Seattle Water Heater Pros

Water Heater Service in Seattle

We are your go-to source for all of your water heater requirements in Seattle and the Puget Sound region. Being a locally owned business, we take great satisfaction in offering our community first-rate services.

We recognize how crucial it is to have a dependable hot water supply for your residence or corporate place. We offer many services, including water heater installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance. Whether you have a traditional tank-style water heater, a tankless system, or a modern heat pump water heater, our team of experienced technicians is equipped to handle any job, big or small.

Our service area covers the entire Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area, ensuring that we can respond quickly to your needs. We make sure that your new water heater runs effectively and safely by using only the best components and tools. We are committed to providing our customers exceptional service and value and stand behind our work with a comprehensive warranty.

At our company, we believe that every customer deserves to have a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective water heating solution. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference that a professional, locally-focused company can make.

Services We Offer

What are Signs My Water Heater Needs to be Repaired

Recognizing the signs that your water heater requires repair is essential for maintaining a reliable hot water supply in your Seattle home.

For standard tank water heaters, look for these symptoms:

• Insufficient Hot Water: If you frequently run out of hot water, it may indicate a failing heating element or sediment buildup in the tank.
• Rusty or Discolored Water: This could signal corrosion inside the tank, which may lead to leaks if not addressed promptly.
• Strange Noises: Popping or rumbling sounds often suggest sediment accumulation, which can affect efficiency.

For tankless water heaters, the following issues may arise:

• Inconsistent Water Temperature: Fluctuations in hot water temperature can indicate a clogged filter or a malfunctioning heating element.
• Low Water Pressure: This may be caused by mineral buildup in the system, affecting the flow of hot water.

If you notice any of these signs, contact us for expert diagnosis and repair services to ensure your water heating system operates efficiently and reliably.

What are Signs My Water Heater Needs to be Replaced

As a homeowner in the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound area, it’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate your water heater may need replacement. While regular maintenance can extend its lifespan, all water heaters eventually reach the end of their useful life. Recognizing the symptoms early can help you avoid sudden breakdowns and costly water damage.

For standard tank water heaters, look for these telltale signs:

• Insufficient hot water supply due to sediment buildup or a malfunctioning heating element
• Rusty or discolored water, which may signal corrosion inside the tank
• Strange noises like popping, rumbling, or banging caused by mineral deposits
• Visible signs of leaks around the base of the tank

Tankless water heaters may exhibit issues such as:

• Inconsistent water temperature due to a clogged filter or faulty heating component
• Low water pressure from mineral buildup

If your water heater is over 10 years old for a tank model or 20 years old for a tankless unit, replacement may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. In addition to assisting you in choosing the best replacement for your house and budget, we can help you decide when it’s time for a new water heater.

Types of Water Heaters

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters are a popular choice for homes in the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound area. These units use electrical resistance coils to heat water and store it in an insulated tank until needed. Electric water heaters offer several advantages, including simple installation, no potential for dangerous gas leaks, and greater energy efficiency compared to gas models.

Available in a range of sizes to accommodate different household needs, electric water heaters are a cost-effective option for many Seattle homeowners. With proper maintenance and care, these reliable systems can provide hot water for many years, making them a practical choice for your home’s water heating requirements.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters are traditional storage systems that utilize natural gas to heat water efficiently. Typically available in sizes ranging from 30 to 75 gallons, these units provide a reliable supply of hot water for households in the Seattle-Tacoma area.

Compared to electric models, gas water heaters generally have lower operating costs and faster heating capabilities, making them a popular choice for larger families. The initial cost of gas water heaters is often comparable to electric units, but their long-term savings can be significant due to lower energy bills.

With proper maintenance, gas water heaters can last between 10 to 15 years. If you notice signs such as inconsistent hot water supply, strange noises, or rust in your water, it may be time to consider a replacement. The company is here to assist with installation and service, ensuring your home has a dependable hot water source.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters, available in both gas and electric models, provide an efficient solution for heating water on demand. Unlike traditional tank water heaters that store hot water, tankless systems heat water as it flows through the unit, ensuring you never run out of hot water.

These compact units are significantly smaller, making them ideal for homes with limited space. While the upfront cost of tankless water heaters can be higher than traditional models, they often lead to lower energy bills—up to 40% savings—since they only operate when hot water is needed.

With a lifespan of over 20 years, tankless water heaters outlast standard units, which typically last around 10-15 years. This durability, combined with energy efficiency, makes them a smart investment for homeowners in the Seattle-Tacoma area. We will help you choose and install the perfect tankless water heater for your home, ensuring you enjoy endless hot water with minimal energy waste.

Heat Pumps

Heat pump water heaters are an innovative and energy-efficient alternative to traditional water heating systems. Unlike conventional heaters that generate heat, heat pumps transfer heat from the surrounding air into the water, making them significantly more efficient—often using half the energy of standard models.

With new regulations proposed by the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pump water heaters are set to become mandatory, promoting greater energy savings and efficiency across the nation. These systems typically last 10 to 15 years and can provide substantial savings on energy bills.

We specialize in the installation and maintenance of heat pump water heaters throughout the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound area. Our expert team can help you choose the right model for your home, ensuring you benefit from the latest technology while enjoying reliable hot water. Upgrade to a heat pump today and contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying the comfort of efficient heating in your Seattle-Tacoma home.

What Size Water Heater Do I Need?

When discussing water heaters, the term “size” can refer to various aspects, including capacity, physical dimensions, and flow rates. A summary of the important factors is provided below:

Capacity in Gallons

For traditional tank water heaters, capacity is typically measured in gallons. This is the amount of hot water the tank can hold.

Standard Sizes: The 20–80 gallon range is used by most household water heaters. The appropriate size depends on your household’s hot water needs.

Identification: You can find the specific capacity on a sticker located on the water heater itself, which provides crucial information for replacement or upgrades.

Physical Dimensions

In some cases, particularly when space is limited, the physical size of the water heater becomes a significant factor.

Low Clearance Spaces: If the water heater is installed in a crawl space or an area with low ceilings, it’s essential to consider the height and width of the unit.

Non-Standard Sizes: Although standard-sized units are preferred by most homes, choices are available for smaller spaces. However, this is less common than simply replacing a unit with one of the same capacity.

Tankless Water Heaters

For tankless water heaters, size is measured differently, focusing on flow rate rather than storage capacity.

Gallons Per Minute (GPM): This metric indicates how much hot water the unit can deliver at any given moment. Selecting a tankless model that satisfies your requirements for peak demand is essential.

Sizing Considerations: When selecting a tankless water heater, consider the number of fixtures you’ll be using simultaneously (e.g., showers, washing machines) to ensure adequate flow.

Replacement Considerations

When replacing a water heater, it’s generally advisable to choose a unit of the same type.

Type Consistency

Most homeowners replace electric water heaters with electric models and gas water heaters with gas models. However, upgrading to a tankless system is becoming increasingly popular for its efficiency and space-saving benefits.

Consultation

It’s wise to consult with a plumbing professional to assess your specific needs and ensure you select the right type and size for your home.

What Kind of Water Heater Do I Have?

To determine what kind of water heater you have, start by inspecting its physical features. Look for a gas line or vent, indicating a gas water heater, or check for a tank versus a wall-mounted box for tankless models.

Water heaters typically fall into two categories: tank and tankless. Tank heaters hold warm water in a tank; tankless heaters heat hot water as needed.

Additionally, consider the energy source: gas or electric. Gas heaters are often more cost-effective in the long run, while electric models may be easier to install.

We provide installation, replacement, and maintenance services to satisfy all of your water heating needs in Washington, and we serve the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound areas.

Types of Venting for Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters, including tankless models, are essential for providing hot water in homes and businesses. Unlike electric water heaters, gas units produce exhaust gases during the combustion process, which must be vented outside to ensure safety and efficiency. Our company specializes in all types of gas water heater venting solutions to meet your needs.

Standard Atmospheric Vent

The typical atmospheric vent, which depends on natural convection, is the most widely used venting technique. The exhaust gases produced during combustion are released from this system via a vertical duct. As hot air rises, it travels up the vent pipe, exiting through the roof or a chimney. While effective for many homes, atmospheric vents can be affected by changes in air pressure, potentially leading to backdrafting, where harmful gases re-enter the home. The prevention of such problems depends on proper vent installation and maintenance.

Power Vent

Power venting utilizes an electric blower to force exhaust gases out of the home. This method is particularly advantageous in situations where natural draft venting is insufficient, such as in basements or tightly sealed spaces. Power vents can be installed horizontally or vertically, providing flexibility in placement. They also allow for the use of PVC piping, which is often more cost-effective and easier to install than traditional metal ducts.

Direct Vent

Exhaust gases from direct vent systems are vented externally, drawing air from outside for burning. This dual-venting system minimizes the risk of backdrafting, making it ideal for homes with limited indoor ventilation. Direct vent water heaters use coaxial pipes, where one pipe brings in air while the other expels exhaust, ensuring a safe and efficient operation.

Concentric Vent

Concentric venting is a specialized form that combines both intake and exhaust in a single pipe structure. This design simplifies installation by reducing the number of penetrations needed through walls or roofs. The inner pipe vents exhaust gases, while the outer pipe supplies fresh air for combustion. This method is aesthetically pleasing and efficient, making it a popular choice for modern installations.

Major Parts of a Water Heater

Water heaters have the basic function of converting the cold water from the street into hot water for your faucet. But it’s not that simple. A hot water heater is a complex appliance that requires the expertise of a plumber who understands all of the compenents and entire installation process to ensure proper functionality.

The most common system is a gas or electric tank heater, which is what will be described below:

1. Tank

The tank is the central component of most water heaters, serving as the reservoir where water is stored and heated. Tanks are typically made from glass-lined steel or stainless steel and come in various capacities, usually ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. The tank is insulated to retain heat and ensure that hot water is readily available when needed.

2. Heating Element or Burner

• Electric Water Heaters: These units use one or two electric heating elements, which are metallic rods immersed in the water inside the tank. An electrical current passes through these elements, generating heat to warm the water.
• Gas Water Heaters: These models use a burner located at the bottom of the tank to heat the water. The burner uses natural gas or propane to create a flame that heats the water in the tank.

These are internal to the tank, and the homeowner will never see these components.

3. Thermostat

The thermostat controls the temperature of the water inside the heater. In both electric and gas water heaters, the thermostat is usually located on the outside of the tank and is adjustable, allowing homeowners to set their preferred temperature.

4. Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve)

The Temperature and Pressure Valve is an important safety feature that automatically releases water if either the temperature or pressure inside the tank becomes too high. This prevents potential explosions due to over-pressurization. Regular testing and maintenance of this valve are essential for safe operation.

5. Cold Water Inlet and Hot Water Outlet Pipes

• Cold Water Inlet: This pipe allows cold water to enter the tank from the home’s main supply line. It typically includes a shut-off valve for maintenance purposes.
• Hot Water Outlet: Located at the top of the tank, this pipe allows heated water to exit the tank so it can reach the faucet where the hot water is being used.

6. Drain Valve

The drain valve is located near the bottom of the tank and is used for draining sediment that accumulates over time. Regular flushing through this valve helps maintain efficiency and prolongs the life of the heater.

7. Flue Pipe (Gas Water Heaters Only)

In gas water heaters, a flue pipe directs exhaust gases safely out of the home. Proper venting is necessary for safe operation and preventing gas exhausting into the living space.

8. Circuit Breakers/Electrical Supply (Electric Water Heaters Only)

Electric water heaters require a dedicated electrical supply connected through circuit breakers that protect against overcurrent and short circuits.

9. Thermal Expansion Tank

An expansion tank is often installed to absorb excess pressure caused by thermal expansion in closed water systems. This helps protect both the water heater and plumbing system from damage. It is a separate component that is installed in nearby plumbing.

Reasons to Hire Us

We take pride on being the leading water heater experts in the Greater Seattle area. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our transparent and fair pricing, ensuring that you receive top-notch service without any hidden fees. As licensed plumbers and electricians, we are equipped to handle any issues related to your water heating system, providing comprehensive solutions for both residential and commercial properties.

We offer installation, maintenance, replacement, and repair services for water heaters. Whether you need a traditional tank water heater, a tankless model, or even a heat pump water heater, our knowledgeable team can guide you through the selection process and ensure proper installation. We understand that every home and business in the Seattle-Tacoma area relies on efficient hot water systems, and we are dedicated to keeping yours running smoothly.

With years of experience serving the Puget Sound region, we are familiar with the unique challenges that local homeowners face. Our goal is to provide reliable service that enhances your comfort and peace of mind. Choose us for all your water heater needs, and experience the difference that expert care can make in your home or business.

Areas we Serve

Seattle Water Heater Pros proudly serves the Greater Seattle-Tacoma area and most of Puget Sound, ensuring reliable hot water solutions for homes and businesses throughout Washington. Located in Seattle, we specialize in water heater installation, replacement, and repair, catering to the diverse needs of our community.

Our services encompass traditional tank water heaters, energy-efficient tankless models, and innovative heat pump systems. Every residential property, from houses to condominiums, relies on effective water heating systems, and we are here to ensure yours operates smoothly. With our expert team, you can trust that your water heater needs are met with professionalism and care, keeping your home comfortable and efficient year-round. Choose us for all your water heating needs!

We are Seattle’s trusted water heater installer

Your one-stop shop for all things related to water heaters in the Greater Seattle area is Seattle Water Heater Pros. With more than ten years of experience, our team of qualified experts offers superior installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement services for homes and corporations. We guarantee that your hot water demands are satisfied effectively and economically through water heater options like conventional tankless, tank-style, and energy-efficient heat pump models. Our dedication to client satisfaction is unsurpassed, and we take pleasure in providing timely, dependable, and honest service every time. For reliable hot water maintenance in Seattle, Tacoma, and the surrounding Puget Sound, rely on Seattle Water Heater Pros.

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