The Advantages of Electric Water Heaters

Electric Water Heater Repair

Electric Water Heater Repair 317-784-1870

Whether you’re moving into a new home or replacing an old unit, you will be faced with the decision of choosing among all the different types of water heaters on the market. Hot water heaters can be powered by many energy sources, so you have the option of buying a unit that runs off natural gas, fuel oil, propane, geothermal power, solar power, electricity, or even a heat pump. Out of these options, one has made quite the impression on home and business owners over the last few years: electric water heaters. Electric units have gained popularity since newer, more dependable models have been introduced to the market. If you are trying to decide among all the hot water heater options out there, continue reading to learn why electric water heaters are so beneficial.

Traditional Water Heaters

To better understand the various benefits of electric water heaters, it is helpful to review how a traditional model works. Traditional hot water heaters come with an 80 gallon tank, or larger depending on the property’s hot water needs. This tank holds heated water that is ready to use, instantly. Cold water enters through the bottom of the tank from the city’s main water supply, and it is heated to a preset temperature. It remains at this temperature at all times inside the tank.

Tankless On Demand Water Heaters

Just like traditional “tank-style” units, it is helpful to review how tankless water heaters work as well. These units do not come with a large-gallon tank, and instead, only heats water when it is requested for immediate use. This reduces standby-energy loss, making it a more efficient method of heating water. Now let’s take a look at the many advantages offered by tankless and tank-style electric water heaters!

Electric Water Heaters

Traditional Tank-Style:

Tank-style electric water heaters come with storage tanks between 20 and 80 gallons. They operate by using two separate heating elements, each with their own thermostat. The first heating element is positioned at the top of the storage tank. It is designed to recover more hot water in the case that more hot water is demanded. The second heating element is found at the bottom of the tank, and its job is to maintain the preset temperature setting. In contract to traditional, gas water heaters, electric units are incredibly efficient because the water is not being heated at all times.

Tankless On Demand:

If you are looking for even more energy efficiency, a tankless electric water heater is the right choice for your home. Water is only heated upon request, making these units extremely energy efficient. Here’s how they work: Cold water enters through the bottom of the unit where it is heated to a preset temperature, and then it is then sent through the hot water lines, directly up to the faucets. This process takes between 5 to 10 seconds from the time you turn on the water.

Indianapolis Water Heater Installation

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional electric water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Mark Weilhammer, is a state-licensed master plumber who employs a team of licensed and insured plumbing contractors with decades of experience. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, and specialize in water heater installation and repair. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis water heater installation, today.

4 Questions to Ask Before Water Heater Installation

Electric Water Heater Repair

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Over the years, the advancements in appliance technology have drastically improved the operation of residential and commercial hot water heaters. And although designed with innovative features and performance qualities, water heaters are not designed to last forever. This means that at some point, you’ll need to replace yours. But before you install a brand new water heater, it is important to know what questions to ask yourself in order to choose a unit that meets your home’s hot water needs.

Continue reading to review the top 4 recommended questions to ask, either yourself or a licensed plumber, before installing a hot water heater.

Which Type of Water Heater Do I Own?

It is important to learn about your existing water heater before purchasing a replacement. There are three primary facts to look for: 1) type, 2) age, and 3) size. Water heaters for over eight years old need to be replaced because most are designed to only last 8 to 10 years. After sometime sediment buildup occurs inside the tank, slowing the operation efficiency of the appliance. Common types of water heaters include gas, electric, and tankless. However, some homes have specialty water heating systems, such as boilers or heat pump water heaters. In most cases, residential water heaters are either gas or electric.

You can refer to your owner’s manual to determine which type of water heater you own. Here’s a hint: it’s your water heater has a pilot light, it runs on gas. Water heaters also come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to get the right size for your home. Larger homes with multiple occupants need larger capacity water heaters, while smaller homes and fewer occupants require smaller units.

Do I Like My Water Heater?

Think about whether or not you like your old water heater. Did you have problems with its operation? Did it provide adequate hot water on demand for the entire home? If you were not entirely happy with your old or existing water heater, then you should explore some other brands of water heaters that come with the features you’re looking for. A professional plumber and/or water heater technician can help you decide which water heater meets your hot water needs, including budget.

Are Tank-Style Water Heaters Energy-Efficient?

As of 2015, the government mandates that all water heater manufacturers abide by specific energy-efficient standards. So regardless of which water heater you choose, it should provide sufficient amount of energy efficiency for your home. That is because tanks are now more insulated, which delivers higher efficiency ratings. Electric water heaters are generally between 90 and 95% efficient, gas water heaters generally retain between 60 and 70% efficiency, and tankless water heaters are generally between 84 and 94% energy efficient.

Who Should Install My New Water Heater?

Regardless of how handy you are, it is not a good idea to install your own water heater. Not only is it potentially illegal in your state, working with the fuel-powered appliances is highly-dangerous. It requires a comprehensive knowledge of complex fire and plumbing codes, extensive hands-on experience, and a legal permit to perform the work. Never attempt to install a water heater on your own unless you are trained and licensed plumber or water heater technician. Instead, always contact a professional Indianapolis plumber for water heater installation services you can trust.

Indianapolis Water Heater Installation

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need water heater service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner and master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, provides a wide range of professional water heater services for residential and commercial properties. Our water heater services include maintenance, installation, replacement, and repair. On top of the most competitive prices in town, we also offer free estimates and free plumbing advice anytime! Call 317-784-1870 to request an estimate for Indianapolis water heater installation, today.