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As a resident of Sacramento, CA, choosing the right water heater for your home can greatly impact your utility bills and comfort levels. Here at Early Bird Plumbing, we're committed to helping you make informed decisions with expert advice and top-notch service. Below, we answer some of the most common water heater questions from our customers.
1. What is the difference between a tanked water heater and a tankless water heater?
The main difference between tanked and tankless water heaters is their method of storing and supplying hot water. Tanked water heaters, or conventional models, store hot water in a large tank and keep it warm, ensuring hot water is available. However, they can run out of hot water during high demand periods, and reheating takes time.
Tankless water heaters, often called on-demand units, heat water only when needed, providing a continuous supply without storing excess water. This makes them more efficient, especially for smaller households, but during peak demands, they may struggle to deliver hot water to several taps simultaneously.
2. Do water heaters actually need to be flushed or serviced?
Absolutely, regular maintenance is vital for the efficiency and longevity of your water heater. At Early Bird Plumbing, we recommend flushing tanked water heaters at least annually to eliminate sediment build-up, which can decrease efficiency and cause wear. This is particularly relevant in Sacramento, where minerals in the water can accelerate sediment accumulation.
Similarly, tankless water heaters need maintenance to prevent mineral build-up, which can hinder their performance. We suggest an annual descaling process to keep them running smoothly, along with a professional check-up.
3. What is a hybrid water heater?
A hybrid water heater, or heat pump water heater, blends standard tank storage with heat pump technology. It uses electricity to transfer heat from surrounding air to the water, achieving higher efficiency compared to standard electric models. Although they have a higher initial cost, our experts at Early Bird Plumbing can demonstrate their long-term energy-saving potential, making them a great choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners.
4. What’s the difference between gas and electric water heaters, aside from one being gas powered and the other being electric powered?
Beyond their fuel source, gas water heaters typically offer faster water heating, making them ideal for larger families with high water demands. They're operational during power outages, which is advantageous during rare outages here in Sacramento.
Electric water heaters, while slower at heating, are easier to install, cheaper upfront, and can be installed virtually anywhere. They boast near 100% efficiency because they convert nearly all energy to heat. Whether you choose gas or electric depends on your home layout, energy costs, and personal preference.
5. Do water heaters have to go in the garage? Where else can they go?
Water heaters don't have to reside in the garage. At Early Bird Plumbing, we consider various installation sites based on your home’s layout and Sacramento's building codes. They're typically placed in basements, utility rooms, or designated closets. For tankless models, the compact size allows placement in tighter spaces or mounted on exterior walls if appropriately weatherproofed.
Whether you're upgrading your water heater or seeking advice on maintenance, Early Bird Plumbing in Sacramento, CA is here to assist you. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality service and the best solutions tailored to your needs.