Hot Water Heater Repair & Replacement in Calgary

If you’ve noticed a sudden or gradual decrease in your homes hot water supply, it could be due to a malfunctioning or failing hot water heater. If you’re taking shorter showers or running one appliance at a time, it’s best to call in a professional as soon as possible. Shift Heating & Cooling Services offers fast and affordable hot water heater repair and replacement services throughout Calgary and surrounding communities.

Hot water heaters don’t last forever, in fact, in most cases it’s hard to recognize that a water heater is on its last leg until it inevitably fails.

If you’re concerned that time is near, we’ve outlined some telltale signs that it might be nearing time for a replacement

6 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Hot Water Heater

  • Age

    The average life expectancy for a traditional water heater is 8-10 years. If you start to notice a steady decline in performance of an aging system, it may be time to start planning for a replacement. If you don’t know the age of your water heater, you can find out by locating the unit’s serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker and give us a call.

  • Leaks water

    One of the most obvious signs of water heater failure is a leak. Not only can a leak cause a lot of damage, but it also suggests a new water heater is on the horizon and you should call an expert right away.

  • Makes loud noises

    Foul odors, gurgling drains, pooling sewage – to say that a sewer system backup is a catastrophe, is an understatement.

  • High energy expenses

    Did you know that water heating can account for 20+ percent of your monthly energy expenses? And it’s reasonable to assume that as water heaters age, this percentage will increase steadily. If your utility bills are getting out of hand, consider a more energy efficient water heater.

  • Rusty water

    Rusty water could be an indication that your water heater is rusting on the interior of the tank. It could also mean you have rusty pipes. Either way, it’s best to contact a plumber to evaluate the situation.

  • Inconsistent Water Temperature

    Fluctuating Temperatures: If you notice that your hot water is frequently running out or fluctuating between hot and cold, it could be a sign that your water heater is failing.

    Lack of Hot Water: Struggling to get hot water consistently is a clear indicator that your system may need to be replaced.
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Tank vs Tankless Water Heater, Which One Is Right for You?

Regardless of its age, size, or style, one thing every home has in common is the need for a hot water heater.  The two most popular types of water heaters are the more traditional tank-style and tankless, which is also referred to as on-demand. Both provide an excellent source of hot water but differ in a lot of ways. We’ve outlined these differences below so that you can make a more informed decision as to which is right for your home.

Standard water heater benefits

Standard water heater benefits

  1. Lower Initial Installation Cost
  2. Life Expectancy 8-10 Years
  3. Hot Water Limited to Tank Size
  4. More Simplistic Design = Low Maintenance, Fewer Repairs
  5. Larger Footprint
  6. Not Energy Efficient
  7. Easy to Install
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Tankless water heater benefits

Tankless water heater benefits

  1. Larger Upfront Investment
  2. Long Life Expectancy, 20-30 Years
  3. Endless Hot Water
  4. Requires Maintenance
  5. Small Footprint, Flexible Installation
  6. More Energy Efficient, Can Reduce Energy Consumption by Up to 25%
  7. Installation More Difficult & Intrusive
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FAQs

1. How do I know if my water heater needs repair or replacement?

Signs for Repair: If your water heater is relatively new (less than 8 years old) and experiencing minor issues like inconsistent temperatures, unusual noises, or minor leaks, a repair might be sufficient.

Signs for Replacement: If your water heater is over 8-12 years old, has significant rust, major leaks, or is no longer heating efficiently, it's likely time for a replacement. Consistently rising energy bills and frequent repairs are also indicators.

2. What types of water heaters do you install?

Tank Water Heaters: We install traditional tank water heaters that store a large volume of hot water for immediate use.

Tankless Water Heaters: Our tankless options provide hot water on demand, offering energy efficiency and space-saving benefits.

Hybrid Water Heaters: These combine tank storage with heat pump technology, providing energy-efficient heating.

3. How long does the installation of a new water heater take?

Typical Installation Time: Installation generally takes between 2-4 hours, depending on the type of water heater and the complexity of the installation.

Factors Affecting Time: Additional factors such as the removal of the old unit, upgrading connections, or addressing any unforeseen issues can extend the installation time.

4. How often should I schedule maintenance for my water heater?

Regular Maintenance: It's recommended to have your water heater serviced at least once a year to ensure it operates efficiently and has a longer lifespan.

Maintenance Tasks: Regular maintenance includes flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, checking the anode rod, inspecting the unit for leaks, and ensuring all components are functioning correctly.

5. Are there any energy-efficient water heater options?

Energy-Efficient Options: Yes, we offer several energy-efficient water heater options including tankless water heaters, hybrid heat pump water heaters, and high-efficiency traditional tank water heaters.

Benefits: Energy-efficient water heaters can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills while providing reliable hot water.

6. What should I do in case of a water heater emergency?

Immediate Steps: In the event of a water heater emergency, such as a major leak or complete failure, turn off the power supply (electricity or gas) to the unit and shut off the water supply.

Contact Us: Contact Shift Air Mechanical immediately for emergency repair services. Our team is available 24/7 to address urgent issues and restore your hot water quickly and safely.