How long do traditional water heaters typically last?
Depending on the quality of the tank, a water heater has an average lifespan of 6-12 years.
Why use a contractor supplied water heater vs. a big box store DIY water heater?
Units available at retail stores or online typically are of lower quality than those provided through a licensed plumber. The build quality of the water heater greatly affects the average water heater’s lifespan.
Will a tankless water heater deliver hot water faster than my tank water heater?
A tankless water heater will provide endless hot water. To reduce the wait time, a recirculation pump needs to be
installed. The wait time for hot water delivery is based upon the distance the water must travel from the water
heater to the point of use. The only way to change the time it takes to cover this distance is with the use of a
recirculation pump. These pumps come in a variety of configurations, and some advanced tankless units do have
them built into the units.
Do tankless water heaters last longer than traditional tank water heaters?
Yes, they can, but it is dependent on water quality. Areas with very hard water will build up scale inside of a tankless
water heater’s heat exchanger. Without periodic cleaning, this will result in premature unit failure. Given Southern
California’s extremely hard water, a tankless water heater will need periodic descale services, or we recommend
installing a water softener or water conditioner.
Are tankless water heaters more efficient than a traditional tank water heater?
Tankless water heaters have a higher efficiency rating than traditional tanks. Tankless water heaters heat water
as you use it. This means that they don’t need to heat and maintain hot water inside of the unit when no hot water
is needed.
Should I be servicing my existing traditional tank water heater?
Yes. Traditional tank water heaters fill from the top and also empty from the top, leaving all the contaminants
and sediment to build up in the bottom of the tank. This layer of sediment and debris should be drained and
flushed annually. Also, tank water heaters are protected from corrosion by the use of an anode rod. Anode
rods last about 6 years, and it is recommended to have your water heater’s anode rod replaced every 4 or 5
years to prevent premature failure.
Is the water pressure to my home important to my water heater?
Yes, water pressure is very important. The maximum pressure a water heater or the components carrying water
throughout your home are rated to is 80 PSI maximum. The incoming water pressure to your home varies upon
the time of day and number of surrounding neighbors using water at that time and fluctuates anywhere from 45
to 145 PSI. In order to provide stable water pressure and protect your home from over pressurization a water
pressure regulator is installed. This should be tested annually to verify proper operation of around 55-65 PSI.
Are you licensed?
Yes, JG Water Heaters is fully licensed and insured. Our license number is 1080062.
Is a leaking tank water heater repairable?
Connections coming into the water heater, the emergency relief valve connection, the gas control valve and
drain valve connections are serviceable. If the tank itself is leaking, it is not repairable and will need to be
replaced.
