Water Heater

What is a Water Heater

Water heating is the system that involves warming and disseminating water all through the establishment to showers, washing machines, dishwashers, baths, and sinks. A water heater is a unit that stores and heats water for your use.

This device basically utilizes fossil fuels or electricity for warming the water. When it is heated, the water is transferred throughout the building or home. In other buildings, water heaters may be used as space heaters, which utilizes a system of minute pipes installed onto the flooring to provide heat.

Heated water may also have a number of applications within manufacturing and other industries. There are two different types of water heaters:

storage water heater

Storage Water Heater

This is a domestic form of water heating appliance that stores hot water inside of a long coil inside of the large tank until the water is needed. A storage water heater is the most common form used in residential homes. Storage tanks can be more cost-efficient for your home; however, they are not right for all homes and families. Be sure to weigh your options before installing a storage or tankless unit.

Traditional storage water heaters employ a range of fuels including:

  • propane,
  • electricity,
  • natural gas,
  • and electricity.

Call us today to schedule maintenance or installation on a storage water heater in your home. 

tankless water heater

Tankless Water Heater

Opposite of storage is a tank-less water heater. This unit does not need any vessel for heating water. Also known as Demand or Instantaneous Water Heaters, Tankless units provide hot water only when you need it. 

Tankless water heaters take up less space in your home, so they may be perfect for smaller homes or apartments. They can be hung on the wall in your utility closet, laundry room, or even in the back of a closet. In fact, some tankless units are so compact they can be concealed inside a cabinet.

However, while they require less space, they do require more electricity. In fact, you may need to hire an electrician to help you install a tankless water heater in your home. 

Looking for a professional to install a tankless unit in your home? Give us a call!

Preventative Water Heater Maintenance

To ensure that you have piping hot water in your shower every morning, your water heater (storage and tankless) needs regular maintenance. A professional plumber will inspect your water heater for damage during your annual maintenance appointment. The plumber will also clean all the water lines, tune the motor, and clean any mineral scale accumulation. A plumber will also ensure that the pressure inside the storage tank is at a safe level. 

Don’t get slapped with an unexpected bill. Have your system inspected and maintained annually by a licensed professional. Trust the plumbers at Coastal Services LLC. Our plumbers are fully licensed, insured, and trained to inspect, maintain, and repair your water heater. 

How to Spot Water Heater Damage 

With regular maintenance, your water heater should last for years. However, it is inevitable that an older unit will need repairs at some point. Signs that your unit needs repair: 

  • Puddle of water on the floor beneath the unit
  • Water running down the tank
  • Weird noises coming from the machine
  • Broken valves or breaks in the tank

If you notice any of the above signs of water heater damage, you should contact a professional plumber for assistance ASAP. Most problems with a water heater require professional repair. Causes of the above problems include: 

  • Disconnected Gas Or Power
  • Mineral Scale Accumulation
  • Temperature Pressure Relief Valve Issues
  • Problems with the gasket of the heating element
  • Vent obstructions
  • Thermocouple problems
  • Wobbly drain valve

Annual maintenance will give you advanced warning of larger repairs or replacements that your unit may need. Be sure to schedule at least one annual plumbing checkup for your home to properly maintain your systems. 

Contact Coastal Services LLC for Help

Think you might have a problem with your water heater? Call Coastal Services LLC! Our trained and professional plumbers will inspect your water heater and plumbing to look for any signs that your home is in need of repairs or maintenance.

After hours? No problem! Coastal Services offers 24-Hour Emergency Services! Call or contact us online today to learn more. 

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