Critical Information a Plumber Needs During Hot Water System Replacement
Running out of hot water is anything but fun, especially during the cold seasons. Therefore, maintaining your hot water system is essential for the constant and efficient hot water supply throughout the house. However, you might need to replace your hot water system if it is damaged or old and is no longer efficient. Rather than replace a hot water system yourself, you should hire a plumber because they are better equipped. That said, a plumber needs specific information before replacing a hot water system. Read on to find out.
Tank or Tankless System
A leaking or corroded hot water tank should be replaced immediately to avoid accidents and inefficiencies. However, since technology in hot water systems is constantly improving, you have the option of replacing your tank with a tankless system. As its name implies, a tankless system does not store water. Instead, it provides hot water on demand. Notably, the heating unit in a tankless system is installed close to a faucet, so you do not have to wait for the water to fill a tank to heat it. With this in mind, a plumber will ask you whether you want a traditional tank hot water system or a tankless one.
Gas or Electric Powered
Another question a plumber will most likely ask you when you call them for a hot water system replacement is the type of energy that powers the unit. Some hot water systems rely on electricity to heat water, while others use gas. Most residential homes use electric-powered water heater systems due to their efficiency, accessibility, and ease of maintenance. However, it does not mean that gas-powered water heaters are not effective systems. Some homeowners prefer gas-powered systems because they are cost-effective in the long run. Your answer to this question will allow a plumber to prepare well for a replacement. For instance, changing from an electric to a gas-powered hot water system takes a lot of work; hence, a plumber needs to prepare well. A plumber can also use the information to advise you on minimising a new system's energy consumption.
Hot Water System's Age
With proper maintenance, a well-built hot water tank can comfortably last 8-12 years. Therefore, a plumber will ask about your system's age when you call them for a hot water tank replacement. The reason is that old tanks can be a bit problematic during replacement. For example, a manufacturer might have stopped the production of critical parts of an aging hot water system. Thus, plumbers need to have the information to help advise you better. Similarly, a plumber might have to upgrade an old hot water system when replacing it with the latest model of the same water heater brand. A hot water tank's age can also help decide whether replacement or repair is necessary.
For more information, contact a local plumber.