We all want to make our homes comfortable, but sometimes that means dealing with the cold. Fortunately, there’s a solution: water heaters!
Water heaters are an essential part of your home’s heating system. They can help keep you warm and cozy during the winter months and save you money on your energy bills in the process. But how much do Americans spend on water heaters? And how does it compare to other countries?
The average American family spends about $1,400 per year on water heating costs—that’s about $125 per month! That’s about double what people spend in Canada or Australia. It also adds up to about 4% of an American household’s monthly energy bill.
The average European household spends just $100 per year on water heating costs—that’s less than half what Americans pay!
But do you know what’s worse than a broken water heater? A broken water heater when you don’t know how to fix it.
If you live in Santa Rosa, California, and your water heater isn’t working, it can be scary to think about calling a professional plumber. You may not have the money to pay them—and they certainly won’t be able to help you if they’re not licensed!
But don’t worry! We’re here to help.
In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about calling a professional plumber and finding the right water heater plumber for your needs.
When Should You Call a Water Heater Professional?
You may be tempted to take care of your water heater yourself, but in some cases, you may need to hire a professional. Here are 10 signs that indicate you should call a water heater professional plumber near you:
No hot water
If you’re having trouble getting hot water from your water heater, it may be time to call a professional. This could be caused by a number of issues, including:
– A clogged filter (which can be easily fixed)
– A broken heating element (which is more serious)
– A problem with the gas or electrical connections (if this is the case, you’ll need to call an electrician)
Inadequate hot water supply
If you’re getting less hot water than usual or no hot water at all, it’s worth calling a professional. This could mean something’s wrong with your system—for example, there’s too much sediment built up in the tank or pipes. The good news is that this problem is usually easy to fix and doesn’t cost much money!
Fluctuating water temperature
If your water temperature fluctuates between hot and cold, it’s time to call a professional. This could be caused by many different things, but it’s best to have a professional identify the problem and come up with a solution.
Rusty or discolored water
Rusty or discolored water can be caused by many different things, such as rust buildup in your pipes or sediment build-up in your tank. Either way, this problem is serious enough that you’ll want to have it addressed by someone who knows what they’re doing—someone like Holman Plumbing!
Leaks around your water heater
If you notice that there are leaks around your water heater, it’s time to call in a professional. While some leaks may be minor and can be fixed at home, others could indicate a larger problem that requires the expertise of a professional. These are signs that your water heater is leaking:
– Water stains on the floor
– Discolored grout around the water heater
– Mold growing on walls near the water heater
– A high electric bill
Strange noises from your water heater
If you hear strange noises coming from your water heater, it’s time to call in a professional. While some noises may be minor and can be fixed at home, others could indicate a larger problem that requires the expertise of a professional.
Foul odors
If you notice a foul odor coming from the water heater, it might be time to call the professionals. The smell can be caused by a build-up of calcium or sediment on the tank’s bottom, which must be professionally cleaned and inspected. It can also be caused by bacteria buildup in the tank. Either way, it’s best to leave this job to a professional water heater repairman.
Age of the water heater
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time for a water heater replacement. Older models are less energy efficient than newer ones and may have safety issues. Additionally, older tanks are more likely to leak or break down completely.
High energy bills
According to Energy Star, the average American household spends $1,200 per year on energy costs. If your home has an older system, you could be spending even more than that each year. A new system will cost less than one-third of what an older one does in operating expenses alone!
Previous repairs were unsuccessful.
If you’ve attempted DIY repairs or hired someone who couldn’t resolve the water heater problem effectively, it’s time to call a professional plumber who specializes in water heaters to diagnose and fix the issue correctly.
What’s the Difference between Professional-grade and big box store water heaters?
There are a lot of water heaters out there, and they can seem pretty similar. But the truth is that they’re not all created equal.
The most important thing to know is that there are two main kinds of water heaters: professional-grade and big box store.
Professional-grade water heaters are made to last and do a better job of heating water than big box store models. They’re also built with environmentally friendly materials and are more affordable in the long run.
But how do you know which kind of water heater is best for your home? We’re here to help!
Here’s a comparison chart highlighting some key differences between professional-grade water heaters and those found at big box stores so you can make an informed decision about what’s right for you:
| Aspect | Professional-Grade Water Heaters | Big Box Store Water Heaters |
| Quality and Durability | Generally, higher quality and durability | May vary in quality and durability |
| Construction | Often made with premium materials | Typically made with standard materials |
| Performance | Higher performance and efficiency | Standard performance and efficiency |
| Energy Efficiency | Usually, more energy-efficient options | A limited selection of efficiency levels |
| Warranty and Support | Longer warranties and better support | Limited warranty options and support |
| Installation and Service | Professional installation recommended | DIY installation options available |
| Customization | More options for size, capacity, and features | Limited options for customization |
| Availability | Available through authorized dealers or plumbing professionals | Widely available at big box retail stores |
| Price | Generally higher price range | More affordable price range |
How to Hire a Licensed Water Heater Plumber in Santa Rosa?
Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or are looking to update your current water heating system, hiring a licensed plumber is an important step to take. A professional plumber will be able to help you choose the right water heater for your home and ensure that it’s installed properly.
Here are some things to consider when hiring a licensed water heater plumber in Santa Rosa, CA:
Research and gather information.
Start by researching licensed water heater plumbers in Santa Rosa. Look for established companies or individual professional plumbers near me with valid licenses to operate in the area. Check their websites, online directories, or local listings for information about their services, experience, and customer reviews.
Verify their license.
In California, plumbers must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You can visit the CSLB website (www.cslb.ca.gov) and use their “Instant License Check” tool to verify the license status of a specific plumber. Ensure that the plumber you’re considering has an active license with no disciplinary actions against them.
Check for insurance and certifications.
Hiring a water heater plumber who carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage is essential. This protects you from any liability in case of accidents or property damage during the job. Additionally, look for certifications or affiliations with professional plumbing organizations, which can indicate their commitment to quality and industry standards.
Seek recommendations and references.
Ask friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues in Santa Rosa if they have any recommendations for licensed water heater plumbers. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into a plumber’s reliability, professionalism, and quality of work. Additionally, ask the plumber for references from previous customers to get firsthand feedback about their services.
Obtain multiple quotes.
Contact a few licensed water heater plumbers and request detailed quotes for the specific job you need. Provide them with relevant information, such as the type of water heater, your problem, or the installation requirements. Compare the quotes to evaluate the cost, the scope of work, including warranties, and any additional services provided.
Check for permits.
Depending on the nature of the water heater repair or installation, certain permits may be required in Santa Rosa. A reputable, licensed, and skilled plumber should be knowledgeable about the local permit requirements and be willing to obtain them on your behalf.
Communication and professionalism.
Pay attention to how the plumber communicates with you. A professional plumber should be responsive, clear in their explanations, and willing to address any concerns or questions you may have. Their professionalism, punctuality, and overall demeanor during initial interactions can be indicative of their work ethic.
Contract and documentation.
Once you’ve selected a licensed water heater plumber, ensure you receive a written contract that clearly outlines the scope of work, project timeline, payment terms, and any warranties. Review the contract carefully before signing, and keep a copy for your records.
FAQs
How long does it take for a professional to replace a water heater?
It depends on the water heater type, but it usually takes around one hour. A tankless water heater, for example, will typically be installed in less than an hour, while a tank-based system may require several hours of work.
How much does it cost to have a professional install a water heater?
It depends on the type of water heater, but it’s usually around $250-$300.
What professional installs water heaters?
A certified plumbing contractor can help you decide which type of system is best for your needs, then install it for you at an affordable cost!
How much does it cost to hire a plumber?
Plumbers charge by the hour or for a flat fee for their services. It’s common for plumbers to charge by the hour, but some will offer fixed fees for certain jobs. For example, if someone has a leaky faucet that needs repair and wants it fixed immediately without having to wait around all day while their sink drips into an empty bucket next to them.
Does my insurance cover plumbing repairs?
Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover routine maintenance, such as replacing an old water heater with a newer one or replacing old pipes due to wear and tear over time (this type of work would fall under ’emergency’ repairs). However, if you have damage due to flooding or another natural disaster, then your insurance may cover those costs under certain circumstances. It’s always good to check those things with your agent.
How do I know if my water heater needs to be replaced?
There are some signs that will let you know if your water heater needs to be replaced: leaking, rusting, or corrosion on the tank; loud noises coming from the tank; tripping breakers when the heater is turned on; high energy bills; and poor heating performance (cold showers).
What should I ask when interviewing a plumber?
When interviewing a plumber, ask them if they have any references from previous customers you can speak with. You’ll want to speak with at least three references before hiring anyone because they’ll be able to tell you about their experience with the contractor and whether or not they would hire them again. Also, ask about their training: are they certified? Do they have any specialties? What kind of experience do they have working with water heaters?
What are the most common problems that cause water heaters to break?
Water heaters can fail for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:
– A leaky or clogged drain.
– Low or high pressure in your water system.
– A broken or loose gas valve or pilot light assembly.
– A cracked tank can result from age or damage from freezing temperatures.
What should I expect from a water heater plumber?
Water heater plumbers provide a wide range of services, including installing new water heaters and repairing existing ones. They can also help you troubleshoot any issues you may be having with your system.
Call Holman Plumbing: Your Local Plumbing Experts in Santa Rosa, CA!
If your water heater is acting up, don’t wait. Call Holman Plumbing today!
We’re the local water heater experts in Santa Rosa, California, and we’ve been helping homeowners get back to normal for over many years. Our Water Heater Technicians in Santa Rosa are experienced, licensed, insured, and ready to help you with any problem.
We offer a wide variety of plumbing services, including:
- Water Heater Installation
- Water Heater Repair
- Water Heater Replacement
- Water softener installation, repair, and replacement
- Faucets, sinks, showers, and tubs installation and repair
- Toilet clogs cleaning
- Garbage disposal installation, repair, and maintenance
- Sewer line repair and replacement
- Leak detection and repair
- Hydro jetting
- Septic tank repair and replacement
- And many more…
Homeowners in Santa Rosa and the surrounding area love us because we treat them like family—and because when you call us, you can expect:
– On-time arrival for appointments
– Technicians who are friendly and knowledgeable about plumbing issues of all kinds
– A quick resolution to your problem (we work efficiently and well)
– Reasonable prices for our services
The best thing? We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services and can usually have your water heater back to normal within hours.
So if you find yourself needing help with your water heater today, give us a call at (707) 691-0774. We are your local plumbing company, and we will be there in no time!