Water Heater Repair

Are you experiencing problems with your water heater? Does your shower run out of hot water too soon?

Barkley Plumbing can help!

When it comes to repairing or replacing your water heater, you can rely on us to provide you with the honest recommendations.

We offer flat-rate, upfront pricing for all our services so you’re never caught off-guard!

Common Water Heater Problems

Some of the most common water heater problems include:

  • Inconsistent temperature/heating
  • Thermostat problems
  • Malfunctioning heating elements
  • Heating element burning out
  • Thermocouple

When Should You Call a Plumber?

If you hear any strange noises (from your water heater), rust-colored water or temperature fluctuation, it’s time to schedule a plumber.

It’s also a good idea to check your water heater every once in a while to catch minor issues like rust or leaks.

How Much Do Water Heater Repairs Cost?

The cost of your water heater repair will depend on the repair.

When the plumber looks at your water heater, he’ll take a look at numerous different factors, including:

  • the age of your water heater
  • type of water heater you have
  • the nature of the necessary repairs
  • if your water heater can even berepaired

Repair vs. Replace: Which Is the Right Option?

In most cases, a water heater is simply too old or too damaged to be repaired. In these instances, you’ll have to replace your existing unit with a new one.

While this may seem like a big upfront cost, keep in mind that a newer, more efficient model can actually save you money in the long run by helping you avoid future breakdowns and by using water more efficiently, thereby cutting down your water bills.

It might be time to replace your water heater if:

  • leaks from the tank
  • not enough hot water for your needs
  • more than 8 years old
  • water heater breaks down often

Bellingham Tankless Water Heater

Why tankless?

  • large occupancy
  • long showers
  • large tub

Economy

Tankless will still burn as much natural gas as a new tank-type. It takes a lot of energy to supply endless hot water.

Tankless needs a larger gas supply (3/4’’) to operate efficiently.

Endless hot water equals a higher water bill.

Maintenance

Annual maintenance usually runs about $300.00. These are much more involved than the tanks. Most manufactures insist on an annual maintenance.

Other Considerations

Cost of a properly-sized quality tankless unit is more than the  entire installalation (labor, parts) of a tank-type water heater.

Noisy.

Not instant. Many people confuse instant with limitless hot water. If you have a home that takes a long time for hot water to travel, you’ll need a tankless with a built-in recirculation pump.

Green? Not really. In fact, the water usage goes up with a tankless unit. The tankless needs a lot of natural gas and some electricity to run.

Tankless Water Heater Repair

Many of the parts are available in Seattle. Many of the issues require a factory trained repairman.