What type of water heater should I have installed?
A household evaluation is essential to determine the ideal size and model of water heater for your specific needs. Wilson Home Services can help you narrow down the options.
Why does my red reset button keep tripping?
Red reset buttons trip because the water temperature is higher than the cut off setting of the limit switch. To remedy this, allow the water temperature to drop below 120°F to reset the limit.
Why does my relief valve keep popping out?
If you have a pressure-reducing valve, backflow preventor, or check valve installed, this allows water pressure to easily build to levels that will activate the T&P valve. This is often a result of housing developments being constructed in areas where a high water main distribution pressure is supplied by the local water utility. Many contractors will install the water pressure reducing valves, which are available with or without a backflow check.
To solve the relief valve issue, you will need to have a pressure reducing valve with a built-in backflow bypass or a thermal expansion tank properly sized to your water heater installed. Call on Wilson Home Services for more information.
Why does my pilot light keep going out?
There are many reasons why your pilot light might be going out, but sometimes it simply gets blown out or needs to be cleaned. Make sure all of the necessary covers are in place to avoid a blow out, and check all parts for dirt or debris. If you need additional assistance, don’t hesitate to call Wilson Home Services at (817) 753-0873.
What is the energy factor of my water heater?
Uniform Energy Factory (UEF) evaluates performance based on usage, with a higher UEF offering greater efficiency and lower operational costs.
Where is the anode rod on my water heater?
The anode rod (sometimes referred to as the “sacrificial rod” or “mag rod”) protects the water heater from rusting through a process called electrolysis. You can find this part attached to the hot water outlet of your water heater. When looking at the front of the water heater, the hot water outlet should be on the left-hand side.
What carbon monoxide readings are acceptable?
Water heaters should emit less than 400ppm when tested/certified. Typically, measurements reach less than 50ppm.
I smell gas/combustion products, what should I do?
If you smell gas in your home, immediately leave the house and call your gas supplier and follow their instructions. Do not try to light any appliances, touch any electrical switches, or use any phones inside. If you cannot reach your gas supplier right away, call the fire department.
Why is my flame yellow?
If your pilot flame is mostly yellow, the combustion system may require service or adjustment. It should always be mostly blue. Call us at (817) 753-0873 immediately to check for any problems.
Can I put an insulation blanket on my water heater?
Water heater blankets are often used in times of rising fuel costs as they help with heat loss and conservation. Water heating is responsible for approximately 25% of energy used in the average household.
If you have an older fiberglass insulated electric water heater, it might make sense to utilize an insulation blanket since electricity is so much more expensive than gas. If your electric water heater is insulated with foam (R 8.33 or higher), it should meet ASHREA standards for performance when tested according to the Department of Energy procedures.
As for a gas water heater, most expert agree than heat loss goes up the flue, which would render an insulation blanket useless. It may also create additional unnecessary hazards, and local codes or utility company regulations may prohibit the use of insulation blankets.
Be sure to never cover safety warnings, operating instructions, controls, access areas, shut off devices, temperature and pressure relief valves, air passages etc. Using an insulated blanket may disclaim any liability for problems associated with their use.
Consider the upgrade to a high efficiency water heater. High efficiency water heaters trim energy use by up to 50%.
Why do I run out of hot water?
If you’re constantly running out of hot water, your hot water heater is either improperly sized or in need of maintenance. Call our team at (817) 753-0873 to have your water heater inspected for proper size and performance.
Why is my water heater making noises?
There are a few reasons why your water heater is making noise, but two main issues are water hammer and mineral build-up.
Water hammer occurs when water flowing through the pipes is stopped abruptly by quick closing valves, such as solenoid valves on washing machines and dishwashers, or single lever faucets. This can cause damage to the system, so Wilson Home Services recommends calling to have the system inspected for solutions.
Lime formations and sediment, as well as sand and other minerals, can collect on the bottom of your water tank or on electrical elements. You can clean parts by hand using vinegar or scrubbing to reduce the build-up. If the build-up is left alone, it can cause additional issues in the future. The best solution for hard water areas is to install a water softener.
What general maintenance should be done on my water heater?
Wilson Home Services recommends leaving most repairs and maintenance to a professional. However, you can keep up with a few things to help keep your water heater in top shape and your home safe:
- Keep the area around your water heater clear of flammable vapors such as gasoline, heating oils, propane, etc.
- Make sure the top of the water heater is kept clean. If you notice any water dripping on the water heater, contact a plumbing professional to repair the leak.
- Keep the water heater accessible for proper operation and easy maintenance. Avoid leaving dirt, boxes, paint cans, aerosol cans, trash, household cleaners, etc., in the area around your water heater.
- Drain about 1-2 gallons per month.
- Contact Wilson Home Services to have your water heater anode rod inspected periodically, and for any routine maintenance.
With proper maintenance, a tank-style water heater should last 10-12 years and a tankless water heater can be expected to last between 18-20 years.
How do I drain my water heater?
To drain or flush your water heater:
- If you have a gas water heater, turn the gas valve to the OFF position. If you have an electric heater, turn off the electric to the water heater.
- Turn off the cold water supply to the water heater.
- Open a hot water faucet.
- Attach a hose to the drain valve on the heater and run it to a drain.
- Open up the drain valve until the tank is completely drained.
- Turn the cold water back on.
- For approximately 5-10 minutes, allow the water to run through the water heater and out of the drain valve.
- Finally, close the drain valve and allow the tank to refill, while keeping the hot water faucet open. Once water starts coming out of the faucet, the tank is full.
Annually draining and removing sediment from the water heater helps to promote maximum supply, efficiency, and system longevity.
How do I adjust the temperature on my water heater?
To adjust your water heater temperature, locate the thermostat dial on the side of the tank. Rotate the dial clockwise to increase the temperature, and rotate counter-clockwise to reduce the temperature. Be sure to check your manual for proper operational procedures.
How often are you supposed to flush the water heater?
It’s generally a good idea to flush your water heater once every 6 months. However, if you live in an area with hard water or high levels or minerals, you may need to flush the water heater more frequently. Each month, you should drain 1-2 gallons of water from the drain valve. Call Wilson Home Services for regular water heater maintenance.
What does HVAC stand for?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning.
How does my heating and air conditioning system move air throughout my home?
Heated or cooled air is moved throughout your home via ducts, which draw air through vents called return grills in your wall, ceilings, or floors. The majority of homes sacrifice about 30% of the conditioned air to duct leaks. Call Wilson Home Services for duct leak repairs.
How often should I replace the filter?
Keeping up with regular air filter changes increases efficiency by approximately 50%. How often you should change your filter depends greatly on how often the HVAC system is in use. The most common times to change your filter are at the beginning of the heating and cooling seasons, and then in between as needed.
Why should I replace my working furnace or air conditioner?
If you have an HVAC system that’s older than 12 years, you should consider replacing it with a new high-efficiency system. Over 50% of the average’s home energy costs are devoted to heating and cooling. Replacing an old HVAC system saves you money on your utility bills and keeps you more comfortable.
What is a SEER and EER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is the ratio of BTU (or amount of cooling produced) divided by the watts (electricity) used. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the air conditioner.
What is meant by a ‘ton’ of refrigeration?
One ton of refrigeration is the equivalent of 12,000 BTUs per hour of cooling effect. So if you have a condensing unit with a capacity of 5 tons, that means it has a cooling capacity of 60,000 BTUs per hour.
Why can’t you add coolant to my system without checking for a leak or repairing an existing leak?
Refrigerants can cause severe damage to the ozone layer, so it is illegal to release refrigerants into the air, either intentionally or accidentally.
What is radon?
Radon is a serious hazard in indoor air quality. It’s an invisible, radioactive atomic gas that can be found in rock formations beneath buildings or in certain building materials. Radon is the result of radioactive decay of radium, and is potentially responsible for thousands of deaths from lung cancer each year. A professional can complete proper testing for radon and take proper measures to minimize the effects.