Water Heaters Questions Answered

If your shower is running out of hot water too quickly, there are several potential causes:

• Sediment buildup: Minerals and debris can accumulate at the bottom of your tank, reducing its capacity and efficiency. Regular flushing can solve this issue.
• Undersized water heater: Your household's hot water demands may exceed your water heater's capacity, especially if your family has grown or usage patterns have changed.
• Faulty dip tube: The dip tube directs cold water to the bottom of the tank. If broken, cold water mixes with hot water at the top, reducing hot water output.
• Thermostat issues: An improperly set or malfunctioning thermostat can limit hot water production.
• Simultaneous usage: Multiple hot water applications running at once (shower, dishwasher, washing machine) can deplete hot water rapidly.

Our plumbers can diagnose the specific issue and recommend solutions, from simple repairs to upgrading to a larger capacity tank or tankless system for endless hot water.

Water heater leaks can occur for several reasons, and the location of the leak often indicates the source of the problem:

• Leaking from the top: This typically indicates issues with the inlet/outlet connections, the temperature and pressure relief valve, or the anode rod port. These are usually repairable problems.
• Leaking from the bottom: This could be due to condensation, a leaking drain valve, or most seriously, a corroded tank. Tank corrosion usually requires replacement of the water heater.
• Other causes: Excessive pressure within the tank, sediment buildup causing tank deterioration, or a crack in the glass lining of the tank.

If you notice any leak, it's important to address it quickly as even small leaks can cause significant damage. Our technicians can diagnose the exact cause and recommend whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution. Learn more about our water heater services.

Switching to a tankless water heater offers several advantages, but it's not the right choice for every home. Consider these factors when making your decision:

Advantages of tankless water heaters:

• Endless hot water supply (no more cold showers)
• Energy savings of 24-34% for homes using less than 41 gallons daily
• Longer lifespan (20+ years vs. 10-15 for traditional tanks)
• Space savings (wall-mounted units free up floor space)
• Reduced risk of water damage (no large tank to rupture)

Considerations before switching:

• Higher upfront cost for equipment and installation
• May require electrical system upgrades or expanded gas lines
• Multiple units may be needed for larger homes with simultaneous hot water demands
• Annual maintenance required to prevent mineral buildup

We can assess your household's hot water usage patterns, existing plumbing setup, and budget to help determine if a tankless system would be beneficial for your specific situation. Learn more about water heater options.

We recommend flushing your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan. However, the optimal frequency depends on several factors:

• Water hardness: Homes with hard water (high mineral content) should flush more frequently, potentially every 6 months, as mineral buildup occurs more rapidly.
• Tank size and household usage: Smaller tanks or homes with higher hot water usage may need more frequent flushing.
• Water heater age: Older units often benefit from more frequent maintenance to extend their remaining service life.
• Signs indicating needed maintenance: Rumbling/popping sounds from the tank, decreasing hot water capacity, or visible sediment in hot water are all signs your water heater needs immediate flushing.

Professional flushing not only removes sediment but also provides an opportunity to inspect the anode rod, pressure relief valve, and other components critical to your water heater's operation and safety. We offer comprehensive water heater maintenance services that include proper flushing techniques that won't damage your unit. Learn more about water heater maintenance.

The decision to repair or replace your water heater depends on several factors:

• Age: If your traditional tank water heater is 8-12 years old or your tankless unit is 15-20+ years old, replacement is often more cost-effective than repair.
• Repair costs: If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost of a new unit, replacement is usually the better option.
• Frequency of repairs: If you're experiencing repeated issues requiring multiple repairs, investing in a new unit will likely save money in the long run.
• Efficiency: Newer models are significantly more energy-efficient, which can lower your utility bills.
• Performance: If your current unit isn't meeting your hot water needs, upgrading to a different capacity or type of water heater might be necessary.

Our plumbers can assess your current water heater's condition and help you make an informed decision based on your specific situation and budget. We offer both repair services and installation of new traditional tank and tankless water heaters.

Tankless water heaters typically cost 2-3 times more than conventional tank models for purchase and installation, but many homeowners find them worth the investment for these reasons:

• Energy savings - Tankless units can reduce water heating costs by 24-34% in homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. Even with higher usage, they remain 8-14% more efficient
• Longer lifespan - Tankless units typically last 20+ years compared to 10-15 years for tank heaters, meaning fewer replacements over time
• Endless hot water - For families tired of running out of hot water during showers, this benefit alone can justify the cost
• Space savings - Wall-mounted units free up valuable floor space in utility areas
• Reduced risk of water damage - No stored water means no catastrophic 40-50 gallon leaks that can severely damage your home
• Potential tax credits and rebates - Energy-efficient models may qualify for incentives that offset initial costs

The financial break-even point typically occurs in 7-15 years, depending on your hot water usage, local utility rates, and installation costs. Families that use significant amounts of hot water or plan to stay in their home long-term often see the best return on investment.

Our plumbers can provide a detailed cost analysis specific to your household, including expected energy savings, available incentives, and projected payback period to help you make an informed decision.

Low water pressure in your home can be caused by several issues, ranging from minor clogs to major plumbing problems. Identifying the source is the first step toward restoring proper flow.

One common cause is mineral buildup inside faucet aerators and showerheads. Over time, sediment and debris can restrict water flow. Unscrewing and cleaning these parts may quickly improve pressure in individual fixtures.

Another frequent culprit is partially closed shut-off valves or pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) that have been adjusted too low. Check that your main water valve and fixture valves are fully open.

Hidden leaks in your plumbing system can also lower water pressure. Leaks waste water and reduce the flow reaching your fixtures. Look for damp spots, unusually high water bills, or mold growth.

In older homes, corrosion inside galvanized steel pipes can restrict water flow over time, requiring pipe replacement. If your entire home has weak pressure, this may be the issue.

If you're unsure of the cause, A&G Plumbing and Drain can diagnose and fix the problem quickly to restore strong, consistent water pressure throughout your home.