Your Scottsdale AZ Plumber takes you back to school on hot water heaters. We’re continuing our “back to school” theme with another class. This time, it’s “Water Heater 101.” You probably use hot water several times a day to bathe, cook or clean without much thought to your water heater. Here’s some education on your water heater from your Scottsdale AZ plumber.
- A standard water heater will last between eight and twelve years.
- The majority of tanks today are steel, lined with glass or porcelain.
- Whether old or new, all water heaters need to be flushed every year to help prevent sediment buildup and maintain an efficient tank longer.
- Tankless water heaters can last 2 to 3 times longer than the traditional tanks, if the owner cares for the unit properly.
Over time most tanks will oxidize and deteriorate. They also decrease in efficiency as a result of sediment build-up. Regular maintenance is extremely important. We also recommend that you know where your water shutoff valve is in case of an emergency.
Using a water softener can extend your water heater’s life if it is plumbed correctly. Having a water softener is no guarantee, however, so you should still make sure to maintain it properly.
If you’re interested in an environmentally-friendly water heater…
solar water heaters currently rank highest, although they do still emit some carbon. This is mostly because the systems require a pump – often electrically powered – and a back-up conventional tank to ensure adequate hot water supply.
Tankless Water Heaters rank second because they offer both less energy consumption and convenience. If the hot water usage is kept the same, carbon emissions will be 50% less.
We hope this information will give you a new appreciation for your water heater.
Your Scottsdale AZ plumber can help you sort through your water heater options to help you extend your unit’s life or replace your unit with a new one. We’re also happy to educate you further on the benefits of having a water softener installed in your Phoenix valley home. Call Ben Franklin Pluming AZ today! (602) 273-1740
