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WATER HEATERS

There are numerous factors to consider when it’s time to select a new water heater; type, capacity, efficiency and cost.  If you need repairs or a new heater our techs can help you determine what you need with minimum disruption to your busy schedule because there is no substitute for experience.

Traditional Storage Style Heaters
The technology of tank type water heaters has made great strides in last few years.  This is primarily due to government mandated safety factors that have been implemented.  The result of these changes has been more efficient, less polluting, and safer water heaters.  Another result has been more expensive and more complicated water heaters.  Most brands now feature proprietary parts which can result in longer delays while parts are located to make repairs.  We feature the Bradford White line of water heaters which are made in the USA.  We also stock repair parts in the unlikely event something should go wrong with your heater. 

While storage heaters require very little maintenance we do recommend that they be flushed out at least once a year.  This will keep any excess debris from accumulating at the bottom of the tank and prevent the “rumbling” noises associated with older heaters from occurring.  The anode rod should also be checked periodically (some brands recommend every year) for signs of erosion. We stock anode rods to fit most applications. Running out of hot water (earlier than before), discolored water or debris on the hot side are all signs that your heater may need to be serviced or replaced.  Give us a call or click for service request and we will happy to help you.  If you are considering a new water heater be aware that retail “home store” brands can leave you stranded when a part is needed.  We receive regular calls from folks who are desperately trying to find parts for these heaters so they can take a hot shower!

Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless heaters have received a great deal of  publicity but there are some things you need to know before deciding if one is right for you.  The most obvious benefits are the endless source of hot water, lower energy costs, longer life (compared to a storage type), and the space savings.  However there are some things that you need to know that are often overlooked by many selling these heaters.  The heaters need to be properly sized or you will have a very frustrating experience; one size does not fit all!  Tankless heaters almost always will require a dedicated gas line, and a new vent line. 

Special care needs to be used if a re-circulation system is going to be used with a tankless heater.  It is highly recommended that a water softener be used in conjunction with a tankless heater. Because of the way the water is heated, scaling will be an issue.  All tankless units need to be de-scaled periodically.  Those installed without a softener should be de-scaled yearly.  Every tankless heater installed by Biard and Crockett has by-pass valves installed with it so the de-scaling procedure can be done with minimal effort.  We relay this information not scare you away from a tankless heater, but to give you a better idea of what to expect if you are considering tankless technology.  

We feature the Nortiz line of tankless heaters but Biard and Crockett has installed and repaired most of the brands on the market today.  Incentives are often available in the form of federal tax credits and Gas Company rebates to help offset some of the cost of going tankless. 

If you would like more information about “living” with a tankless water heater give us a call and we will be glad to answer your questions.

HOT WATER RECIRCULATION SYSTEMS

Homes that have a long run from the water heater to the farthest fixtures will experience a long wait for hot water.  You turn on the faucet, wait for a minute, and the water is still running cold.  Tighter restrictions on flow rates and “greener” fixtures make this problem even more annoying.  It wastes water, energy, and is inconvenient.The solution to this problem is a hot water recirculation system.  These systems overcome the problem by circulating hot water so it is available in the nearby supply pipes.  The system is designed to provide hot water at the most distant fixture and every fixture in series or close to the main line.  There are three basic types of recirculation systems:
 
1) Traditional:  This system consists of an extra “return” pipe that allows water from the farthest fixture to be returned to the water heater.  A pump is located near the water heater and when it is on water is pushed out of the heater and back through the return pipe.  The pump can be outfitted with timers and thermostats to keep the running time down to a minimum.
 
2) Retrofit-By-Pass:  This system utilizes the cold water line as the return line to the water heater.  A pump (generally located on the top of the water heater) is used to create a slight pressure differential that allows the cool water in the hot water supply line to by-pass into the cold supply line.  This is accomplished through a thermostatically controlled valve that is mounted at the furthest fixture from the water heater.  The pump is equipped with a timer that allows the system to run whenever desired. 
 
3) Demand:  This system is similar to the retrofit system above because it also utilizes the cold water line as the return line to the water heater.  The similarity ends there because this system requires that the pump be mounted at the farthest fixture.  When hot water is “demanded” a wireless remote is pressed that will activate the pump.  The pump will run until hot water reaches the sensors and then it automatically shuts down.  In lieu of a remote, motion sensors may also be used.  If you have a tankless water heater this is the system that generally works the best.We are familiar with all of these systems whether you want one installed or need your existing system repaired.  They all have their advantages and their drawbacks, which is why you need to consult with us before making a decision.  Remember, there is no substitute for experience.

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