Are you tired of running out of hot water in the middle of your shower? You’re probably wondering how to change a water heater in Blanchard.
As the top-ranking plumbers in Blanchard, OK, Champion Plumbing can help you choose the right water heater for your needs and expertly install it. Your satisfaction remains our primary focus, and we’ve kept Central Oklahoma residents supplied with hot water for nearly a decade.
Signs You Need a New Water Heater
How do you know when your Blanchard home needs a new water heater?
Discolored Water
If you see brown or yellowish water in your shower or sinks, you likely have rust, sulfur, or sediment buildup in your water heater. The brownish tint means your water heater has rust inside and you’ll need complete replacement. If you find yourself draining the sediment from the water heater frequently, you’ll save time and money investing in a newer model.
Lack of Hot Water
If your water doesn’t heat to a comfortable temperature, a new water heater will restore your access to hot water. A more subtle indicator includes water that takes longer to heat up, or that doesn’t last as long as you’re used to.
Leaks or Damage
If you’re wondering how to change a water heater, look for signs of leaks or damage to confirm you need a new device. You shouldn’t see a puddle beneath your water heater or cracks in the tank. Repairs won’t work for more severe damage.
High Energy Bills
If your water heater has minor damage, it can still heat your water, but it will work harder to produce the same results. This requires using more fuel, and you’ll see a rise in your electricity or gas bills.
If you have an older water heater, repairs won’t keep your expenses low in the long term. You’ll save more money if you upgrade it to a more efficient model.
Old Age
Most water heaters last between eight and 12 years, though a tankless version can last up to 20 years. If your water heater reaches an advanced age, you shouldn’t wait for it to completely stop working before you replace it. You’ll pay more money for frequent repairs and high energy bills.
Best Blanchard Water Heater Options
What are the best options for water heaters in Blanchard? Whether you own a farm down on 250th Street or live by West Golf Course Road, you should decide from any of the following options.
Electric Tank Water Heater
Electric water heaters with a tank remain one of the most popular options for supplying your home with hot water. The advantages of an electric water heater include the following:
- They cost less to operate and heat your water efficiently.
- Electric water heaters require a lower investment for installation.
- Because they don’t require ventilation, experts can install them much more easily and quickly.
- You won’t worry about safety issues like gas leaks or excessive pressure.
- You can consider an electric heater more environmentally friendly because it doesn’t use an additional fuel source.
However, electricity often costs more than gas, and water heaters use more of it than most devices. They also take longer to heat your water.
Gas Tank Water Heater
Installing a gas-powered water heater can grant you benefits when compared to electric models, including the following:
- They consistently cost less to operate, even in places where gas costs more than electricity.
- They heat your water much faster than electric water heaters.
- Gas water heaters can last upward of 15 years, compared to 12 years for electric versions.
- Some gas waters can work even when the power goes out.
What are the disadvantages of a gas water heater? You’ll invest more to install them, and many homeowners don’t like that they can cause gas leaks.
Tankless Water Heater
If you’re wondering how to change a water heater, use the opportunity to consider upgrading to a tankless model. A tankless model takes up significantly less space, making it perfect for small basements or utility closets. If you choose the right size, you’ll never run out of hot water.
Tankless models also use up to 50% less energy. You can choose either an electric or gas model; both work exceptionally well.
The most common reason homeowners avoid tankless models includes the high up-front cost of installation. However, they more than pay for themselves over their long life.
Why Only Professionals Should Replace a Water Heater
Do you know why you should never DIY water heater replacement? When you install new heaters in Blanchard, they require significant experience and skills. The professionals use the following process.
Disconnect Power
Without shutting off the power, you risk serious electrocution. Turn the water heater off at the circuit breaker. For a gas model, you should also turn off the supply valve closest to the water heater.
Drain the Tank
If you don’t drain tanks before replacing a water heater, you’ll leave a big mess. The plumber will empty the device into your basement’s drain before removing the water heater.
Disconnect Water
To prevent flooding, disconnect the hot and cold water lines. If they are connected to the device with solder, you’ll need pipe cutters.
Remove Gas or Electrical Lines
On electric water heaters, you’ll find the junction box on top of the device. You must unscrew the wire connectors and cable clamp. On gas water heaters, disconnect the gas line from the control valve.
Remove Vent
Gas heaters have a vent for exhaust. Remove the vents using a screwdriver.
Swap Devices
Remove the old water and put the new model in its place. The tank will feel heavy.
Install Fittings and Reconnect Everything
Install the relief valve and any other fittings you need. Reconnect everything and test it out.
Schedule Water Heater Replacement in Blanchard, OK
Now that you know how to change a water heater, you know why you should rely on professionals to complete the job. Champion Plumbing is Blanchard’s first choice for water heater repair and installation. From anode rods to shutoff valves, we keep your water heater in peak condition.
Contact us today to book an appointment.
