Water Heaters
Curtis Plumbing has decades of experience replacing and installing water heaters and water tanks in Southern Arizona. Whether you have a leak, a noisy heater, or your heater is just not working – we can either repair or replace your water heating unit. Our experienced service technician will inspect your heater and make a recommendation based on fuel source and size of your household. If a new heater is needed, the technician will discuss your options and give you an estimate. When you are ready, we can provide the unit you select, install it, and make sure that all fixtures and areas around the water heater are up to code. Our technician will also haul away your previous unit. The work area will be left clean, and the technician will answer any questions you might have about your new heater. Same day service is often available.
The cost to replace an older water tank varies. However, an easy swap out of an older unit with a same size unit using the same fuel source can generally be completed for $200-300 in labor + material. You may also call to schedule an on site estimate. There will be a minimum service charge but it will be applied to the contract price if you accept our bid.
Curtis Plumbing is also experienced in new construction and commercial plumbing. If you are remodeling your home, we can consult with you about your water heater options and help you decide the best choice for your situation. We can also consult and install on your office building.
Learn more about water heaters below.
Water Heaters and Water Tanks
A water heater is a storage and heating system for your hot water needs. There are a number of different types of water heaters, and there are various items to keep in mind when maintaining them and/or repairing them.
Types of Water Heaters and Tanks
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters are the most common and are found in most residential homes. Water becomes heated faster than with electric heaters, and the cost to run gas heaters is about half of what electric heaters expend to heat the same quantity of water.
Electric Water Heaters
Traditional electric water heaters are generally not as efficient or environmentally friendly as natural gas water heaters. If you currently have an electric heater and gas is available in your area, then you might consider upgrading your heater to a gas heater.
Tankless Water Heater Systems
Tankless water heating systems are often referred to as “instantaneous water heaters.” They heat water as you need it. There are pros and cons to this type of tank. First, a nearly endless amount of water can be heated with a tankless system. They can also save energy, as there is no need for standby which prevents heating losses. However, they are more expensive to purchase and get installed than regular water heaters. If retro fitting a tankless water heater into an existing home, you will likely need to significantly increase the size of your gas line or have your electrical service increased. Be prepared for an additional $1000-2000 cost for upgrades.
Water Heaters for Mobile Homes
Code requires specific manufactured water heater for mobile homes to comply with safety issues. If you are calling for quotes on a replacement water heater for a mobile home, please advise the dispatcher of your type of home. This allows them to correctly quote the type and price of the water heater.
Draining Your Water Heater
Draining a water heater is a great way to extend its life. Over time, minerals can be left behind from water as it is heated, especially here in Tucson, where our water is quite “hard.” By not draining your heater periodically, you can experience blockage in the drain valve and the sediments build up which decreases the efficiency of your water heater. Most manufacturers recommend draining the water heater every 6-12 months. Curtis Plumbing recommends the Bradford White water heater that is “self cleaning,” which percolates the water inside of the tank to reduce build up. We still recommend draining it and flushing it out on an annual basis. Curtis Plumbing can do that for you on a maintenance schedule.
Replacement and Leaks in Your Water Heater
If you notice that your water heater is leaking, check to see if the leak is coming from the water supply line or look around the base of the water heater. If you notice any water marks or any amount of rusting, you may need to replace the heater.
Flushing a Water Heater
You should flush out your water heater at least once or twice a year. This can keep the buildup of deposits to a minimum. It can help keep your water heater operating more efficiently and help extend your water heater’s life.
