Energy Efficiency Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Posted on February 3, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Wintertime certainly brings on the conversation of upgrading or replacing your water heater. This winter, if you are planning to get a new water heater for your home or office, you may be interested in considering a tankless water heater. Although tank-style water heaters are the more conventional option among residential and commercial property owners, a tankless water heater offers a unique set of energy efficiency benefits that could better suit your water heating needs, year-round.

Continue reading to learn some of the energy efficiency benefits of tankless water heaters, plus who to trust in central Indiana for professional and affordable water heater services and sales.

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How a Tankless Water Heater Works

A tankless water heater is designed to heat water on demand using an electrical element or gas burner. So, water heaters can use gas, electricity, or propane as an energy source. On-demand means that a tankless water heater will begin to heat the water once you turn the hot water on, which is opposite of a conventional water heater that stores hot water in a tank for automatic usage.

This does mean that water from the faucet will take a bit longer to heat up or reach the desired temperature you’re after, however, tankless water heating delivers an extraordinary level of energy efficiency because the unit is not working at all times to keep stored water heated. You can also have your Indianapolis water heating plumber install a circulation pump, which can help the water travel faster to the faucet or point of demand.

Not only does this save on your monthly utility costs, but it also helps save on future water heater replacement cost. You see, tank-style water heaters are suggested to last up to three times longer than a standard tank style water heater! This makes them a highly reliable, convenient, and energy-efficient option for residential or commercial water heating.

Advantages of Tankless Water Heating

☑ Energy Efficiency
☑ Reduced Energy Consumption
☑ Cost Savings
☑ Lower Monthly Utility Bills
☑ Low Maintenance
☑ Longer Lifespan
☑ Small/Space-Saving

Do You Need a Tankless Water Heater?

Not sure if a tankless water heater is the right option for you? Ask yourself these questions to determine if tankless water heater is a compatible addition to your home or office:

▶ Do you only use a little bit of hot water?
▶ Are you mostly gone?
▶ Do you have several occupants or overnight guests?
▶ Do you run the risk of running out of hot water?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, a tankless water heater could be a beneficial investment. Talk to a trusted and experienced Indianapolis IN water heater company for personalized advice on the best water heating solutions for your house or business.

Are you interested in learning more about winter plumbing and water heating solutions for your Indiana home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing services for water heaters in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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Top Ways to Save on Your Electric Bill This Winter

Posted on January 7, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

All homeowners and building owners are looking for ways to save on their electric bill, especially in the winter. If you are also hoping to reduce your monthly energy bills for the season, you will be pleased to know that it is absolutely possible! It only takes a little bit of knowledge and effort.

Start by scrolling below to learn the top ways to save on your electric bill this winter and who to call for trusted Indianapolis plumbing and water heater services.

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How to Cut Back on Electricity in the Winter

Electric bills are known to skyrocket in the wintertime. This is typically a result of increased hot water usage, higher settings on the thermostat, and subjection to harsh winter winds and inclement cold fronts. Fortunately, there is plenty you can do, whether property owner or tenant, to ensure your electric bills maintain an affordable consistency throughout the season.

Here are the most effective strategies to control and reduce electricity costs in the winter:

Thermostat Replacement

Old thermostats are the pits, really. If your thermostat is between 8 and 10 years old, it is time to replace it, even if it works fine. Old thermostats are highly unreliable and inconsistent, which can significantly impact your energy costs, especially in the winter. It is recommended to replace your old thermostat with a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat.

Change the Setting on the Thermostat

By lowering your thermostat setting 7 to 10 degrees, you can save a significant amount of money on your monthly electric bill. When you’re not home, it is recommended by experts to decrease your thermostat to at least 68°. When you go on vacation, be sure not to put it too low, as this can lead to frozen plumbing pipes.

Cut the Heat Off in Idle Rooms

If you have rooms in your home or building that are frequently vacant, it is recommended to block off or close the vents in them. This can save you a lot of money in your electric bill. No sense in heeding a room that’s not used!

Close the Vents in Uninsulated Spaces

It is common for houses and buildings to have certain rooms or spaces that are not insulated. Typically, this includes attics, garages, basement storage spaces, and similar areas. If there are heating vents in any of these rooms of your home or building, it is suggested to close them off to reduce your electric bill.

Tune Up the HVAC System

Routine maintenance is important for all mechanical systems in your home. Your HVAC system is one the most important units to maintain if you want to reduce or control your electric bills and total energy costs.

Lower Your Water Heater Temperature Setting

Just like your thermostat, lowering the setting of the water heater temperature can help you save money on your monthly electrical bill. It is recommended to keep your water heater temperature setting between 110 and 120°F. To prevent scalding accidents, never set your water heater temperature above 120°F.

Add Insulation Around Your Water Heater

Insulating a water heater can have a significant impact on cost savings throughout the winter when it comes to electrical bills. This is especially impactful for water heaters and boilers located in cold basements and garages, or other areas where there is little barrier between them and the winter elements.

Are you concerned that your water heater is costing you too much money because it improperly programmed or experiencing mechanical issues? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We sale, service, install, and repair hot water heaters.

How Much Longer Will My Water Heater Last?

Posted on December 16, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Did you just buy a new home that is already equipped with a water heating system? Perhaps you’ve been in your house for some time and you’re not sure if you need to replace the water heater yet? Or maybe your water heater is starting to show signs of decreased performance and efficiency, so you’re wondering if you need to have it repaired?

In any case, you are smart to be asking questions about your water heater. Water heaters are one of the most important plumbing devices for homes and buildings because hot water on demand is something we have become highly-accustomed to as a society, ever since the induction of indoor plumbing. Additionally, a quality water heater can save you a lot of money in monthly energy bills, plus save you from spending even more of your hard-earned money on premature or avoidable water heater repairs and part replacements.

If you are asking questions about the quality and longevity of your water heater, it is a good time to get started with some important facts. Continue reading to learn more about water heaters, including how long they are meant to last and when you need water heater or replacement.

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Hot Water Heater Replacement

Water heaters come in all different makes and models. From there, they are broken down into even more categories, including power source, capacity, and size. Additionally, newer water heaters come with all sorts of innovative technologies and features, making the selection quite vast for someone on the market for a new unit.

Regardless of your water heater type, they are all designed to last between 8 and 10 years. This is an important fact because it can help you gauge how much time is left on your water heater. Is your water heater close to 8 years old? Is it older? If so, you are in a good position to replace your hot water heater with a modern, more innovative unit.

Water Heater Repair

If your water heater is not old, but it is showing some signs of failure, water heater repair might be the solution for you. Common signs of water heater malfunctioning include a sudden increase in energy or water bills, no hot water, reduced hot water, water heater noises, strange colored water, and pooling water underneath your water heater. Talk to your local Indianapolis plumber for advice on water heater replacement and repair. They can inspect your hot water heater and determine the best course of action for your water heating needs.

Are you worried that your water heater might be on the fritz? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for water heaters, today. We provide residential and commercial plumbing services all throughout Central Indiana.

Advice on How to Replace a Water Heater

Posted on July 15, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether old, broken, or outdated, at some point in time your water heater will need to be replaced. However, buying a new water heater for the first time can be an overwhelming experience if you don’t have any direction. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about replacing the water heater, including a quick guide on how to get started.

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Water Heater Replacement Guide For Homeowners

Here are some questions to ask yourself before you purchase and replace a water heater:

What Type of Water Heater Do I Have?

There is more than one type of water heater on the market, especially now with all the innovative technologies and advancements in the plumbing and home construction industry. You can choose from conventional tank-style gas or electric water heaters, tankless or instantaneous water heaters, solar powered water heaters, energy-efficient water heaters, or central boilers. Typically, it is recommended to replace your water heater with the same type of water here you arty have.

For instance, if you already have a gas water heater, that means your home is already equipped with gas connections and hookups, so the most convenient approach would be to stick with a gas water heater model. If you are interested in switching your power source for your water heater and other water related appliances in your home, talk to a license Indianapolis Indiana water heater plumber for personalized advice you can trust.

How Old is My Water Heater?

Another important factor to consider before replacing your old water heater with the new one is your water heater’s age. Most water heaters, particularly conventional tank-style models, are designed to last anywhere between 8 to 10 years. If your water heater is close to that time range, it is probably time to replace your water heater regardless of its performance.

Most often, you can tell that your water heater is starting to lose performance value with clues like higher energy bills, higher water bills, and lack of hot water. Sediment and corrosion are the top two culprits behind water heater deterioration, which is why age can become a major factor when deciding to replace water heater.

What is the Size of My Water Heater?

When replacing a water heater with the new one, it is vital that you match the proper size tank or capacity water heater with your water heating needs. First, you need to think about how many people in the home will be using the hot water. Along with the number of occupants in your home, you want to configure the proper size water heater by calculating how much water you intend to be using. In a standard multifamily home, it is typically recommended to have a 40 gallon tank. For homes with several occupants, or multi-unit buildings like apartments and duplexes, A 50 to 75 gallon tank is recommended.

Who Do I Hire to Replace My Water Heater?

Never attempt to replace your water heater on your own. Contact a local and license Indianapolis master plumber for water heater service and replacement you can trust. There are specialty tools and equipment required to properly replace a water heater. Plus, water heater replacement services require proper permits, licensing, and building code certifications since there are fuel power sources involved with work.

Are you ready to get started with buying and installing a new water heater in Indiana? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for water heaters at an affordable price. We carry a full line of 2021 Rheem water heaters at market cost!

You Should Also Read:

4 Signs Your Home is Ready for Water Heater Replacement
Should I Drain My Water Heater?
Are Tankless Water Heaters Eco-Efficient?

4 Signs Your Home is Ready for Water Heater Replacement

Posted on April 29, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

You water heater only operates at its best when you give it regular scheduled maintenance. But what many homeowners do not know is that water heater replacement should also be a scheduled service, just not as frequently as the others! Not sure if your water heater needs to be replaced yet or not?

Continue reading to learn the top 4 signs that suggest your home is ready for water heater replacement service.

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Water Heater Replacement Timeline

You do not, and should not, need to replace your water heater frequently. Water heaters usually last between 8 and 10 years, so this is the timeline you would use to schedule water heater replacement service. It is possible, however, for a water heater to experience massive damage that cannot be repaired. In such cases, premature water heater replacing would be necessary. Things such as rusted bottoms, floods, cracks, fires, and even gas explosions will render a water heater permanently useless.

Replace Your Hot Water Heater Every 8 To 10 Years

Water Heater Upgrades

Another reason why you might need to replace a water heater is to accommodate a growing household, incorporate more energy efficient appliances, or switching power sources. Talk to your trusted Indianapolis water heater plumber about the best options for your home.

Does Your Water Heater Need to Be Replaced Soon?

Here are the top 4 signs that indicate your hot water heater is on the brink of breaking down:

❶ AGE – As mentioned, if your water heater is 8 to 10 years old, or older, it is old and probably less efficient. At this time, you would be wise to replace it with an updated model.

❷ NOISES – A noisy or loud water heater is trying to tell you something. It’s saying, “I am not operating optimally and need to be repaired or replaced!”

❸ RUST – If you see rust in your water, or at the bottom of the tank, you probably need to replace your water heater. This means that corrosion is on the loose, and there is no stop to that.

❹ NO HOT WATER – If you water heater is not generating hot water as it should, and you have noticed that your water is not as hot as it used to be, it’s because your water heater is deteriorating.

Do you need some help with your hot water at home? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for service, sales, and free advice for water heaters in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and models, and have Rheem water heaters in stock at the lowest prices in town.

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4 Questions to Ask Before Water Heater Installation
The Cons to Purchasing Water Heaters from Commercial Carriers
What You Need to Know About Water Heater Sediment Buildup

Advice for Shutting Off Your Water When Away From Home

Posted on October 3, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

When you preparing to leave your house for an extended period of time, there is a list of certain duties you tend to in order to protect your home from certain disaster while away. From turning off all the lights but one, to locking all doors, putting a stop on your mail, charging your exterior security devices, and more. But of all the important tasks that must be done before you depart, it can be argued that the most crucial point of interest is the main water.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about shutting off your main water prior to taking a trip.

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Flood and Water Damages

Most homeowners, and even tenants, know to turn off the main water when leaving for a long period of time. Too often, people have come back from a vacation or business trip to find their living room under water. This is not something anyone wants to deal with, as the costs and time involved in restoring flood and plumbing damage can be quite extensive. Fortunately, water damage and flooding accidents can be virtually 100% avoidable so long as you turn off your main water valve before taking off.

Main Water Shut Off

You must plan around your personal water needs on the day of your departure. You don’t want to turn off your water, and then realize you still want to brush your teeth or wash your hands one more time. Be sure to take care of all your tap water-related needs before turning it all off.

It is recommended to turn off your water a few minutes before leaving the house. This way, you can give the system some time to adjust, and you can check to see that it’s fully off. In order to turn off your main water supply, you must know where the valve is located. Generally, you will find it in the utility room, or near the water softener and water heater.

Most often, this valve can be adjusted manually, but sometimes, older valves are more stubborn, and might require a set of pliers or a wrench. If you have never adjusted the main water valve before, it is strongly encouraged to ask someone for help a few days before you are set to depart. This “dry run” will give you the confidence to locate and adjust your main water valve as needed.

When You Come Home

Once you arrive home from your trip, you will likely want to wash up as soon as possible. For this reason, the first thing you should do after setting down your bags and switching on the lights is to turn your water back on. While you bring the rest of your house back to life, the water system can adjust and your water heater can warm up.

Keep in mind, it can take up to 48 hours (yes, 2 days) for your water heater to warm your water back up to the temperature you are used to. If your water does not warm up sufficiently after a few days, check the temperature setting to see if it was turned down. If it is still set where you want it, contact a local Indianapolis water heater plumber for an emergency inspection and service.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair Plumbers

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing and water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free advice, anytime. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services. And as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Request a free estimate, today.

Facts About Instantaneous Water Heaters

Posted on May 29, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Instantaneous water heaters, or better known as, “tankless” water heaters, do not use a storage tank like most standard units. They are meant to deliver hot water on demand, or as needed, thus eliminating the need for a storage tank altogether. In fact, they are also called “on demand” or “demand” water heaters. Tankless water heaters have a lot to offer residential and commercial property owners, and operate in a unique way to allow instantaneous hot water whenever requested.

Continue reading to learn how instantaneous water heaters work and who to call for installation and price-point information in your town.

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On Demand Hot Water Heaters

On demand hot water heaters are known for their energy efficiency since they do not waste energy to heat water on the standby like most traditional models do. This not only reduces overall energy consumption, it can save money on monthly utility bills as well. Tankless units heat water in a direct way, as soon as it is requested; whether by faucet, washing machine, dishwasher, or other household appliance.

How It Works:

Cold water travels through a plumbing pipe and enters the unit. Then, a heating element (gas or electric) heats the water to the indicated temperature. Gas-powered units use a gas burner to heat water, while electric units use an electrical element to heat water.

It’s that simple!

With tankless water heaters, there is no waiting for a tank to fill with water, or running out of hot water. On demand water heaters provide a constant supply of hot water without wasting energy. However, the output does limit the units flow rate. Instantaneous hot water heaters generally provide hot water at a rate of 2 to 5 gallons per minute, but gas-powered units have a higher flow rate than electrical ones.

Either way, a tankless unit might limit a property’s ability to use multiple hot water appliances simultaneously. This means there might not be enough hot water to wash a load of whites while taking a shower upstairs. A common quick fix for this is to install two or more tankless water heaters in larger homes and homes with multiple occupants.

If you have questions about tankless water heaters, including sales and installation, call a licensed master plumber for accurate and reliable answers, as well as, trusted service. They retain the proper tools, training, experience, and knowledge to guide you in the right direction.

Who Can You Trust for Water Heater Service?

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for free estimates, advice, and information regarding hot water heaters, anytime. Not only are we state-licensed master plumbers who specialize in water heater repair and service, we gladly provide recommendations and advice. Whether residential or commercial, we can provide all the water heater services you need. Call 317-784-1870 to get started.

Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer Grades Current Water Heater Brands on the Market

Posted on September 20, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Here at Weilhammer Plumbing Company, we are committed to providing superior customer satisfaction and exactitude on every job. That is why all plumbing services are executed by company owners only, including State Licensed Master Plumber (#106214), Mark Weilhammer himself! Today, he would like to share his opinion on a few of the most popular hot water heaters on the market.

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Bradford White®:

Grade = A+
Rating = Trouble-free, common-sense design, reliable, and easy to service .

Rheem® Hot Water Heaters:

Grade = A++
Rating = Safe, long-lasting, reliable system, easy to use, and simple to service.

Richmond® & GE®:

Grade = C
Rating = Warranty issues, defective units, and poor providers.

A.O. Smith®, Kenmore®, Lochinvar®, State®, and Sears®:

Grade = D+
Rating = Lint filter needs constantly cleaned, poor FVIR design, warranty issues, defective units, and poor providers.

Whirlpool®:

Grade = F-
Rating = Warranty is void if lint filter is not cleaned every 3 months, bad warranties, defective units, difficult parts replacement, and they have CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS against them.

“IN MY OPINION, Whirlpool water heaters are the WORST available units on the market today. Although American-made, they break down constantly and come with poor warranties. And all you “Do-It-Yourselfers” out there, forget about doing your own repairs! Several people have accidentally broken the internal gas lines, causing explosions, fires, and floods. Save yourself loads of time, money, and frustration by NOT purchasing a Whirlpool brand hot water heater!”

-State Licensed Master Plumber Mark Weilhammer (#106214)

Customer Review #1
Customer Review #2

American® Water Heater:

Grade = F
Rating = Poor customer support, non-transferable warranties, void warranty if lint filter is not cleaned every 3 months, defective parts, and bad customer reviews.

Customer Review #1

Check out these outrageous Home Depot® and Sears® water heater reviews for more insight:

WATER HEATER REVIEW #1
WATER HEATER REVIEW #2
WATER HEATER REVIEW #3
WATER HEATER REVIEW #4

RECOMMENDED Hot Water Heaters

We recommend Rheem®, Bradford White® Bosch®, Kenmore®, Koehler®, and American Standard® brand water heaters.

Information Provided By Mark Weilhammer, Master Plumber and Owner of Weilhammer Plumbing Company in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Where to Find Top-Quality Water Heater Replacement

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water heater replacement in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas. We carry a full line of Rheem® water heaters at the most competitive price around, but if you choose to purchase a water heater from another provider, we will gladly provide installation services at a cheaper rate than them! We also offer free haul-away service for old or broken water heaters, as well as, same-day service, emergency service, and much more.

The Water Heater Repair Facts You Need to Know

Posted on June 5, 2017 by weilhammerplumbing

Water Heater Repair and Service 317-784-1870

Your water heater is one of the most important technologies in your home. Without it, you are left to live in a way our ancestors did during the ages without indoor heated plumbing! Everything from your mentality, skin, laundry, and dishes are better treated with hot water. For these reasons and more, it is important to provide your water heater with proper maintenance and care. By understanding your water heater, especially the facts surrounding repair and replacement, you can improve your household’s energy efficiency and cost savings exponentially, for years to come.

Continue reading to learn the vital facts you need to know if you are having trouble with your water heater.

Deciding Between Repair and Replacement

All things man-made are capable of breaking, and your water heater is no different. Even with the best upkeep, it may experience issues at some point in time. If it does, you have to make the educated decision between having it repaired and replacing it altogether. To help you with this decision, you’ll need the assistance of a licensed plumbing contractor who specializes in water heater service. They have the knowledge and resources to provide accurate diagnostics of your water heater, regardless of make or model. They can make professional recommendations that fit your home’s best interests, as well as your budget.

The General Rule of Thumb for Water Heaters

So what will your plumbing technician likely tell you? Water heaters are not designed to last forever. So as they get older, they get closer to their expiration date. Once a water heater has reached a certain age range, it is better off replaced than repaired in terms of cost.

The general rule of thumb adhered to by most water heater professionals is the “8 to 10 year” rule. If a water heater is older than 8 years, and it is experiencing operational issues, it is likely more cost-effective to replace it than it would be to repair it. Not only is this the more cost-effective choice, it is the safer choice. When a water heater is this old, problems can be repaired, but they are likely to continue and get worse as the unit continues to age. It is more beneficial to invest in a new water heater rather than to waste more money repairing an old one.

New Water Heaters

If your water heater is fairly new and problems occur, repair is the most effectual option. In this case, it is likely a water heater is still under warranty, which means the cost to repair any issues is fully or partially covered by the manufacturer or retailer you purchased it from. You may have to pay partially under warranty if the warranty only covers replacement parts; so you would be responsible to cover labor costs. Fortunately, labor costs are not usually extreme among plumbing and water heater contractors.

New Water Heater Replacement

Sometimes, new water heaters cannot be repaired, and must be replaced instead. For instance, if the storage tank is somehow damaged to the point that is causes the water heater to malfunction, you would need to replace the entire water heater as a whole. Most parts of a water heater are replaceable, but not all.

Indianapolis Water Heater Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for affordable water heater repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 50 years of experience in the plumbing industry and knows just how to solve your meet your water heater problems. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis water heater repair, today!