Category: water heater

Tips to Cut Back on Costs While Using Your Water Heater

Have you ever thought about how much you use hot water in your home? Every time you wash your dishes, take a shower, or throw a load of laundry in the washer, you’re using hot water. You may not think about it, but the more hot water you use, the more it will show in your utilities. If you have an old, outdated hot water heater, it can cause your bill to skyrocket. Here are a few tips to help you save money while using your water heater:

Use Less Water

This is the most obvious way to save money. People use a great amount hot water when they shower. By tweaking your shower habits a little, you can save a good amount of money. Try taking warm showers instead of cranking the heat all the time. You can also use cold water to wash your clothes. Not only does it help to preserve your clothing, so they last longer – it cleans just as well as hot water!

Turn Down the Temperature

Your hot water stays the same temperature 24/7. That means that the water is constantly hot and ready to be delivered to you through your pipes. As you can probably imagine, this requires a lot of energy. By turning down the set temperature on your water heater, you can save. This cuts energy usage drastically and can help you save on your utilities. If you’re unsure about how to go about setting the temperature, as a professional for assistance.

Switch it Off When Appropriate

If you’re going on a trip or you know that you will be away from your home for a lengthy period of time, its perfectly find to switch off your water heater. Most models only take an hour to reheat after cooling completely, so be sure to give it time before hopping into the shower. If you’re not around to use the hot water, why should it have to stay hot?

Insulation

Your tank should be insulated! Any tank that isn’t can suffer massive heat loss which is a major waste of energy. Insulation is inexpensive and can save you on your utilities. Try touching your tank – if it’s warm to the touch it means you’re losing heat.

Set a Timer

Programmable timers on electric models can shut the heat off when you don’t need it. You don’t need hot water while you’re asleep in bed or away at work for the day. Again, it’s important to remember that it does take a while to heat back up. Just be sure that your timing is thought out and you won’t even notice that its off!

Switch to Tankless With Rebmann!

Most water heaters with tanks work well, but in reality, their design is antiquated. A tankless model is the newest, most effective technology in the world of water heating that give you the following benefits:

  • They provide an endless supply of hot water
  • They provide cleaner water than conventional tank heaters
  • Less likely to leak than conventional tank heaters
  • Less wasted energy and higher efficiency
  • Manufacturer’s warranty of 12 years
  • Lifespan of over 20 years

Here at Rebmann, we want you to be comfortable in your home and have access to hot water when you need it. To learn more about tankless water heaters, or to have one installed into your home today, give us a call. We’ve got you covered!

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Tips For Choosing a New Water Heater in Long Island

Choosing a new water heater in Long Island can seem like an overwhelming task. There are many factors to consider when choosing your new water heater such as: 

  • Tank style
  • Size
  • Fuel type 
  • Energy efficiency 
  • Cost

The Tank Style

There are two main options for water heaters in Long Island today: tankless water heaters and conventional storage tank heaters.

The traditional tank heater will be installed in your basement, laundry room, or even your garage since they take up a large amount of space. These heaters work by storing hot water in a tank that is sent to wherever you turn on the hot water tap in your home. They can vary in efficiency depending on the fuel source (natural gas, electric, or propane). This is likely the model installed in your home right now.

A tankless water heater, commonly called an “on-demand” unit, is much smaller than a tank heater. They are hung on the wall which frees up floor space in basements and laundry rooms. They are less expensive to run than traditional tank heaters since they only heat water when you need it. They also provide endless hot water since there is no tank to refill and reheat- the water is sent over a heating element as you use it. You also don’t need to worry about heat loss as water sits in a tank to be used. These units are easy to adjust and allow for more efficient hot water usage. 

Size of Your Tank

This consideration only applies if you are installing a conventional tank water heater in Long Island. The size of your water heater will be dependant on the needs of your family. If you have a large home, the number of people living in the house will determine the size you choose. A household of 1-2 people may only need a 25-35 gallon tank, while a family of 5 or more will need a tank capable of holding upwards of 60 gallons. It’s important to choose the correct size so your family can enjoy consistent access to hot water. 

Fuel Type 

Next, you need to think of what fuel will heat your water. Many water heaters are compatible with a range of fuel types such as electric and natural gas. Some heaters work best with natural gas, while others are most efficient using electricity.  It’s important to talk to your water heating specialist about the fuel requirements of whatever model you buy. It’s also crucial that your home has the right fuel hookups for the model you choose. If you don’t already have natural gas in your home, you will need to install gas lines to power those models.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

Investing in a new water heater will increase the efficiency of your water heating system no matter the option you choose. If your water heater is over 10 years old, an update to your system will immediately improve efficiency. No matter which type you choose for your home, look at the EF rating first. The EF rating determines how efficiently a unit converts energy into heat and how much heat is lost during storage. Tankless on-demand systems are more efficient than conventional tank models overall. They do not lose heat during storage since water is only made when needed- no tank to lose any heat! They can be up to 34% more efficient than the traditional tank unit according to the U.S. Department of Energy. These units also tend to be more durable and have a longer lifespan than the holding tank models. 

Cost Of New Water Heater

This consideration will be the most crucial to homeowners installing a water heater in Long Island. A new unit is a major investment in your home and quality of life. Choosing a heater that will satisfy your needs while operating in a cost-efficient manner will be critical. It is important to review the different types of models, their efficiency, and the typical maintenance costs in order to choose the right heater. You should work with your local Rebmann Plumbing water heating technician in order to ensure that the right water heater is being installed.

Contact Rebmann Plumbing Today For Your New Water Heater!

Benefits of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater

Are you in need of a new water heater? If so, you should consider making the switch to tankless. If you’ve always had a conventional model, you may be hesitant to try something new, but here are some reasons that may convince you otherwise:

Benefits of Switching to Tankless

  • Endless hot water. If you’ve ever planned on taking a long, hot bath after work only to find out that all the hot water has been used up, then you know how frustrating a storage tank water heater can be. A conventional model stores hot water in a tank — but when that water runs out, you have to wait until the tank is full and all the water is heated before you’ll have hot water again. With a tankless water heater, the water is run over a heating element as soon as hot water is demanded at the point of use. That means you’ll never have to wait for hot water again — and the water won’t turn cold in the middle of a shower, either.
  • Longer lifespan. A storage tank water heater has an average lifespan of 12-15 years. A tankless model, however, has a lifespan of around 20 years, so your investment lasts much longer.
  • Less maintenance. A storage tank water heater requires considerable maintenance. In addition to scheduling annual tune ups, you need to regularly perform maintenance yourself. Part of this maintenance involves flushing out the tank, which can be a lengthy job. A tankless water heater still requires maintenance, but far less. You might have to clean it once or twice a year yourself, but the main thing is to schedule annual maintenance by a professional plumber who can keep the appliance clean and in good working order.
  • No leaks. It’s also important to note that with a tankless water heater, you don’t run the same risk of water damage as with a storage tank model. If a storage tank model leaks, it needs to be replaced, which is a significant cost. Plus, the resulting water damage can lead to thousands of dollars of repairs to your home.
  • Energy efficiency. Because a tankless water heater doesn’t have to keep a full tank water heated, it consumes far less energy than a tankless model. That means you’ll reduce your carbon footprint. Since a tankless water heater consumes less energy than a conventional one, you’ll notice that your energy bills will be lower at the end of each month.

How Rebmann Can Help

Here at Rebmann, we want to make switching to tankless easy for you. From choosing a model that best suits the needs of your home to installation, we’ve got you covered!

To learn more about tankless water heaters, or to have one installed into your home today, give Rebmann Plumbing! 

5 Signs to Call For a Water Heater Replacement in New York

Your home’s water heater is an important part of your daily life, but it won’t last forever. One day, you’ll need to get a water heater replacement, and you’ll preferably want to get it before yours breaks down. To replace it before disaster strikes, you need to be able to tell when your water heater is having severe problems. At Rebmann, we know all about water heaters and can help give you the knowledge you need to keep your home dry.

Here are five signs that it’s time to order a water heater replacement:

 

Not enough hot water

Your water heater is the source of your home’s hot water. If you have the temperature properly set and you aren’t getting hot water, you know there’s a problem. There are many reasons this could be happening, and some are unique to different types of water heaters. Electric water heaters might require you to check the circuit breaker while gas water heaters may need their pilot light relit. In very cold weather, pipes and water heaters may freeze if they don’t have enough insulation. Other problems hurting your hot water supply may include a defective thermometer, a build-up of sediment, and a worn heating element. Also, you might have a water heater that can’t provide enough hot water for your home. Give us a call and we can help find the right water heater for you.

 

Rusty water

There are two common reasons your home’s water looks and tastes rusty. The exact reason generally depends on what temperature the rusty water is. If you’re only getting rust in the hot water, you likely have a damaged water heater. However, if every temperature is resulting in rust, a pipe in your plumbing may be having problems. Either way, you should call our professionals as soon as you can to confirm the source and prevent any damage. Also, you can help confirm your water heater has a problem by draining a few buckets of hot water from the heater directly. If you’re still getting rust by the time you fill the third bucket, your water heater needs a replacement. You can often see rust around the water inlet or pressure release valve if the tank is having rust problems.

 

Leaks

Old and damaged water heaters are prone to leaking. However, you might not spot the leaks if you’re not keeping an eye on your water heater. Some leaks aren’t as severe as others. If a leak is coming from any fittings, connections, or the temperature-pressure-release-valve, a plumber can fix them with little difficulty. However, if damage to the tank is causing the leak, your only option is to replace the tank.

 

Strange noises

You don’t have to worry about the occasional mild noises from your water heater. Plenty of appliances make some slight noise once in a while. However, loud popping, cracking, or rumbling noises are a serious concern. Those noises are signs of sediment build-up in the tank, which makes it hard for the unit to run. As tank water heaters operate, sediment can build up at the bottom of the tank, and will eventually harden as it heats and cools. The air pockets the sediment makes can make noise, and the sediment can also make your water heater less efficient and more likely to crack. If not fixed with flushing and cleaning, the tank can become damaged and start leaking, which can only be fixed with a replacement.

 

Old age

Water heaters are not something that gets better with age. On average, well-kept tank water heaters can last ten to fifteen years. For best results, start thinking about replacements when your water heater is nine or ten years old. Don’t know when yours was installed? Look at the water heater’s serial number and the manufacturer’s information.  The serial number can tell you when it was manufactured, but each manufacturer has a different way of displaying the manufacturing date. You’ll need to do some research, but the manufacturer’s website can be a good place to start.

 

Who should I call when I need plumbing assistance?

For three generations Rebmann has provided trusted plumbing, heating, and air conditioning expertise to Long Islanders spanning both Nassau and Suffolk counties.  The ongoing Rebmann legacy is committed to providing Long Island’s commercial and residential plumbing, heating, and air conditioning systems with superior quality, craftsmanship, and professionalism.

We provide 24-hour on-call emergency and stoppage service while consistently working to create lasting relationships with our clients.  We foster our customer relationships through our commitment to preventative maintenance care, repairs, remodeling, and replacement options.

Accredited by the Better Business Bureau, Rebmann holds a Master Plumber’s License and is fully licensed, bonded, and insured.  Our customers can rest easy knowing that we provide a minimum one-year warranty on all products and services. Call Rebmann today to get help with our water heater replacement!

5 Signs Your Water Heater Needs a Repair in New York

As one of your home’s major appliances, it’s not surprising to hear that water heaters can come across their share of problems. However, this doesn’t mean you should run out and get a replacement whenever something goes wrong. Many of these issues are ones that can be fixed by trained professionals. By calling for a repair, you can save money by fixing a problem before it becomes permanent. Rebmann can help you learn when you should call for a water heater repair in your New York home.

Here are five issues that can be solved by a water heater repair in your New York home:

 

Noise issues

Like all major appliances, you can expect a bit of noise to come from your water heater. However, sediment build-ups can cause louder popping and crackling noises that necessitate some maintenance. As sediment builds up on the bottom of the tank and solidifies, it makes noises when the air pockets inside the solid sediment start boiling. Too much sediment inside the tank can cause it to corrode or even crack. Annually flushing the tank can go a long way to preventing sediment issues.

 

Rusty water

Having your home’s water supply become rusty generally means you need new pipes. However, if the rust is limited to your hot water, the problem is with your water heater. Both of these are serious issues that should have you calling us. Oftentimes, when your water tank is corroding from the inside out, you’ll need to buy a new one before the old one breaks.

 

Mineral problems

If your home has hard water, you might have to deal with various problems from the minerals in it. Minerals can build up around your water tank’s heating elements. This will make it harder to heat the tank or even cause the heating element to overheat. Also, minerals can build up in the pipes themselves and block off the water, reducing the water pressure. Buying a water softener for your home can help make your water softer.

 

Heating problems

Water heaters are supposed to heat water. If yours isn’t doing that, then you have a problem. Depending on what your water heater uses to heat the water, you’ll have to either relight the pilot light or check the circuit breaker. Sometimes you might not have enough heat because it’s very cold outside and your pipes need more insulation. However, if power, heating, and insulation aren’t helping, you might be dealing with built-up sediment, a faulty thermostat, or a worn heating element.

 

Leaks

A leaking tank is an obvious problem. However, it’s one you might not notice if you don’t regularly check the tank. At best, the leaking might be coming from the fittings, temperature release valve, or connections. If those aren’t leaking, the tank may have developed a crack and needs replacing.

 

What makes Rebmann the local water heater experts?

Rebmann Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning have been the trusted choice in New York for over 80 years. With so many years behind us, we know more than a thing or two about how to best keep your water heater running. Rebmann is accredited by the Better Business Bureau, holds a Master Plumber’s License, and is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Call Rebmann today to learn more about how we can keep your water heater running smoothly!

Power Vent vs. Direct Vent Water Heaters

Here at Rebmann, we fully understand how hard it can be to choose a water heater. There are so many different types to choose from! Two of the most popular water heaters are the direct vent and the power vent. What are the differences between the two? Which one should I choose? Let Rebmann give you the information you need to make an informed decision!

 

Direct Vent

 

Direct vent water heaters vent their exhaust gasses through a chimney or exhaust pipe leading out of the house. Since the exhaust is lighter than cool air, it rises naturally up through the vent outside. Since it doesn’t require any additional power, direct vent water heaters tend to have cheaper heating costs. However, it has strict requirements on where it can be placed due to the requirement of an exhaust pipe.

 

Power Vent

 

Power vent water heaters use a fan or blower to help remove exhaust gasses from the heater. This setup lets gasses be pushed through horizontal exhaust pipes. This makes the setup more flexible since you aren’t restrained by needing a chimney. Power vent heaters also don’t have to worry about backdraft unless the vent has a problem.

However, there are some drawbacks. Because they need more to run (electricity, wiring, and parts,) they’ll cost more overall. Speaking of electricity, the water heater won’t run if the fan has no electricity. Power vent water heaters can also be noisy, which may be a problem for some people.

 

Which one is better?

 

It’s hard to say which one is better. The primary factor on which one to choose depends on your access to a vertical vent or chimney. If you do, you’ll have some choice in the matter. If not, you’ll most likely be using a power vent water heater. Still unsure about your decision? Ask one of the professionals at Rebmann to help you out!

 

Why is Rebmann Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning the one to ask about water heaters?

Rebmann has provided their expertise to Long Island residents for three generations. Our highly-trained professionals foster customer relationships through their commitment to providing the best work possible. Our one-year warranty on all our products lets our customers feel confident that they’ve made the right choice.

Call Rebmann today and ask about our water heaters!

5 Signs That a Tankless Water Heater Is Exactly What You Need

Are you thinking about installing a new water heater in Long Island? Then maybe it’s time to replace your old storage tank model with a modern tankless water heater. Here’s what you need to know about tankless water heaters and the signs it’s the right choice for you. 

How a Tankless Water Heater Works

A conventional water heater has a tank that stores hot water, which is delivered to your sink or shower when you turn the tap. When the water supply runs low, the tank has to fill itself and heat the water before it can deliver hot water. Until then, it can only give you cold water.

In contrast, a tankless water heater doesn’t have a storage tank at all. Instead, the water runs over a heating element when hot water is requested anywhere in your home. Because it heats the water on demand, a tankless water heater provides an endless supply of hot water. 

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

While there are still many people in Long Island who prefer their conventional models, more homeowners are replacing their traditional tank water heaters with tankless models. But what are the signs you should switch to a tankless water heater? 

 

  • You’re tired of not having enough hot water. Some people like cold showers. However, they’re few and far between. Most people prefer a hot shower, regardless of the time of day or season. If you find your family is getting cold showers, then a tankless model is just what you need. It will provide endless hot water so everyone can enjoy the benefits of a hot shower.
  • Your energy bills are high. A traditional water heater needs to keep a large tank warm at all times. This means using energy and wasting energy as the water cools and needs to be reheated. With a tankless model, you only pay once when the water is heated. There is no waste as the water sits in a tank or needs to be reheated once it runs out.
  • You want to do the right thing for the planet. Tankless water heaters run at about 96% energy efficiency. This is compared to a 60-65% efficiency rating on a tank water heater. This means savings on your bills and an environmentally friendly decision, too. You will use less energy and help the planet.
  • You want to use the space for something else. A conventional water heater is about the size of a refrigerator. That means using a huge amount of space in your basement or utility room that could be used for something else. A tankless water heater is smaller and mounted on your wall, giving you back floor space.
  • You want a water heater that will last. While a conventional model lasts approximately 8-12 years, a tankless water heater has a lifespan of 20 years. While you will pay a bit more for a tankless model upfront, the longevity of the unit will give you a great return.

 

Why Choose Rebmann Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning to Install Your Tankless Water Heater?

If you’ve come to the conclusion that a tankless water heater is exactly what you need, then call the experts at Rebmann Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We can advise you about capacity, brand, and model so that your family has hot water whenever they need it. Once you have the tankless water heater, you can enjoy this investment for years to come. Our plumbers are fully licensed, bonded and insured to handle any plumbing issue you may have. We have three generations of experience serving the Long Island area and providing the best customer service.

If you want to make the switch to a tankless water heater, then call Rebmann Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today! 

Why is Your Hot Water Heater Leaking in Oyster Bay, NY?

Is your hot water heater leaking in Oyster Bay, NY? Well, in that case, you may be a little mystified. How can your highly functional water heater suddenly start leaking? Are there evil spirits at work? Is this just a government conspiracy set out to prevent you from living comfortably and conveniently in your home?

Your imagination may be running wild with possibilities, but the truth is that the reasons behind your hot water heater leaking in Oyster Bay, NY are usually practical. But no matter the reason, there’s no denying those leaks need to be cleaned up and fixed immediately. A single leak can grow into something much worse if you don’t treat it in a timely fashion and eventually cost you a high amount of money on utility bills.

The team at Rebmann is here to ensure you know the reasons for your hot water heater leaking in Oyster Bay, NY so you’ll avoid any trouble in the future. We want to ensure you have the most effective water heater in your home. Leaks can get in the way of it though, which is why we’re more than willing to provide any assistance in keeping your water heater leak-free!

3 Reasons Your Hot Water Heater is Leaking in Oyster Bay, NY

While there are several odd reasons for a hot water heater to be leaking, we generally find these 3 to be the most common:

  1. Tank Corrosion: Corrosion is a natural part of your water heater’s aging process. But while the tank will continue to work despite this, it can eventually be the cause of leaks. Since it will eat away at your water heater, corrosion will allow for a water to drip out of your tank easily, meaning you could waste gallons of water if not treated immediately.
  2. High Water Pressure: You may have the most durable hot water tank installed in your home, but high water pressure can leave it leaking like there’s no tomorrow. The higher pressure will force your hot water heater to release water from the tank. This usually due to the water temperature on your tank being turned up too high so the next time you suspect a leak is imminent, turn down the temperature by a few degrees.
  3. Condensation: Sometimes your water heater leak may not even be a water heater leak at all. When the water fills up cold water and begins heating up, it may result in the tank dripping with condensation, similar to an ice cold glass of water on a hot day. All you need to do is wipe off the tank with a towel to prevent any puddling.

Contact Rebmann Plumbing today if you want to learn more on the reasons behind your hot water heater leaking in Oyster Bay, NY!

Why You Should Consider Water Heater Repair in Manhasset, NY This Summer

With most of the country experiencing near record-breaking temperatures, water heater repair in Manhasset, NY might be the last thing on your mind. After all, it’s so hot and humid outside that most of us are ready to take the Ice Bucket Challenge any day of the week!

But as your trusted plumber, we’re committed to giving you solid information that can help you save money and prolong the life of your plumbing system. And that’s why we’re going to discuss water heaters right now!

Why Summer Is a Great Time for Water Heater Repair in Manhasset, NY

Even if a hot bath is the last thing you want right now, it’s important to remember that we still use lots of hot water during the summer. Every time you turn on the dishwasher and every time you do a load of laundry, you’re using warm or hot water. (Unless you’re washing delicate fabrics like wool or silk, of course!)

But the main reason that you need to get your water heater repaired during the summer has more to do with human nature: nobody is thinking about their water heaters, so it’s the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your plumber and have the appliance cleaned, tuned up, and repaired. During the winter, you might have to wait days before you can get an appointment, but during July and August, you’re most likely the first on the list. And best of all: since it’s so warm out, you’re not going to be inconvenienced if you don’t have hot water for a couple of hours!

Call Rebmann Plumbing for Water Heater Repair in Manhasset, NY

If you want your water heater to be in perfect shape to get you through the fall, winter, and spring, then call the team of master plumbers here at Rebmann Plumbing. It’s our mission to make sure your water heater is in the best possible shape so you don’t have to worry about being stuck without hot water on a wintry Monday morning when you’re facing a long, cold commute. Be smarter than most: schedule your appointment with Rebmann today!

Improve Efficiency with Tankless Water Heating in Manhasset, NY

Switching to tankless water heating in Manhasset, NY may be the best way to keep your home efficient this summer. Conventional water heating may still provide you with hot water, but it’s not nearly as long-lasting nor efficient. In addition, if you have a water heating storage tank, you also have to worry about issues like leaks, cracks, and corrosion that will cost you more money on repair. But since tankless water heating is, well, tankless, you can avoid those troubles entirely and enjoy the full benefits of having hot water in your home.

If you’re looking to install one in your home, please call Rebmann Plumbing today. We can work quickly in replacing that old water heater with a new tankless model guaranteeing greater efficiency for your home. You will be able to have hot water for showers, cooking, cleaning, dishwashing, and more without having to worry about how much it will cost you on energy bills. Plus, our team of plumbers can consult with you before installing so we can determine if tankless water heating is the perfect fit for your home.

How Can Tankless Water Heating in Manhasset, NY Help You?

If you want to know what tankless water heating can do for you, please call Rebmann Plumbing so you can experience:

  • Improved Energy Efficiency: One of the major drawbacks of conventional water heating is that when they start malfunctioning, they will use up more energy to heat water. Fortunately, tankless water heating in Manhasset, NY can avoid this problem entirely. It can provide you hot water without any of the additional stress of high energy bills.

  • No Sediment Buildup: Storage tanks are prone to sediment buildup. Sediment will build up at the bottom of the tank and eventually harden, which will cause the tank to make loud noises when it tries to heat up water. In addition, exposure to water with high amounts of sediment can result in skin and eye irritation. Tankless water heating works to eliminate the risk of sediment build up.

  • Longer System Lifespan: The average conventional water heater will last you between 10 and 15 years, but a tankless water heater can last you around 20. That’s two decades of energy-efficient hot water for all of your plumbing fixtures! Due to its longer lifespan, this also guarantees you spend less money on replacement services in the future.

Contact Rebmann Plumbing today if you need tankless water heating in Manhasset, NY that can guarantee a steadier, more efficient flow of hot water in your home!