Water Heater Repair, Replacement, And Service

What Is A Standard Water Heater?

Conventional water heaters or standard water heaters are the most common model of heating systems for water in a Houston Texas home. From gas or propane to electric and even fuel oil water heaters, the power source for a standard water heater typically varies depending on geography.

How does a Standard water heater work?

When it is time to use hot water in the home whether you are washing dishes, doing laundry, or taking a shower the water heater will release water from the top of the tank. After that the system will heat additional water that is pushed to the bottom of the tank. Insulation in the internal tank allows the water to stay hot for as long as possible. Gas water heaters prevent overheating with a heat limiting apparatus and they come with a built-in gas control valve. An internal central flue helps circulate the heat inside while venting gas accumulation. Finally and importantly, a thermocouple is installed to shut off the gas in the event of an emergency. Electric water heaters have a separate thermostat.

The holding capacity of  a standard or conventional water heater is measured in gallons. Size varies from 30 gallon water heaters to 50 gallon water heaters all the way up to 120 gallons. A common question asked about size would be is a 40 gallon water heater enough? The answer depends on what all is being tied into that water heater (kitchen and bathroom sink, showers, washing machine, ect…) or what are the hot water usage habits of the people living in the home. For example, a two-persona household may only need a 30 gallon tank while the Brady bunch may want something larger. If you have a garage apartment that is relying on the same water heater as the main house you will need to look at buying a water heater that is larger than a 30 gallon water heater.

What are the benefits of a Standard Water Heater?

The benefits or advantages of a Standard or conventional water heater are dependent upon a number of factors that we want to help you consider. How old is your current unit? While the typical water heater should last about 10 years, that timeline can vary dramatically if the system was not properly installed, if the water heater does or does not have a filtration system, and the burner assembly (gas) or heating elements (electric). Regular servicing or maintenance to your water heating system can help prolong the lifespan of your water heater by installing a filtration system if you do not already have one in place, flushing the tank periodically, and testing the heating elements (eclectic) every two to four years. When the time comes for a new water heater it is best to start by considering the fuel source, tank size, and efficiency of the unit to find the best option for your home’s hot water needs.

Need help? Select one of our convenient service areas in Houston TX near you. If you need plumbing repairs, installations, or have an emergency in Atascocita, Baytown, Houston, Kingwood, La Porte, Manvel, or Pearland, are the best choice for all your plumbing needs.

water heater installation in houston tx
water heater service in houston tx

What is the Process For Standard Water Heater Plumbing Service?

Some people ask how to replace a standard water heater. As a licensed plumber it is important that we know all of the most recent codes before starting any plumbing service in Houston for our clients. That is why our team is diligent about maintaining our licenses and we stay up-to-date with continued education to ensure that we provide high quality plumbing services to clients near you. It is not advised that you do any plumbing projects unless a licensed plumber is on-site, overseeing, and doing the project to ensure everything is done up to UPC standards. This short description does not include every detail in this process so it is best to consult with a licensed plumber first. Do not attempt to tackle this project on your own because if it is not done properly, the potential mistakes made can be dangerous and even fatal.

First, we will diagnose the issues with the existing water heater. Next we will inspect your water heater connection points for any necessary plumbing code upgrades. Once this has been established and addressed we will drain the water out of the tank type water heater to prepare it to be removed and replaced. After the water has been drained down, the gas to the water heater has been shut off, and all connections are disconnected; the old unit can then be removed. Finally, the new water heater can be put into place and installed once all necessary code upgrades are completed.