If you’re uncertain about how to tell how old a water heater is, you’ve come to the right place! The experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing have years of experience checking out water heaters for our Ft. Myers, FL customers.

Savvy homeowners learn the age of their water heater so they can plan when to replace the unit or schedule proactive maintenance services.

The first place to look is in the documents from when your water heater was first installed. However, if the previous owner of your home put in the water heater, you might not have this information.

You can check the side of the water heater for a serial number from the manufacturer. The serial number will indicate the year and month your water heater was built.

Why Knowing Your Water Heater’s Age Matters

Ft. Myers homeowners should be aware of how old their water heater is because units provide different amounts of useful service, depending on how they’re configured:

• Tank-style units will operate for about 8 to 12 years
• Tankless water heaters can work for up to 20 years

If you can’t find the serial number or paperwork or remember when you installed the water heater (or when the homeowner before you installed it), chances are good that the unit may already be old enough for you to consider replacing it.

Keep in mind that water heaters become inefficient as they get older, which means they use more energy, increasing utility bills. And the older your water heater is, the more prone it is to failing.

For homeowners who have not arranged annual water heater inspections and maintenance, their units may be even more likely to fail unexpectedly.

Locating the Manufacturer’s Label

Look on the water heater’s side for the manufacturer’s label, which is usually located alongside other stickers that have warnings and energy savings information printed on them.

Check the label to find the date of manufacture or the serial number.

Decoding the Serial Number by Brand

There is no single standard for water heater manufacturers to create serial numbers about when they build their units. They take different approaches to showing the month (or week) and year of production.

Here are details to help you interpret different water heaters’ serial numbers:

A.O. Smith Water Heaters:

If you have a water heater made by A.O. Smith, the first two digits of the serial number stand for the year it was manufactured. The second two digits show what week they built your unit.

Bradford White Water Heaters:

Homeowners with Bradford White water heaters consult the first letter of the serial number to find the year it was built, and the second letter to identify the month of production.

Year:

Bradford White water heater serial numbers use the letter “A” to indicate a manufacturing date of 1984 or 2004. The letter “B” indicates it was built in 1985 or 2005, and so on. The manufacturer repeats the letters every two decades.

Month:

Serial numbers on Bradford White water heaters use the letter “A” to designate they were built in January and “B” for February, and so on.

So, if your water heater’s serial number starts with “BA,” it was built in January 2005 or 1985. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, our experienced plumbers are adept at determining if a water heater is new or more than 20 years old, so we can help you figure out the manufacturing date of your unit.

Rheem and Ruud Water Heaters:

Do you have a Rheem and Ruud water heater? This company employs a MMYY pattern for its serial numbers. This means, for example, that a serial number with “0621” indicates a manufacturing date of June 2021.

Signs Your Water Heater May Be Aging

There are performance indicators and physical signs that will show you your water heater is getting old:

• Strange rumbling sounds come out of the unit
• Rust-colored water
• Unit delivers inconsistent water heating
• Water leaks from the heater

One or more of these indications should prompt you to get in touch with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing so we can send a plumber over to inspect your water heater. Our team will determine if your unit should be repaired or replaced.

When to Contact a Professional

Call us if you suspect your water heater is aging, or if you are not sure of when the manufacturer built it.

We provide comprehensive water heater services, from installation to maintenance and repairs. If we discover your water heater is well past its useful service life, we’ll let you know about current rebates from manufacturers and the government, to reduce the cost of buying a new unit.

Benefits of Upgrading an Old Water Heater

Installing a new water heater will benefit your family. You will start using less energy, since modern units work much more efficiently than older water heaters. This translates to lower utility bills.

Since your unit will be brand new, you’ll have protection from the warranty in case it needs repairs.

Because so many Ft. Myers homeowners are interested in “going green” and reducing their carbon footprint, we often get requests for advice on the latest technology. Our knowledgeable plumbers will talk with you about hybrid electric units and heat pump water heaters, including details about how much energy they save.

Is Your Water Heater Nearing Its Last Days? Here’s What to Do

All water heaters will eventually need to be replaced. If your unit is showing signs of age, we suggest you find its manufacturing date and then call us for proactive maintenance services. We’ll check out the unit to see how much useful service life you can expect.

A plumber from Benjamin Franklin Plumbing will let you know if you can continue using the water heater after maintenance (or repairs) or if it’s time to put in a new unit.

Don’t Get Caught Without Hot Water – Let’s Check Your Heater Today!

We’re standing by to examine your old water heater and determine what condition it’s in. Then, we’ll go over your options for repair or replacement.

To get started, please get in touch with us today!

FAQs

Here are answers to Ft. Myers homeowners’ most frequently asked questions about water heater maintenance and age.

How can I find the serial number on my water heater?

Look on the side of your water heater for the manufacturer’s serial number sticker, next to the energy saving and warning stickers.

What does it mean if my water heater is making rumbling noises?

Your unit may have a lot of built-up sediment, dirt and calcium, which will make noises at the bottom of the tank as the water heats up.

Is rusty water always a sign of a failing water heater?

Rusty water usually indicates rust and corrosion. Call us to inspect your unit to see if it’s about to fail.

Can I determine the age of my water heater without the serial

number?

The company may have stuck on a manufacturing label that shows the production date. Or, look at the documentation from when it was installed in your Ft. Myers home.

What are the benefits of upgrading to a newer water heater model?

A new water heater will operate more efficiently, saving you money on power bills. Its warranty will protect your investment for many years to come.

How often should I have my water heater inspected?

Schedule inspections once annually. We’ll fix any problems or let you know if it’s time to replace the water heater.

Are you thinking about upgrading to a tankless water heater? You’re far from alone! While traditional tank-type water heaters still reign supreme, tankless models are growing in popularity, especially in Southwest Florida.

It’s not hard to see why. With a space-saving design, on-demand operation, and impressive energy savings, more and more homeowners are making the switch. Going tankless is a great move that can benefit your home and family in countless ways. However, before you take the plunge, you must choose whether to invest in a gas or electric tankless water heater.

Both electric and gas-powered tankless water heaters are a worthy upgrade over traditional tank-style models, but they also have distinct perks and advantages. Gas and electric models differ in many ways. To ensure you’re making an investment that works for your home over the long haul, you must consider both options and choose one that suits your needs.

So, how do you choose between an electric and a gas tankless water heater? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Fort Myers’ punctual plumbers, have you covered. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make a confident upgrade decision, including details about performance, costs, installation, maintenance, lifespan, and environmental impact.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

First things first: What makes a tankless water heater so special?

As the name implies, these fixtures lack a storage tank for storing heated water. In a traditional setup, water heaters warm enough water to fill the tank, supplying hot water lines. That’s not the case with a tankless model.

They work on demand, heating water only when needed. The process is simple: When you need hot water, cold water enters the tankless heater and activates a flow sensor. That sensor kickstarts the heating elements. Then, the cold water goes through the heat exchanger and instantly gets hot, delivering all the warm water you need.

The Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater vs. a Traditional Tank Water Heater

There are many reasons why so many homeowners are upgrading to a tankless water heater. Here are a handful of the most significant benefits:

•Energy Efficiency: Because tankless water heaters work on demand, you’re eliminating standby energy losses. You can enjoy substantial energy savings, resulting in lower utility bills.

•Unlimited Hot Water: If you choose a model properly sized for your home and needs, you benefit from unlimited hot water. No more “running out” of hot water due to a storage tank emptying.

•Space-Saving Design: Unlike clunky tank models, tankless water heaters are compact. Plumbers can install them on walls to save valuable space.

•Long Lifespan: A tankless water heater has an average lifespan of 20 years or more, lasting much longer than its old-school tank counterparts.

Electric Tankless Water Heaters: Pros, Cons & Ideal Uses

Let’s start our deep dive into tankless water heaters with electric models. Electric tankless water heaters rely solely on electricity to heat water.

How They Work

Whenever you turn on a faucet or run an appliance that uses hot water, cold water enters the tankless water heater and triggers a flow sensor. The sensor triggers electric heating elements. Cold water flows over those heating elements, immediately warming the water.

Advantages

Electric tankless water heaters have several unique advantages over gas-powered alternatives.

•Lower Upfront Costs: Electric models are generally more cost-effective during installation. They’re easier to install and don’t require additional elements associated with gas-powered appliances, leading to lower labor costs.

•Easier to Install: Unlike gas tankless water heaters, there’s no need to install gas lines or venting. As a result, installation is more straightforward.

•More Compact: Electric-powered tankless water heaters have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for smaller homes, condos, and point-of-use setups.

•Higher Efficiency Ratings: Electric fixtures have an energy efficiency rating of nearly 99 percent.

•Safer for Homes Without Gas Access: If your home doesn’t already have gas access, electric tankless water heaters are a safer bet. There’s no worry about gas leaks, poor venting, etc.

Drawbacks

Despite their perks, electric tankless water heaters have some potential drawbacks you must consider.

•Limited Flow Rates: Electric tankless water heaters have a limited flow rate of around 2 to 5 gallons per minute (GPM). Therefore, they can struggle with simultaneous multi-fixture use.

•Higher Power Demand: Because these water heaters rely solely on electricity, they have high power demand and may require electrical panel upgrades.

•Less Efficient in Colder Climates: In colder areas, electric models may struggle to heat cold water quickly.

What are Electric Tankless Water Heaters Best For?

Electric tankless water heaters are versatile. However, they’re best-suited for smaller homes, condos, apartments, and supplemental use, such as a remote bathroom in an accessory-dwelling unit.

Gas Tankless Water Heaters: Pros, Cons & Ideal Uses

Gas tankless water heaters can use natural gas or propane as their heating source.

How They Work

When cold water enters a gas-powered tankless water heater, the flow sensor triggers a gas valve to open, allowing the combustion system to spark a flame. That flame heats an exchanger to heat water on demand.

Advantages

Take a look at the biggest advantages gas tankless water heaters offer.

•Higher Flow Rates: Gas tankless water heaters can have a flow rate up to 10 GPM. Therefore, they’re great for larger homes and work well when multiple fixtures need hot water.

•Better Performance in Cooler Climates: Unlike their electric counterparts, gas-powered models perform better when dealing with super-cold water.

•Faster Heat Recovery: Gas models recover heat better and faster, preheating incoming cold water for greater efficiency.

•More Cost-Effective to Operate: If you’re in an area where gas is affordable, gas tankless water heaters can be cheaper to operate.

Drawbacks

Even with those advantages, a few drawbacks might affect you and your home.

•Higher Installation Costs: Because gas appliances require dedicated lines and vents, installation can be more expensive.

•Venting Challenges: Proper ventilation is paramount. If you don’t have existing vents or the ability to install them, you may need an outdoor model.

•Requires Regular Burner Maintenance: The heaters in a gas-powered heater need regular inspections and maintenance to avoid long-term performance issues.

What are Gas Tankless Water Heaters Best For?

Gas tankless water heaters are best for larger properties thanks to the higher flow rate and cost-effective operation. They can easily accommodate large families living in big homes with high simultaneous hot water demand.

Performance Comparison: Electric vs. Gas

Switching to a tankless water heater is smart, regardless of whether you choose gas or electric. Both options are energy-efficient and high-performance, providing on-demand hot water while saving you hundreds of dollars annually in energy costs. However, there are some differences in performance.

Gas tankless water heaters offer beefier performance, making them ideal for larger properties. These models have significantly higher flow rates than electric options, allowing you to run multiple faucets, showers, and appliances with no issue.

Electric alternatives are best suited for smaller applications and have a better Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating than gas alternatives. However, because they run entirely on electricity, they can be costlier over the long term.

Cost Breakdown: Initial vs. Lifetime

Many homeowners prioritize installation costs when upgrading water heater systems. That’s reasonable. However, when considering tankless water heaters, you must examine upfront installation and operating costs.

Installation Costs:

Electric tankless water heaters are more affordable to install. The national average for basic installation, including equipment and labor, is around $2,800.

Gas tankless water heaters cost, on average, over $3,000. However, if you need to install new gas lines and vents, installation costs can rise to well over $5,000.

Long-Term Costs

Generally, electric models are more expensive to operate over the long term, especially if you live in an area with higher electric costs. Gas-powered models are more affordable due to the lower cost of the gas that runs them. But, you must also consider the more frequent maintenance requirements.

The good news is that you may qualify for rebates or tax incentives if you upgrade to an energy-efficient tankless water heater. In Fort Myers, you may be eligible for federal tax credits and local utility rebates. For example, many tankless water heater upgrades are eligible for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit!

Maintenance & Lifespan

The lifespan of an electric water heater is around 15 to 20 years. Of course, longevity varies based on maintenance and the quality of water that runs through the system. Soft water regions benefit from greater longevity. Fortunately, electric systems don’t require much upkeep to stay in excellent shape.

On the other hand, gas tankless water heaters require regular burner cleaning and periodic descaling. Failing to invest in maintenance could lead to damage, poor performance, and a much lower lifespan. Gas models can last 15 to 20 years or more with good care.

Consider adding a water softener to your plumbing system. A water softener will remove minerals that cause scale buildup, reducing wear and maintenance needs.

Environmental Impact & Energy Source

Environmental impact is a significant concern for many. Tankless water heaters, as a whole, are better for the environment due to their energy savings. However, electric options offer zero on-site emissions. You can reduce the impact even more if you pair an electric tankless water heater with a renewable electricity setup, such as solar.

Gas alternatives burn fossil fuels. Therefore, there are emissions. However, you can consider more efficient models, such as condensing units. They use less fuel, reducing emissions.

Electric tankless water heaters have a lower carbon footprint, but both options are better for the environment than traditional tank-type water heaters.

Choosing What’s Best for You: A Quick Decision Guide

There you have it! As you can see, tankless water heaters offer many benefits, but the unique advantages and disadvantages of electric and gas models give you plenty to consider. Ultimately, the best decision for you and your home depends on many factors.

When choosing which type of tankless water heater is best for your needs, consider:

• Household size

• The number of simultaneous users

• Your access to natural or propane gas

• Your typical climate

• Local utility rates

• Your budget for installation and upgrades

• Ongoing maintenance costs

Keep all those factors in mind and use the information supplied above to make your decision. This upgrade is a worthy investment, but choosing the right tankless water heater will ensure you benefit for decades to come.

FAQs

Do electric tankless heaters work in cold climates?

Electric tankless heaters work in colder climates but may struggle to heat cooler water. Therefore, you may experience some lag before the water warms up.

Are gas tankless heaters safe indoors?

Gas tankless water heaters are safe to operate indoors if you have proper ventilation. Ventilation is critical to exhaust carbon monoxide and other gases.

How long does each type last?

With proper care, both gas and electric tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more. Gas models can last over two decades with exceptional care.

Is tankless worth the upgrade over traditional systems?

Tankless water heaters are a fantastic upgrade, no matter which type you choose. They provide better performance, energy-efficient operation, space-saving design, and on-demand operation.

Can I switch from electric to gas (or vice versa)?

You can’t convert an electric model to a gas model. However, you can switch energy sources if you invest in proper installation. For example, switching from electric to gas will require additional work to install gas lines and vents.

Trust Benjamin Franklin for Tankless Water Heater Services in Fort Myers

When you’re ready to install a gas or electric tankless water heater, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is eager to help. We’re the punctual plumbers of Fort Myers, proudly serving the City of Palms and the surrounding areas. Our well-trained team is committed to meeting your needs and helping you make an upgrade that will benefit your home for decades.

Whether you choose electric or gas, we have you covered. We can handle the logistics and install a system that works for you. Afterward, we offer tankless water heater services to ensure your new system continues to serve your home well. We can also repair and install traditional water heaters.

Let us show you why they call us “The Punctual Plumbers!” Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today to book your consultation or installation!

How much do you think, on average, water heating accounts for a home’s total energy usage? The answer might surprise you: approximately 18%!

To keep those utility bills down, then, it’s crucial to find the right water heating system.

Of course, when you’re choosing a water heater, there are factors to weigh besides energy expenses. For instance:

• How much space do you have for your heater?
• How much hot water does your household need?
• Which heating system would last the longest?
• Which would provide you with the most convenience and comfort?

Basically, when it comes to water heaters, you have two major options: the tank kind and the tankless kind.

Let’s examine how these two heaters work and consider their unique pros and cons.

How Tank Water Heaters Work (The Classic Style)

The traditional tank water heater is powered by gas or electricity. (Some models, however, are hybrid.)

This machine heats water inside its tank, which can hold between 30 and 80 gallons. Moreover, it can maintain a consistent water temperature even when it’s not in use.

But how exactly does this machine function? Well, here’s the basic process:

1. Cold water enters the bottom of the insulated tank by flowing through a dip tube.
2. An electric heating element or gas flame raises the water’s temperature, causing it to rise to the top of the tank.
3. A thermostat regulates the temperature of the warm water for as long as it stays in the tank.
4. When someone turns on a faucet or shower head, warm water leaves the tank from the top.
5. To replace the water that flows out, cold water enters the heater from the bottom, starting the process all over again.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work (The Modern Upgrade)

Since tankless water heaters lack tanks, they don’t store any water. Instead, they heat water as it’s needed.

That is, when someone turns on a hot water tap, cold water enters this machine. And, once it’s inside, the flowing water triggers sensors that activate heat exchangers.

Heat exchangers are metal coils that transfer heat from the machine’s burners to the water.

As long as the hot water tap remains on, water will keep flowing through this heater. Therefore, a tankless heater would likely be a better choice for a larger household. It’s also good for a home where water’s only used occasionally, like a vacation house.

Note that electric tankless heaters are generally more energy-efficient. Gas-powered tankless heaters, however, tend to have higher flow rate capacities (which are measured in gallons per minute, or GPM).

Now let’s take a closer look at the raging tank heaters vs. tankless heaters debate.

Energy Efficiency Breakdown

For starters, tankless water heaters require less energy — as much as 34% less energy, to be precise.

One reason tank heaters are less energy-efficient is standby loss. As the name suggests, standby loss is when heat escapes from a container — in this case, the water tank. Naturally, it takes extra energy to reheat any water that’s affected by standby loss.

Cost Analysis: Upfront Vs. Long-Term

Tank heaters are usually cheaper upfront. It costs about $500 to $1,500 to install a tank heater and about $1,500 to $3,500 to install a tankless heater.

Replacing a tank heater is easy and affordable as well.

On the other hand, a tankless heater could save you money over the long haul. For example, it might qualify you for special tax credits and rebates. And again, it should lower your utilities expenses.

Space and Aesthetic Considerations

To accommodate a tank heater, your home must have extra space: A basement or spare closet would be ideal.

But maybe you live in a condo, modern home, or other dwelling with limited space. In that case, a compact, wall-mounted tankless heater would probably make sense.

Lifespan and Maintenance

You could expect a tank system to last about 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. Well-maintained tankless systems, meanwhile, can have lifespans exceeding 20 years.

What does water heater maintenance entail, though?

A tank system requires an annual flushing. That means draining the machine, cleaning out all of the sediment and debris, and then refilling it.

Each year, you should also check a tank heater’s anode rod. This metallic rod attracts corrosion; by doing so, it keeps the rest of the heater from getting corroded. Once the anode rod is worn down to its core — or once it’s covered in a buildup you can’t easily remove — it’s time to replace it.

For its part, a tankless water heater needs descaling every year or two — especially in areas with hard water. Descaling involves circulating a special cleaning solution through the entire machine. That liquid solution will clear out mineral buildup and prevent damage.

Pro tip: If you install a water softener in your home, you could extend the lifespan of your water heater.

Environmental Impact

Which type of water heater is friendlier to the environment? The answer’s clear: A tankless system will reduce your household’s carbon footprint and use less energy.

A tankless water heater will likewise boost your home’s ENERGY STAR rating and overall sustainability. And sustainable homes often have higher property values as well as fewer indoor toxins.

Common Myths Debunked

In all of this, remember that tank heaters and tankless heaters are both reliable and useful machines. Different heaters simply work better for different people.

Therefore, when you hear sweeping generalizations about a certain water heater, realize that it might not be accurate. For instance, the statement that “tankless is always better” isn’t true.

Likewise, the notion that “tank systems are outdated” isn’t correct — especially when it comes to hybrid models. And the idea that “tankless water takes too long” only holds true when a heater is sized improperly.

Final Verdict: Which One’s Right for You?

In the end, picking the right water heater is both a practical and a personal decision.

To make this choice, you must think about various factors: the size of your household, your upfront budget, your annual household budget, your available space, your feelings about the environment, and so on.

If you carefully review the list of pros and cons above, the right decision should soon be apparent. And, if you’d like, you could always call an expert plumber for additional info and advice.

Expert Tankless Water Heater Services in Fort Myers

Are you ready for a new water heater now? Are you especially interested in the tankless variety?

If so, we at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing could help. Our punctual plumbers service homes in Fort Myers and all nearby areas. And we’re famous for our attentive service and truly excellent results.

Indeed, you could call us anytime to schedule a free consultation or water heater assessment. That way, you could start enjoying your new heater as soon as possible. Yes, it might be a tankless job, but we’re happy to do it!

If your water heater has started leaking, figuring out what to do next is very important. Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking they can ignore a leak as long as it’s just a few drops.

However, others panic at the first sign of moisture. Which attitude is actually correct?

Keep reading our guide to see whether or not water heater leaks are dangerous.

Key Takeaways

• Water heater leaks can be caused by minor issues like a loose valve or major issues like a corroded tank.
• In most cases, the main risk of a leaky water heater is all the flood damage your house might face, but there are other dangers as well.
• To protect yourself and your home, you need to call a professional as soon as possible.

Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks

To understand the dangers of a leaking water heater, it’s helpful to first take a look at the causes of leaks.

Faulty Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve)

This valve is often near the top of your tank, and it can wear out over time. If your T&P valve breaks down, you can have a variety of leaking styles. Some may just drip water while others might shoot a high-pressure jet out of the tank.

Loose Plumbing Connections

If one of your water connections is a little loose, it’s very easy for pressurized water to start leaking out of them. You can also run into issues if your plumbing connections are very old because some types of older plastic cables degrade over time.

Internal Tank Corrosion

Certain minerals in your water can react with your tank materials and create corrosive buildup. This buildup eats away at your tank over time and gradually wears a hole in it. When the corrosion finally becomes apparent, you can have a huge hole develop in the side of your tank suddenly.

Drain Valve Issues

The drain valve is a small valve at the base of a water heater that makes it easier to drain when performing tank maintenance. Unfortunately, this valve is a point of weakness in many water heaters. Especially if it’s made of plastic, it’s easy for it to wear out over time. When this happens, a leak will develop.

Why a Leaking Water Heater Is Dangerous

Once your water heater starts leaking, things can get very messy and dangerous very quickly. Here are some common issues to be aware of.

Water Damage to Floors, Walls, and Belongings

If you have something like a corroded tank, you can end up with 40 gallons of water being dumped into your home quickly. This can soak and destroy things like electronics, furniture, and precious keepsakes. Meanwhile, smaller leaks like a loose plumbing connection can cause issues by increasing humidity and causing mold growth.

Risk of Electrical Hazards

Water is a great conductor of electricity, so if it gets where it’s not supposed to be, hazards can develop. Unfortunately, there have been many incidents of people going to check on a suspected leak and then getting shocked. Leaks can also cause your electrical system to short which may start fires on your property.

Risk of Explosion

When your T&P Valve is malfunctioning, it’s possible for pressure to build up inside your tank. Though rare, this situation can lead to a very dangerous explosion. You also face some explosion risks if you have a gas water heater. A leak can lead to electrical faults that end up igniting gas lines and causing major damage.

Slip-and-Fall Hazards

Don’t underestimate the power of water alone. A puddle suddenly appearing in your hallway or closet is quite risky. Many homeowners have slipped and fallen due to unexpected moisture from a leaking tank.

What to Do If Your Water Heater Is Leaking

With all these issues to be concerned about, you can probably see why it’s so important to act fast during a leak. Here are some safety tips that will help protect you if your tank starts to leak.

Turn Off Power/Gas Supply

Before you begin examining your water heater, make sure to turn off the power supply. You can do this by turning the gas knob or by flipping the breaker that goes to the water heater. This protects from shocks or gas leaks.

Shut Off the Cold Water Supply

Next, stop the flow of water to the tank, so you limit the amount of water damage you face. Most tanks have a water shut-off valve on either the top or the side. If you can’t find it, you can also shut off the main water supply to your house while you figure it out.

Drain the Tank if Necessary

You may want to connect a hose to the drain valve and drain the tank. Going ahead and controlling where the tank drains will reduce the amount of random puddles you get around the tank.

Call a Licensed Technician

Keep in mind that most issues with a leaky tank aren’t something you can fix by yourself. Attempting a DIY resolution can just lead to more leaks and bigger problems in the future. To solve your leaky tank issue, it’s best to call a licensed plumber as soon as possible.

Trust Benjamin Franklin Fort Myers for Water Heater Repairs

Ultimately, a broken water heater can lead to problems, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Myers is here to help. Whenever you have an emergency, you can count on the punctual plumbers.

Our team shows up promptly and helps you fix your water heater fast. We also assist Fort Myers residents with a variety of other plumbing repairs, installations, and maintenance. Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing now to get help with your Fort Myers plumbing system.

A malfunctioning water heater will tremendously disrupt your household. While some issues can be easily fixed by yourself, others require the expertise of a licensed professional. Here are some of the most common water heater problems that homeowners tend to face.

Leaks

A leaking water heater needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Even a seemingly minor leak can cause structural damage to your home and foster the growth of mold. If you happen to spot a leak from the top of your water heater, this could be a quick fix. A loose pipe connection may simply need to be tightened.

Meanwhile, water leaking from the base of the unit is often a bit more concerning. The leak likely stems from a corroded tank. In this case, it may be more cost-effective to install a new water heater as opposed to replacing the tank. Most systems are rated to last around 8 to 12 years.

Rust-Colored Water

Discolored water should immediately raise a red flag. There’s a good chance your tank has started to rust away from the inside out. This is especially true if you neglect to replace the unit’s anode rod, which extends the life of the tank by limiting corrosion.

Upon inspecting your water heater, a technician may recommend getting a new tank. Furthermore, you may want to consider installing a tankless water heater. Aside from requiring less overall maintenance, a tankless system also rewards you with energy savings.

Slow Heating

It should not take several minutes for your water to warm up. If you are dealing with slow heating, this could point to a lack of routine maintenance. When a water heater isn’t routinely flushed out, an excessive amount of sediment collects inside the tank. This mineral buildup insulates the heating element from the water, which ultimately translates to slower heating times.

Electric water heaters are also prone to experiencing a faulty heating element. Simply replacing this critical part can give an old water heater a new lease on life. Keep in mind there are also other issues that can cause slow water heating, including a faulty thermostat.

Smelly Water

Your nose can help you to expose water heater problems. When units are not properly serviced at the suggested intervals, bacteria can begin to grow inside the tank. It’s then only a matter of time before a strange odor develops.

In some instances, flushing the tank with a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide will get rid of the sulfur or rotten egg smell. However, the solution needs to sit for at least two hours or so in order to be effective. Don’t wait to contact us if you need any help.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is by far one of the most prevalent water heater problems we encounter. It can impact your ability to perform quite a few everyday tasks, including showering and washing dishes. While limescale buildup in the pipes could be the issue, don’t rule out a failing water heater.

Flushing the unit may improve water flow. On the other hand, your unit could be in need of repair. A faulty pressure regulator can certainly contribute to diminished water pressure.

Increase in Energy Bills

For good reason, increased energy bills usually trigger a great deal of frustration for homeowners. Like a malfunctioning refrigerator or HVAC system, faulty water heaters can consume an excessive amount of energy throughout the day.

A heavy buildup of sediment can cover the unit’s heating element, thus forcing it to work harder and consume more electricity. This yet again points to the importance of regular maintenance.

Gas water heaters are prone to experiencing a bad pilot light or burner. The unit will begin to run longer than normal between cycles. By catching issues early that hinder efficiency, a licensed plumber may save you extra money in the long run.

Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Today

Don’t allow water heater problems to defeat you. When in need of water heater repair services, don’t hesitate to contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. We proudly serve Fort Myers and the surrounding areas in Florida.

Our punctual plumbers recognize the importance of professionalism, so you can always trust them to be there on time. Most importantly, we get the job done right.