Water Heater Repair and Installation
Most water heaters last between 8 to 15 years. Newer models last even longer if proactively maintained. If your water heater has stopped working, is leaking, or needs to be replaced, Ben Franklin can help. We’re your local experts for conventional and tankless water heater installation and repair in the Dallas area.
Water heater problems like sediment buildup not only compromise your heater’s effectiveness, but also significantly reduce its lifespan. Make sure your water heater is installed properly and receives regular maintenance to avoid these problems. Understanding how a water heater works and basic maintenance can keep yours delivering hot water to every corner of your home for years to come.
How Does a Water Heater Work?
There are two types of water heaters: conventional and tankless. Here’s a quick synopsis of how each works.
- Conventional water heaters are more popular. These are the large cylinders you find in most basements. A large (40-60 gallon) tank holds the hot water until a faucet or appliance calls for it. To create the hot water, a dip tube deposits cold water from your water main in the bottom of the tank. A gas burner or electrical heating element clicks on and heats the water. As it’s heated, the hot water rises to the top of the tank, ready to use. As you use your hot water, more cold water is added at the bottom of the tank. A thermostat continually tells the burner when more heat is necessary to regenerate the supply.
- Tankless water heaters work on demand. They don’t have a tank for storing hot water. Instead, a gas burner or electric coil activates when hot water is called for. Cold water travels through the heater and is instantly heated as it travels through the unit on its way to the shower, faucet or appliance that needs hot water. Tankless water heaters are also called “on demand water heaters” because they only activate when needed.
Tankless models cost more upfront but will last 20+ years and require less energy to operate. Click to learn more about the pros and cons of conventional vs tankless water heaters. A certified plumber can also help you decide which hot water heater is best for your home.
How Much is a Water Heater?
If you’re having water heater trouble, chances are the first thought to cross your mind is “How much to replace to a water heater?”
A new conventional water heater will run you somewhere between $400-$1,600. A new on demand heater can cost between $1,000-$4,000 depending on the model and what size tankless water heater you need.
You’ll also need to consider how much it costs to install a water heater. Installing an instant hot water heater or changing the location of the water heater in your home, may require you to move gas or plumbing lines to accommodate the change. A plumber can explain how you install a tankless water heater and whether it makes sense in your home.
Why is My Hot Water Heater Leaking?
A leaky hot water heater is never a good sign. It may be that a pipe connection is loose or it could be a more serious issue within the unit. To be certain that your water heater continues to work safely, have water heater leaks serviced by a professional.
Ben Franklin Plumbing repairs all types of water heaters in Dallas, TX and the surrounding communities. One of our technicians would be happy to check your hot water heater whenever you have concerns. You always get our punctual plumber guarantee.
The Punctual Plumber Guarantees
We back up our water heater services by committing to our three Punctual Plumber Guarantees:
Punctuality
Ben Franklin is known as “the Punctual Plumber” for a reason. If we fail to show up to our scheduled appointment on time, Ben Franklin will pay $5 for every minute we’re late, to a maximum of $300.
Preparation
The technician who arrives to help with your water heater problem will have the tools and knowledge required to do so.
Satisfaction
Ben Franklin offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on all work we provide, including our water heater repair, replacement, and installation services.
Expert and Emergency 24 Hour Water Heater Repair and Installation in Dallas, Plano and McKinney
Ben Franklin specializes in providing fast, reliable repair, including during emergency plumbing hours. We arrive equipped with the tools and supplies to solve your problem right then and there. Our technicians are prepared to successfully diagnose and repair water heater problems on the same day.
If you live near Dallas, Plano, McKinney, or the surrounding area and you need water heater help now, contact the experts at Ben Franklin Plumbing. No matter what your repair, replacement, or installation needs are, our Punctual Plumbers will make sure the only hot water you’re in comes out of your faucet!
Water heater FAQ
How can I stop sediment from building up in my water heater?
Make sure you’ve set your heater’s temperature to the recommended setting (which is usually 120℉) to help prevent calcium and magnesium deposit accumulation. Installing a water softener will also help filter out sediment minerals. Most importantly, flush your water heater tank twice a year.
[Read more]How do I flush my water heater?
- Turn off the water and power source
- Connect a hose to the drain valve on the tank and position the other end over a drain
- Open some hot water faucets in the house
- Open the tank’s drain valve and let water flow until the tank is empty
- Turn the water back on and let it flow from the hose until it runs clear
- Close the drain valve and hot water faucets, disconnect the hose
- Turn the power back on, test the pressure-release valve
What’s wrong with my water heater?
Common water heater problems often have clear diagnoses, such as:
- Not enough hot water: Your heater is too small or the heating element is malfunctioning
- Water is too hot: The thermostat is set too high
- Discolored water: Sediment has built up inside your tank
- Leaking: Valves are broken or the tank is rupturing
How do I choose a new water heater?
Start your water heater research process by answering each of the following questions:
- Am I interested in a conventional water heater or a tankless model?
- How big do I need my water heater tank to be?
- How long should the warranty last?
- What brands should I consider?
- Who will install it?