, a central heat pump looks and operates very similar to a traditional central air conditioner. There is an outdoor unit and an indoor unit with aluminum fins and coils to release or collect heat, as well as a compressor that compresses and circulates refrigerant. Air ducts connect the two units, and a blower moves heat or cooling into your house.

If you have ducts, consider a ducted heat pump from top brands like Trane and Lennox. Ductless air-source heat pumps are a good alternative for homes without ducts or for newer buildings with no ductwork.

Look for a HSPF rating of eight or higher for a heat pump, which is an indicator of efficiency. A higher number means it is more energy-efficient at heating than a lower number, which is true for both air-source and geothermal pumps. You can also ask for models with a desuperheater coil to recycle waste heat for hot water heating in the winter.

Lastly, check for an expansion valve to help control the amount of refrigerant that is pumped in and out of the compressor, as well as a factory-installed suction line accumulator to prevent premature short cycling. These features can significantly improve a heat pump’s performance and durability.

If you’re ready to get a new heat pump to keep your home comfortable all year long, work with top-rated pros in your area. Simply fill out the form on this page, and you’ll receive up to 3 free quotes from experts near you!