What You May not Know About Water Heaters

Water heating statistics are fairly similar throughout the nation. Statistics gathered by the U.S. Energy Information Administration indicate that on a national scale, about 18 percent of the average household energy budget goes to water heating. In Illinois, this statistic drops to 16 percent. While the need for water heaters may be universal, there are some important facts that you might not be aware of. These issues could be important sources of savings over time.

Annual Water Heat Maintenance Is Crucial

Your water heater should perform effectively over time, but a lack of maintenance can result in a decrease in efficiency. The life of your system can also be shortened if routine water heat maintenance is not performed. Sediment can build in the tank, which can lead to corrosion of the heating element or of the tank. The tank should be drained at least once per year to ensure that the sediment is removed. If you notice a slight decline in the effectiveness of your system in providing hot water, you might want to begin by draining your tank to see if the situation improves.

Professional Water Heater Repair and Installation Is Recommended

Although you might feel confident in your ability to install a water heater, a professional is ideal, especially for a gas water heater. A DIY approach to water heater repair or installation could void a warranty, which could be costly if you don’t complete the job correctly. Furthermore, an error with gas-fueled equipment could create dangerous conditions in your home. The savings of a DIY project are not worth the potential negative outcome that you could face.

The Energy Tax Credit Has Been Renewed for 2016

Certain efficient home equipment, including electric water heaters with qualifying energy factors, may enable you to recover part of the cost of the new system through a federal tax credit. This credit ended in 2014, but the Consolidated Appropriations Act that was signed at the end of 2015 reinstated this credit for 2016. The credit is also retroactively renewed for those who installed eligible equipment during 2015.

Contact a Pro for Water Heater Help

Whether you need a water heater repair or maintenance assistance, Assurance Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. is ready to help. Read about our water heater services, or call our office at 847-388-0316 for additional information.