Everything You Need to Know About Water Heaters | Stars & Pipes Plumbing
Everything You Need to Know About Water Heaters
Water heaters are essential in every home, providing hot water for showers, cleaning, and daily household needs. Choosing the right water heater, deciding between DIY or professional installation, and maintaining your unit for efficiency are critical considerations. At Stars & Pipes Plumbing, serving Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Snellville, Decatur, Grayson, Duluth, Loganville, Buford, Norcross, Suwannee, John’s Creek, Doraville, Tucker, Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Marietta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Peachtree Corners, Buckhead, Cumming, and Stone Mountain, we bring expert knowledge to help you make informed decisions about water heaters.
Types of Water Heaters
There are several types of water heaters, each with its own advantages and considerations:
Conventional Storage Water Heaters:
Common in many homes and hold between 30 to 80 gallons of hot water.
Ideal for households with high water demands.
Lifespan: Typically 8-12 years with proper maintenance.
Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters:
Heat water only when needed, eliminating standby heat loss.
Space-saving and energy-efficient.
Lifespan: Can last over 20 years.
Heat Pump (Hybrid) Water Heaters:
Use electricity to transfer heat from the air or ground, making them highly efficient.
Recommended for areas with moderate temperatures.
Solar Water Heaters:
Use solar panels to heat water, making them environmentally friendly.
Ideal for sunny climates.
Condensing Water Heaters:
Capture heat from exhaust gases to heat water efficiently.
Suitable for homes using natural gas.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement or Repairs
Understanding when to repair or replace your water heater can save you from emergencies:
Inconsistent water temperature: Often indicates a malfunctioning heating element.
Rusty or discolored water: May signal corrosion inside the tank.
Unusual noises: Sediment buildup can cause banging or rumbling sounds.
Water leaks: Small leaks can lead to major water damage.
Age of the unit: If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider replacement.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Plumber
DIY Considerations:
Complexity of Installation: Water heater installation involves plumbing, electrical, and gas connections.
Permit Requirements: Many areas require permits for new installations.
Safety Risks: Improper installation can lead to leaks, flooding, or gas leaks.
Why Hiring a Professional Is Recommended:
Experience: With over ten years of experience, licensed master plumber Sean Nelson, owner of Stars & Pipes Plumbing and an Army veteran currently serving as a plumbing instructor in the Army Reserves, ensures every installation meets local codes.
Cost-Effective: Professionals reduce the risk of costly mistakes.
Warranty Protection: Many manufacturers require professional installation to validate warranties.
Cost of Water Heater Installation
Factors Affecting Cost:
Type and size of the unit
Complexity of installation
Additional upgrades (e.g., expansion tanks or new venting systems)
Average Costs:
Conventional storage water heater: $1,000 - $3,000 (including installation)
Tankless water heater: $3,500 - $5,500
Heat pump water heater: $1,500 - $3,500
Potential Savings:
ENERGY STAR® water heaters can save homeowners up to $350 annually.
Federal and local tax incentives may apply for energy-efficient models.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance can prevent common issues and extend the life of your unit:
Flushing the tank: Removes sediment that can reduce efficiency.
Inspecting the anode rod: Prevents internal rust and corrosion.
Checking the pressure relief valve: Ensures the system can safely release excess pressure.
Cleaning the burner or heating elements: Keeps the heating components efficient.
Choosing the Right Water Heater
Household Size and Water Demand:
Small households (1-2 people): A 30-40 gallon tank or a small tankless unit.
Medium households (3-4 people): A 40-60 gallon tank or a medium-sized tankless system.
Large households (5+ people): A 60+ gallon tank or a high-capacity tankless system.
Energy Efficiency:
Look for models with high thermal efficiency ratings (above 90%) or ENERGY STAR® certification.
Fuel Source:
Electric: Popular due to availability and safety.
Gas: Cost-effective for homes with natural gas access.
Solar: Environmentally friendly option for sunny locations.
Statistics to Consider
In 2023, U.S. electric water heater sales reached a record 4.9 million units, representing 53.3% of the market.
Heat pump water heater sales grew by 26% in 2022, reflecting a shift toward energy-efficient solutions.
Water heating accounts for 18% of energy use in the average household.
Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of a water heater by 3-5 years.
Why Choose Stars & Pipes Plumbing?
Sean Nelson brings unmatched expertise as a licensed master plumber, combining over a decade of experience with military discipline and precision. Our team is committed to:
Expert Guidance: We help you choose the best unit for your home.
Reliable Installation: Every job is done with precision and care.
Ongoing Support: Our maintenance plans ensure your system runs smoothly.
Areas We Serve
We proudly provide water heater services in:
Lilburn
Decatur
Loganville
Tucker
Snellville
John’s Creek
Alpharetta
Norcross
Roswell
Buford
Cumming
Brookhaven
Sandy Springs
Duluth
Stone Mountain
Dunwoody
Grayson
Marietta
Suwannee
Peachtree Corners
Doraville
Lawrenceville
Buckhead
Customer Testimonials
"Stars & Pipes Plumbing provided exceptional service when we replaced our old water heater. Sean and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and efficient." — Emily T., Norcross, GA
"Our DIY attempt failed, and Stars & Pipes came to the rescue. They installed a new unit flawlessly and saved us from costly damage." — Mark S., Lawrenceville, GA
Contact Us Today
For expert advice and reliable water heater services, trust Stars & Pipes Plumbing. Call us at 770-398-STAR (7827) or schedule an appointment online. Let us help you keep the hot water flowing efficiently and affordably.
