A new home is one of the most significant investments people make. Therefore, when buying a home, checking that everything works correctly is essential to avoid costly surprises later. No homebuyer would want to purchase a property that demands considerable repairs or replacements immediately afterward, which can hurt the household budget.
When shopping for a new home, most people consider room sizes, neighborhood, overall property condition, or features they always wanted in their dream home, like a fireplace, well-kept gardens, or elite bathrooms. But one essential thing that should make it to every homebuyer’s checklist before the sale goes ahead is the water heater.
A WATER HEATER’S IMPORTANCE
Water heaters are one of the most critical parts of a home’s plumbing system and one of the most essential modern conveniences. Checking the status of the existing water heater with the help of a water heater technician will save you from catastrophic issues, expensive repairs, and replacements and ensure the home is safe for the family.
Here is a small water heater inspection checklist for potential homebuyers:
AGE
A water heater can last between 8 to 12 years. The water heater’s lifespan varies depending on its installation quality and maintenance history. Please inquire about the water heater’s age to determine how soon it will demand replacement. It will help plan the replacement budget if the water heater is nearing the 10-year mark.
LOCATION
Check the water heater tank placement to assess the potential property damage it can cause. The location of the water heater can determine how much damage it can cause to the hardwood floor, drywall, utility cabinets, or other valuable assets if it leaks.
CORRECT INSTALLATION
It is also advisable to check whether the water heater was installed correctly per the manufacturer’s specific placement and clearance requirements. A professional can inspect if the water heater is placed at the right location and in the proper manner.
CONDITION
Look for signs of leaks, corrosion, build-up, or other damages. Ensure all the connections are adequately secured. Ask for the last service receipt to know when it was performed and by whom. A water heater professional can check the unit thoroughly to ensure it is up to code and functions correctly.
SIZE AND EFFICIENCY
A correctly-sized water heater ensures an uninterrupted hot water supply. Check the water heater’s size to assess its suitability for the family’s needs. A too-small or too-big water heater can fail to meet the family’s hot water demands or lead to energy waste.
FUEL SAFETY INSPECTION
Safety evaluation is a must for water heaters. Electricity and gas are the two primary fuel sources for a water heater. Check the integrity of the gas lines and shut-off valve, proper venting, wiring, and grounding to ensure safe operation.
WATER TANK PRESSURE
The pressure relief valve works to vent the excess pressure to prevent the tank from exploding when the pressure gets too high. It is also crucial to check the water heater’s pressure relief valve for its correct functioning and rule out leaks.
Also, determine if the water heater is owned or rented. If it is rented, check the contract terms to avoid issues later.
It always pays to hire a professional to check the water heater to ensure the household does not run out of hot water.
Water Heater Pros provides water heater installation and replacement services for Las Vegas and surrounding area residents and businesses. Our expert technicians install both traditional and tankless water heaters for homes and other buildings with gas or electric service. We offer the highest quality installers for efficient, versatile water heaters such as Rheem. Ruud, high-efficiency tankless Navien units, and more. Ask about our installation specials.