Hot Water Heater Problems
By Mitch Clemmons Hot Water Heater 0 Comments

Hot Water Heater Problems?

Got a problem with your water heater?

Here’s the answer to the most commonly asked questions

hot water heater

Can my water heater be repaired?

Yes, repairing a water heater is possible. If there is a leak, and it is something on the outside of the water heater, we can usually fix the leak. If the water heater is not getting hot, there are some components we can replace on the gas controls to resolve that issue. Either way, we can come out to provide a free estimate for repairs or replacement if you are in our local service area. If you need a new water heater, we can often do the replacement the same day once you approve the work. Call today at (562) 242-3218 to schedule your appointment.

What does it cost to replace my hot water heater?

Replacement of a 40-gallon standard gas water heater is $1480, and a 50-gallon is $1580. Some upgrades may be needed to meet plumbing codes. That may mean some additional costs. But we always give you the prices before you commit to the work.

How do I know what size water heater to buy?

Your existing water heater is probably the right size for your home. However, we will help you decide the size of your new hot water heater based on your home’s size and the number of people in the house.

What about the tankless water heaters?

Tankless water heaters are an excellent option for some customers. But, it can be a significant expense to convert from a tank to a tankless water heater since some upgrades are necessary in most cases. If you desire a quote for a tankless water heater, we can send out a qualified technician to give you an estimate.Tankless water heaters

Some of the benefits of tankless water heaters:

  • Tankless water heaters are smaller than regular hot water heaters. Therefore, installing the tank in a smaller area is possible.
  • Tankless hot water heaters last up to 20 years. A regular tank water heater can last 10 to 13 years.
  • Tankless water heaters do not retain a tank full of hot water. Water flows through the heat exchanger coil and becomes hot and ready for instant use.
  • A recirculating hot water system can provide a continuous flow of hot water. These are called inline, on-demand, or instant hot water machines. Great for tea or instant coffee!
  • Call the pros at Mitch Clemmons Plumbing serving La Habra, Anaheim, Fullerton, and surrounding areas (562) 242-3218 to schedule your appointment.

Why does it take so long for hot water to get to my shower, and what can I do about it?

When hot water has to travel a long way through the pipes in the house, the water can naturally cool. When the hot water finally arrives in your shower, a lot of water has been wasted! A great solution is to install a hot water recirculating system. This will ensure that every fixture in your house has instant hot water.

What is involved in the installation, and how long does it take?

A typical water heater replacement of a like-for-like water heater usually takes around 2-3 hours. Some can take a little longer, and others can go faster. In either case, we use flat rate pricing, so you can count on the price not going up if the job takes longer.

Can I finance my new water heater?

We offer some excellent financing options for plumbing services through Synchrony Financial. Please see our financing page here for details.

Should I wait and see if the hot water heater problems stop?

No, don’t wait! If you have any problem with your water heater, call the professionals at Mitch Clemmons Plumbing. We serve residents in La Habra, Anaheim, Fullerton, and the surrounding areas. Call us today! (562) 242-3218

Related Links:

Hot Water Heater Repair
By Mitch Clemmons Hot Water Heater 0 Comments

Hot Water Heater Repair and When to Replace Them

Hot water heater repair is something you may need one day. If you notice that your water heater is leaking from the tank you will almost certainly need a new one. If it’s leaking from somewhere else, continue reading. And don’t panic! There’s a chance it can be fixed with some simple maintenance. Learn what signs indicate the need for complete replacement of an old unit or if you can get away with a repair. 

The Lifespan of a Hot Water Heater

When it comes to hot water heater repair, you should expect an average lifespan of eight to twelve years. Many factors determine how long your water heater will last. Quality of installation, maintenance schedule, water quality, and location all play essential roles in determining the lifespan of these appliances. If you have a water heater that’s more than ten years old, leaks around the base of your tank, or if it works erratically, then now might be an excellent time to invest in a new one. 

In some cases, repairs and troubleshooting could save you from having to replace it. When your unit fails, the first thing you should do is determine whether you have an electric or gas water heater. If it’s electric, check for any possible electrical problems. For example, if you’ve blown a fuse or tripped a breaker, this could be the cause. Or it could be the heating element.

If it’s a gas water heater, then the pilot light may have gone out, you may need a coupler, or the gas valve may have gone bad. When it comes to your water heater there are some things you can do to avoid problems. Regular maintenance will extend its life, and some repairs like replacing a pressure relief valve or heating element can be simple if you know what they entail.

Common Issues

The most common problem with a water heater is that it’s not as hot as it should be. This can be caused by either the thermostat or element being faulty, so here are some things you should check when this happens:

Electric Water Heater

  • Turn the thermostat up a bit and see if that fixes it.
  • Be sure you haven’t tripped a breaker.
  • To avoid sediment build-up, you must flush the heater regularly. (twice a year)
  • Insulate your hot water pipes.

Gas Water Heater

  • Ensure that your pilot light is lit. (best left to a professional)
  • Flush the heater to remove sediment from your tank.
  • Insulate your hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and raise your water temperature.
  • Clean the gas burner and replace its thermocouple (best left to a professional).
  • Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat if the water is not hot enough.

Common Problems and Solutions for Hot Water Heater Repair

  • Sediment may have collected in the tank if you hear hissing or sizzling noises. Drain the tank until the water is clear and restored, then soak the heating elements in white vinegar for an hour to remove scale buildup. (on an electric heater)
  • If your pressure relief valve is leaking, it’s time to replace it.
  • Have a leaky water supply pipe? Tighten the fittings. If that doesn’t work, shut off the water and replace the fittings (also best left to a professional).

Tips on How to Maintain Your Hot Water Heater

Here are some simple but essential tips to keep your water heater running at its best.

  • To maintain the efficiency of your water heater, drain it twice a year. This practice will rid accumulated sediments that cause corrosion and increase the functionality of your water heater.
  • Test the pressure relief valve by lifting it and letting it snap back. If there’s no water coming out, install a new one.
  • Set the thermostat temperature setting to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to protect your tank from overheating.

When Maintenance Won’t Cut it

Whether replacing your water heater or upgrading to a new one, you might consider larger tanks and tankless heaters if your home needs more hot water. When you need to replace your water heater, these are some factors you should consider.

  • The most common size for a water heater is 40 or 50 gallons.
  • The recovery rate is the number of gallons your water heater will heat in an hour.
  • Ensure that you measure your space and the dimensions of where the unit will fit in your home.
  • You should look for a high-efficiency model to save money and energy.

When shopping for a new water heater, check the nameplate on your current unit. Here you’ll find helpful information about its capacity and other vital statistics like insulation R-value, working pressure, model, and serial number or installation guidelines that will help ensure its safe use in your home. You can quickly identify your water heater’s wattage capacity and voltage of the heating element by looking at the nameplate. This information is a great place to start searching for replacement parts or a new water heater. 

A Few More Things to Consider

  • Always check local codes for how you are supposed to dispose of your old water heater.
  • Water heaters are bulky and heavy. You’ll need assistance.
  • The job of installing a water heater is not one for the faint-hearted. You will need adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, a hacksaw, and a propane torch if you’re working with copper pipe. 
  • Have you got the time to replace your water heater? Once you start the project, it must be completed.

We Have Specialists For Water Heater Repair or Replacement

With over 25 years of experience servicing the North Orange County area Mitch Clemmons Plumbing and his team strive to offer honest plumbing estimates, affordable pricing, and quality plumbing work. Don’t hesitate to leave it to the professionals and call us today at (562) 246-9778!

 
 

 

 

 

 

Hot Water Heater Repair
By Mitch Clemmons Hot Water Heater 0 Comments

Could It Be Time For A Hot Water Heater Replacement?

Hot Water Heater Replacement and What You Need to Know When the Time Comes.

Is it time for a hot water heater replacement? It’s something that most homeowners take for granted. When do you know if your water heater has started to show its age and it’s time for a replacement? Some of the signs that it’s time to replace your water heater include: 

  • It is old – Most residential water heaters last between 6 to 13 years. Chances are if your water heater is over 12 years old you could be overdue for a replacement.
  • Strange Noises – Is your water heater starting to sound like a dryer with a pair of sneakers in it? This is because older heaters build up sediment at the bottom of the tank. When the water heats the sediment will harden and make that loud cry for replacement.
  • Rusty Water – Nobody wants to drink dirty water and if you have a water heater in need of a replacement you might be doing just that. If you catch it early enough you can have a professional install a new zinc anode rod. Unfortunately, if your water heater is more than 10 years old it’s simply more cost-effective to replace it.
  • Hot to Cold – Everyone enjoys a hot shower, but if you have ever been in the middle of one only to be rudely jolted by an extreme change in temperature then it might be time for a water heater replacement.

Mitch Clemmon’s Plumbing: An Expert in Hot Water Heater Replacement

If you are reading this, then that means most likely your water heater isn’t working. I’m sure the last thing on your mind is doing home improvement projects after a long day of work. Furthermore, if you have an old, inefficient model consider replacing it sooner rather than later and hiring a professional.

Another Option Might Be A Tankless Water Heater!

If you want to upgrade your home with an energy-efficient tankless water heater, then let us help you out today! With this new technology, there’s no more spending your money to keep a big tank of water hot.  it can save you up to 30% more energy than traditional tanks do – which means lower monthly bills and less time worrying about maintenance issues like leaks or corrosion.

Just give us a call and we’ll take care of everything from start to finish at an affordable price point that won’t break the bank. So don’t wait any longer – schedule your appointment now by calling (562) 246-9778!

Related Links:

 
By AndreaB Hot Water Heater 0 Comments

Water Heater Installation

Mankind has Always Enjoyed Hot Water!

Since the dawn of man, fire and water have played an integral part in the survival of the species. Fire, with its heat, warming a home, lighting a dark path, or roasting a meal. And water, with it’s purity, washing stained garments, cleansing open wounds, and quenching a longing thirst. These two forces of nature, though elemental enemies can combine their power to provide man with even greater enrichment. Early man could have never conceived of hot water heater installation the way we can do it now!

Ancient Times and Water Heater Installation

In Kemet, the name of Egypt prior to the Greek invasion, the ritual of bathing in the Nile was a spiritual as well as a physical experience. In ancient India, bathing may have occurred 3 times a day as great attention was given to personal hygiene.  Now, many bodies of waters like the rivers, stream, ponds or lakes were often very cold, especially in the winter or in colder environments. Folks would travel for miles to find hot springs. These were useful to relax the body and the mind while also still acting as baths. Yet these could be very hard to find and the terrain difficult to traverse.

Creature Comforts Go WAY BACK!

Bathhouses and steam rooms began to find their way into ancient Rome, Greece, and even into Japan. The architecture and design of some of these buildings are still consider some of the wonders of the world.  Neanderthals liked their creature comforts too! Spanish cave suggests ancient man had HOT WATER and bedrooms!

Hot Water Naturally

While warm waters did much to heal the mind, body, and even the soul, what about even hotter waters? Hot to even boiling water has been useful for centuries to cook food, sterilize utensils, and even purify the water itself. Large pots or cauldrons made of cast iron would hold huge amounts of soup and stews and cook for hours before doling it out to a hungry crew. There isn’t a civilization on the planet that did not use large pots of hot, steaming water in some way. 

Appreciation for Water Heater Installation

Nowadays we may not have the regard for hot waters as those who went through painstaking measures to enjoy its benefits centuries ago. Mainly because it’s so readily available. In most cities around the world there’s not only cold running water but that same water, with the twist of a wrist, hot water. Currently, how that water becomes hot is usually due to some sort of tank that heats the water and holds it until summoning. Turning the knob marked “H” usually does this. This is done by your basic water heater. Often unwittingly called a “hot water heater”. Many to this day don’t see the duplicitous verbiage in calling it a “hot” water, “heater” but that’s fine.

Water Heater Installation Different types of water heaters one could employ: 

  • Conventional Water Heater: The typical water heater in most homes. Usually powered by natural gas or even propane but many are now using electricity. The conventional water heaters in these units can range in capacity from 25-75 gallons of water. So basically when you call for hot water, the tank empties. When the hot water tap is off, the tank fills and begins heating a new batch of water. 
  • Condensing Water Heater: Very similar to conventional heaters but much more energy efficient. The condensing part comes from the transforming of the vapor from the burned gas into water. They tend to be also more powerful than conventional heaters but more expensive. So if hot water is in high demand at your location, this might be a better choice than a conventional model. 
  • Solar Water Heater: As you would imagine, this is a water heater that uses stored energy from the Sun. There are active and passive types of solar water heaters. Active heaters use circulating pumps and passive units provide a system that uses levels and pressure to move and heat the water. 
  • Tankless Water Heaters: Also known as on-demand, demand-type, and instant, they send heated water directly to the tap without storing it.  The water travels through a series of pipes inside the unit and gains heat either by gas or an electric current. While tankless water heaters are much better at saving space and energy than conventional water heaters they aren’t the best at servicing large households. 
  • Heat Pump (Hybrid Water Heater): These work very much like a refrigerator but in the opposite direction. Heat pump heaters pull heat from the environment it’s in and then use it to heat the water. Consequently, you have to be in an area where it gets hot or never gets really cold. Usually powered by electricity, these heaters are very energy efficient. Because of their unique architecture they are more expensive to install but will recoup that money over the course of the year. 

When it comes to installing any of these water heater units there are a few things you must consider: 

  • Demand: How much water do you need? Is this for a small 2-bedroom condo or a new restaurant where several tanks may be necessary. These types of questions will help determine whether you need a few tankless water heaters, a large conventional water heater, or maybe something else. 
  • Space Considerations: Hot water heaters can be very large and need space not only for air flow but for you or your plumber to access them. If you’re looking for water heater installation and have space constraints you may buy something of similar size. However, if you’re remodeling and haven’t purchased one yet you may be able to opt for a larger unit when you consider water heater installation. Measuring out the space you need when considering water heater installation is imperative. 
  • Piping: Adding a new water heater to old pipes can be problematic. Make sure whatever water heater you’re adding, you’re existing pipes can support it. Also, make sure the old pipes and connections don’t have any leaks or cracks. 
  • Fuel Source: You typically won’t think about water heater installation until your old one goes out. Yet, one reason to consider a new water heater installation is because you want a different fuel option. Consider things like this:
    • Which fuel source works best with the type of water heater you are considering.
    • The water demands of your home, condo, complex or building.
    • Also talk to your local utility company before making a change to find out the cost of the fuel source you are considering. There may be rules, regulations, rebates, discounts for certain fuels.

Water Heater Installation – A Lot to Consider

So there’s a lot to consider when looking or needing to replace a water heater. The folks of yesteryear may have not needed to think about galvanized pipes or ventilation or surcharges when looking to take a warm bath. Then again, they also couldn’t draw one without considerable effort!
 
Making sure you secure a proper water heater installation from a licensed and bonded plumber. Call us today at (562) 242-3218 and set up your water heater installation. We can also provide routine maintenance thereafter.
 
Keep your family from returning to the ice age and schedule your water heater installation today. If you have any questions and need to make a change now or simply want to avoid any inconveniences give us at Mitch Clemmons Plumbing (562) 242-3218.
 
By AndreaB Hot Water Heater 0 Comments

Hot Water Heater Problems?

Got a problem with your hot water heater?hot water heater

  • Can my hot water heater be repaired?

    Yes, repairing a hot water heater is possible. If there is a leak, and it is something on the outside of the water heater, we can usually fix the leak. If the water heater is not getting hot, normally there are some components we can replace on the gas controls to fix that issue as well. Either way we can come out to provide a free estimate for repairs or replacement if you are in our local service area. If you do need a new water heater we can often do the replacement the same day once you approve the work. Call today (562) 242-3218 to schedule your appointment.

  • What does it cost to replace my hot water heater?

    Replacement of a 40 gallon standard gas water heater is $1480, and a 50 gallon is $1580.  Some upgrades may be needed to meet plumbing codes. That may mean some additional costs. But we always give you the prices before you commit to the work.

  • How do I know what size hot water heater to buy?

    Your existing water heater is probably the right size for your home. However, we will help you decide about the size of your new hot water heater based on your home’s size and the amount of people living in the home.

  • What about the tankless hot water heaters?

    Tankless water heaters are a great option for some customers. But, it can be a significant expense to convert from a tank to tankless water heater since there are some upgrades that are necessary in most cases. If you desire a quote for a tankless water heater we can send out a qualified technician to give you an estimate.Tankless water heaters

  • Some of the benefits of tankless hot water heaters:
    • Tankless hot water heaters are smaller than regular hot water heaters. Therefore, installing the tank in a smaller area is possible.
    • Tankless hot water heaters last up to 20 years. A regular tank water heater can last 10 to 13 years.
    • Tankless hot water heaters do not retain a tank full of hot water. As water flows through the heat exchanger coil in becomes hot and ready for instant use.
    • A recirculating hot water system can provide continuous flow of hot water. These are called inline, on-demand, or instant hot water machines. Great for tea or instant coffee!
    • Call the pros at Mitch Clemmons Plumbing serving La Habra, Anaheim, Fullerton and surrounding areas (562) 242-3218 to schedule your appointment.

  • Why does it take so long for hot water to get up to my shower and what can I do about it?

    When hot water has to travel a long way through the pipes in the house the water can naturally cool. When the hot water finally arrives in your shower a lot of water has been wasted! A great solution is to install a hot water recirculating system. This will circulate the hot water in a loop between that fixture and the water heater, so that the fixture in question, and any fixtures in between that fixture and the water heater, will have hot water almost instantly.

  • What is involved in the installation and how long does it take?

    A typical water heater replacement of a like-for-like water heater normally takes around 2-3 hours. Some can take a little longer, and some can go a little faster. In either case we use flat rate pricing, so you can count on the price not going up if the job takes longer for some reason.

  • Can I finance my new hot water heater?

    We offer some very good financing options for plumbing services through Synchrony Financial. Please see our financing page here for details.

  • Should I wait and see if the hot water heater stops leaking?

    No, don’t wait! If you have any problem with your hot water heater, call the professionals at Mitch Clemmons Plumbing. We serve residents in La Habra, Anaheim, Fullerton and the surrounding areas. Call us today!   (562) 242-3218