The Benefits of Tank Water Heater Systems

Although much has been said about the efficiency and other advantages of tankless units, water heaters with tanks still offer certain benefits. They represent the best choice for homeowners who prefer to avoid a large initial expense, want to minimize maintenance or use comparatively small amounts of hot water.

Expense

A heater with a tank generally costs far less to purchase and install. The equipment price usually ranges from $550 to $750. The installation expense starts at about $600; some people spend up to $200 more. On the other hand, you'll probably pay around $1,400 to $3,000 to buy and install a tank-free model.

Upkeep

Conventional water heaters may last for many years with little maintenance. Tankless units normally need to be serviced annually, especially if you have hard water. To avoid frequent repairs, a technician may have to spend about two hours maintaining the equipment each year.

Electricity

A tankless heater consumes less power than a unit with a tank. However, tank models spread their energy consumption over longer periods of time. You may need to upgrade your electrical panel, outlet or wiring to keep up with the demands of a tankless unit. This also makes it harder to use a generator.

Natural Gas

Likewise, tankless models consume gas more rapidly. The equipment does this because it needs to heat water instantly rather than gradually warming it up in a container. Consequently, you might have to upgrade the gas line to a larger size when you switch to a tankless heater.

Basically, units with tanks don't use energy as efficiently but they're less expensive to buy, install and maintain. You probably won't have to upgrade your gas or electrical lines. If you're interested in purchasing a new water heater, please contact The Polite Plumber for a quote or additional information about this equipment.

Did Someone Say ‘Plumbing Permit’?

One of the best ways to tell if a plumbing technician is a legitimate expert in their field is to inquire about any permits that are required to perform the work on your home. Granted, the regulations that require prior permitted approval vary from one municipality to the next; however, a legitimate contractor should always be aware of what permits are required to perform work on the plumbing system in your home.

Some homeowners see the permitting process as a nuisance, an added expense, or even an infringement on personal privacy. After all, why should your bathroom remodel be of higher concern?

Think of the permitting process as a system of checks and balances. Yes, they can be a costly nuisance, and city code enforcers can be seen as intrusive at times, however the process is designed to protect and benefit residents, contractors, and the city.

Ways the Permitting Process May Protect & Benefit You

The requirement to obtain proper permits for plumbing projects helps to ensure that only licensed contractors, who have a full understanding of their craft, are overseeing the work done on you home. This protects you from being taken to the cleaners by someone who really does not understand the intricacies of a residential plumbing system.

The requirement to obtain proper permits for plumbing projects also protects you, as the consumer, because it requires that any work performed will be inspected by a city code inspector. This extra set of eyes may prove to be an invaluable resource, should an error be made.

Furthermore, this requirement may help protect your family's health, without you ever realizing it. Years ago, it was common to use lead solder when connecting water lines. Over time, lead that was being leached into the drinking water began to affect the health of the general public. Plumbing permits now require the use of lead-free solder.

A great plumbing contractor will always know exactly what permits to pull for your project, and how to get those permits approved quickly so that your work can be completed in a reasonable period of time.

For more information about the permitting process, or to request plumbing service, please contact us at The Polite Plumber!