40% of American water heaters run on electricity, not gas.
Thinking visually, a plumbing pyramid (if there is such a thing) consists of a foundational layer of piping (inbound and outbound). Next, layer on the cold water intake valve, followed by the hot water heater. In layer three, the pyramid continues with basic fixtures: toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, and sump pumps. Plumbing niceties fill the apex: hot water makers, garbage disposals, bidets, outdoor sprinkler systems, frost proof faucets, etc.

If you are the owner of an electric water heater, this blog’s for you. Electric water heaters – which are more efficient that their gas counterpart — use heating elements to heat the water for your home. Elements typically costs less than $20, are widely available, and mean the difference between a nice hot shower or a painfully cold one.

Replacing a Water Heater Element – Not a job for the faint-hearted
At Allied Reddi-Rooter, replacing a water heater element isn’t considered to be a typical DIY job. It’s complicated and runs a risk of electrocution. If you feel confident that this type of work is in your wheelhouse, the step-by-step instruction at WaterHeaterRepairGuide.com (http://www.water-heater-repair-guide.com/waterheaterelementreplacement.html) is nicely illustrated with pictures.

For everyone else, we recommend contacting a professional plumber with a good reputation. Our contact information is at the bottom of this blog.

Water Heater Troubleshooting Tips Everyone Can Use
If your hot water is running cool or the tank is leaking, our friends at Lowes.com offer a few tips:

All Water Heaters
• Flush the tank to remove sediment.
• Insulate the hot water pipes.
• Raise the thermostat temperature setting.
• Replace a leaky pressure relief valve.
• Tighten or replace the fittings on leaky supply lines.

Electric Water Heaters
• Make sure that the power is connected. Reset the thermostat.
• Replace the heating element and/or thermostat.

Gas Water Heaters
• Make sure that the gas is connected and the pilot light is lit.
• Clean the gas burner and replace the thermocoupler (a safety device that shuts off the gas automatically if the pilot flame goes out).

Water You Waiting For? The professionals at Allied Reddi-Rooter are “reddi” to assist with all your hot water heater needs. From installing one you’ve purchased elsewhere or ordering/installing one for you, our guys will make sure your hot water is flowing and steamy. Call Ray today for a free quote or consultation. 513.396-5300.