Plumbing Basics

Water Heaters

Traditional water heaters should be replaced every 8-12 years.

In some cases, they may need repairs due to leaks, bad valves, corrosion around incoming and outgoing pipes, and rusting around the bottom of the water heater.

Water heaters are not difficult to install yourself, but it is wise to use a professional plumber. This way, you have the guarantee that the work is done correctly and without any problems. The pipes need to be installed correctly and the fittings have to be secure and tight. The water heaters also need proper placement in the area where it will sit. A level ground is preferred.

• Water heaters that are hooked up to hard water supplies might have corrosion around the pipes going out of the water heater that will cause leaking. If you have a leak, the water heater and water pressure will not be there when you need it. If the corrosion damages the top of the water heater, you are going to need a new one. Because this is a big job, you will want an experienced plumber to remove and install a water heater. The temperature control valve might also become defective and regulating the temperature of the water will then be impossible.
  
  
• The typical problems that happen to water heaters are rusting around the bottom. As the tanks get older, they sometimes show signs of wear. If you have had flooding in your basement, this also adds to the rusting problem. Once the bottom rusts out, the water in the tank leaks out and you will have no hot water and a huge water bill, if you do not catch it soon enough. Most homeowners do not inspect water heaters regularly. This is something to do to ensure you have no potential leaking. If you notice any crusty corrosion around pipes or rusting, you might want to have a local plumber look at it before it starts to leak.

Many brands and types of water heaters are available from PexSupply.com.