Water Heaters – Aladdin Heating

Should You Make the Switch to a Tankless Water Heater?

Aladdin — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 09:00:19 +0000

Using a tankless water heater can be a great way to help reduce your carbon footprint and your energy bill. However, not every home can benefit from a tankless water heater; some are better off using a traditional tank-based water heater. Knowing the difference between the two, and knowing which one to use for your home, is important in order to supply enough hot water to keep up with demand in your home.

Differences Between Water Heaters

A tankless water heater warms up water as it is needed. The water travels through a tight system of pipes and gets hotter as it gets closer to the output of the water heater. A traditional tank-based water heater can hold up to 100 gallons of hot water at once. This water is kept at a certain temperature constantly through a heat source.

Advantages of Using a Tankless Heater

The main advantage of using a tankless water heater is that it can lower your energy bills since the water is only heated up when it is needed. You also avoid the heat loss often associated with tank heaters. In addition, tankless water heaters are also much smaller than the tank-based variety, and take up less space in your utility room or basement.

What Type of Hot Water Heater Should be Used?

If you have a small family, and a small home, a tankless water heater may be perfect, since you would not need a lot of hot water at one time. Large families, living in a house with multiple bathrooms, would probably need a tank heater in order for more than one person to take a shower, while the washer and dishwasher are on at the same time.

If you are interested in learning more about tankless water heaters, or if you have any other questions about your home’s plumbing or HVAC systems, get in touch with the professionals at Aladdin Heating. We have been helping customers in the Farmington Hills and Grosse Pointe Farms since 1945.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Warren, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about water heaters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Why Does My Water Heater Keep Going Out?

Aladdin — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 09:00:44 +0000

Water heaters keep you comfortable in your home all year-round. The heating components in water heaters are kept warm by burners, which initiate heating when triggered by the pilot light. However, if the pilot light fails to light, the burner won’t turn on, preventing water from warming up. If you live in the Detroit region of Oak Park or Sterling Heights and encounter water heater problems, it could be due to:

Insufficient gas supplies: Your pilot light needs to stay lit and all valves have to be open if there’s a flow of gas to the burner. Always confirm if your tank has sufficient gas to keep your pilot light lit. While some gas could be flowing inside the supply tube, chances are that the gas will ignite a flame over the burner, but will eventually extinguish.

A dirty pilot light: Ensure you maintain a clean pilot light. Failure to do this may result in a malfunction of your water heater. The tip of a pilot light may prevent sufficient flow of gas if it’s dirty. Cleaning the tip regularly using a toothbrush can help remove build-up of grime and soot, hence solving the problem.

A malfunctioning thermocouple: A thermocouple that’s unresponsive could be a probable cause as to why your heater is going out. It’s among the vital components that control the functionality of your water heater. It generates electric current depending on the amount of heat available. If heat is unavailable, the pilot light remains off and the gas supply is terminated. Use a digital tester to confirm if the thermocouple connection is working properly or if it’s faulty and needs a thermocouple replacement.

Electrical issues: Electrical problems are common in many heating systems. If your HVAC unit triggers a breaker shut-down, fix it only if you’re an expert in electrical works. Otherwise, seek help from a water heater specialist.

For more information about troubleshooting heating systems at home, contact Aladdin Heating & Cooling in the Sterling Heights area immediately.

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How to Address a Hot Water Heater Overflow

Aladdin — Tue, 17 Feb 2015 09:00:48 +0000

Your hot water heater keeps your home comfortable every day. It’s a silent worker in the background we don’t often notice or think about until something goes wrong. But it’s important to know what to do if you find a puddle under your unit.

Among the most common water heater problems is a leak, usually from the overflow or pressure release valve. This causes dripping or flowing water that can quickly turn into a greater problem. From mold growth to extensive property damage, a leak can wreak havoc on your home. A hot water heater overflow might also be a signal of a worse, potentially dangerous problem, so it should never be ignored.

The first step in troubleshooting your leak is to double check where the source of the problem is. Dry any water puddles and watch to see where new drips form. A very small amount of water that occurs only once in a while may just be condensation. Otherwise, a professional should be called in to inspect the leak. If the flow is very heavy, you may need to shut off your water supply until a professional can look at the problem.

Overflow valves are designed for your safety. They vent when there’s excess pressure or when temperatures get too high. This ensures your water heater doesn’t build pressure in the tank and lead to an explosion. A professional can determine the cause of your hot water heater overflow. A damaged valve is usually a simple and inexpensive replacement, while other problems involving the heating unit, may require a replacement.

You can keep your water heater running in top shape and extend its life by following a few simple maintenance steps. Aladdin Heating & Cooling has been serving Southeast Michigan since 1945, so please feel free to contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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What Does Discolored Hot Water Mean for My Water Heater?

Aladdin — Tue, 20 Jan 2015 09:00:05 +0000

When dealing with discolored hot water, there are several things to consider. Corrosion is often the killer of hot water heaters if they haven’t been properly maintained. This is particularly true of galvanized corrosion and rust, both of which can ruin your water heater.

It’s important to check the age of your hot water heater and when it was last maintained. Ideally, it should be flushed yearly, so that corrosion can’t build up. When minerals build up at the bottom of your tank, heat transfer is hampered, and your unit has to work much harder. Also, it’s best to set your thermostat at 120 degrees. Why? Water that’s hotter than 120 degrees is more acidic and corrodes electrodes, making discolored hot water more likely.

If your water is orange-brown, it probably contains galvanic rust. Galvanized iron plumbing creates rusty to dark brown water. If you’ve recently purchased your water heater and have copper or plastic supply lines, it may not be your tank at all, but a problem with the public water supply. Turn on the cold water tap. If it’s discolored, your water heater is not at fault. When properly maintained, a water heater can serve your family for 10 to 15 years.

To determine if your hot water heater is nearing the end of its life, here are a few signs to watch out for:

Water temperature fluctuations
Heavy sediment or dirt deposits
Strange banging noises
Visible corrosion on the bottom of your tank
Takes too long to warm up

Cloudiness in your hot water can also be an ominous sign that bacteria is growing in your tank. Furthermore, a rotten egg odor might indicate that sulfate-reducing bacteria is at work. If this odor is present, it’s best to have your water tested by a professional.

From Sterling Heights to Grosse Pointe, Aladdin Heating & Air Conditioning has been serving homeowners since 1945. Please contact us with all of your HVAC needs.

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Steps to Follow When Draining Your Water Heater

Aladdin — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 09:00:30 +0000

How many days can you go without using hot water in your Michigan home? Probably not very many, if any. Yet, water heaters are often forgotten about until something goes wrong. Make sure you flush out your tank each year to increase efficiency and extend your equipment’s lifespan. Follow these simple steps for draining your water heater.

Draining Your Water Heater

Test the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve before draining your water heater. Then, place a bucket beneath the valve or discharge tube. When you pull and release the valve, you should hear a hissing noise or see water flowing out. If this occurs, it’s working.
Next, shut off the gas supply line to the water heater, and turn off the gas control knob.
Then, turn off the breaker to the water heater at the circuit panel.
Turn on a water outlet in your home to use up all of the hot water (your bathtub is the quickest option). When the water temperature cools down, you may proceed.
Hook up a garden hose to the drain valve, and run the other end to the drain or outside your home. It should be at a lower elevation than the drain.
Next, turn off the cold water intake to the water heater, turning on a hot water faucet or outlet in the home to release air and expedite draining.
Then, turn on the drain valve. After the water heater has completely drained, turn on the cold water intake to continue flushing out the bottom of the storage tank for three to five minutes.
Afterwards, close the drain valve and allow the cold water intake to fill the water heater.
With a hot water outlet still open in your house, allow the outlet to run full for three minutes with no air coming out. Then, turn the outlet off.
Next, turn on the circuit breaker, gas supply line and gas control knob.
Finally, turn on your pilot and enjoy efficient hot water.

For more tips on draining the water heater in your Troy or Utica home, or to schedule professional service, contact Aladdin Heating & Cooling.

Should I Repair or Replace a Leaking Water Heater?

Aladdin — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 09:00:19 +0000

Water heater leaks can often cause serious damage to your home. Indeed, these leaks can damage floors, sub floors and walls, while posing potential health risks. Whether you need to repair or replace a leaking hot water tank depends on the location of your leak.

When to Repair

Check for the following before you replace a leaking water heater:

Condensation: The puddle of water you see might be the result of condensation. When water usage is high, the air inside your tank gets colder than that outside, causing condensation.
Pipe leaks: Sometimes leaks at a pipe joint isn’t easily noticeable. Unless you can observe a spray of water from the pipes that connect to the tank, you might assume they’re in fine condition. You should tighten the joints to stop possible leaks and see if the situation improves.
Leaking gaskets: Electric hot water systems use electric elements to heat water. Typically, these elements project into the tank and are therefore sealed with gaskets to prevent leakage. Over time, gaskets may wear out or get damaged, resulting in leakage.
Pressure release valve: If pressure inside your water heater tank builds up to a certain level, the pressure relief valve will open to let steam escape, so the pressure can return to normal. With the tank inside your home, the steam can sometimes condense quickly causing a puddle of water at the bottom of your tank.

When to Replace

After you’ve checked and confirmed that the puddle of water around your tank is not caused by one of the above problems, it’s highly likely that your water heater tank is leaking. At this stage, its best to replace your water heater.

If you’re considering replacing a leaking water heater in or around Warren or Orion Township, contact Aladdin Heating & Air Conditioning and experience the rewards of 75 years of experience.

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How to Select a New Hot Water Heater

Aladdin — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 09:00:17 +0000

A hot water heater takes years to wear out, so you may not think about replacement until it breaks down or stops producing enough heated water. The current market has an overwhelming variety of options that may not have existed when you bought your last water heater. Here are some tips to help you pick the right one.

Available Water Heater Types

There’s no one-size-fits-all “best option” for the type of hot water heater you buy. For instance:

Traditional tank water heaters are usually cheapest and may be a good choice for large families with consistent hot water demands despite an inefficient reputation.
Solar water heaters, or a hybrid solar/heat pump, can be amazingly efficient and clean if you can manage the upfront expense.
Tankless water heaters run off of electricity and natural gas or propane and eliminate standby costs, but with a small sacrifice to hot water availability.

Local Energy Costs

Energy prices vary widely across the country. While “cost per year” tags can help give you some guidance compared to other units with the same fuel type, they may not offer an accurate picture of what you’ll actually pay. Check the costs of natural gas, electricity and propane, if available. Use this to help estimate the true cost of each unit.

Proper Size

Check the GPH (gallons per hour) rating of your prospective hot water heater. Higher demands, such as a large family, require a higher GPH so water doesn’t run cold. Standby heating typically has the highest GPH ratings.

Maintenance and Replacement Costs

Service costs vary tremendously with each type of water heater. Most recommend at least a service call every year, but part prices and technician availability may vary. Know the average lifespan for each unit for an estimate on replacement cost. For instance, a tank costs much less than a tankless hot water heater, but typically only lasts about half as long.

For more information about selecting the right hot water heater for your needs, contact Aladdin Heating & Cooling. We serve Madison Heights, Royal Oak and the surrounding areas.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Warren, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about selecting a new water heater and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Follow These Guidelines for a Corrosion-Free Water Heater

Aladdin — Tue, 08 Jul 2014 09:00:48 +0000

One of the big killers of a water heater is corrosion. Although lime deposits inside the tank can be considered a type of corrosion, the unknown types that most homeowners do not know about are galvanic corrosion and rust. These kinds of corrosion will render a water heater inoperable, in much the same way that hard water lime deposits will.

Galvanic and rust corrosion need to be checked differently than lime deposits, and if you have solid do-it-yourself capabilities, this is what you can do.

Anode Rod — Located on top of your heater tank, the anode rod literally attracts the corrosive elements inside of your tank. By doing this, the rod corrodes, and eventually it will need to be replaced when it is inspected and bends easily. Although this can be a do-it-yourself task, it is best left to a professional service technician.
Electrical Elements –– These are made of steel with a copper sheath. These two dissimilar metals will corrode through the process of electrolysis, but you can prevent this by installing galvanized unions with plastic nipples on the tank’s top.
Gas Combustion Chamber — This area will rust and corrode due to condensation, or worse, a tank leak. Inspect the combustion chamber by first turning the gas valve to the “pilot” setting, then opening the hatch cover. Also, inspect the flue and draft diverter for traces of rust or carbon build-up.

By doing these relatively simple checks, you can head off corrosion before it becomes a major issue while keeping your water heater working as efficiently and effectively as possible, for all of your hot water needs.

For corrosion issues that are beyond your scope of do-it-yourself expertise, please contact the professionals at Aladdin Heating and Cooling. We will have the answers about any questions you may have, and our service technicians will solve all of your water heater corrosion problems. We’ve been serving the metropolitan Detroit, Michigan and surrounding areas, for almost 70 years.

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Think a Tankless Water Heater Is for You? What Size?

Aladdin — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 09:00:47 +0000

Are you in need of water heater upgrade? Many Oak Park homeowners are finding that a tankless water heater is the right energy-efficient upgrade in their Michigan home. Before deciding on a model for your household, it is important to determine the right size, location, and demand beforehand.

Tankless water heaters differ from conventional water heaters in that there is no large tank that holds the building’s hot water pre-use. This means that stored, unused water isn’t being constantly and expensively reheated. Instead, a tankless system heats water only as it is needed, such as when the washing machine is turned on.

Before choosing a tankless water heater, homeowners need to determine how many hot water applications will regularly be running at the same time in order to correctly size a unit by household water demand. For example, do you frequently run the dishwasher at the same time family members take showers? Most manufacturers rate their systems based on the amount of hot-water uses occurring simultaneously. The higher the tankless system’s capacity, the more appliances utilizing hot water can be operated at the same time. If you have a larger family, it may be necessary to install two or more tankless water heaters to ensure hot water is always readily available.

Once you have determined the correct size for your Sterling Heights household’s water demand, the next question is where best to locate the unit. This may mean installing it somewhere other than where your old tank was. Tankless heaters heat water on-demand, as it passes through the system. Therefore, it makes the most sense to install units close to high-use water appliances, such as in the kitchen or near the family bathroom.

Although some of these systems can be easy to install, it is best to consult a professional HVAC contractor, especially if you are converting an old water tank system into a tankless one.

For more information on implementing a tankless water heater in your home, contact your local HVAC experts at Aladdin Heating & Cooling, proudly serving homeowners throughout the Southeast Michigan area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Warren, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about tankless water heaters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Water Heater in Its Final Days? Time to Think of a Replacement

Aladdin — Wed, 02 Oct 2013 09:00:49 +0000

If your water heater just isn’t cutting it anymore, it may be a good idea to look into getting it replaced. Homeowners have several water heater options to choose from, each varying in cost and efficiency. By examining the traits of water heaters more closely, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on what can be a big investment.

Gas

Gas powered water heaters tend to cost much less to purchase and maintain than electric or solar but will provide limited energy savings throughout the year. Tankless water heaters using gas power may cost more, but the energy savings and efficiency is drastically better than some other options. One major drawback to tankless heaters, though, is its inability to carry hot water to different faucets in the home at the same time.

Electric

Water heaters that rely on electric power are not only less expensive than many gas models, but the energy efficiency tends to be better as well. Second only to solar panels, electric water heaters can provide the most amount of energy savings over time. Heat pumps are efficient for heating water as well as conditioning spaces. Other electric water heaters include the tankless or high efficiency storage models, both of which offer better water heating savings than standard models.

Solar

A solar water heater can save a tremendous amount of money on utility costs and also contribute to reducing your home’s environmental impact. Solar water heaters won’t work as well in areas that tend toward more more overcast conditions. Many homeowners with solar water heaters get around this problem by keeping an extra electric or gas water heater around, ready to be used when the sun is obscured by weather.

With water heating taking up 15 percent of many homes’ energy consumption, purchasing a new water heater is a great way to save money. Once you’ve found the right one for you, contact a local professional for more information on installation. From Clarkston to Rochester Hills, and everywhere in between, Aladdin Heating & Cooling continues to be HVAC leaders in Michigan. Talk to a professional staff member today by calling 1-800-762-0079.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Detroit, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about water heaters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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