Commercial Hot Water Heater Services with Mr. Rooter Plumbing

The life expectancy of a commercial hot water heater can depend on many factors, such as how often it’s used, how frequently it has been maintained, and its quality. Most commercial electric and gas water heaters last around 10 years, but many last longer.

Contact your local plumbing professional to learn more about available commercial hot water heater types to suit your unique needs. There are many options to choose from, including storage, tankless, and heat pump water heaters. Depending on where you live in the United States, fuel oil, geothermal energy, natural gas, propane, and solar energy water heaters may also be available.

You should replace your commercial water heater as soon as repairs and maintenance become less cost-effective than replacement. Your local service professional can advise you on when that time has come based on the frequency of their callouts and the costs of their services.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, you should set your commercial hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. In some industries and applications, 140 degrees Fahrenheit is a more suitable temperature to prevent the spread of some diseases.

The size of your commercial water heater can depend on how much water your business uses. You’ll need to know your maximum daily water usage, the hours you will be operating at maximum, and your water heater’s heating capacity. If you need help determining the best size, contact your local service professional for advice.

The time it takes to install a commercial water heater can depend on the size and whether your plumber is installing a new one or replacing an old one. Most plumbers take approximately three hours to replace a gas or electric water heater tank.

Flushing a commercial water heater is a multi-step process that can often involve some of these steps:

1. Turn off your commercial water heater
2. Turn off the cold water supply to your water heater unit
3. Let the water cool
4. Find your drain valve and connect it to a garden hose
5. Turn on a hot water faucet
6. Open the drain valve and let the tank drain
7. Flush the tank by turning on the cold water supply and running the water until it comes out of the hose completely clear

If your current commercial water heater is no longer working at its best or has stopped working altogether, it’s time to weigh up your options. The sooner you replace your water heater, the sooner you can get back to everyday operations.

You can contact your local service professional to find the best commercial hot water heater for your needs. However, you can also make a decision using some of the following criteria:

• Fuel Type - There are many different power options for commercial water heaters throughout the U.S. The fuel type that’s right for your business can depend on where you live. Talk to your local service professional about water heaters relying on electricity, fuel oil, solar energy, geothermal energy, natural gas, and propane.
• Availability - Some commercial water heaters are more commonly available than others. For example, solar energy water heaters are more common in the southwest. Talk to your local plumber about the most frequently installed water heaters to ensure reliable maintenance, repairs, and servicing.
• Costs - While water heater costs shouldn’t be the main factor in the decision-making process, it can play a part. Think about your budget and what your business can realistically afford to pay for a new water heater and its installation. Don’t forget to factor in efficiency since ongoing running costs can also be essential to think about.
• Storage Space - Traditional commercial hot water heaters can take up a great deal of space. Do you have room for one? Fortunately, you can choose from commercial tankless hot water heaters and storage water heaters. Tankless water heaters can be preferred by business owners with minimal space since they only heat water as it’s needed.
• Your Hot Water Needs - The demand for hot water can play a part in the hot water heater you choose for your business. If you’re purchasing traditional tank storage heaters, you may need one or multiple large units. If you’re installing tankless, you may need multiple units in different parts of your business.

As a busy business owner, you may not give your commercial hot water heater much thought. However, the signs of needing to replace it can be more obvious than you think. If you notice any of the following signs, reach out to your locally owned and operated Mr. Rooter Plumbing for assistance:

• Old Age - Most commercial water heaters last around 10 years and typically up to 15. If your hot water heater is around this age or exceeds it, consider replacing it soon. Replacing now may reduce the risk of untimely and damaging failure in the future.
• The Water Temperature Is Inconsistent - Commercial water heaters typically keep hot water at 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater temperature does not consistently stay at its set temperature, it may no longer be fit for purpose and needs to be replaced.
• You Notice Rust and Corrosion - Rust and corrosion around fittings, connections, and the water heater itself can indicate problems with the internal tank. At the first sign of rust or corrosion, contact your local plumber for advice. They may recommend repairs or replacement.
• Frequent Repairs - If you essentially have your plumber on speed dial for water heater repairs, consider whether your commercial water heater is still cost-effective to keep. Most plumbers say that if you’re spending half a new water heater’s value in repairs in one year, it’s time to explore replacement.
• You’re Having Problems with Water Quality - Does your water have a metallic taste, discoloration, or sediment? Your tank may have corrosion or degradation. Explore water heater replacement without delay.
• It’s Leaking - Commercial water heaters don’t leak for no reason. If you notice a leak around the base or from the unit itself, contact a local plumber as soon as possible. Many leaks indicate a tank failure, with replacement often being the most cost-effective solution.
• It’s Making Strange Noises - Most hot water heaters operate reasonably silently, but that’s not always the case. Sediment buildup in tanks can cause popping, rumbling, and banging sounds. If left unchecked, sediment buildup can cause damage.