Plumbing Repairs in Houston | Nick’s Plumbing https://www.nicksplumbing.com/category/water-heaters/ Residential Plumbing & HVAC Services in Houston Tue, 23 Sep 2025 23:07:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.nicksplumbing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/cropped-favicon-32x32-1-32x32.png Plumbing Repairs in Houston | Nick’s Plumbing https://www.nicksplumbing.com/category/water-heaters/ 32 32 Slab Leaks: The Silent Danger That Could Be Under Your House https://www.nicksplumbing.com/slab-leak-detection-repair/ Tue, 23 Sep 2025 01:31:29 +0000 https://www.nicksplumbing.com/?p=19189 Most Houston homeowners are familiar with the headaches of clogged drains, leaking faucets, or a busted water heater. But one of the most serious plumbing problems is also…

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Most Houston homeowners are familiar with the headaches of clogged drains, leaking faucets, or a busted water heater. But one of the most serious plumbing problems is also one of the hardest to spot: the slab leak. Hidden under the very foundation of your home, a slab leak can quietly cause structural damage, drive up your water bills, and even create health risks from mold and mildew.

What Is a Slab Leak and Why Is It So Dangerous?

In simple terms, it’s when a water or sewer pipe that runs beneath your home’s concrete foundation starts to leak. Since these pipes are buried under several inches of concrete and soil, the problem isn’t likely to be visible right away.

The danger comes from time. Water leaking beneath a slab has nowhere to go but into the soil supporting your home. Over weeks or months, it can weaken the ground under your foundation, leading to cracks, sinking, or uneven floors. And because many of Houston’s homes, primarily inside of or close to the 610 Loop, often sit on clay-heavy soil that already shifts continuously between wet and dry weather spells, slab leaks are more likely to occur and create instability for your home.

Key takeaways:

  • Hidden location: Slab leaks happen under your home’s concrete foundation, making them hard to detect.
  • Structural risk: Leaking water erodes soil and can undermine the stability of your foundation.
  • Long-term damage: The longer it goes unnoticed, the worse—and more expensive—the repairs become.

How to Tell If You Have a Slab Leak

Since you can’t see under your foundation, you have to rely on indirect signs. Homeowners often discover a slab leak only after noticing something unusual with their floors, bills, or water pressure.

Common Signs of a Slab Leak:

High Water Bills: If your usage hasn’t changed but your bill suddenly jumps, that’s usually water leaking somewhere you can’t see.

Wet or Warm Spots: You might feel a warm patch on tile or notice carpet that never seems to dry — both are red flags for a hidden leak.

Musty Odors or Mold: That damp, earthy smell on the ground floor is often the first clue that moisture is trapped under the slab.

Cracks in the Foundation: Small cracks are common in any home, but if you notice new ones after the slab has settled, it could indicate that the soil underneath is shifting due to a leak.

Running Water Sound: You may hear the sound of running water when no fixtures are in use. 

Cracked Tiles: Water pressure can cause tiles and grout to crack or loosen. 

Early vs. Advanced Signs

At first, the only clue may be a higher water bill or a faint sound of water. As the leak progresses, the signs become harder to miss: cracks in walls or flooring, uneven doors and windows, or visible water pooling indoors. By the time you see structural issues, the slab leak has likely been there for months.

What Causes Slab Leaks in Houston Homes?

Houston homes are especially vulnerable to slab leaks thanks to our soil and climate conditions.

  • Expansive clay soil: Houston’s soil swells dramatically when wet and shrinks during dry spells, putting constant stress on both foundations and pipes.
  • Corroding pipes: Older copper or cast-iron pipes can deteriorate from hard water minerals or chlorine in the city supply.
  • Abrasion and vibration: As water flows, pipes can rub against rocks, rebar, or the slab itself, wearing them down.
  • High water pressure: Excess pressure accelerates wear and increases the risk of sudden leaks.
  • Poor installation: Pipes damaged or improperly placed during construction are more likely to fail over time.

How Plumbers Detect a Slab Leak Without Tearing Up Your Slab

Say “slab leak” and most folks picture the worst — a plumber standing in your living room, jackhammer in hand, about to make a mess. The good news is that modern leak detection doesn’t usually look like that. These days, plumbers in Houston have a whole toolbox of gadgets that can sniff out a hidden leak without tearing the place apart.

Licensed slab leak plumbers in Houston rely on specialized gear to track down leaks that can’t be seen. Sometimes it’s as simple as using sensitive microphones that pick up the faint hiss of water escaping underground. Other times, thermal cameras spot warm patches from hot-water lines, or moisture meters confirm that hidden dampness is creeping up through flooring or walls.

The big advantage? With this kind of technology, plumbers can zero in on the exact trouble spot. That means less guessing, less demolition, and a repair that targets the leak instead of tearing up half the house.

Can Slab Leaks Be Repaired Without Breaking the Slab?

Yes, in many cases. While sometimes the only option is breaking through the foundation directly above the leak, other repair methods can spare your floors.

  • Tunneling: Plumbers dig a tunnel under the home from outside to reach the damaged pipe. This avoids disrupting the flooring inside.
  • Pipe rerouting: Instead of fixing the damaged pipe, plumbers bypass it by running a new line through the walls or the attic.
  • Epoxy pipe lining: A trenchless option where an epoxy coating is applied inside the existing pipe to seal leaks.

Which option works best depends on the pipe’s location, the home’s age, and the overall condition of the existing plumbing.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Slab Leak in Texas?

The cost can vary widely. A simple spot repair through the slab may be less expensive upfront, but it is much more disruptive. Tunneling or rerouting will probably cost more in labor, but it may protect your interior finishes, like floors and walls. On average, Houston homeowners can expect slab leak repair to range anywhere from a few thousand dollars for minor work to significantly more if extensive tunneling or repiping is required.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover a Slab Leak Repair?

Insurance coverage can be tricky. Most policies will cover the damage caused by a slab leak, such as ruined flooring or foundation cracks, if the event is considered “sudden and accidental.” But the actual repair of the pipe itself is often not included.

That means your policy might pay for fixing the damage to your home, but you’ll still need to cover the cost of the plumbing repair yourself. Because every policy is different, it’s smart to call both a plumber and your insurance company right away should you suspect a slab leak.

Can a Slab Leak Cause Foundation Problems?

Absolutely. A continuous leak undermines the soil that supports your home. Over time, this can cause the foundation to settle unevenly, leading to cracks, warped floors, or even doors and windows that won’t close properly. In Houston, where clay soil already makes foundations vulnerable, a slab leak accelerates the damage dramatically.

Can Slab Leaks Be Prevented?

Sadly, there is no magic fix in our toolkit that can guarantee you’ll never have to worry about a water leak beneath your foundation, but there are a couple of things you can do to perhaps swing the odds in your favor. 

One of the most effective protective measure is to keep your water pressure in check. A pressure regulator installed at the meter will help to take the stress off your pipes, which translates to fewer chances for a line to burst.

Getting a plumbing inspection once a year is one of those simple habits that pays off. A licensed plumber can spot the little things — a bit of corrosion here, a pipe that’s shifting there — long before they turn into the kind of repair that wrecks your weekend and your budget.

Just as important is keeping your eyes and ears open around the house. If your water bill suddenly increases for no reason, you catch a persistent musty odor, or you hear a faint hiss even when everything’s turned off, don’t dismiss these signs. Those slight hints are often your first warning, and catching them early is always cheaper than waiting until they blow up into something bigger.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix a Slab Leak

Slab leaks aren’t the kind of problem that fixes itself if you give it time. Even a small leak can slowly wash away the soil under your foundation or keep enough moisture trapped to feed mold. The longer you let it go, the worse it gets — and the higher the bill climbs when you finally deal with it.

Catching it early usually means a straightforward repair. Waiting turns it into foundation cracks, warped floors, and the kind of damage that can snowball into a full-blown crisis. When it comes to slab leaks, “later” almost always equals “more expensive.”

Why Choose Nick’s for Slab Leak Detection and Repair in Houston?

Slab leak plumbing requires specialized tools, expertise, and local knowledge. Nick’s Plumbing has decades of experience helping Houston homeowners with slab leak detection and repair. Our licensed slab leak plumbers know how to work with the city’s shifting soil, aging plumbing systems, and unique climate challenges. We focus on finding the least disruptive, most effective repair option for your home.

FAQ – Slab Leaks in Texas Homes

Can a slab leak cause my water bill to go up suddenly?
Yes. Unexplained spikes in usage are often the first sign of a hidden leak.

Can a slab leak cause mold or mildew problems in my home?
Definitely, moisture trapped under flooring creates the perfect environment for mold, which can spread indoors.

How long can a slab leak go undetected before it causes severe damage?
Months—or even longer. That’s why early slab leak detection is so critical.

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Gas vs. Electric Tankless Heaters: The Truth About Performance https://www.nicksplumbing.com/gas-vs-electric-tankless-heaters/ Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:43:13 +0000 https://www.nicksplumbing.com/?p=18589 Key Takeaways Gas tankless water heaters deliver higher flow rates and better performance for large households and cold climates. Electric tankless units are ultra-efficient, compact, and easier to…

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Key Takeaways
  • Gas tankless water heaters deliver higher flow rates and better performance for large households and cold climates.

  • Electric tankless units are ultra-efficient, compact, and easier to install—ideal for smaller homes or point-of-use applications.

  • Regular maintenance will help with long-term performance, including flushing and descaling.

  • Professional installation from Nick’s ensures your water heater is safe, correctly sized, and code-compliant for your home.

If you’re in the market for a tankless water heater, chances are you’ve come across the great debate: gas vs. electric. Both types offer on-demand hot water, significant energy savings, and space-saving designs, but the way each one operates is quite different from the other. 

Tankless water heaters perform differently depending on your home’s size, location, and hot water needs. In this post, we’ll walk through the pros, cons, and real-world performance differences between gas and electric tankless water heaters, without pushing one over the other. 

Just the facts, so you can make the choice that works for you.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Regardless of which fuel source you choose to power your new tankless water heater, the concept behind tankless water heaters is the same. Cold water flows into the unit housing, where it’s instantly heated by passing it across a heat exchanger prior to being sent to your faucet or shower. 

Unlike traditional water heaters, which store hot water in a tank, tankless models heat water only when needed. This on-demand delivery method reduces standby energy losses that occur when reheating the same tank of water for hours, thereby improving overall efficiency. The key difference lies in how that water gets heated—either with gas burners or electric heating elements.

Performance of Gas Tankless Water Heaters

When it comes to raw performance, gas tankless water heaters tend to outpace their electric counterparts, especially in homes with higher hot water demands. These units are capable of delivering flow rates between 5 and 10 gallons per minute (GPM), making them ideal for households where multiple fixtures may be in use simultaneously. Whether you’re running the dishwasher, taking a shower, or doing laundry all at once, a properly sized gas unit can keep up without breaking a sweat.

Gas tankless heaters also excel in colder climates, where incoming water temperatures can be extremely cold. Unlike electric models, which can struggle to raise the temperature of very cold water quickly, gas units use a powerful burner system that heats water more rapidly and consistently. This allows them to maintain performance even when groundwater temperatures are significantly lower during the winter months.

Another key performance advantage is their ability to ramp up instantly. Since gas burners ignite immediately when hot water is called for, there’s minimal lag between demand and delivery. And while it’s true that gas models burn fossil fuel, they only do so on demand, meaning there’s no energy waste from maintaining a tank full of hot water around the clock.

Performance of Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Electric tankless water heaters typically have lower flow rates, generally ranging from 2 to 5 GPM. This makes them well-suited for smaller homes, apartments, or point-of-use applications, such as under a kitchen sink. They’re not usually the best option for large families trying to run two or three showers at once, especially in colder climates where the colder incoming water temperatures require more heating power.

Still, electric models offer their own set of advantages. They’re typically more compact, don’t require venting, and are easier to install in tight spaces. When comparing the performance of electric and gas tankless models, electric units may appear slower to heat water under high demand. 

Efficiency and Output Comparison

Electric tankless water heaters often excel in energy efficiency. With efficiency ratings of nearly 98%, they convert nearly all their energy into heat with minimal waste. And, because there’s no combustion or venting required, there’s also no heat loss through exhaust.

Gas tankless water heaters still offer much better efficiency than old tank-style heaters, but some energy is inevitably lost through the venting process. Their Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) usually falls between .81 and .96. While not as high as electric models, the higher output and faster heating speed often make that trade-off worthwhile for larger homes.

If you’re focused on tankless water heater energy savings, keep in mind that utility rates matter. In areas where electricity is cheap, electric units may come out ahead. But if natural gas is less expensive in your region, the difference in operating costs could tilt the scale in the other direction.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both gas and electric tankless water heaters can last 15 to 20 years or more with proper care, but regular maintenance plays a significant role in how long they’ll last. Gas units typically require more upkeep, including vent cleaning, burner inspection, and descaling due to mineral buildup.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to a drop in performance, higher energy bills, and premature system failure. Mineral buildup inside the unit, particularly in areas with hard water, can reduce heat transfer efficiency and lead to overheating. For gas units, failing to clean the burners or inspect venting can lead to incomplete combustion or carbon monoxide buildup.

Regular flushing, typically performed once a year, helps remove sediment and scale from the inside of the heat exchanger. Replacing filters and checking the electrical or gas components can catch small problems before they turn into major repairs. Homeowners who skip these steps risk voiding their warranty and shortening the life of their system.

Choosing the Right Tankless System for Your Home

So, which is better—gas or electric? That depends entirely on your home and how you use hot water. If you have a large household with high demand, a gas tankless water heater is likely your best bet. It offers faster heating and higher flow rates, which will keep everyone happy even during the morning shower rush.

On the other hand, if you live in a smaller home, are energy-conscious, or don’t need to run multiple hot water appliances at once, an electric unit will serve you just fine. They’re also a great fit for homeowners looking to simplify installation or minimize maintenance needs. Ultimately, comparing electric and gas tankless heaters involves weighing upfront costs, energy sources, and how you plan to use hot water on a day-to-day basis.

Importance of Professional Installation and Evaluation

Whether you’re leaning toward gas or electric, a professional evaluation isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Tankless water heater installation goes well beyond hooking up a water line and flipping a switch. Gas units require careful consideration of gas line sizing and proper venting to prevent the buildup of dangerous combustion gases. Electric models, while simpler in some ways, often require a substantial electrical upgrade, including a new breaker or panel to handle the system’s power draw.

Nick’s Plumbing has installed hundreds of tankless water heaters across Houston, and we know exactly what to look for. Before making a recommendation, we evaluate your water usage patterns, your home’s layout, available energy sources, and even local permitting requirements. We take care of the technical details so you don’t end up with a system that’s underpowered, inefficient, or unsafe.

Let Nick’s Help You Find the Right Tankless Water Heater

When comparing gas vs electric tankless water heaters, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both have their strengths and a few limitations. What matters most is understanding your household’s water needs, your local utility rates, and the climate you live in.

Nick’s Plumbing has been serving Houston homes for over 45 years, providing honest advice and expert installation. If you’re unsure which tankless system makes sense for your home, let us help you sort through the options and install a solution that fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Give us a call today, and together, we can make sure you never run out of hot water again.

 

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Signs You Need a New Water Heater & When to Schedule an Installation https://www.nicksplumbing.com/signs-you-need-a-new-water-heater/ Mon, 12 May 2025 19:24:56 +0000 https://www.nicksplumbing.com/?p=18443 Your water heater doesn’t get the respect many of your other home appliances get. It sits, tucked away and out of sight in a utility closet or attic,…

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Your water heater doesn’t get the respect many of your other home appliances get. It sits, tucked away and out of sight in a utility closet or attic, waiting to be called into duty, and magically delivering hot water to your faucets. Most homeowners never give their water heater a second thought—until it stops working as it should. Suddenly, your long, hot morning showers start getting lukewarm, and finally, ice cold, and you’re left wondering if your water heater is on its way out.

While some issues can be resolved with a quick repair, others are signs that your water heater may be nearing the end of its life. So, how do you know when it’s time to consider repairing your current water heater or installing a brand-new, energy-efficient, and higher-performance unit?

Let’s take a closer look.

Why Your Water Heater’s Health Matters.

Your water heater is a silent hero, ensuring your family’s comfort and convenience in everyday tasks like washing dishes, doing laundry, or enjoying a relaxing shower. When your water heater fails, it can disrupt your household routine, leading to higher utility bills, wasted energy, and potential safety risks. Understanding the signs of a failing water heater is crucial to maintaining your home’s comfort and safety.

On average, a traditional tank-style unit lasts 8 to 12 years, while quality tankless models can often run for 20 to 25 years with proper maintenance. If your water heater is nearing or past this age range, it’s a good time to start watching for signs that it might be time to replace it.

Common Signs You Need a New Water Heater

Sometimes the symptoms of a failing water heater are subtle, but others are hard to ignore. Below are some of the most common signs that it’s time to start thinking about a water heater replacement:

  • Water Doesn’t Get Hot Enough—If your hot water never seems to get quite hot enough anymore, the heating elements or gas burner could be failing, or there could be a substantial amount of sediment collected at the bottom of the tank. This is a common issue with aging units, particularly those that have not been adequately maintained, and it often signals that it’s time to upgrade.
  • Hot Water Takes Too Long to Reach the Tap Waiting too long for hot water might mean your system is losing efficiency, or that sediment buildup inside the tank is slowing the process.
  • Grinding or Banging Noises from the Water Heater – Loud sounds coming from the tank are usually caused by hardened sediment rattling around during heating cycles. This can damage the tank lining and reduce efficiency.
  • Discolored or Rusty Hot Water—If the hot water from your taps looks rusty or discolored, the inside of your tank could be corroding. Once corrosion sets in, replacement is often the only long-term fix, as water will soon start leaking from the area most affected by the corrosion.
  • Leaks—Any signs of water pooling around your water heater should be taken seriously. Leaks from the bottom of the tank often mean internal damage that cannot be repaired.
  • Rising Energy Bills—A worn-out water heater may have to work overtime to provide the same amount of hot water, which uses more energy. That inefficiency is quickly reflected on your utility bill.
  • Your Hot Water Smells Like Sulfur – If your hot water has a strong, rotten egg odor, it could be caused by bacteria reacting with the anode rod inside your tank. While sometimes this can be resolved with a simple flush or replacement part, recurring sulfur smells may indicate internal issues that warrant a complete system replacement.

If you’ve noticed one or more of these warning signs—especially if your unit is over ten years old—it’s probably time to consider replacing the old water heater before it fails completely.

An inefficient system that works harder to heat the same amount of water will increase your monthly utility costs. If your water heater is not working like it used to and you’re constantly adjusting water temperature to compensate, it may be time to consider an upgrade.

When Is It Time to Repair vs. Time to Replace?

Not every water heater issue calls for a full replacement. Problems like a faulty thermostat, a broken heating element, or a faulty gas burner are relatively affordable fixes. However, if your unit is old and you’re experiencing multiple issues, especially leaks or drops in performance or efficiency, replacing the water heater may be more cost-effective in the long run.

A good rule of thumb: If the cost to repair your current unit is more than half the price of a new water heater installation, it’s probably time to make the switch. And while repairs can buy time, it’s often more convenient and budget-friendly to plan a replacement on your schedule rather than deal with an unexpected failure.

Schedule a New Professional Water Heater Installation

Once you’ve decided it’s time for a water heater replacement, the next step is figuring out the best time to install a new unit. Ideally, you want to replace your system before it fails. Planning ahead allows you the freedom to explore your options, compare energy efficiency ratings, and decide whether to stick with a tank-style model or upgrade to a tankless water heater.

Avoid waiting until you’re dealing with a cold shower, a flooded utility closet, or emergency repair rates. If your current unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and showing warning signs, scheduling a replacement now can save you from some serious inconvenience later.

Why Professional Installation Matters

A water heater is a complex appliance that connects to your home’s plumbing and electrical or gas system. Having a professional plumbing technician perform the installation helps ensure the job is done right, safely, and up to local code. It’s not a job for the DIY-inclined homeowner or the local handyman.

Professional installers will also help assess your household’s hot water needs and recommend the right size and type of water heater. Choosing a model that is too small can lead to ongoing hot water shortages, while an oversized unit can waste energy and money.

Whether you’re replacing an old tank or planning to upgrade to a tankless water heater, working with a licensed plumber gives you peace of mind and a system that performs efficiently from day one.

Why Choose Nick’s Plumbing for Your Water Heater Repair or Replacement?

Nick’s Plumbing has been helping Houston homeowners with water heater maintenance, repairs, and new installations since 1979. Whether your water heater is gas or electric, tank or tankless, our experienced technicians are equipped to handle everything. We’ll assess your current setup, walk you through your options, and make sure the installation goes smoothly from start to finish.

When you partner with Nick’s Plumbing, you get more than just an installation service. You’re getting a team that understands Houston homes, local plumbing codes, and how to deliver the service that earns repeat business. We’re proud of our customers’ trust in us, and we don’t take that lightly.

If your water heater is nearing the end of its useful life, don’t wait for a catastrophic failure to find out. Call Nick’s Plumbing today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your options, from repairs to new water heater installations.

Call Nick’s Today. We’re on the Way! 

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Waiting Too Long for Hot Water? It May Be Time for a New Water Heater. https://www.nicksplumbing.com/waiting-for-hot-water-time-for-new-water-heater/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:17:33 +0000 https://www.nicksplumbing.com/?p=18338 It wasn’t very long ago that you used to get hot water within seconds of turning on the tap, and now it feels like you’re waiting forever. What’s…

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It wasn’t very long ago that you used to get hot water within seconds of turning on the tap, and now it feels like you’re waiting forever. What’s changed? Is your water heater simply slowing down because of age, or is it a sign of a more significant issue?

Today, we’ll explore the common reasons why hot water takes longer to arrive, what it could mean for your unit, and whether it’s time for a water heater replacement. We’ll also review the signs that your water heater may be failing and what you can do to get your hot water flowing more quickly.

Common Reasons Your Hot Water Takes Too Long to Heat Up

If you’ve been waiting longer than usual for hot water, your water heater might not be working as efficiently as it should. One of the most common reasons is sediment buildup inside the tank. Over time, minerals in the water settle at the bottom, closer to where the heating elements or gas burner are located, essentially isolating the water at the top of the tank, far from its heat source. What you end up with is your water heater starts to have a slower hot water recovery time, which means you’ll be taking shorter showers, waiting longer between laundry loads, or finding yourself washing dishes in lukewarm water.

Another possible reason is a problem with the heating components themselves. Electric units with worn-out heating elements may struggle to heat the water to the desired temperature efficiently. In gas-powered models, a faulty burner may not produce enough heat to meet demand.

Sometimes, the delay isn’t caused by the water heater itself. If yours is situated far from your kitchen or bathroom, hot water has to travel a long way through the pipes before reaching the tap. Larger homes that require longer pipe lengths to reach distant kitchens or bathrooms may want to consider adding a recirculating pump to their water heater to help move hot water more quickly and reduce waiting times.

What are Some Signs That My Water Heater Is Failing?

Suppose you find that your water heater is struggling to meet the demands of your family and is experiencing one or more of the following symptoms. In that case, you may want to consider calling in your favorite Houston plumbing company, Nick’s Plumbing.

  • Water Takes Too Long to Heat – Is it taking longer and longer to get the hot water flowing in your kitchen or bathroom? Between years of sediment buildup, aging heating elements in an electric unit, or a failing gas burner, both can contribute to delayed water heating. If you’re experiencing all of these symptoms at the same time, it’s time for some professional intervention.
  • Running Out of Hot Water Quickly – If your showers turn cold faster than they used to, your water heater might not be managing its temperature effectively. This can usually be attributed to a failed thermostat, worn-out heating elements or gas burners, or a tank that’s no longer capable of meeting your household’s hot water demand.
  • Rusty or Discolored Water – If the hot water coming from your taps has a red or brown appearance to it, this is a sign of rust or corrosion inside of the tank. Rusty-colored water is the last warning most homeowners receive before their water heater tank completely fails, potentially spilling hundreds of gallons of water into your home.
  • Unusual Noises – A popping or rumbling sound coming from your water heater usually means there’s a significant enough amount of sediment buildup in the tank that it’s shifting around and scraping the sides of the tank. Excessive sediment buildup significantly reduces the efficiency of your water heater, requiring it to work harder than necessary.
  • Water Leaks Around the Tank – Even small leaks at the base of your water heater can indicate that the tank has developed cracks or weak spots. Once a water heater starts leaking, replacement is often the only realistic option for the homeowner.

When to Repair vs. When to Replace Your Older Water Heater

Just because your water heater isn’t behaving as well as it did when it was new doesn’t always mean that replacement is necessary. Several issues, such as faulty thermostats or heating elements, can be easily remedied with a simple water heater service call from Nick’s Plumbing.

If your water heater is over 8-10 years old and you’re experiencing slow hot water recovery times, regular breakdowns, or leaks have begun to appear, a new unit may be the better option. As water heaters age, they lose their efficiency, making it increasingly difficult to meet daily demand. Constantly repairing an aging unit can end up costing more than investing in a water heater upgrade that offers better efficiency and reliability.

Tank Type vs. Tankless Water Heaters: Which Heats Water Faster?

If you’re tired of waiting for hot water, you may want to investigate the differences between tank-type and tankless water heaters. Tank-type water heaters store a large amount of water and heat it repeatedly, making it readily available when a tap is opened. It’s a highly inefficient method of hot water delivery, and if you use all of the hot water you have stored, you’ll need to wait until you can heat another full tank.

Conversely, tankless units only heat water on demand, eliminating the wait time for reheating and thereby improving energy efficiency. If running out of hot water and high energy bills are regular issues in your home; a tankless water heater may be worth serious consideration.

Energy Efficiency Benefits of Upgrading to a New Water Heater

Upgrading to a new water heater isn’t just about improved performance; it also provides better energy efficiency. Today’s models are built to heat water more quickly while using less energy, which helps lower your monthly utility bills. Some of the best energy-efficient water heaters come with enhanced insulation, advanced heating technology, and programmable settings that enable you to optimize usage according to your household’s needs.

Cost Considerations for Water Heater Replacement

The final price of a water heater installation will depend on several factors, including the size of the new unit, installation requirements, and efficiency ratings. Traditional storage tank water heaters generally have a lower upfront cost, whereas tankless models are considerably more expensive at installation but offer long-term savings through improved efficiency.

It’s also important to remember that several potential rebates or tax credits are available for energy-efficient upgrades, which can help offset the cost of a water heater upgrade.

Professional Installation: Why It Matters for Water Heater Performance

It doesn’t matter how expensive or how many features your new water heater has if it is not installed correctly to the manufacturer’s specifications. Let Nick’s Plumbing’s licensed and experienced technicians evaluate your home’s specific needs and recommend the right size and type of water heater to help prevent slow hot water recovery time in the future.  

Having your water heater installed by a professional plumbing company, such as Nick’s, ensures that your unit is correctly connected to your plumbing and natural gas lines, thereby reducing the risk of leaks and maintaining the integrity of your warranty.

Why Choose Nick’s When it’s Time to Upgrade Your Water Heater

Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient tank-type, tankless, or heat pump water heater will not only improve performance and lower energy costs, but it will also provide reliable hot water when you need it most. If you’re unsure whether repair or replacement is the best option for you, Nick’s Plumbing can perform an assessment of your current water heater and make recommendations tailored to your home.

Don’t stand around waiting for hot water!

Call Nick’s Plumbing today to schedule a visit with one of our experienced plumbing technicians. They will assess your current hot water situation and recommend the most cost-effective solution to get your hot water flowing through your pipes again.

Upgrading to a new, more energy-efficient model can improve performance, lower energy costs, and provide reliable hot water when you need it most.

Call Nick’s Today. We’re on the Way! 

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Water Heater Making Noises? Plumbing Pros Weigh In https://www.nicksplumbing.com/water-heater-making-noises-plumbing-pros-weigh-in/ Thu, 31 Mar 2022 07:23:12 +0000 https://www.nicksplumbing.com/?p=13052 When you walk past your water heater, you may hear it making strange sounds. The sounds could be pops, bangs, whistles, or even hisses. Some of those sounds…

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When you walk past your water heater, you may hear it making strange sounds. The sounds could be pops, bangs, whistles, or even hisses. Some of those sounds can be annoying or even downright scary. Before you start running back upstairs for fear of your water heater being haunted, rest assured it’s quite common for water heaters to make noises.

The question is why is it making those noises and what do those noises mean? Now that we’ve discounted the haunting theory, let’s take a look at the noises, what causes them, and what you should do about them.

Is It Normal for a Water Heater to Make Noise?

Sure it’s normal. A water heater is a mechanical device that heats cold water so the water is ready to use for your shower, washing machine, or dishwasher. Just like any other mechanical device, the water heater makes noise.

However, that doesn’t mean that the noises should be ignored. If you listen closely, you can identify the type of noise it’s making and get an idea of what the noise means and whether it is a sign that your water heater needs service.

What Are Common Water Heater Noises and What Causes Them?

There are a variety of noises that you might hear coming from your water heater. Here are the most common ones and their possible causes. In all cases, you could try simple solutions for the problem, but it’s always best to call in a professional.

Popping

A water heater making popping noise is due to sediment buildup. Sediment buildup is a normal occurrence in hot water heaters, especially if you live in an area with hard water. Steam bubbles can form under the sediment and then burst through as the water heats up. The bubbles bursting through the sediment create the popping sound. You could try a descaling product to fight the sediment. You can also try flushing and draining the tank to remove the sediment.

Banging

Also known as water hammer, banging is caused by pressure in the system when the water stops or changes direction forcefully. Water hammer is strong enough to burst pipes, so calling a professional may be the best course of action.

Whistling

Water heater whistling or high pitched sounds are usually caused by water under pressure that’s being forced through a small opening. It could be because a valve is not fully opened. Listen carefully to determine the location of the whistle because whatever valve is whistling may need to be replaced. If the valve is close to the water heater, leave the valve changing to a professional since there is a risk of steam burns.

Hissing

A water heater making hissing noise is usually associated with electric water heaters. The hissing sound is caused by the lower heating elements being covered by sediment. Flushing and draining the water heater can help with this problem.

Humming

A water heater making humming noise is probably caused by a loose heating element. The loose element makes the water around it vibrate, creating a humming sound. Tightening the element should eliminate the hum.

Like Water Running

A water heater making noise like water running could simply be the water entering the tank. However, If the sound continues, it could indicate a leak or a broken pipe.

Like Vibrating

A water heater making vibrating noise or rumbling noise is most likely caused by sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank. Boiling water gets trapped under the sediment and the bubbling causes the vibration.

What Should I Do When My Water Heater Is Making Noises?

If you hear your water heater making any of the above noises, it’s important to take action. If you’re handy and know something about plumbing, you might try a do-it-yourself fix. However, when dealing with plumbing and the hot water and steam involved with water heaters, it’s best to leave things to the professionals.

What you definitely don’t want to do is take matters into your own hands, especially if you have no plumbing experience. The result could be water damage to your house and injury to yourself.

Water heaters are an important part of your home and you want to make sure they are operating in peak condition. Any strange noises you hear could be a sign of greater problems. Let Nick’s Plumbing help you with all of your water heater inspections and repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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