Residential Services
Hot Water Tank Installation and Check-ups
Depending on the water quality in your area, your hot water tank will need to be replaced every five to ten years. When the time comes for new hot water tank installation, ParkerDean’s prompt service can have your hot water back on before the dishes stack up or your friends start casually mentioning their favourite deodorant. We can also take away your old tank for recycling free of charge.
Before it’s time for a replacement however, there are steps you can take to increase the lifespan and efficiency of your water heater. Consider an annual tank flush and routine check up, especially if you use a gas heater. Both are low-cost ways to make the most of this important home appliance. The tank flush can add years to the working life of the heater, while a routine check can spot issues with soot, gas leaks, or loose wires before they develop into much larger problems. With regular check-ups you’ll know when it’s time to purchase a new heater, before it springs a leak and dumps gallons of water all over your basement or garage.
The ParkerDean staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have and look forward to speaking with you. Our contact info is:
Ph: 604.985.7315 E: inquiries@parkerdean.ca
Helpful tips to save on energy costs and extend the life of your hot water tank
Change the tank thermostat setting to 120° F (49° C) or lower
The hotter the setting, the faster minerals in the water will eat away at the tank lining. You will also use more energy. Dropping the temperature setting by ten degrees (Fahrenheit) will save you approximately 4% on your water heating bill annually. The lower temperature is also safer. Because just six seconds of exposure to water at 140° F (60° C) can cause a severe burn, paediatricians recommend 50° as a safe setting to prevent children from being injured.
On a gas unit this process is relatively easy. The temperature dial is on the exterior of the tank and typically well labelled. On an electric tank it’s a bit more challenging. You will need to take off the access cover over the tank elements to get to the thermostat. IMPORTANT– To avoid the risk of electrical shock you need to shut off the electrical power at your breaker box before opening the cover and adjusting the thermostat.
Drain and flush your hot water tank annually
Annual maintenance will greatly extend the life of your hot water tank. It’s a very affordable way to reduce the corrosion, scaling, and sediment that shorten the life of your water heater and make it harder for it to work. As sediment builds up on the bottom of your hot water tank it takes longer to heat up the water, increasing the amount of time required to heat the water, the energy it uses, and the money you spend. Flushing the tank will reduce or eliminate the problem.