Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Archive for the ‘Water Heater’ Category

How Often Do You Need To Change Your Water Heater?

Monday, August 8th, 2022

How Often Do You Need To Change Your Water Heater?

When Can You Expect To Replace Your Water Heater

One of the most common problems with water heaters in Appleton WI is that they simply wear out over time. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it’s likely that it’s on its last legs. Not only will it be less energy-efficient, but it will also be more likely to break down. As a result, it’s important to keep an eye on your water heater’s age and replace it before it becomes a problem. Another common issue is rust and corrosion. Over time, the water in your tank will start to corrode the tank itself. This can lead to leaks, as well as decreased efficiency and performance. If you notice any rust on your water heater, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional plumber near you as soon as possible. Taking care of your water heater can avoid costly repairs and extend its lifespan.

Signs You May Need A New Water Heater

Appleton WI Water heaters are an essential part of any home, providing hot water for everything from cooking and cleaning to bathing and laundry. However, over time, water heaters can become less efficient, resulting in higher utility bills and a decreased ability to heat water. If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it may be time to replace your water heater:

  • You’re seeing rust around the tank or pipes. This is a sign that the tank is beginning to corrode and could soon leak, flooding your home with hot water.
  • You’ve noticed a drop in water pressure. This could be due to a build-up of sediment in the tank, which restricts the flow of water and makes it difficult for the heater to do its job.

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s time to call a plumber to discuss your options for a new water heater.

Life Expectancy of A Water Heater

The lifespan of a water heater depends on a number of factors, including the type of water heater, the quality of the unit, and the maintenance schedule. The average lifespan of a traditional storage tank water heater is 8-12 years, while a tankless water heater near you can last up to 20 years. However, these are just averages and some units may last longer or shorter depending on their individual features and how well they are maintained. Regular maintenance is essential to prolonging the life of any water heater, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for flushing and draining your unit. By taking good care of your water heater, you can enjoy many years of hot showers and clean dishes.

Contact Us Today

Are you in need of a water heater replacement near you? Tureks Plumbing is here to help. We understand the importance of having a functional and efficient water heater, which is why we offer high-quality water heaters that are sure to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our water heater replacement services. We look forward to serving you.

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Does A Tankless Water Heater Increase My Home Value?

Monday, June 6th, 2022

Does A Tankless Water Heater Increase My Home Value?

How Can A Tankless Water Heater Increase Your Homes Value

Energy Efficiency

While some home improvements in Appleton WI are made to increase the value of the property, others are made to save money. Tankless water heaters fall into the latter category, as they are more efficient than traditional tank water heaters and can lead to significant savings on your monthly energy bill. In addition to being more cost-effective, tankless water heaters also have a number of other benefits. For example, they take up less space than tank heaters and can be installed in a variety of locations. Additionally, tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water, which is ideal for large families or homes with multiple bathrooms. If you’re looking for a way to save money on your energy bills, switching to a tankless water heater is great.

Extra Space In The House

It is important to make the most of every square foot when selling a home. Traditional tank water heaters can take up a lot of space, making it difficult to use that space for storage or other purposes. Tankless water heaters in Appleton WI are an increasingly popular alternative because they are fitted to the wall, freeing up valuable floor space. In addition, tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional tank heaters, which can save money on utility bills. The extra space and lower monthly costs can be very appealing to potential buyers. When selling a home, making the switch to a tankless water heater may be a smart way to add value and appeal to potential buyers.

Housing Market Is “Green”

As more and more people become concerned about the environment, sustainability has become an important factor in many consumer decisions. This is especially true for younger generations, who are increasingly interested in purchasing homes that are eco-friendly and energy-efficient. If you’re thinking of selling your home, making some green improvements can help to attract this type of buyer and increase your asking price. Some simple things you can do to make your home more sustainable include installing solar panels, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and using environmentally friendly building materials. By taking steps to align your home with the values of these buyers, you can make it more appealing to a wider range of potential buyers and reap the financial benefits as well.

Contact Tureks Plumbing Today

If you are considering upgrading your water heater tank to a tankless unit, Tureks Plumbing of Appleton WI can provide you with a consultation. We will assess your needs and help you choose the best unit for your home. Tankless water heaters have many benefits, including energy efficiency and space savings. We will explain how these units work and help you decide if a tankless water heater is right for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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Water Heater Replacement Appleton WI 

Monday, April 4th, 2022

What Are The Signs That I Need To Replace My Water Heater?

There are various apparent symptoms that your hot water heater is no longer operating effectively, ranging from leaks to a shortage of hot water. Some problems are repairable. Other issues point to the necessity for a replacement. So here are some tips on Water Heater Replacement in Appleton WI.

When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?

This post will explain when it is time to replace a water heater. In addition, it contains advice on how to take better care of your water heater.

The Lifespan of a Water Heater

If your hot water heater tank is more than ten years old, it could be time to replace it.

A water heater tank should last six to twelve years if properly maintained. A tankless water heater has a lifespan of over 20 years.

For the most up-to-date deadlines, see your water heater’s warranty.

History of Care and Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential for the preservation and extension of the life of any water heater. You may need to repair or replace your unit sooner if you do not maintain it on a regular basis.

The tank of your water heater should be drained, flushed, and cleaned at least once a year to keep it in good working standard. If you reside in a hard water region, get your water heater serviced every six months.

Tankless water heaters require less maintenance than tank-style water heaters. Nonetheless, the hot water system should be cleaned once a year to avoid sediment accumulation caused by lime and mineral deposits. A tankless water heater may be switched off and cleansed with water and white vinegar for 60 minutes to eliminate this buildup.

Wear and Tear

Our team at Tureks Plumbing the best plumbers in Appleton WI talk about how a rising utility bill is a classic symptom of an issue with any water heater. If your unit is consuming more energy to deliver the same quantity of hot water, it’s time to inspect it.

What you should look out for:

Leaks: If your hot water heater is leaking, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Leaks are mainly caused by a buildup of pressure inside the tank. This occurs when the water pressure or temperature is too high or when the unit’s relief valve is faulty. Ignoring a leak might result in a tank explosion. Moisture or puddles surrounding the water heater’s base, as well as water corrosion on the tank’s side, are signs of a leak. If you detect any of these warning signals, contact a trustworthy expert right once.

Knocking Sounds: Loud noises indicate the presence of sediment accumulation. As the silt solidifies, it might migrate about the tank, causing banging, rumbling, and gurgling noises. To prolong the life of your water heater and save unnecessary wear and tear, have it cleaned on a regular basis to remove deposits from the tank’s heating components.

Rusty Water: Discolored water is an indication that your unit is underperforming.  Water with a metallic odor or rust-colored water might indicate one of several problems. Either the sacrificial anode rod has to be changed, or the tank itself is rusting, which is usually due to corrosion at the steel liner. Tanks that have deteriorated must be replaced as soon as feasible.

Murky Water: If you see cloudy water, it might be due to sediment accumulation in your water heater.

Cold Water: If your water remains cold after you switch on the hot water tap, a heating element may have failed.

When Repairs Are An Option

Water heaters may be fixed on occasion by changing a few basic components. Among the replaceable components are:

  • Assembly of a burner
  • Valves for heating elements
  • Thermostats
  • Thermocouples
  • Motor Igniters

If your water heater is less than ten years old or a replacement component is failing, you may be able to fix it.

If your water heater fails to meet the following criteria, you should consider replacing it:

  • The unit is almost ten years old.
  • It has not been adequately cared for.
  • It has the above-mentioned marks of wear.

When to replace a water heater is determined by the difficulties you’re experiencing. Some problems are repairable, but if your water heater is more than ten years old, replacing it may be the best option. You might be able to fix a water heater yourself if you have the correct water heater components and accessories.

Contact Tureks Plumbing Services for Maintenance Needs

If it’s time to repair or even replace your water heater feel free to contact our team. Tureks Plumbing services are here to help in any way

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Spring Maintenance With Water Heaters

Tuesday, March 29th, 2022

Spring Maintenance With Water Heaters

Is spring cleaning nearing the top of your to-do list? At Tureks Plumbing, our Appleton WI Plumber encourages you to include water heater maintenance in your to-do list.

Despite being one of the most crucial pieces of equipment in the home, the water heater is frequently overlooked. We tend to forget this simple appliance that works silently in the nooks and crannies of a garage or closet. That is until there is no hot water.

Why Get Spring Maintenance On Your Water Heater

The good news is that it only takes a few minutes of simple, low-cost maintenance. Additionally, regular maintenance can extend the life of the appliance, saving you the trouble and expense of replacing it prematurely.

Below, our water heater repair Appleton WI shares five quick fixes to keep the hot showers flowing.

Organize

Is your water heater in a utility closet, laundry room, or other location that also serves as a storage area? Depending on what you keep near or around the water heater, this could pose a fire or safety concern. To keep everything clean and safe, follow these steps:

First, our Fox Valley WI Plumber recommends that you clear the area around your water heater. This will allow enough ventilation and an unobstructed view of the unit. If any argument is obscured, you may fail to detect that your water heater is leaking until it is too late. Install shelving and hooks to store laundry detergents and other household objects away from the water heater. Flammable things should be kept at least 18 inches away from the water heater. Also, avoid storing goods prone to moisture damage near the water heater, such as books, papers, or periodicals.

Clean the Vents

Many water heaters feature a vent on the bottom that allows oxygen to enter the heater and aid in heating. Over a year, this vent can collect dust and other debris. To clean, suck up the material with a vacuum and empty up the flue. Vacuum the ducts as part of your spring and fall cleaning routines.

Test TPR

A temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve is a safety feature in water heaters. It automatically opens to release pressure by detecting harmful pressure accumulation or an abnormally high temperature inside the water heater tank. A water heater is at risk of exploding if the TPR valve is not operating. The TPR valve on a water heater should be tested once a year.

To conduct the test, place a bucket beneath the pipe attached to the TPR. Next, pull the valve’s lever. You should notice a little surge of air or see some water and vapor depart the TPR. If you don’t, the valve will need to be replaced.

Empty the Tank

Sediment buildup in the tank can lower the energy efficiency of your water heater and block your water lines. We recommend you empty the tank in your water heater once a year.

Change the Temperature

Adjust the temperature dial on the water heater tank to 120 degrees. You will save up to 5% on energy bills for every 10 degrees you reduce the temperature. If you will be away from home for more than three days, turn off the water heater or set the thermostat to the lowest level.

You may relax and enjoy the excellent hot water that will be flowing and heating more efficiently — and safely — after just a few minutes of simple labor.

Make a Service Call


If you’re concerned that your attempts at water heater maintenance may backfire and cause more problems than they solve, don’t just disregard the work. Schedule a service call from a plumber near me instead.

At Tureks Plumbing, our terrific people are proud to offer terrific service to our customers. Contact our team today to schedule your water heater maintenance appointment.

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Signs to Replace Your Water Heater

Wednesday, January 5th, 2022

Signs to Replace Your Water Heater

Signs to Replace Your Water Heater

We’re guessing you spend at least 30 minutes a day worrying about your water heater. Wrong—we hope you’ve got more important things on your mind. Most of us don’t give our water heater a second thought until we turn on the shower or sink and there’s no hot water. The fact is that most hot water heater issues develop decades before the equipment breaks. So here are some signs to replace your water heater from you plumber Appleton Wisconsin.

How to Tell You Need a New Water Heater

Here are a few clear indicators that your hot water heater isn’t operating correctly and needs to be repaired–don’t worry. Tureks, water heater repair Appleton Wisconsin provides water heater repair services across the Appleton area.

Water of Poor Quality

You may learn a lot about your water heater’s functionality by checking the hot water as it flows out of the faucet. Minerals, silt, and other debris may build-up at the bottom of your water heater’s tank over time, resulting in rusty, muddy water. Water heater replacement Appleton WI states, you may also notice unpleasant smells or metallic tastes in your water.

Leakage

One of the most prevalent water heater issues is leakage. Your emergency plumber Fox Valley is here to help. If you observe a pool of standing water near your water heater, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible. A leaky water heater may signify an internal breakdown of the device that needs immediate care, depending on the cause of the leak. You risk floods and serious water damage to your property if you don’t.

Unpredictable Temperature

Do you find it difficult to regulate the temperature of your hot water? Even if you don’t touch the faucet handle, does the temperature change from hot to cold? Another clue that your hot water heater is on its way out is inconsistency in the temperature of your hot water.

You may be able to solve the problem by altering the water heater’s settings in certain circumstances. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to contact Tureks for a water heater repair or replacement.

It Takes a Long Time for Water to Heat Up

If your water takes a long time to heat up, it might be due to a problem with the thermostat or heating element. This might also suggest a silt buildup in the tank. It may be time to replace the unit if changing the thermostat or heating element, or flushing the tank, does not cure the issue.

Your Water Heater Is Making Strange Noises

A water heater is not uncommon to create noise, particularly when the burner unit is activated to heat the water. However, some noises, such as creaking, rattling, pounding, knocking, or whining, should be avoided since they might signify problems. You may try flushing the tank to remove any silt that’s generating the noise, but if it doesn’t help, the heating element will need to be replaced.

Age

Age isn’t simply a number when it comes to your water heater. Even a high-quality, well-maintained water heater, like any mechanical item, can not last indefinitely. So while an older water heater may not show indicators of difficulty, it is more likely to have a problem or fail completely.

Most water heaters have a lifetime of 10 to 15 years. If your unit is between these ages or older, Tureks can provide you with high-quality water replacement services right here! It doesn’t get much better than that–upgrading to a new unit will improve system efficiency while also potentially lowering your energy expenses.

How can you tell if your water heater is malfunctioning?

Call the experts at Tureks in Fox Valley, WI!

Contacting the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services is the best approach to find out whether your water heater is in good operating order. Our skilled experts can promptly identify the majority of common water heater issues and conduct excellent repairs or, if necessary, install a new water heater. Get in touch with us now to learn more about our water heater services!

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How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

Wednesday, September 15th, 2021
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater - Appleton WI

Expanding the Life of Your Water Heater

Most homeowners don’t realize how heavily they rely on their water heater. As you probably know, your water heater is responsible for all of your hot water. Without it, it would be difficult to shower, wash dishes, and do laundry. To keep your water heater working at its best ability, it is recommended that you have it serviced by your Appleton plumber. There are other ways to increase its longevity. In this article, Tureks Plumbing shares how to extend the life of your water heater tank and preserve its efficiency and safety.

Water Heater Maintenance

This will only take a few minutes. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, contact Tureks Plumbing. Here’s what you’ll need: 

  • Bucket
  • Plumbers Tape
  • Towels
  • Slip joint pliers

Note: pressure release valve is required for the following tasks.

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

You may be wondering how long water heater tanks last. Some water heaters can last a decade without maintenance. Some are not so lucky. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, a plumber in Sacramento, point out that the unit’s life expectancy depends on the type of water heater you have. However, a few minutes of water heater maintenance once a year is worth the effort. If there are any issues, here are some water heater repair suggestions to assist keep it running.

Checklist for Basic Water Heater Maintenance: Examine the Pressure-Relief Valve

Put the Valve to the Test

Check the pressure-relief valve, which is usually placed on the top or side of the water heater. If the pressure inside the tank becomes too high, this valve will automatically open. Place a bucket beneath the valve for draining.

Change the Valve (if Necessary)

Replace the valve if it does not release water when you lift the lever. The replacement is straightforward: Turn off the water, drain the tank, and then detach the discharge pipe and the old valve. Wrap sealant tape around the threads of the new valve and screw it in. If your valve has been sitting for a while and has never been tested, it may leak after you test it. 

Examine Your Work

Close the cold water supply line shutoff valve that feeds the water heater. Then, using any faucet, turn on the hot water to relieve the pressure inside the water heater’s tank. Keep the water running until you’ve finished your work. Turn off the electricity to your electric heater at the main panel. Turn the gas control dial to “off” on a gas heater.

Built-up Sediment From the Water Heater Tank Should Be Drained.

Drain the tank to flush out sediments that have accumulated at the bottom. Sediment buildup reduces the efficiency of your water heater, shortening its life and increasing your energy expenditure. Two or three liters of water should be plenty to wash away sediments, but always let the water flow until no particles are visible in the bucket. Slowly open the drain valve and let the water run until it is clear and sediment-free.

Expect Noises

Don’t be alarmed if you hear gurgling or groaning from the heater. That sound is simply air entering the system as the water drains. Drain the tank entirely, detach the old valve, and screw in a new one if the drain valve won’t close tightly when you’re finished. To restart the water heater, open the shutdown valve and run hot water from any faucet to purge the system of air. Then, relight the pilot or switch on the electricity.

Set the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If the dial lacks digits, use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the water temperature. Higher temperatures promote sediment buildup and increase the danger of scorching injuries.

Now that you know how to extend the life of your water heater, you can easily incorporate this in your annual to-do’s. If you come across any problems, don’t hesitate to contact Tureks Plumbing. Our team is available 24/7 for emergency plumbing services. 

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Tips for Saving on Your Water Heating Bill

Wednesday, July 21st, 2021
tips for saving on your water heater - Appleton WI

Easy Tips for Saving on Your Water Heating Bill

Owning a house is expensive, and heating water is much more expensive than people realize. If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills, take a look at your hot water heater. You may be surprised to learn that heating water accounts for about 18% of your utility bills. That makes it the second-largest energy expense in the home (after HVAC). So, adjusting your hot water heater setup and usage patterns could result in significant savings. In this article, our Fox Valley plumbers share a few easy tips for saving on your water heating bill. 

Reduce the Temperature on the Thermostat

One of our favorite tips for saving on your water heating bill is adjusting the thermostat that can be found on your water heater. We recommend adjusting the thermostat if it’s set higher than 120 Fahrenheit. With every 10 degrees lower, you’ll save about 3-5%. 

Repair Leaky Faucets

Do you have a dripping faucet that you’ve put off fixing? Consider the following: A slow leak faucet wastes about 3,153 gallons of water each year. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumber Maplewood, if the leak is coming from the hot water tap, you’re not only paying for the wasted water but also for the energy used to heat it. The same could be true for water heater repairs. If your water heater is acting up, search for the best plumber near me, so the problem doesn’t get worse. 

Low-Flow Mode

It’s one thing to put off a bathroom remodel, but don’t put off replacing ancient plumbing fixtures. Replace your showerheads and faucets with low-flow ones if they were made over 20 years ago. Modern showerheads consume half the amount of water that older showerheads did. 

Try to Use Less Hot Water!

Make an effort to be more careful of how much hot water you use. Shorten your showers, wash your laundry in cold water, and only run the dishwasher when it’s full. Examine your daily routine and look for ways to reduce your use of hot water. Even cutting your thirty-minute shower could reduce your water waste and energy bills! 

Use a Timer for Hot Water

It is a waste of money to heat water that will not be used. We suggest installing a timer on your hot water heater so you can save the most energy. If you reside in a region where energy prices are higher during peak hours, you may even use it to turn off your water heater during certain times. 

Purchase a More Energy-Efficient Water Heater

Traditional storage tank hot water heaters have an average lifespan of 15 years. If yours is towards the end of its useful life, consider upgrading to a more efficient water heater. Tankless hot water heaters and solar hot water heaters are significantly less expensive to operate. Aside from the financial advantages, you’ll appreciate the fact that tankless hot water heaters have an unending supply of hot water. Need water heater replacement in Appleton, WI? Contact Tureks Plumbing Services! We offer the best plumbing services in the Fox Valley areas. 

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Tankless Water Heater Myths

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021
tankless water heater myths

Tankless Water Heater Myths

If you think it’s time to replace your current water heater, you may want to consider upgrading to a tankless model. The best plumbing companies will agree that a tankless water heater is the better choice. A new tankless water heater can last up to 30 years. If you’re considering a tankless water heater installation in Appleton, WI, read the article below to learn more about tankless water heater myths.

Myth: Easy To Switch to a Tankless Water Heater

Most homes in Appleton, WI are over 10 years old, so it’s likely that your water heater has a storage tank. Going from a storage-tank water heater to a tankless water heater is harder than it looks. Tankless water heaters burn fuel with coal. As a result, the construction phase for a tankless water heater can also require work on the gas lines to ensure that the device receives adequate gas supplies. 

In addition, extra work might also be needed to equip your home with the necessary ventilation to guide the exhaust gasses outdoors. Therefore, it’s not recommended that you swap out your water heater yourself. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services for professional tankless water heater installation

Myth: The Water Is Instantly Hot

A lot of people had the idea that a tankless water heater is comparable to instant hot water in your showers or faucets. Yes, it’s accurate that the tankless device heats up the water as it’s switched on. But, the water also has to pass through the plumbing in your home until it’s sent to the working plug. Essentially, it would take almost the same time for hot water to enter the tap as it does from the storage water heater. If you want to shorten the waiting period for you to finally use hot water, you may want to look at a circulating system installation in combination with your tankless machine to hold hot water continuously accessible in the pipes for immediate supply.

Myth: Require an Annual Inspection

One of the benefits of a tankless water heater is skipping annual inspections! There’s no maintenance timeline for a tankless water heater. Our friends at McQuillan Bros, a plumbing company in Stillwater, say that it really depends on the hardness of the water. The harder the temperature, the faster the mineral deposits can build up in the water heater. Your tankless water heater will force much of this through the system, but if there’s a build-up, the scale detector program will send you an error message, and then you’ll need to have it serviced by a professional plumber.

Myth: Not Enough Water

As we mentioned above, most homes have a storage-tank water heater. Therefore, switching to a tankless water heater creates a common misconception that there’s a lack of hot water. “Not the case at all. The water is heated when it moves through the unit. So, you don’t need to worry about not getting enough hot water,” says Ed Tureks from Tureks Plumbing. 

Contact a Plumbing Company in Fox Valley

Need water heater services in Appleton, WI? Tureks Plumbing is happy to help! Our team of professional, licensed, and insured plumbers can service, repair, and install your water heater. We’ve been serving the Fox Valley and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Contact us today for a water heater estimate or if you need residential plumbing services or commercial plumbing services.

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Why You Should Get a Tankless Water Heater

Wednesday, February 10th, 2021

why you should get a tankless water heater

Why You Should Get a Tankless Water Heater 2021

Unlike traditional water heaters, on-demand or tankless water heaters only heat water when needed. Depending on the capability of the heater you mount, these tankless water heaters typically deliver hot water at a flow rate that averages 2-5 gallons a minute. Tureks Plumbing Services shares the following reasons why you should get a tankless water heater installed in your Fox Valley home.

Tankless Water Heaters Are Compact

As lot sizes get smaller due to the increasing demand for real estate, it becomes important to scale down the size of the different appliances one installs in their home. Tankless water heaters are perfectly suited for someone who wants to save space because they are compact. The tankless water heater doesn’t have a storage tank, so it occupies less space when compared to the traditional water heaters with storage tanks. Talk to a plumber in Appleton, WI, and confirm whether a tankless water heater of the capacity you require will fit in the space available if you couldn’t fit in a traditional water heater.

Tankless Water Heaters Conserve Energy

One of the complaints against traditional water heaters is that they waste energy because the water in their storage tanks must always be kept hot in anticipation of a need for that water. This energy that is wasted during this standby time is conserved when one has a tankless water heater. As already mentioned, tankless water heaters only heat water at the moment when hot water is required at a point of use, such as your dishwasher. Talk to a Fox Valley plumber for the actual figures of how much energy you will be able to save if you install a tankless water heater of the capacity you desire in your home.

No More Hot Water Shortages

Do you remember how you cringed when the supply of hot water suddenly stopped while you were taking a shower? Such scenarios are common when many points of use require hot water from a traditional water heater at the same time. With a tankless water heater, such shortages will be a thing of the past because the heater will keep heating water for as long as there is a demand for hot water at a point of use within the plumbing system. However, the expert plumbers at Tureks Plumbing Services caution that you can only have an unlimited supply of hot water if the hot water isn’t being used beyond the discharge capacity of the tankless water heater. The key to unlimited hot water with a tankless water heater is that an expert should advise you on the best heater size for your needs.

Longer Service Life

A water heater is one of the expensive appliances in a home, and it is normal to expect these devices to last as long as possible so that you recoup your investment. Tankless water heaters have the distinction of having a longer service life when compared to their traditional counterparts. Since the tankless water heater doesn’t have a storage tank, there is no risk that it will spring a leak and fail. According to experienced plumbers in Appleton, WI, tankless water heaters last for approximately 20 years, while traditional water heaters will last for a maximum of 15 years.

Tankless Water Heaters Conserve Water

Tureks Plumbing Services also confirms that you will conserve more water when you switch to a tankless water heater. How does this happen? With a traditional water heater, people typically let some water run to waste as the cold water in the pipes makes way for the hot water to follow. This wasted water adds up over time, and your water bill is affected. With a tankless system, you get hot water as soon as you open the faucet or other points of use. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, a home service company in Sacramento, agree that you save the water that you would have lost while waiting for the faucet to discharge hot water.

You Get Purer Water

Like a traditional water heater ages, its storage tank may start rusting. This rust finds its way into the water you use at different points of use, and this could put your health at risk. This risk of corrosion explains why homeowners have to keep replacing the sacrificial anodes in the hot water heater to prevent corrosion from taking place. Others have to hire a plumber in Appleton, WI, to inspect and maintain their hot water heaters. Eventually, corrosion still happens, and the water discharged may even start looking discolored in extreme cases. Tankless water heaters don’t have storage tanks, so you get cleaner or purer water each time you open a faucet or other point of use.

As you can see, tankless water heaters have numerous advantages over water heaters with storage tanks. However, you can only enjoy those benefits if you work with Tureks Plumbing Services to select the appropriate tank and install it correctly. So, contact Tureks Plumbing today to witness how these heaters can transform the hot water system in your home.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in July 2019 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

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Common Water Heater Problem

Wednesday, October 14th, 2020
common water heater problems - Tureks Plumbing Services

Common Water Heater Problems

Here at Tureks Plumbing Services, we are dedicated to ensuring that all your plumbing queries are answered and needs fulfilled. As we get into the cooler months, more plumbing problems will arise. In this article, we explore some of the most common water heater problems Fox Valley homeowners experience. If you need professional plumbing services in Appleton, WI, contact Tureks Plumbing today!

Water Heater Drip Tube

A dip tube is a plastic tube, usually long, that is present in almost all water heaters. It is fitted into the inlet of the water heater and hangs about 8 inches above the base of the tank. A dip tube that is properly functioning is designed to shoot the cold water coming into the base of the heater where it is heated quickly and with ease. If no dip tube is present in your water heater, the cold water mixes with hot water, which is at the top of the tank heater on its way to the outlet. This is what results in lukewarm water coming out of your faucets, instead of hot water.

In a scenario where the dip tube in your water heater breaks off, depending on how much of it broke off, you may either have only lukewarm water coming from your water heater into your faucets or the water may run out very quickly. Gilmore Heating and Air, an HVAC, and plumbing company in Sacramento explain that this is because the cold water remains at the top of the tank, where it cannot be heated and mixes with hot water from the hot water outlet, which is also located at the top of the tank—hence resulting in cold or lukewarm water going into your house’s hot water pipes before it has been sufficiently heated.

Water heaters manufactured between 1993 and 1997 are equipped with defective dip tubes, which, depending on the water chemistry in your locality, as well as the pH and temperature setting of the water, may result in these tubes crumbling, breaking, or dissolving into smaller pieces.

To check whether your water heater was manufactured between 1993 and 1997, check the first four digits on the serial number. These represent the month and year of manufacture. If the third and fourth numbers are 97, 96, 95, 94, or 93, your units could be affected. 

According to experienced Fox Valley plumbers, there are two options if you indeed have a bad unit. The first would be to replace the water heater and flush all faucet filters and screens in the house. This also applies to water heaters, which have been in use for more than ten years. The water heaters present on the market now are fitted and manufactured with dip tubes that last almost as long as the water heater. For a water heater replacement in Appleton, WI, contact Tureks Plumbing today.

The second option would be to replace the defective dip tube with a cross-linked polyethylene dip tube then flush the sediment, particles, and debris out of the filters, screens, and the water heater. It is important to note that you may have to flush the system more than once to clean the heater effectively. If you would prefer a professional to handle the matter, please reach out to a plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Sediment Buildup in Your Water Heater

If your house has a storage-tank water heater, sediment buildup is something that is bound to happen. In the water heating process, water entering the water heater tank is often carrying dissolved naturally-occurring minerals such as magnesium and calcium, little amounts of sand as well as other debris. This debris, combined with the minerals, forms into sediment particles, and they settle at the bottom of the tank, explains OC water heater professionals at Do It Right Plumbers. When these sediment particles buildup, you may experience issues with your heating system such as:

  • Rumbling sounds when the water heater is on
  • Water temperatures fluctuating from lukewarm to hot
  • A decrease in the supply of hot water to your faucets

Sediment buildup affects the water heater’s ability to maintain a consistent temperature of the water, and it also wears down the energy efficiency of the heaters. As the buildup piles, these sediment particles can replace the water in the tank, block the water lines, block the drain valve, or cause untimely tank failure. If your tank prematurely fails, contact emergency Plumbers in Appleton Wisconsin for help with the installation of a new and far more efficient model.

Additionally, to help prevent sediment buildup, hire a professional plumber from Tureks Plumbing Services in Appleton, Wisconsin, to flush your storage tank periodically throughout the year.

Malfunctioning Heating System

Water heaters that have been functioning for 10 to 15 years may be faulty due to old age as well as wear and tear. Also, not flushing your water heater tank periodically throughout the year as recommended by professional plumbers may also interfere with the heating system of one’s water heater.

 A water heater may fail mostly in these three areas:

  • Thermostat
  • Thermal switch
  • The heating element

It is best to leave the diagnosis and water heater repairs to a trained and licensed professional plumber. If any of this information resonates with your water heating problems, please contact Tureks Plumbing Services in Appleton, Wisconsin, today.

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