We supply and install high-quality water heaters for any home or business. Our Universal Plumbing technicians can help you choose the right water heater type and size for your budget, home/business, and situation, maximizing your home's efficiency and saving you money in the long run. There are a few types of water heaters you can have installed, each having its advantages and disadvantages:

Regular Vent Gas Water Heater

This is the most common type of water heater and is generally the least expensive to purchase and operate. A natural gas water heater can heat a full tank of water much faster and more efficiently than an electric water heater, making it a cost-effective option for many households. These water heaters work by burning natural gas to heat the water inside the tank. However, they require access to a natural gas supply as well as a properly positioned chimney or venting system to safely expel combustion gases, including carbon monoxide. It's crucial to have the venting installed correctly to prevent backdrafting, where harmful gases could re-enter the living space. Regular maintenance is also important to ensure the gas connections and venting system remain in good working order for safety and efficiency.

Power Vent Gas Water Heater

Power vent water heaters are equipped with a blower fan on top of the unit, which forces exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, through a vent that typically exits the house through a sidewall rather than a traditional chimney. This makes them an ideal solution for homes where a chimney is not available or easily accessible. The fan ensures the safe expulsion of gases, allowing for more flexible installation options, such as in basements, garages, or areas where a vertical venting route is impractical. Since power vent models rely on electricity to run the blower fan, they do consume a small amount of additional energy, and their installation costs tend to be higher than standard vented heaters. However, their ability to vent horizontally through PVC piping allows for greater placement flexibility, making them an excellent option for modern or remodeled homes without traditional venting systems. Additionally, they are more energy efficient in venting exhaust gases, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide buildup in living spaces.

Electric Water Heater

Electric water heaters are slightly more expensive to operate than gas water heaters because electricity typically costs more than natural gas for heating water. However, they offer several advantages, especially in homes where no natural gas connection is available. Since electric water heaters don't produce combustion gases, they don't require a chimney or venting system, making installation simpler and more flexible. This allows them to be placed in a wider variety of locations, such as closets, attics, or basements, without the need for costly ventilation modifications. They are powered solely by electricity, using heating elements inside the tank to warm the water. While they generally take longer to heat a full tank compared to gas models, electric water heaters tend to have lower upfront costs and are often more compact. They're also easier to maintain, as they have fewer components that require servicing, such as burners or gas lines. Additionally, electric water heaters are considered safer in terms of eliminating the risks associated with gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure.

Tankless Water Heater

Unlike traditional water heaters that store and continuously keep a tank of water heated, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water passes through a heat exchanger in the unit, which quickly heats the water to the desired temperature. This on-demand system offers several benefits, including space savings—since there’s no bulky tank—and energy efficiency, as no energy is wasted keeping unused water hot. Additionally, tankless water heaters provide an unlimited supply of hot water, meaning you’ll never run out during long showers or when using multiple fixtures at the same time. These systems can vent through a sidewall, similar to power vent water heaters, using PVC or stainless steel pipes for flexible installation options.

However, the initial cost of a tankless water heater can be significantly higher than traditional models, both in terms of the unit price and installation, as they often require upgrades to plumbing or gas lines. In homes with high hot water demand, multiple units might even be needed to ensure consistent supply. Furthermore, while they are low-maintenance overall, tankless water heaters do require annual descaling or flushing, especially in areas with hard water, to prevent mineral buildup in the heat exchanger. This maintenance can add to the yearly operating costs. Despite these expenses, the long-term energy savings and convenience of never running out of hot water make tankless water heaters an attractive option for many homeowners.

Give us a call, and we will help you determine which of these water heaters is right for you and your budget. (586) 459-0040

An average gas water heater lasts about 10 years, but things can go wrong before then. Before you drop hundreds of dollars on installing a new one, give us a call, and we'll be able to diagnose and repair any fixable problems.

In the meantime, here are a few tips to prevent any problems and extend the life span of your water heater:

1. ONCE A YEAR, FLUSH YOUR WATER HEATER TO ELIMINATE SEDIMENT.

Sediment from the water builds up in the bottom of the tank over time, which can wear away at the tank's lining and cause leaks and other serious problems down the road. If you are not familiar with this process, give us a call and we will happily take care of it for your convenience!

2. SET YOUR WATER HEATER TO 120°F.

Higher water temperature increases sediment buildup and the risk of scalding injuries. Keeping the heater at 120° will also save you money on your energy bill if your tank's temperature was initially higher.

3. CHECK THE CONDITION OF THE ANODE ROD EVERY THREE YEARS.

The anode rod is a long metal rod inside the tank that attracts corrosive elements in the water. Hot water is particularly corrosive, and without a functioning anode rod in the tank, the water can quickly corrode the steel lining of the tank. Regularly making sure your tank's anode rod hasn't worn down too much (and replacing it with a new one if it has) can extend the lifespan of your water heater, sometimes double it. If you are not familiar with this process, give us a call and we will happily take care of the procedure for you!

If you suspect something isn't right with your water heater, or you'd like a thorough water heater inspection, call us at (586) 459-0040. We'll make sure everything is in good shape and running smoothly.

$50 Off Water Heater Installation

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Offer Good Through 11/30/2024