A water heater is one of the most essential fixtures in your home, but unfortunately, many aren’t properly maintained. This can lead to expensive repairs and malfunctions down the road. That’s why it’s so important to choose a quality contractor when installing a new water heater. There are many different types of water heaters available on the market today, but not all are created equal. If yours isn’t working properly, look into finding a new one as soon as possible so you can avoid a full water damage repair and restoration. If you are in the process of renovating or building a new house, now may be the best time to select a high-quality water heater that is efficient and long-lasting. Here are some tips on finding a reputable water heaer installer:

Check their licensing and certification.

When it comes to installing a water heater, you want to make sure that the company can properly do so. This is especially important if you live in a dry climate, where the water could cause damage to your home’s structure. A licensed and certified contractor will have the knowledge and expertise needed to protect your home and properly install the water heater. You can find the licensing and certification information for each contractor through the state’s website or by contacting your local government.

Ask for recommendations.

Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they know of any reliable contractors. You can also check online forums for recommendations. Ask the contractor for references and call each one to find out more information about their services and whether they were satisfied with the job. You can also search for the contractor on social media and ask if they offer any referrals.

Check the contractor’s insurance and license.

Before the installation begins, make sure that the contractor’s insurance is current and in-force. You never know when an accident could occur, but having a safety net in place will help protect you and your home in the event of an accident. Make sure to check that the contractor is properly licensed. The state’s website can be a great resource for finding the right contractor. You can also search online for the state’s contractor license board. Many states have their own searchable database that makes it easy to find the correct contractor license number.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

The more questions you ask, the more you can determine if a contractor is the right fit for your needs. You can ask about their experience and education, how long the installation will take, and what type of warranty they offer. You can also ask if they have a license to work on your type of project.

Summary

Water heaters are essential fixtures in your home and can save you money on your water heating bill each month. However, there are a lot of factors that can lead to water damage in your home. Make sure you are choosing a water heater that is right for your home and has the capacity to meet your needs. If you notice that your water heater is not working properly or leaking, it is essential to find a new one as soon as possible. There are many different ways to find a new water heater, and it is important to choose a contractor who is qualified and licensed. Once you find the right water heater, you can enjoy your home’s hot water for years to come.

Frequently Asked Question

While you technically can install a hot water heater yourself as a homeowner, the likelihood that this is a good or safe idea is very slim. Trust the professionals with your hot water heater installation to make sure it's done correctly. You wouldn't want to cause yourself or your family any harm.
The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For a new tankless water heater, new electric wiring will need to be installed.
Turn off all water supplies in the house. Turn on all the hot water faucets in the house in order to drain what is left in the existing hot water heater. Then, disconnect the water line that connects the water heater to the rest of the house. There is often a connection on a hose that you can simply unscrew.
These heaters can be fueled by electricity, gas, or liquid propane and installed in many areas of your home. The national average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $1,100 to $2,800, with most people paying around $1,800 for a direct replacement of a 50-gallon gas hot water heater using the same model.
  • Your older water heater is getting up there in age
  • It's making strange noises
  • You're getting rusty water out of the tap
  • Your hot water doesn't last as long as it used to
  • There are water puddles around the unit
120 degrees Fahrenheit is the safety recommendation against scalding, but 140° is the common default setting. Most experts agree that anything below 120 degrees creates a risk for bacteria to develop inside your water heater from stagnant water, such as legionella that causes Legionnaire's disease.
Turn up the thermostat on the hot water heater. One of the easiest ways to make a hot shower last longer is by using less hot water while it's at a higher temperature. To do this, turn up the temperature on the thermostat that's attached to the hot water heater tank. (Not the thermostat on the wall.)
Sediment buildup shortens the life of your water heater and adds to your energy bill by reducing its efficiency. Draining two or three gallons of water is usually enough to flush out sediments, but always let the water flow until you no longer see particles in the bucket. Regular water heater maintenance will always extend its lifespan.
  • You're overusing hot water.
  • The water heater tank size is too small for your household.
  • Your hot water heater is tankless.
  • Sediment or minerals have built up in your water heating system.
Soft water can actually corrode the water heater anode faster. When the anode wears down, the corrosive elements will move on to the tank. So if left alone, a water softener system can actually shorten the lifespan of a water heater.