When a new commercial water heater is installed, or a commercial water heating system is replaced, the installer must comply with code requirements for electrical connections and apply for approval from the building official. The applicable codes are based on the location of the equipment for certain boundary lines.

What is the purpose of the water heater?

The primary purpose of a water heater is to generate an endless supply of hot water at your convenience. It does this by heating cold water for use and storing heated water in a tank. Typically it will provide enough water for two or three (2-3) showers simultaneously. Some larger commercial models may be able to handle more simultaneous storms, and some older small residential tanks will not produce as much at once. When the stored water is used up (usually due to multiple simultaneous users), it will need to be reheated.

If you need a water heater repair, check if your unit is the type where the tank and elements (heating elements) can be replaced separately. If it can, then this may be an option for you. However, additional components are usually required to make this work, such as a thermocouple, drain valve, and pressure/temperature relief valve. Price is usually the most critical factor in choosing this route.

The advantages of repairing your water heater rather than just replacing it are many. If you live in an area where gas or propane is the only fuel source, then tankless appliances are not an option. Both gas and electric water heaters are typically very inexpensive to replace, but there are hidden costs.

If you decide to go with a tankless unit for your next water heater, it is essential to consider at least two things before making any major appliance purchase for your home. First, realize that you will need to install a dedicated gas line (or propane line) for your new appliance because it uses so much energy. This is not very difficult with the right tools and someone willing to do the work, but it can be expensive if you’ve never done anything like this before.

Second, realize that water heaters do not last forever. Even if you buy an extended warranty, it’s unlikely to cover everything. Gas lines rust and rupture over time (especially in the ground), so I would say three years is an appropriate lifespan for a gas appliance before requiring service or disposal/replacement.

For more information, contact Vinny’s Jersey Plumbing, located in Wayne, New Jersey.  We also service other cities in New Jersey, such as Teaneck, Ramsey and Woodcliff Lake.