Spruce Grove's Trusted
Water Heater Services company

There are several common signs that your hot water tank may stop working. Consider calling a water heater services company to take a look at and repair or replace your unit if: 

1. Your unit is getting old. The average water heater will last 8 to 10 years. 
2. Your water smells or is discoloured. For example, if the water looks rusty the unit may be corroding. 
3. You hear loud noises coming from your hot water heater. Loud popping or crackling sounds can mean sediment has built up in the tank.
4. Your tank is leaking or you notice water around the water heater.
5. Your hot water tank no longer provides enough hot water.
6. The water pressure has gone down and is not sufficient.

The amount of time it takes to get hot water from a new water heater depends on the size and type of hot water heater. A properly and professionally installed gas hot water heater will provide hot water most quickly. An average 40-gallon heater will only take about 30 to 40 minutes to provide heat water, while you can expect hot water from a larger tank (80-gallons) in approximately 60 to 70 minutes. Electric hot water tanks, on the other hand, will take a little longer. For an average 40-gallon electric heater it will take about 60 to 80 minutes and for an 80-gallon tank about 2 hours.

The difference between a boiler and a hot water tank has to do with the way in which each uses the hot water that it produces.

Both boilers and hot water tanks take cool water, heat this water and then distribute it throughout a home via pipes. However, the water that is heated by a boiler is distributed throughout the home via pipes, radiators and radiant in-floor systems in order to heat it – to keep the rooms, floors, garage, etc. comfortable and warm.

On the other hand, a hot water tank heats water that is used for cooking and cleaning purposes – for showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.

In colder climates, water inside the pipes can freeze. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause the pipe to crack or burst. This is especially common if the pipes are not properly insulated or if there are sudden drops in temperature.

You can’t run out of hot water with tankless water heaters – unless, of course, the power supply is off or goes out. However, a tankless water heater can have trouble keeping up with demand if too many things require hot water all at once. For example, if several appliances are operating at the same time (the dishwasher, the laundry machine, etc.), and you go to have a hot shower, you may find that your tankless unit isn’t capable of providing enough hot water. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you install a tankless water heater that has a large enough capacity to handle your demand for hot water.

Tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water systems on the market. In fact, tankless water heaters can be approximately 35% – 80% more efficient than traditional hot water tanks. 

Tankless hot water heaters can be powered by electricity or gas. However, gas-powered tankless heaters are more efficient. In addition to being more energy-efficient, tankless water heaters cost less to operate (up to 50% less than traditional hot water tanks) and last longer (up to double the lifetime).

The plumbing professionals at ProSolutions PHAC recommend the following high-efficiency tankless water heater:

• Noritz EZ111 (Gas Powered)

Please note: Although tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water system, they are not for everyone. Our guide to tankless water heaters can help you decide if a tankless heater is the best option for your home.

The time it takes to repair a burst pipe can vary based on the location and severity of the break. A simple repair might take a few hours, while more complex situations could require several days. Water damage restoration, depending on the extent of the damage, can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. It’s crucial to address water damage promptly to prevent mold growth and further structural issues.

Remember, in the event of a burst pipe, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize damage and ensure the safety of everyone in the home.

Installing a water softener doesn’t take too long when a professional technician is completing the installation. As long as no unforeseen setbacks or problems are encountered, a professional plumber should be able to install a water softener in about two to three hours. Choosing to have your water softener installed by an expert is a good idea, as this will ensure that it is installed and working properly, helping to prevent problems down the road. In addition, water softeners are available in various makes and models and an experienced technician can help you find the best system for your home and your family.