Is it finally time to replace that old water heater? This is not just an expense. It’s also a great opportunity to improve your home, if you do it right. Here are five things to consider when selecting a new water heater.
- Install the right kind of water heater for your home. Carefully consider the type of heater to buy in terms of fuel. Gas water heaters are more efficient than electric, but safety considerations such as venting and the pilot flame need to be considered. Most people replace an electric water heater with an electric heater, and a gas heater with a gas heater, etc, because it’s generally less of a hassle. You already know your house is set up for that kind of water heater. If you’d like to switch to a different kind of water heater, including a tankless heater, call Hoover to schedule an appointment for a trained certified plumber to go over the options that will work best for your home.
- Look for modern safety features. For instance, newer models of gas water heaters are engineered to prevent the pilot light from having contact with vapors that can ignite. It’s also recommended that you install carbon monoxide detectors if you have a gas water heater because a gas problem can elevate carbon monoxide levels.
- Gas water heaters should have direct venting systems. These systems bring in required fresh air and remove toxic fumes. Venting is one of the most important installation steps, and a licensed plumber or mechanical contractor will know the best solutions for venting your new gas water heater.
- Electric water heaters don’t have the risks that gas water heaters do, but there still are some safety hazards to consider. Electric water heaters must be installed by a professional experienced in electrical repairs and installations. The water heater circuit must be sized correctly and installed to your current local building codes. Electric water heaters do not have a flame to heat the water. Instead, they have a heater element that causes resistance which in turn produces heat. If the circuit is not sized properly this can cause the heater to not run efficiently or possibly cause an electrical fire. The circuit must also be fused properly. Just because your old heater is electric does not mean the new electric heater’s circuit size will be the same. If it’s not, you will need an electrician to install a new circuit.
If you need a new water heater, call Hoover Electric. Established in 1980, Hoover Electric, Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling has been serving customers in Southeast Michigan ever since, offering courteous, professional service. Because we offer all the services you need for residential maintenance under one roof, we’re able to offer extremely competitive pricing while maintaining great customer service and guaranteed satisfaction. When you’re looking for top-quality electrical, plumbing, heating, or cooling services in Clinton Township and Troy, MI, contact Hoover through our website or call 586-232-9204 today.
