tulsa tankless - water heater services

tulsa tankless - water heaters

The tankless water heater represents the most major advance in residential water heating since the first storage-tank model was invented in 1899. A tankless model generates hot water entirely on-demand. This eliminates many of the limitations of the traditional storage tank heater and improves energy-efficiency. As the typical American household spends about $500 annually on water heating, any cost savings can make a difference in the family budget. Here are some ways a tankless water heater improves both convenience and economy in your home.

• No standby heat loss. A typical conventional water heater utilizes a tank to store about 50 gallons of hot water. As time passes, water in the tank gradually cools, and the burner must activate to maintain proper water temperature. Due to this standby heat loss, energy is wasted reheating water in the tank multiple times until the water is finally used. Instead of storing water, a tankless unit heats only when hot water is needed.

• Unlimited hot water. When someone opens a hot water tap in the house, a tankless unit senses the requirement and instantly begins heating the continuous flow of water for as long as required. You never run out of hot water like you do with a storage-tank unit when demand is high. Nobody ends up shivering in a cold shower.

• Longer service life. The tank is a weak link in a storage-tank water heater. After an average service life of about 12 years, standard water-heater tanks are subject to internal corrosion, mineral accumulation, and leakage that require replacement of the entire unit. Tankless units eliminate these downsides and, with proper maintenance, will usually last more than 20 years.

• Improved energy efficiency and lower costs. In a home that uses up to 40 gallons of hot water daily, tankless heaters are about 30% more energy-efficient than a conventional tank model. According to the EPA, a tankless heater with Energy Star certification can reduce hot water costs by $100 per year in the typical household.

More Benefits Of tulsa Tankless Water Heaters

Not only will a tankless heater save you money on your energy bills, it will also save space within your home since these systems do not require large holding tanks like their traditional counterparts do. This can free up some space in your basement for extra storage, or a kid’s play area.

Another feature that makes these new, more modern heaters very popular is the fact that it is virtually impossible to run out of hot water. It only takes a few consecutive showers to deplete a traditional heater’s tank. Afterwards, it is necessary to wait until the tank’s contents are heated once again before you can access hot water. With a tankless system, the supply is continuous and plentiful.

Tankless Water Heater Installation

The proper installation of a tankless water heater is very important for it to run efficiently and perform as it is designed to do. There are many aspects to properly installing a tankless water heater and you should hire Air Assurance’s professional plumbers to complete the installation.

To properly install a tankless water heater, Air Assurance will first check the gas line. A tankless water heater will typically require a gas line with a larger diameter. There is a little electrical wiring involved as well, and once the old water heater is removed and disconnected, we can begin setup of the new water heater. Tankless water heaters are mounted to the wall, not left on the floor like a conventional water heater.

For more about the efficiency and performance benefits of a tankless water heater, contact Air Assurance.

Water Heater Shopping? Consider What It'll Cost You First

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When shopping for a new water heater, first you need to know which factors impact the total amount you will spend from the purchase price to installation. The costs can have wide variations depending on the type you choose and the condition of current plumbing connections.Each installation is different and can incur different costs.

• Consider whether your replacement will be a storage tank unit or a tankless unit. Will you need more than one tankless unit to meet your family's water demands?

• Will you be using natural gas or electricity?

• Are current connections up to code?

• What will it take to make sure your new unit operates safely and effectively?

Signs You Need a Water Heater Replacement

Think of this: you've just gotten in the shower, and your water pressure is low. In addition, it's taking a longer amount of time for your water to heat up. The hot shower you've been longing for turns into an icy race to rinse off.

The culprit? A water heater is on its way out. Other things that can happen are unexpected leaks from your water heater. You may visit your utility room only to find a small flood around your water heater, signaling trouble.

Other signs of a water heater in need of replacement are poor water quality, a temperature that frequently fluctuates, and the overall age of your appliance.

On average, a maintained water heater should last you anywhere from 8 to 12 years. After that, you should be looking into a new water heater system.

Many times, looking at the cost you see at the Big Box stores do not cover the entire cost once installation is performed.  Items such as local permits/inspections, along with new updated connections, safety/code requirements, and warranties are not considered until after you have purchased the unit.  It has been our experience that once all these are factored, the actual end resulting cost are very similar. Hiring a qualified, licensed plumbing professional to install your new water heater might save you money down the road, and headaches now. The professional knows the local plumbing requirements and is educated in making sure your new unit is working properly. Installation can be a safety risk. If not installed properly, your family could be in danger. If you want more expert advice before shopping for a water heater, or other home comfort needs for your Greater Tulsa Metropolitan Area home or business, contact us at Air Assurance Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing today. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Learn Why Your Home's Hot Water Runs Out So Quickly

You may not pay much attention to your water heater as it does its significant job unnoticeably — until you start running out of hot water quickly. Running out of hot water so fast can be incredibly frustrating. Several factors could lead to this problem. Let's take a closer look at the likely culprits.

Multiple Appliances Requiring Hot Water Simultaneously

Using hot-water appliances simultaneously, such as the dishwasher, the washing machine, and one or more showers, can affect your supply of hot water. The shower water could suddenly turn frigid. An obvious solution is avoiding putting excessive demand on your hot water. However, you could also consider switching to a tankless water heater, which could provide hot water even as multiple appliances or showers run at the same time.

Damaged Dip Tube

A dip tube causes cold water to flow to the bottom of your tank, where it gets heated. When it's defective, the cold water remains at the top, mixing with the water being sent to your home. Consequently, the overall water temperature reduces. If your dip tube has broken, you'll see small plastic bits in showerheads, strainers, and the filter screens of your water-dependent appliances.

Sediment Buildup

When your water is heated, some dissolved minerals settle at the bottom of your tank, forming a layer of sediment. If you've not been performing annual flushes, the sediment can occupy a lot of space in the tank and insulate the water from the heat source at the bottom. You'll need to drain the heater and flush out all the sediment. This task is best left to professionals. Scheduling annual maintenance for your water heater will help you avoid this problem.

Old Age

Just like other appliances, your water heater gets old. If your hot water runs out quickly and your system is more than 10 years old, you should strongly consider replacing it.

A Bad Heating Element

Electric water heaters usually have an upper and lower heating element. The element at the bottom carries out the majority of the heating. Sediment buildup, an electric short, or a defective thermostat can damage it. When that happens, the amount of heated water reduces.

Hot-water problems and other water-heater repairs are sensitive tasks. Avoid causing additional damage by calling a licensed plumber. If you live in the Broken Arrow area, contact Air Assurance for all your water-heater repair and replacement needs.

How to Test for Clean Water at Home

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Did you know that treated water might still contain chemical, biological, physical, and radiological contaminants? Some occur naturally, while others can result from human activities. Some contaminants could end up in your drinking water, depending on how the water is handled at the treatment facility or what happens between the period it leaves the facility and reaches your taps. Read on to find out how you can test and clean water at home.

How to Tell If You Have Safe and Clean Water

You can tell if your tap water is clean and safe by simply looking at it. Any cloudiness that doesn't clear after a few minutes, sediment, and an unpleasant appearance could indicate contamination.

You can also establish the quality of your water using a test kit. Testing kits may be available for free from the local or state health department. You can also purchase them in home improvement stores or online. You could also have the water tested at a laboratory certified by the Environmental Protection Agency.

How to Clean Your Water

If you're concerned about your water quality, you can use the following methods to disinfect and purify it so you're sure you have clean water:

• Water-filtration system. This is the best option for getting rid of heavy metals, bacteria, and large particles. Filtration systems come in a variety of sizes, from whole-house systems to point-of-use systems.

• Ultraviolet treatment. UV lights shine through the water to remove harmful microorganisms by damaging their DNA. UV treatment doesn't remove large particles, so you'll need to pair it with another method.

• Drops or tablets. You can use iodine solutions or chlorine bleach to remove most (but not all) harmful bacteria and viruses. The label will include instructions on the proper concentration to use. Chlorine dioxide tablets can be used to eliminate contaminants resistant to iodine or bleach.

• Boiling. Boiling is the oldest method for cleaning water. However, it doesn't remove large metal particles.

If you notice anything strange in your water, your plumbing system could be to blame. A plumber will give you the necessary assistance to allow you to continue enjoying clean water. Contact us at Air Assurance for all your plumbing needs in the Broken Arrow area.

Know How to Keep Your Water Heater Running Efficiently

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Your water heater provides your home with hot water for showers, baths, dishes, laundry, and other household tasks. Using hot water can lead to higher energy bills unless you’re using your unit efficiently. The following tips can help ensure that your home has enough hot water without raising your energy bills.

Adjust for Vacations

If you’re going to be away on vacation, you don’t have to keep your water heater at its current setting. Instead, you can switch it to its lowest setting when no one will be home for a few days or more. This helps lower the amount of energy it uses during this time, leading to lower energy bills.

Look for Leaks

Check for leaks or water around your unit on a regular basis and have repairs made as soon as they're needed. You should also check for other signs of problems with your water heater, such as odd noises. Having repairs done promptly helps keep your unit in good condition over a longer period of time.

Lower the Thermostat

Turning the thermostat down on your water heater can help you save money on your energy bills. Lower the thermostat to 120 degrees and you’ll still have water that’s hot enough for household use. With a lower water temperature, your unit won’t use as much energy when it’s running, resulting in lower energy bills.

Clear Space

Your unit should have at least 2 feet of space around it — or as much space as the manufacturer recommends. Having this much clearance around your unit helps ensure that it’s able to run without any obstruction.

Add Insulation

Newer units might not need this, but an older unit should have insulation around it. This helps the unit maintain heat so it won’t have to use as much energy when it’s running. Adding insulation to older units can help during the winter, especially if your water heater is in the garage or another unheated location.

If you need additional help, please contact Air Assurance. We can help ensure that your Broken Arrow home has plenty of hot water for daily use.

Pros/Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are becoming a popular alternative to water heaters with conventional hot water storage tanks. Their unique design and ability to provide near-instantaneous hot water makes them a compelling option for homeowners looking to replace their existing water heater. As with any other type of appliance, a tankless water heater has its share of benefits and drawbacks to consider.

The Pros

It’s no secret that tankless water heaters offer several advantages over their conventional counterparts. For starters, these water heaters can be up to 34 percent more energy efficient than a traditional water heater if your home uses 41 gallons of hot water or less on a daily basis. A typical tankless water heater also offers a longer lifespan than its traditional counterpart. Whereas a typical conventional water heater offers a lifespan of up to 15 years, you can get up to 20 years out of a tankless variant with proper care and maintenance.There are plenty of other advantages to consider:

• Tankless water heaters provide near-instant hot water for ordinary washing, bathing and other household activities.

• The tankless design of demand-type water heaters takes up significantly less space than a conventional water heater. As a result, these units can be placed in areas where conventional water heaters can’t go.

• Tankless water heaters consume up to 50 percent less energy than their conventional counterparts.

• Unlike with a conventional water heater, you won’t have to deal with sediment issues.

The Cons

Although tankless water heaters offer a broad range of benefits, there are a few downsides associated with these appliances:

• Tankless water heaters usually carry a higher purchase price than their conventional counterparts. This can be a sticking point for homeowners on a tight budget.

• Demand-type water heaters that still utilize a standing pilot light may consume more energy than those with electronic ignition.

• In some cases, tankless water heaters may not be able to offer the consistent flow rate of a large conventional water heater.

Still interested in having a tankless water heater installed in your Broken Arrow home? Then contact the seasoned experts at Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about tankless water heaters and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “typographyimages/Pixabay”

Put Your Tankless Water Heater in One of These Spots

If you're making the switch to a tankless water heater in your home, or are planning a new home that uses tankless water heating, you'll need to decide where to put the main tankless unit. If it's installed in the wrong location, it won't heat or deliver water as efficiently, and you won't save as much energy — or dollars on your utility bills.

Unlike traditional storage-tank water heaters, a tankless water heater heats your water on demand, as you need it. There's no standby energy loss as water sits unused in a big tank. Tankless systems use either gas or electricity to instantly heat the water as soon as it receives a signal that hot water is needed (someone turning on the tap, taking a shower, running the dishwasher, etc.).

Sizing a tankless water heater is an important consideration, since in bigger households, you may need a main tankless unit, along with one or more point-of-use units located near remote or special water-demand locations.

Where Should a Whole-House Tankless Unit Go?

In most homes, the best place is near the main demand source, such as a main bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. The closer to the demand, the less distance the water has to travel after it's been heated. It will be hotter and will arrive quicker. In addition, less standing cold water will need to be purged from the supply line, and less hot water will be left in the line after the demand ends. In many homes, a hallway bathroom is positioned relatively close to a master bathroom, so installing a tankless water heater in this area would make sense.

However, you'll also want to consider where hot and cold water lines are located; and if you're opting for a gas-fired tankless system, where the gas lines and vents are located. Usually, the venting will need to be modified to accommodate the tankless unit.

For more information on tankless water heating in your Oklahoma home, please contact us at Air Assurance.

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Understanding the Importance of Flushing Sediment from Your Water Heater

In many homes, the water heater is the most frequently replaced major appliance. Average service life can be up to 12 years — or as few as five or six. Two main factors influence the life expectancy of water heaters:

• The hardness (mineral content) of the local water supply.

• Annual maintenance including flushing the tank.

The hardness of water in the Tulsa/Broken Arrow area varies from “moderately hard” to “hard” on the national water hardness scale. While this mineral content is harmless to humans, it can shorten the life of water heaters and raise monthly costs substantially.Heated inside the water heater, dissolved minerals precipitate and sink to the bottom of the tank, forming an increasing layer of sediment. Sediment accumulation absorbs heat from the burner, causing the burner to run longer cycles. Energy consumption spikes and monthly bills increase. In addition, sediment in the tank and extended burner cycles degrade the integrity of the tank and liner, triggering leakage that requires early heater replacement.

Flushing the tank yearly removes sediment while it still can be removed—before it becomes rock hard. The process is doable for most people, or a local plumbing professional can handle it while also verifying safe water temperature, testing the pressure relief valve and looking for signs of leakage. Here's how flushing the tank can be done:

• Turn off the heater at the gas valve and shut the cold water inlet valve on top of the tank.

• Connect one end of a garden hose to the tank drain valve and place the other end outside in the yard.

• Open the drain valve and allow the tank to drain. Holding open the spring-loaded pressure relief valve also admits air into the tank and expedites draining.

• After the tank is empty, turn the cold water valve on and off rapidly several times to flush out remaining sediment.

• Close the drain valve and remove the hose.

• Open the cold water inlet valve and follow manufacturer’s procedures to re-light the heater.

Ask the professionals at Air Assurance about annual service to extend the life of the water heater and ensure optimum efficiency.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Minerva Studio/Shutterstock”

Lower Your Energy Bill by Lowering Your Water Heater Temperature

In today's world, saving even a few dollars a month is important, and so is being "green" in your home. You may not have realized this, but lowering your water heater temperature, even by just 10 degrees, can make a positive impact on your energy bill as well as the environment.On most traditional water heaters, the water is warmed using gas or electricity, then stored in a tank and maintained at the temperature that you have set. The amount of electricity or gas needed to keep this temperature constant is higher when the temperature is increased.

What is it Set for Currently?

Your water heater temperature is typically set at about 140 degrees when it comes from the manufacturer. This high temperature is not only unnecessary for most households, but it can be downright dangerous. When the temperature is set this high, turning on only the hot water with a faucet can scald skin, especially for children and the elderly.

A temperature of 120 degrees is recommended for most households, though 130 degrees can be used for those that have dishwashers that aren't capable of heating their own water.

How Do I Change it?

Thankfully, turning the water heater temperature down isn't difficult, and is something that most people are able to do on their own. Just follow these simple steps.

For gas heaters, locate the control dial somewhere on the outside of the unit. On electric heaters, there may be two dials - one at the top and another at the bottom, which need to be turned separately, but evenly. If there are no temperature indications on the dials, then turn the knobs a little at a time, wait about two hours, and test the water from the tap nearest the water heater by pouring it into a cup and checking the temperature with a thermometer.

For more information about how to save money on your electric bill by lowering your water heater temperature, as well as other expert advice about heating and cooling your home, contact us today. Air Assurance proudly serves the greater Tulsa metropolitan area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Serenethos/Shutterstock”

Keep Your Appliance in Tip-Top Shape With Water Heater Maintenance

You may not give your water heater much thought until the shower turns cold, or a repair or replacement is needed. However, the water heater is an important appliance that is used daily in practically every home. Consider these water heater maintenance tips to raise the performance of your system and lower your utility bill.

Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps your water heater operate safely and efficiently. When maintaining your system, remember that you're not only dealing with very hot water, but also high pressure. Water heaters have a built-in safety feature called the temperature and pressure (T&P) valve. This device should be checked at least every six months. Here's how:

• Turn off the electricity at the circuit box or turn the gas to pilot.

• Turn off the cold water inlet valve, which is located near the top of the water heater on the side. A pipe may extend from the valve to near the bottom of the water heater.

• Place a bucket beneath the pipe to catch hot water.

• Pull the lever on the valve. Air and hot water should rush out. If it does not, replace the valve.

• If you ever notice the valve dripping water, replace it.

Refer to your owner's manual for flushing the tank. Many manufacturer's suggest flushing the water heater twice a year. This is best left to a professional. In between full tank flushes, perform a mini flush every month. Place a bucket beneath the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and flush about one gallon of water. This helps remove sediment and preserve water heater lining.

Water Heater Efficiency

To help your water heater operate more efficiently, set the temperature to 120 degrees. You may also insulate the inlet and outlet pipes. Newer water heaters are well insulated to curb standby heat loss. If your water heater is warm to the touch, consider installing a blanket or jacket insulation.

If you have questions or would like to schedule water heater maintenance in your Broken Arrow area home, contact Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “thodonal88/Shutterstock”

Know the Parts of Your Storage Water Heater and How They Work

The storage water heater is still standard equipment in most residences. Over 90 percent of homes in the U.S. use either gas-fired or electric storage tank models and 90 percent of those are less than 55-gallon capacity. This is tried and true technology and—with new water heater sales averaging over 9 million units per year over the past decade—mass production to meet the universal demand continues to keep the cost of a new storage water heater competitively low.

Fuel Supply

About 53 percent of homes utilize gas-fired water heaters that burn standard natural gas supplied to the home. The remainder of storage tank models feature electric heating from a 220/240-volt connection.

Tank

Most water heaters utilize a conventional steel tank coated internally with vitreous glass to prevent corrosion. High-end heaters offer stainless steel tanks that offer longer expected service life than glass-coated conventional steel. Both types feature a cold water inlet and hot water outlet plumbing connection on the top of the tank. A replaceable sacrificial anode inside the tank attracts corrosives in the water to inhibit tank corrosion and prevent leakage.

Heat Source

A gas burner located beneath the tank heats water inside the tank. In an electric heater, two heating elements inside the tank—one near the bottom and another midway—convert electric current to resistance heat. Both gas and electric models feature thermostats that sense water temperature and automatically cycle the unit on and off to maintain the selected thermostat setting. For safety reasons, water temperature is usually set to 120 degrees or less.

Temperature And Pressure Relief Valve (TPR)

Screwed into a threaded outlet on the side or top of the tank, this spring-loaded valve automatically opens if water temperatures reach 210 degrees Fahrenheit and/or internal tank pressure reach 150 p.s.i. This safety device prevents dangerous rupture or explosion of the tank should the burner or electrode fail to shut off. TPR valves should be tested annually to ensure proper operation.

For professional storage water heater sales and service, in Broken Arrow contact Air Assurance.

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Ways to Pinpoint Water Heater Problems

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If you own your house long enough, you’ll probably face water heater problems at some point. The mean average service life of a residential water heater is about 10 years, so the odds are most homeowners will experience water heater symptoms that require either professional plumbing expertise to repair or install a new replacement unit. Look for these signs of water heater problems, then contact a qualified plumber as soon as possible.

No Hot Water

In a gas-fired heater, check to see if the pilot light is lit. If it’s not, follow manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If it goes out again, contact a plumber. If the water heater is electric, check the unit’s power switch as well as your main electrical panel. A tripped circuit breaker usually indicates a specific cause, so contact your plumber if the heater’s circuit breaker trips repeatedly.

Water Not Hot Enough

Check the water heater thermostat setting. It should be no higher than 120 degrees. If the thermostat is correct but water temperature remains low, suspect a deteriorated dip tube that allows cold water to flow into the upper part of the tank. Your plumber may be able to replace that part alone.

Discolored Hot Water

Rusty hot water may indicate internal tank corrosion, a sign the heater is approaching the end of its service life and requires replacement. Muddy-colored water may be a sign of mineral sediment inside the tank which can be resolved by flushing the tank.

Popping or Bubbling Sounds

Another indication of sediment accumulation that causes uneven heating and produces bubbles inside the tank. Ask your plumber about the problem. If sediment hasn’t yet hardened, it may be removed from the tank by flushing.

Water Leakage

Evidence of water leakage around the heater may be the result of a leaky temperature and pressure relief valve–an easy component replacement for a qualified plumber—or a corroded tank, which means immediate replacement of the heater.

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For professional advice about water heater problems and qualified plumbing service to solve them, contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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Lower Your Water Heating Bills With These Tips This Summer

With summer temperatures reaching more than 90 degrees, Broken Arrow summers cost so much in air conditioning. That means any other area where we can save energy is worth investigating, and water heating is one of those areas. Take steps to lower water heating bills now and you'll save all year.

Cut Back Your Hot Water Use

Showers are one of the biggest sources of hot water use in most households, so having low-flow shower heads installed is an effective way to save. Look for WaterSense labeled models. They've been tested to use around 20 percent less water than standard shower heads and perform as well as or betters. For optimal performance, have your shower heads professionally installed.

Switching to WaterSense faucets in your kitchen and bath will also help you trim hot water use and lower water heating bills. These faucets use around 30 percent less water than standard faucets.

Use cold water rinses for your all your laundry needs. You'll save energy and protect your clothes from damage.

Boost Your Water Heater's Efficiency

If your water heater feels warm when you touch it, it's losing energy and should be insulated with a water heater insulation blanket. Also install pipe wrap insulation on the first 6 feet of both water pipes that connect to your water heater.

Every three months, flush the sediment from your water heater's tank to maintain the system's efficiency and protect it from damage. Water heaters last around 10 to 15 years, but they drop in efficiency after about seven years. If yours is this old, it may be time to upgrade to a new water heater. Today's water heaters are more efficient than those made just 10 years ago.

When you're ready to upgrade, consider a tankless on-demand system rather than a conventional storage tank system. If you use 41 gallons of water a day or less, a tankless system could save you up to 34 percent over a conventional system.

For more ideas on how to lower water heating bills, contact us at Air Assurance in the Broken Arrow area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Mile Atanasov/Shutterstock”

Protect Your Tankless Water Heater From Freezing This Winter

If your tankless water heater freezes, it may be subjected to severe internal damage and leakage, which can affect heating efficiency. What’s worse, the cost of repairing or replacing it probably won’t be covered by your warranty. Most manufacturer warranties require homeowners to take appropriate winterizing steps to ensure their heaters don't freeze when it’s not in use for an extended period of time.

While most indoor and outdoor units incorporate a freeze protection function for short-term dips in temperature, this option probably won’t protect your tankless water heater from long exposures to more acute temperatures, especially during periods when you may be away from your home for several days.

This is why homeowners who live in areas where winter temperatures drop into the freeze zone should have a qualified plumber winterize their tankless heater during periods of non-use. Here’s what should be done:

• If your heater has been operating in the last hour, let your unit cool down, so it can be handled.

• Your heater should be disconnected from the electrical outlet or electricity should be shut off at the breaker.

• The gas supply should be shut off at the valve on the gas line.

• Water supply to the heater should be turned off at the inline shut off valve.

• Faucets located near your heater should be opened to bleed off pressure inside the plumbing.

• Both the cold water inlet and hot water outlet pipes should be disconnected from the heater before the inlet water filter is removed.

• Residual water inside your heater and pipes should be drained out into a bucket. Your plumber may utilize an air compressor to blow the pipes clear of all remaining water.

• For long periods of disuse, both the intake and exhaust vents should be capped to prevent accumulation of leaves and other debris.

To protect against freezing weather during severe cold spells in Broken Arrow, contact a qualified plumbing professional at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Mile Atanasov/Shutterstock”

Steps to Take When Fixing a Leaking Water Heater

If you’ve spotted a leaking water heater or water pooling around it, you should take action right away. Leaks don’t necessarily doom your water heater to the recycle bin, but determining if the leak is repairable or if your water heater should be replaced is paramount. Here are some steps to take when identifying and fixing a leaking water heater.

Fixing a Leaking Water Heater

Any water leak in the home is an important matter to address quickly. Fixing a leaking water heater as soon as the leak is spotted can prevent water and mold damage. It may be a safety factor in some instances.

• Temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve: The T&P relief valve prevents your water heater from rupturing or exploding in the event too much pressure builds up in your water heater. Fixing a leaky T&P relief valve is a job for a plumbing professional. Do not attempt to cap or plug one yourself.

• Gaskets: Electric water heaters contain one or two heating elements. These heating elements are threaded into your water heater and sealed with gaskets. If water is leaking from failing gaskets, your entire water heater needs to be drained for the repair.

• Thermostats: The thermostat of a gas-fired water heater is threaded into the tank. Removing and repairing a leaky thermostat is an intricate job best left to a professional.

• Piping: Leaks may also occur at the water heater’s inlet and outlet pipes due to corrosion caused by the chemical reaction of steel connections and copper pipes. To repair the leak or prevent further corrosion, replace the short sections of corroded galvanized pipe with dielectric nipples (i.e. plastic-lined pipe).

• Storage tank: There is one leak that's irreparable. If you see reddish-brown water pooling or running from beneath your water heater, your tank may be rusted and corroded from the inside out. If this is the case, replace the water heater at your earliest convenience.

To learn more about fixing a leaking water heater in your Broken Arrow home, or to schedule an evaluation, please contact Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “studio BM/Shutterstock”

Telltale Signs Your Water Heater Needs a Replacement

If your water heater is showing signs off impending death, don't ignore them. The last thing you want is to be mid-shower and find yourself shivering under a stream of cold water. So, just what are the signs your water heater is ready to give up the ghost? 

Signs It's Time to Replace

• Leaks. It's pretty obvious when you see puddles of water under your water heater that something bad is going on. If you can't see where the leak is coming from, chances are that the interior of the tank has deteriorated to the point where the equipment needs to be replaced. Water heaters generally last from six to 10 years, but may last longer if they're regularly drained, flushed and cleared of sediment.

• Water isn't as hot as it should be. If you're setting the thermostat higher and your water is still not hot enough or doesn't last long, corrosion may have destroyed the dip tube or coated electric elements. The gas valve might also be overworked.

• Look for smaller leaks. Check fittings and connections. If you find sludge, water or corrosion, you may need a replacement.

• Pieces of plastic in aerators of sink faucets. This is a sign the dip tube in your water heater has deteriorated and broken apart. This tube forces cold water down to the burners, and when it breaks up, it can be a sign of other problems as well.

If you have a water heater that's just a few years old, it may be worthwhile to track down what's broken and repair everything. Some of the fixes you might encounter:

• Flickering pilot light

• Tripping circuit breaker

• Broken thermostat

• Sticking valve

• Failing burner or heating element

If you do have to replace your water heater, the bright side is that modern models are much more efficient even than they were 10 years ago and you will save money on your utility bills.

To learn more about when you need a water heater replacement, contact the pros at Air Assurance in Broken Arrow.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Blan-k/Shutterstock”

Why Your Tankless Water Heater Takes So Long to Heat

Tankless water heaters are considered among the most energy efficient water heaters available. A traditional water heater keeps water in a tank heated until it is needed. Keeping the tank heated requires energy.  A tankless water heater, on the other hand, heats water on demand thus saving the consumer the cost of keeping water heated continually. And while the tankless heater may offer an endless supply of hot water where the traditional model has only a 50-gallon capacity that does not necessarily mean that the hot water will appear instantly. There are several reasons that your tankless water heater may not produce hot water quickly.

1. The distance between the water heater and the outlet. If your water heater is not located near the outlet you are using, especially in a large house, it may take some time for the water to travel from the water heater to the faucet or outlet. It is not unheard of for lag time between heater and faucet to be as long as three minutes.

2. An outlet nearer to the water heater than you calls for hot water. If another outlet is seeking hot water and is closer to the heater than you are, then it will get the hot water first. You will either have to wait until the other person is finished or until the heater senses that it needs to make more hot water.

3. You don’t have the faucet open enough. If you have your faucet set at a trickle, the water heater may not be triggered. You may need to open the faucet more.

4. Calcium buildup. It is not uncommon for tankless heaters to develop a build-up of calcium which can affect efficiency. It is recommended that you have a professional flush out your tankless heater about once every year.

If you are thinking about installing a tankless water heater or need to service the one you already have, contact the professionals at Air Assurance.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Mile Atanasov/Shutterstock”

Water Heater Temperature: Why It Doesn't Need to Be So Hot

Whether you are looking for greater efficiency in your home energy usage to lessen your environmental impact, or to cut down on your energy bills, take a look at your hot water system. You may be surprised to find that savings can be made by simply lowering your water heater temperature.

Saving Money with Lower Heat

Due to a mix of different regulations and standards across states, you may find that your hot water system is set anywhere between 120 and 140 degrees. For most people, 120 degrees is just fine for their needs, but there are some exceptions, including:

• old dishwashers without preheat functionality, may need to run water at 140 degrees to properly sanitize household utensils.

• water with a detectable odor may have bacteria in the system, and a good flush at 140 degrees could be needed to kill off the bacteria.

In most other circumstances, you can save costs with a lower water heater temperature at 120 degrees. Turning the thermostat down saves you money in a couple ways:

• heat lost into the surrounds is at a lower cost than if the temperature was set higher.

• hot water used in the home for washing is available at a lower cost as well.

Also, if you are going to be away from home for some time, consider switching the temperature down low, and then turning it back up when you arrive home. Otherwise, all that energy devoted to heating the water is simply wasted.

Keep Your Hot Water System at Peak Efficiency

To support your efforts at minimizing hot water costs, regular preventative maintenance of your hot water system will help considerably. Get a HVAC contractor to clean out the system, checking for any signs of corrosion, unusual sediment levels, and serious wear and tear.

Free Expert Advice

If you are unsure about any of this, and need expert advice about any issues around lowering the water heater temperature in your home, please feel free to contact us at Air Assurance. Since 1985, we have been looking after the home comfort needs of the Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Water Heaters: For Some Households, Tank Types Work Best

There are a variety of water heater options available to any homeowner when it’s time for a replacement. While tankless water heaters have many benefits and are becoming more popular, the conventional tank water heater is still often the best option for your home because of the following reasons.

Massive capacity. Running out of hot water in the middle of needing it is the worst. This is a problem rarely encountered once you have a properly sized tank water heater, which can store anywhere from 20 to 120 gallons.

More affordable. Tank heaters are by far the cheaper option when compared to tankless units. If you had a tank heater in the past it will also be easy to put in a new one, whereas tankless heaters often require some extra work to be done.

Good range. There are no issues providing hot water to any number of outlets in your home with a tank heater. On the other hand, a tankless heater must be installed close to the point of use, which means that big homes often need multiple units.

Consistent Flow. It’s easy to get frustrated if the water pressure from your taps consistently varies. Since tankless heaters have a limited capacity, this is a major problem in many home. A conventional tank heater on the other hand has a large reserve capacity, which means that water flow will largely be uninterrupted.

Easy to maintain. Tankless heaters may take up less room, but can often be difficult to access to maintain or repair. Your tank heater is accessible enough that all parts are easy to inspect, clean and fix if needed.

If you’re unsure of the best type of water heaters in your Broken Arrow home, feel free to contact Air Assurance for help.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock