Common Questions About Water Heaters

That noise is most likely caused by sediment and mineral scale that has built up at the bottom of your tank. As the burner heats the water, steam bubbles form underneath the sediment, and the noise you hear is the sound of those bubbles escaping. This buildup reduces efficiency and can lead to tank damage over time. It's a clear sign your water heater needs to be professionally flushed and inspected.

For many homeowners, it absolutely is. The long-term energy savings can provide a return on your investment in just a few years. As of 2025, significant federal tax credits and New York state rebates are available that can dramatically reduce the initial cost, making it a very smart financial decision.

Yes. A leak from the bottom of the tank itself is a serious issue, typically indicating that the inner tank has corroded through. This is not repairable and is a sign of imminent failure that could lead to significant water damage. You should shut off the water and power supply to the heater and call us for an emergency replacement immediately.

We generally recommend considering replacement if your water heater is 8-12 years old or if the cost of the repair is more than 50% of the cost of a new unit. An older, less efficient unit may continue to have problems, while a new water heater will be more energy-efficient and come with a full manufacturer's warranty. We can provide an honest assessment to help you make the best financial decision.

The cost varies depending on several factors: the type (traditional tank vs. tankless), the size/capacity, the brand, and the complexity of the installation. We always provide a firm, upfront price before any work begins, so there are no surprises. Contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate.

For a traditional tank, size is based on how much hot water your household uses at peak times (e.g., multiple showers in the morning). A 40-50 gallon tank is common for a family of 2-4 people. For a tankless unit, it's sized by the flow rate (gallons per minute) you'll need at once. Our experts can perform a detailed assessment to ensure you get the perfect size for your family's comfort and efficiency.

Absolutely. Annual maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your water heater, improve its efficiency, and prevent unexpected breakdowns. A professional service includes flushing sediment, inspecting the anode rod (which prevents corrosion), and testing the critical temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve for safety.

The anode rod is a metal rod inside your tank that is designed to corrode away, protecting the steel tank from rusting out. It's a sacrificial part that needs to be inspected every few years and replaced when it's depleted. Replacing a $50 anode rod can prevent a $1,500+ water heater replacement.

It saves money by pulling existing warmth from the surrounding air to heat your water, rather than using powerful electric elements to create heat from scratch. This heat pump process is far more efficient and can cut your water heating electricity usage by more than half, leading to significant savings on your monthly utility bills. Combined with federal tax rebates, this typically saves you more than you spend.

Yes, they need more space than standard tanks. Because a hybrid water heater relies on airflow, it must be installed in a larger, unconfined area like a basement or garage, not a tight closet. They are also typically taller and release cool, dehumidified air as they run.