10 Questions to Ask Before Installing a New Hot Water Heater

Before you buy or install a new water heater in McHenry, you should ask a few questions of your installer. It’s important to have a qualified professional handle your installation, and it’s also essential to be certain you’re getting the best water heater for your home. By asking these questions, you can make sure you’re covered and prevent the need for a water heater repair service. 

1. Is It Tankless or Traditional?

First, you should know whether or not you’re installing a tankless water heater. You can classify every water heater as either a tankless or a traditional one. Each type has its own advantages and drawbacks, so you should evaluate which type is best for your home.

Generally, your budget, household size, and energy use goals affect the decision. Talk to your plumber to find out which heater you need. 

2. What Size Tank Should You Get?

If you don’t get a water heater that’s appropriate for your hot water needs, you will live in discomfort. Your new heater won’t meet your needs. Furthermore, the constant running of the system could cause it to break down early on. 

Before you pick a heater, ask about your options. A reputable plumber can tell you what size tank is appropriate for your home. After listening to your needs, a plumber can make sure your new heater isn’t too small or large. 

3. Is It Energy Efficient?

Today, water heaters are much more energy efficient than they were years ago. But some heaters are more efficient than others. You should find out how efficient your heater is, and consider switching to a more energy efficient option. 

Why does it matter? An energy efficient water heater saves you money on energy bills. At first, the unit may cost you more than a less efficient one. But over time, you could save thousands of dollars on your energy bills. Tankless heaters are the most efficient and will leave your energy bills surprisingly low. However, some traditional water heaters have good energy ratings. 

4. How Long Will it Take to Install?

Although some plumbing installations take days, a tankless or traditional heater installation should only take a few hours. When you’re looking into potential plumbing companies, ask them how long the process should take. 

The length of installation varies based on your type of heater and your home. However, a plumber shouldn’t tell you it will take days to finish the install. Likewise, they shouldn’t tell you it will take an hour. 

5. What Happens to the Old Water Heater?

Most plumbing companies offer to throw away your old water heater. But this isn’t always the case, so it’s helpful to ask this question. You can’t expect to just throw the water heater on the side of the road.

If your plumber doesn’t provide this service for free, ask them what they charge to Dispose of the heater. The price will increase your installation costs. 

6. Which Brands Can You Use?

Some plumbing companies only allow you to choose from one or two brands of water heater manufacturers. Meanwhile, others let you choose whatever manufacturer you want. 

If the plumber recommends a certain manufacturer, find out why they like the company. This allows you to make an informed decision. 

7. What Maintenance Does It Need?

Even a new water heater needs some preventive maintenance. Before it’s too late and your water heater breaks down, educate yourself. Find out what types of maintenance your heater needs and have your plumbing company handle the maintenance.

At least once a year, you should have a plumber inspect your heater. They will check out the filters, anode rod, pressure relief valve, and more. Additionally, a professional will flush your tank to keep sediment from affecting the water heater. With regular maintenance, you can keep your water heater in great shape.

8. What’s the Warranty?

A new water heater should last for years, but this isn’t always the case. If you encounter a problem in the weeks or months after an installation, you should have some sort of guarantee that the manufacturer or plumber has a guarantee.

Usually, water heaters have five year warranties. However, this varies, and some manufacturers don’t even offer warranties. Ask your plumber about the warranty and the specific terms. You should also ask if the plumbing company has a warranty on the installation. If something goes wrong during the installation, you may be able to have the plumbing company cover the cost of the repair. 

9. How Much is the Installation?

The cost of your water heater and installation depends on several factors. A tankless heater is more than a traditional one, and the size of the heater also impacts the price. As far as the installation goes, you need to talk to your plumber. The complexity of the installation affects the price.

A trustworthy plumbing company will be able to give you a quote on the installation. Although the quote might not be exact, it lets you know what to expect. Your plumber should give you a written estimate and be willing to answer all of your questions about the cost and the process. 

10. Who Will Do the Installation?

Perhaps the most important question is regarding the actual installation. If you don’t have a plumber, it’s time to make some phone calls. You need someone who is licensed and experienced enough to deal with your McHenry plumbing. 

Take your time finding the right company. If you need to make some phone calls and do some research, you’re on the right track. Installation mistakes can cost you money in high energy bills and repairs. In the end, using the wrong company can cost you thousands of dollars.

Who’s Your Water Heater Repair Service?

Are you ready for a new water heater? Whether you need an installation or a water heater repair service, you can count on us at Combat. Our team can answer these questions and more. If you want a smooth installation with excellent customer service, call us today.

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