St. Louis Water Heater Installation. Buying and installing a new water heater can be a big undertaking. Many St. Louis homeowners have had the same water heater for over a decade, and the technology is always changing. Professional plumbing experts can ensure modern best practices are followed.
At Signature Plumbing, we're committed to making the process smooth and fast for you. We can help with home plumbing evaluations, water heater recommendations, and fully take care of the installation process.
St. Louis homes deserve high-quality plumbing services, and Signature Plumbing is here to provide them. Call us today at (636) 742-2533 or contact us online to set up an appointment.
Water Heater Installation
While the water heater installation process isn't overly complicated, it is important to perform it correctly. Improper installation can damage your plumbing, but you're risking more than water stains – gas and carbon monoxide leaks can harm your health.
- Evaluate Your Home's Current Plumbing
- Our plumbers will inspect your existing water heater for damage and connections.
- We'll also test water quality and can evaluate your home for leaks.
- Research, Recommendations, and Paperwork
- Based on what you're interested in, we'll look into conventional, tankless, and electric water heaters for your home.
- We'll select from top brands like Rheem, Bosch, A.O. Smith, GE, and EcoSmart.
- Once you've selected your new unit, we'll file for necessary permits. St. Louis County, for example, requires a plumbing permit for water heater replacements.
- Remove Existing Unit
- To keep everyone safe, your plumber will first turn off the power.
- We'll drain the existing water heater and disconnect it.
- Once everything is empty, we'll remove the existing water heater for disposal.
- Installation and Connection
- If needed, we'll apply a fuel source conversion. This is necessary if you're switching from a gas water heater to an electric one, or vice versa.
- We'll then bring in the new unit, set it in place, and secure it.
- If your plumbing system needs it, we'll attach a thermal expansion supply.
- Finally, we'll connect the new water heater to your water supply and turn the power back on.
- Testing and Troubleshooting
- Before we go, we'll fill and flush the tank to check for leaks.
- If there are any issues, we'll identify and correct them.
- If everything is working, we'll set up the default water temperature, and you'll be good to go.
Working with a professional like Signature Plumbing ensures that proper procedures are followed during your water heater installation. You can focus on your day-to-day and let the experts handle all of the planning/connections.
Warning Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Heater
You might be asking yourself, "When do I need to replace my water heater?" And while there isn't a perfect way to determine that, you can look out for the following warning signs:
- Water Quality – The number one thing you should look out for is water quality. Avoid contaminated water.
- Unit Condition – If you see leaks, cracks, and/or rust on the body of the unit, it's probably beyond repair.
- Age – Once a water heater is over 10 years old, it's reaching the end of its lifespan.
- Rising Energy Bills – As your water heater ages, it will become less efficient.
- Frequent Repairs – If repairs are ineffective, the unit itself is likely worn out.
- Strange Noises – Clunks and gurgles coming from within are a sign of significant buildup or damage.
- Difficulty Maintaining Heat – When your water isn't getting as hot as it used to, it's near the end of its lifespan.
When You Can Repair Instead
Repairs are often more affordable than a brand-new water heater installation, but they aren't always feasible. They are most reasonable when the unit is new and has no major structural issues.
Water heater repairs are more likely an option for units under 10 years old without contaminated water. Cold water could just be the result of a burnt-out heating element, and strange noises could just be a loose part. A professional plumbing inspection can help you determine the right move for your home.
Water Heater Types and Installation Recommendations
The four main types of water heaters are conventional (tank), tankless, hybrid (heat pump), and solar-powered. Each of these has its own pros and cons, and ultimately the right one depends on your situation.
| Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Typical water heater that maintains a store of hot water | Variety of sizes; Relatively affordable to install; Has a backup hot water supply | Shorter lifespan; More prone to issues; Low energy efficiency; Takes up lots of space |
| Tankless | Creates hot water on-demand, without storage | Energy efficient; Smaller; Long life expectancy; Unlimited supply of hot water | Higher up front cost; Requires extra maintenance; Vulnerable to power outages |
| Hybrid | Uses a heat pump to draw heat from the surrounding area into the water | Very energy efficient; Can cool your home; Will dehumidify your home | Extra space requirements; Can be noisy |
| Solar-Powered | Relies on the sun to heat the water, usually stored on your roof | Extremely energy efficient; Low maintenance; Out of the way | Needs sufficient roof space; Requires direct sunlight |
At Signature Plumbing, we offer water heater installation services for each of the types listed above. If you need help deciding, call us, and we'll help you evaluate your options.
Why Choose Signature Plumbing's Water Heater Installation Services
Signature Plumbing provides high-quality plumbing services for the St. Louis area. We are dedicated to providing you with fast and effective service when you need it most. Here's what sets our company apart:
- Over a decade of experience
- A reputation for providing excellent service
- Local expertise and knowledge about common area issues
- 24/7 availability, in case you run into a plumbing emergency
We know how stressful any plumbing problem can be, from a simple pipe repair all the way up to a new water heater installation. When you need a plumber in St. Louis, we're ready to answer the call.
Proper Maintenance for Your New Water Heater
The specifics of maintenance depend on the type of water heater you've installed in your home, but below are some general tips that will apply to most St. Louis homes:
- Drain and Flush It: Once a year, drain out the old water to remove any debris buildup.
- Check the Insulation: If your water heater has a tank, maintaining the insulation will make it easier for the system to keep your water warm.
- Adjust the Thermostat: You can do this as needed if you're finding the water in your home to be too hot or too cold.
- Check Air/Water Filters: Different units will have different filter types. Tanks usually include air intake filters, which catch dust. Tankless units include a water filter to stop debris.
If you're not sure what kind of water heater you have, or need additional help, call a reputable, experienced St. Louis plumber.
Need a New Water Heater in St. Louis? Call Signature Plumbing Today.
If you're installing a new water heater in St. Louis, you should invest in an excellent unit and excellent service to match. Signature Plumbing can provide you with both. Wherever you are in the process, our plumbers are ready for the job.
We also offer the following plumbing services in St. Louis:
For water heater installation in St. Louis, call us at (636) 742-2533 or send us a note online to get started.
We also perform water heater installations in all of the following locations: