Water Heater Services in Tyler

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Heaters

Why Don’t I Have Any Hot Water?

A complete loss of hot water to your home could indicate a number of potential problems. If you have a gas water heater, you may have a failing gas valve or a gas leak. If you have an electric water, you may have a problem with a failed heating element or a tripped circuit breaker that has interrupted power to your unit. Other potential issues include faulty thermostats, tank leaks, or a water heater that is simply too small for the hot water needs of your household. A plumber can help you troubleshoot these common water heater problems and determine whether repair or replacement is the right call.

Another important factor could be an issue with your home's plumbing system, such as a partially closed supply valve or a clog that affects water flow. It's vital to consider these potential problems when diagnosing a lack of hot water, which can often be resolved with professional assistance.

Why is My Water Brown?

This is a common question we get, and the answer is usually due to a rust problem somewhere in your plumbing. If this only occurs when you run the hot water, it's probably due to your water heater.

Rusted pipes or corroded components within the water heater itself can lead to discoloration. Addressing this promptly can prevent further corrosion and potential leaks, safeguarding your plumbing system's health.

What’s the Most Energy Efficient Type of Water Heater?

There are currently five types of water heaters on the market: conventional tank water heaters, tankless water heaters, heat pump water heaters, solar water heaters, and condensing water heaters. Each comes with its own list of pros and cons, but in terms of energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, solar and condensing water heaters are the winners.

How Long Do Water Heaters Typically Last?

The average residential tank water heater can be expected to last around 8 to 10 years, give or take a few years depending on how well it is maintained. Tankless water heaters can last much longer, up to 20 years on average.

Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod, can extend the lifespan of any water heater. Discussing longevity expectations with a professional during installation can provide clarity on how to achieve the maximum service life from your unit.

Is Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater Worth It?

Tankless water heaters, while a higher initial investment than tank water heaters, are absolutely worth the cost due to their superior energy efficiency, compact size, and longer service life. Because they heat water on demand rather than storing a finite amount of hot water in a tank, they are also a convenient solution to the problem of running out of hot water – with tankless water heaters, you get a continuous supply of hot water. Tankless water heater upgrades are a great solution for many homes, but they may not be the right solution for every household. Your plumber can help you decide based on the size of your household, your water usage habits, and your budget.

When considering an upgrade, evaluate your current energy costs, space availability, and potential rebate qualifications, which can help mitigate the initial expense. Consulting with your plumber on site-specific challenges or requirements can also provide valuable insights, ensuring a smooth transition to tankless heating.

What to Know When Switching from Tank to Tankless

Tankless (or on-demand) water heaters provide hot water more efficiently and at a lower cost than tank water heaters. How do they achieve this?

• A tankless water heater only heats water at the moment you need hot water (and it does it very quickly). A tank water heater stores water in a tank and continually heats that water over and over, which requires more energy.

Has this actually been put to the test? Yes. In tests performed by Consumer Reports, the results showed that tankless water heaters ran more efficiently than storage tank models of the same fuel type.

Are There Any Rebates or Incentives for Installing Energy-Efficient Water Heaters in Tyler?

In Tyler and the broader East Texas area, homeowners may be eligible for various rebates or incentives when installing energy-efficient water heaters. These financial incentives can significantly reduce the upfront costs associated with purchasing and setting up advanced systems like tankless or solar water heaters. Larger utility companies, such as those servicing the Tyler region, often offer rebates to customers who upgrade to appliances that meet specified energy-efficient criteria. Additionally, such energy-efficient upgrades can qualify homeowners for federal tax credits, further enhancing the financial attractiveness of these investments. Checking the latest government incentive programs or reaching out to local utility providers can be an essential step in uncovering these opportunities.

Staying informed about these rebates and incentives not only provides financial benefits but also supports broader environmental goals by promoting sustainable appliance choices. At Rudd Plumbing, we bring these valuable insights to our clients, helping them leverage available programs for maximum cost-effectiveness. We aim to guide you through the selection process, ensuring you get the most out of your investment while minimizing environmental impact.