When you rely on Roto-Rooter for water heater repair or water heater replacement, you can expect professional service from a skilled plumber. Roto-Rooter offers 24-hour emergency water heater service, so you will have hot water again as quickly as possible—the same day in most cases.

Lukewarm water coming from your taps? Not enough hot water in the morning? No matter your plumbing issues, Roto-Rooter is here to help.

We perform on-call water heater repairs and new water heater installations in Kelowna, Lake Country, and Vernon, BC.

Hot Water Tank Replacement Kelowna

If a replacement water heater is necessary, a Roto-Rooter water heater expert will help you determine which one is right for your home and budget, taking into consideration your family’s water heating needs and energy usage expectations. We can install virtually any type or brand, including conventional water heater tanks and tankless water heaters.

Roto-Rooter is a top-rated Okanagan plumbing company with decades of experience and thousands of satisfied customers.

If you have water heater problems, we offer a tankless water heater repair service, conventional hot water tank repair, and new hot water heater or hot water tank installation.

We’re available 24/7 to handle your plumbing emergencies, installations, and plumbing maintenance.

Types of Water Heaters
A storage tank water heater

Conventional Hot Water Heaters: Hot Water Tanks

Conventional water heaters store water in a tank and are available in a variety of gallon capacities. Electric or gas energy is required to maintain the water at a set temperature until a faucet is turned on and water is pulled through the pipe. A conventional electric or gas water heater should last about 11 years. Newer conventional water heaters are more energy efficient than older models. A high-efficiency model can reduce water heating bills by about 7 percent.

Common Issues With Tank Water Heaters

    1. Tank Leaks:

      • Issue: Corrosion or wear in plumbing connections leading to leaks and potential water damage.

    2. Sediment Build-Up:

      • Issue: Efficiency decline and potential damage to the tank’s bottom from sediment accumulation.

    3. Faulty Pressure Relief Valves:

      • Issue: Water leaks or water temperature problems arising from malfunctioning pressure relief valves.

Tankless Hot Water Heaters

A tankless water heater is generally considered more energy efficient because they heat water only as it is needed. When the tap is turned on, the heating elements go to work – powered by either a gas burner or electric element – and supply continuous hot water to your home.

Compared to a hot water tank, a tankless water heater often requires less space and can hang on a wall, but may require larger gas lines, special venting or additional electric circuits that add to the upfront costs. However, a tankless heater has a life expectancy of 15-20 years and may reduce water heating bills by as much as 30 percent.

Electric water heaters are known for their ease of installation and lower upfront costs compared to gas-powered models. They are also a popular choice in areas where natural gas is not readily available. Electric tankless water heaters may have slightly higher operating costs in regions with expensive electricity rates, but they are still considered energy-efficient overall.

Gas water heaters, on the other hand, offer higher flow rates and faster heating, making them a suitable choice for larger households with high hot water demand. They are often preferred for their ability to provide continuous hot water even during power outages, as they do not rely on electricity for operation. The installation of gas-powered tankless water heaters can be more complex and costly due to the need for gas lines, proper venting, and safety measures.

Common Issues With Tankless Water Heaters

    1. Fluctuating Water Temperature:

      • Issue: Inconsistent hot water supply due to sensor or control board problems.

    2. Mineral Build-Up in Heating Element:

      • Issue: Reduced efficiency and heating capacity caused by mineral deposits.

    3. Gas Supply or Venting Issues:

      • Issue: Irregular heating or shutdowns due to a faulty gas valve, leaking valves or venting issues.

Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance for hot water tanks and heaters in residential settings is vital to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Periodic checks by a professional plumber enhances safety, detect issues early, and contribute to cost-effective and trouble-free operation.

5 Maintenance Tips for Tankless Water Heaters

  1. Flush the System Annually: Perform a vinegar flush to remove mineral deposits that can accumulate in the heat exchanger, ensuring efficient heat transfer and extending the lifespan of the unit.

  2. Check and Clean the Air Intake Filter: Inspect and clean the air intake filter regularly to prevent dust and debris from hindering combustion efficiency.

  3. Monitor Gas Pressure: Ensure that the gas pressure is within the manufacturer’s specified range to maintain optimal performance and prevent damage to the tankless water heater.

  4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve: Test the pressure relief valve periodically to verify its functionality. Lift and release the valve to allow a small amount of water to discharge, ensuring it operates smoothly.

  5. Professional Inspection: Schedule annual professional inspections to address any potential issues, verify system integrity, and optimize the tankless water heater’s performance.

5 Maintenance TIps for Storage Tank Water Heaters

  1. Flush the Tank: Drain and flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup, improving heating efficiency and preventing corrosion.

  2. Inspect the Anode Rod: Regularly check the anode rod for corrosion. Replace it if it’s significantly worn to protect the tank from rust and extend the water heater’s lifespan.

  3. Set Temperature to 120°F (49°C): Lowering the water heater temperature to 120°F reduces energy consumption and minimizes the risk of scalding while maintaining comfortable water temperatures.

  4. Insulate Hot Water Pipes: Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss during distribution, improving energy efficiency and decreasing the workload on the water heater.

  5. Check for Leaks: Periodically inspect for leaks around the tank and connections. Address any leaks promptly to prevent water damage and maintain the water heater’s reliability.