4 Signs It’s Time to Start Researching New Water Heaters

Bathing, washing dishes and doing laundry are all important tasks in your household, but you may not understand how water heaters are essential for your home and family. This imperative appliance is not intended to last forever, so there will most likely come a time when you need to purchase and install a new one. If you are noticing one or more of the following signs, it may be time to replace your water heater. Older Age It is important to learn when your water heater was installed before you can determine if it is approaching time to replace it. Of course, each type of water heater has its own expected lifespan. If you have a traditional water heater with a tank, you can expect a lifespan of around 10 years. Tankless water heaters are capable of lasting up to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your water heater is approaching the 10- to 20-year mark, it is most likely time to consider a replacement, especially if you are noticing other issues. Loud Noises/Rusty Water All appliances will make sounds from time to time and your water heater is no exception. However, if you are noticing loud, rumbling noises, there may be a serious issue that should be addressed. Over time, dirt and sediment will build up inside the tank. As the water heats, the sediment will harden, eventually corroding the tank and plumbing lines. Without draining and flushing out the tank and water lines, this sediment can cause the tank to crack, leaking water all over your home’s flooring and walls. The sediment and corrosion can also cause water to appear rusty in color. Rusty water can stain your sinks, tubs, clothes and dishes, but it can also be dangerous to consume. Flushing out sediment that has been in a tank for many years is difficult, so investing in a new water heater may be the smartest solution. Water Leaks Lastly, drops or puddles of water around your water heater are a sure sign you need a replacement. This moisture is most likely caused by small cracks that stem from the heat expanding the tank. Over time, these small leaks can add up, causing serious water damage that is expensive to repair. In addition, even a small amount of water can increase the risk of mold growth, which is hazardous to you and your family’s health. Your water...
read more

Picking Between Gas & Electric for your Water Heater Installation

It’s time for a new water heater installation to be done in your home in Longview, TX. The question is, how do you decide between gas and electric? Does saving money mean the most to you, or does being energy efficient? Here are how they stack up against to each other: Gas heater has a faster recovery rate Electric heater will not work during a power outage Gas heater is less efficient Electric heater costs more to operate Both have equivalent lifespans It’s time to talk to the specialists at Bird Dog Plumbing to help make your decision easier. Based on your current setup we can determine which option will be best for your situation. Call us today at (903)225-2272 or visit us online at https://birddogplumbingllc.com/. Water Heater Installation Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read more

Maintenance Tips and When to Call Your Local Water Heater Installer

If your water heater is not working properly, it may be time to contact a water heater installer in the Longview TX area. Leaking water or low heat levels are just some of the reasons you may need to have your water heater repaired or replaced. While proper maintenance of your appliance will extend its life, over time, you will need to make repairs or have a brand new heater installed. The life expectancy of a typical water heater is between eight and twelve years. The life span varies based on the design of the appliance, the installation process, the adherence to a maintenance schedule and the quality of water used. Water Heater Maintenance Tips Most water heaters today are produced with little or no maintenance requirements. However, there are several maintenance tips that could help in prolonging the life of your appliance. Drain your water heater every six months to remove any sediment that could be collecting in the tank and causing corrosion. This step will prolong the life of the heater and increase its efficiency. Decrease your water heater-thermometer temperature level to below 120 degrees F. This will lower the possibility of damage to your tank from overheating. Water Heater Replacement Tips If you have a heater that is over ten years old and is experiencing some problems such as leaks at the tank base or trouble reaching hot temperatures, you probably need to think about having it replaced. When it comes time to replace your water heater, you can choose to install an appliance similar to the current one you own. However, there are newer upgraded water heaters that offer features that will increase efficiency and lower utility costs. When you go out in search of a new water heater, consider the following features: The number of gallons the tank holds. The most common tanks have a capacity between 40 and 50 gallons. The recovery rate of the appliance which indicates the number of gallons of water that the heater will heat within an hour. The physical dimensions of the heater including the width and height, to ensure that the water heater will fit properly into the space you have allocated for it. The energy efficiency ratings that detail an estimated cost of operating the unit per year. This information is usually displayed on a sticker placed on the side of the unit. Before you begin...
read more

5 Advantages of Making the Switch to Tankless Water Heaters

The modern home buyer is often looking for energy efficiency and since water heating is one of the top energy expenses, the trend is flowing towards tankless water heaters in Longview, TX. Having a tankless water heater can reduce one’s energy bill significantly, but here are 5 other advantages to having a tankless system installed: Operates only when there is demand for hot water Never runs out of hot water Longer life expectancy of unit Compact size Safety features If you’re ready to make the switch toward energy efficiency, call Bird Dog Plumbing at (903)225-2272 to schedule an appointment. Or visit us online at www.birddogplumbingllc.com. Water Heaters Longview TXBird Dog Plumbing LLC2206 Balsam StLongview, Texas...
read more