Category Archives: Water Heater Maintenance

Water Heater Repair Ashburn VA

When to Get Professional Water Heater Repair Services

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Water heaters usually last 8-12 years before they require replacement,  but they can fail before reaching the 8-year mark. Still, you can anticipate such breakdowns by watching for warning signs, including irregular water temperatures, unusual noises, discolored hot water, and unit leaks. If one or more of these indicators appear, contact a professional for swift water heater repair. 

Homeowners in Ashburn, VA, can turn to the experts at R. A. Dobson for a wide range of plumbing, heating, and HVAC solutions. For over 45 years, our team has delivered outstanding service and high-quality products that ensure the satisfaction of our customers. We even offer heat pumps, air handlers, humidifiers, and more service options. For a free estimate on your water heater repair or installation, call (703) 481-3700 today. 

Below, we review when to call for professional water heater repair services: 

Fluctuating Water Temperatures 

If you’ve tried to take a warm shower at home but had water come out frigid, you may have a significant water heater issue. A well-functioning water heater can consistently maintain the desired temperature. While several factors can cause units to lose heat (gas water heaters can deplete their gas supply, for instance), the most prevalent cause is the accumulation of mineral deposits on the heating element. 

In this scenario, the minerals naturally in water adhere to the heater as they pass through it. Without regular maintenance, these deposits coat the heating element and hinder its ability to effectively warm water. Again, if you notice inconsistent temperatures, call a water heater repair service to prevent further damage to your system.

Noises Coming From the Tank

You can expect frequent, mild buzzing from most water heaters, but alarming sounds—such as banging, popping, cracking, or whistling indicate an underlying issue. Like temperature problems, popping sounds are associated with sediment buildup in the heating unit. Yet whistling could signify high-pressure water pushing through a gaping valve. Call for expert gas water heater repair for an accurate diagnosis, especially if your home has a full-size tank. 

Signs of Corrosion

Discolored water can arise from various sources, including rusty pipes. However, discoloration appearing exclusively in your hot water supply likely comes from corrosion within your heating system. The hot water flowing from your faucets should be clear; the presence of brown, rust-colored, or dark particles calls for repair, even for tankless water heaters. 

Additional signs of corrosion include rust on the water heater’s exterior or a metallic odor in your hot water. Corroded water can pose a significant health risk to your household, so arrange for repairs as soon as possible. 

Leaking Water 

Among the most straightforward indicators, pooling or seeping water around your gas, electric, or tankless water heater is an unmistakable sign that it needs repair. The causes behind such leaks range from external damage to a malfunctioning pressure relief valve. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis and remedy calls for a professional inspection. 

Moreover, water can go unnoticed when it trickles from hairline fractures. You must receive regular maintenance appointments to prevent the damage from worsening. Leaks that go unresolved can lead to harmful mold and mildew near your water heater that spreads throughout your home. 

Reliable Water Heater Repair in Ashburn, VA! 

Water Heater Repair Ashburn VA

If your water heater can’t hold a consistent temperature or leaks rusty water, professional water heater repair is necessary. Ashburn, VA, homeowners can turn to the experienced technicians at R. A. Dobson for such services. Our top-of-the-line products and affordable rates will have your water heater running smoothly in no time. To start your next project, visit our website or call (703) 481-3700 today!

Thermostat Repair Ashburn VA

3 Benefits of Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater

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Homeowners nationwide can now implement energy-efficient practices and appliances in their houses. For instance, tankless water heaters offer anywhere from 24% to 34% more energy efficiency than conventional models. They also require less maintenance and less space as well as increase home value. So, hire a qualified water heater installation company to install your tankless model and start reaping the benefits today.

R.A. Dobson’s team can provide regular water heater maintenance, repairs, replacements, and installations for Ashburn, VA, homeowners. We’re a second-generation family business, ensuring that every part of your home functions properly, no matter the project. We honor all manufacturer warranties and offer the latest energy-efficient heating and A/C technology. For a free estimate on your water heater installation, call (703) 481-3700.

Below, we explain what tankless water heaters are and highlight 3 benefits of switching to one:

What Is a Tankless Water Heater?

Tankless water heaters provide hot water in a maintenance- and energy-efficient manner. When a water faucet in a tankless-supplied home turns to hot, cold water flows through the heater’s in-unit exchanger while a natural gas burner or an electric element heats the water. This process causes no standby energy losses associated with standard storage water heaters, and you need not wait around for the water to warm.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

  1. Space-Saving: Clunky, traditional water heater systems hog a lot of space. Technicians usually install them in basements, utility closets, or other mechanical rooms so they don’t impede other activities. 

Yet tankless heaters have much less bulk, allowing them to fit in any room inside your home. Therefore, they can be directly adjacent to a water fixture, eliminating any wait for hot water.

  1. Low Maintenance: Traditional water heaters require replacement at the first sign of failure. Tankless heaters, however, rarely require replacements. If repairs are necessary, it’s most likely for an individual part instead of the whole system.

Indeed, their most critical component—the heat exchanger—requires flushing every 1-5 years, depending upon the level of hardness in your home’s water. Discuss your home’s water hardness with a reliable water heater installation professional if you have any questions.

  1. Valuable: If you decide to sell your home one day, a tankless heating system would be a significant selling point. Installing a new system can be a long-term investment and end up paying for itself.

Energy-efficient upgrades are among the top amenities buyers are searching for today. Since tankless water heaters can operate efficiently for 20+ years, you can leverage that as a value point.

Tankless Water Heater Installation Experts in Ashburn, VA

R.A. Dobson has the tankless water heater installation team you can rely on to upgrade your system. Ashburn, VA, homeowners have trusted in R.A. Dobson’s high-quality, reliable water heater installation and repair services for over four decades. To discuss water heater installation costs and receive a free estimate on your next project, call (703) 481-3700 or visit our website.

Water Heater Repair Ashburn VA

6 Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

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If you find yourself in need of constant water heater repairs, or you want to upgrade your machine, check out the benefits of tankless water heaters. These appliances have grown increasingly popular in recent years. Compared to conventional tank-style heaters, tankless models offer increased energy efficiency, a longer life span, unlimited hot water, and far less maintenance.

For all your water heater repair and installation needs, turn to R.A. Dobson. We have provided heating, cooling, plumbing, and more services to Ashburn, VA, homeowners since 1975. Customers rely on our technicians’ expertise and excellent service options. Moreover, we offer a 1-year warranty on our services and honor all manufacturer warranties to keep folks comfortable in their homes. So, call us today at (703) 481-3700 and schedule your service!

Below, we discuss 6 advantages of tankless water heaters over conventional models:

  1. Energy Efficiency
    First, tankless water heaters use much less energy than traditional tank-style heaters. Indeed, in comparison to conventional models, tankless heaters use 24–34% less energy. The reason behind this lies in the fact that tankless models heat water on demand rather than constantly, as tank-style models do.
  2. Lower Energy Bills
    Also, given that they use less energy than conventional models, tankless water heaters come with lower energy costs. Water heaters are the second-highest source of energy usage in homes, and with more people working from home, energy bills will increase. The average household can save hundreds of dollars annually by switching to a tankless water heater.
  3. Longer Life Span
    Furthermore, tankless water heaters are more durable than traditional heaters. Research indicates that the former lasts up to 5–10 years longer than the latter. With routine maintenance, your tankless heater may last up to 20 years. All homeowners can benefit from less frequent water heater replacement.
  4. Unlimited Hot Water
    Additionally, tankless models can resolve your worries about running out of hot water. Since tankless water heaters warm up water on demand, they deliver hot water when necessary for the length of time you need it. Conventional heaters, on the other hand, warm a certain amount of water that a building’s occupants can use up.
  5. Increased Space
    Moreover, a tankless heater can help you conserve space in your home. They take up significantly less room than a tank-style heater, which needs space for a 40–60 gallon tank of water. Tankless water heaters include no tank and are often hung on a wall.
  6. Low Maintenance
    Finally, a tankless heater can help you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also curtail your need for maintenance. Depending on your water supply’s quality, most tankless water heaters require no maintenance for 4–5 years.

Water Heater Repairs & Installations Available in Ashburn, VA

Water Heater Repair Ashburn VA

R.A. Dobson’s expert team provides residents throughout Ashburn, VA, with comprehensive HVAC, plumbing, and water heater repair and installations. We are a trusted service provider throughout the Northern Virginia region—just read our customer reviews! If you believe your tankless water heater needs professional maintenance or repair, allow us to take a look and see how we can help. For more savings, check out our online coupons. Call (703) 481-3700 today or fill out our online form to receive a free water heater service estimate.

Running hot water from a quality water heater installation in Sterling, VA

3 Signs Your Water Heater Needs to be Replaced

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Among the many features of our home’s water system is its capability to heat water to a higher temperature. Hot water isn’t a luxury but an essential for proper hygiene and cleanliness. Thus, keeping tabs on the condition of your water heater is vital to avoiding a disruption in your home’s everyday living conditions.

At R.A. Dobson, we are dedicated to maintaining and sustaining the integrity of our clients’ HVAC and plumbing systems through our expertise and thorough work ethic. Our team is highly-trained in each of our many services to provide a high-quality experience. Our services include essential plumbing maintenance, heating and cooling repairs, efficient water heater installation, and more. For over 40 years, we have helped thousands of residents throughout Sterling and Northern Virginia keep their homes warm, cool, and comfy. 

Here are 3 signs that indicate your water heater needs a replacement: 

Decade(s) Since Manufacturing Date

Find out the date of when your current water heater was first manufactured. The date is usually somewhere on a tank, typically on a label sticking to the side. However, even if you do find the label, it can be difficult to read, but there are water heater information resources available that can help you get a grasp on how to read them.

Even with the water heater’s manufacturing date in hand, how long after does it need to be replaced? 

Well, that depends on the type of water heater you have. Commonly, most homes have electric water heaters, which will last around 10 to 15 years, while some tankless water heaters will last for 20 or more.

In any case, we suggest that you consider getting a replacement after your current water heater exceeds its average life span, or at least have it checked and maintained by a professional to ensure that your home continues to have safe and running hot water.  

Water Leaking From The Tank

A sure sign of disrepair in your water heater is water leaking from the tank. The first thing to do is to check if any fittings, connections, or the temperature/pressure overflow pipe is leaking. If so, that means you’ll just need a professional to replace a component and not the entire tank.

However, if you notice that there’s moisture or even puddles of water around the bottom of the tank, and you’ve found that all other components are dry, that may mean your tank has sprung a leak. It will need to be replaced for it to work properly again.   

Rusty or Cloudy Running Water

When you turn on your faucet and see that the water pouring out is rust-colored or cloudy, there is a big chance that there’s something wrong with your water heater. There are one of two possible problems occurring within it: 

  • The sacrificial anode is used to attract particles of metal and sediment within the tank and to oxidize in place of the tank itself. Rust-colored or metallic-smelling water can mean that the anode has rusted over and needs to be replaced.
  • The inner lining of the tank itself has been corroded with rust, making it totally unusable and must be replaced immediately. 

R.A. Dobson: Expert Water Heater Installation in Sterling, VA

Looking out for these issues in your water heater provides you with a good benchmark for when you should have it replaced. However, you’ll need a professional to provide a fresh replacement, as well as an affordable water heater installation. At R.A. Dobson, our technicians are among the best and most-experienced in the Sterling, VA and Northern Virginia area. We offer numerous choices in high-quality HVAC units and plumbing appliances, as well as expert repair and maintenance services. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 and talk to one of  our qualified technicians today. 

water heater installation Sterling VA

5 of the Best Water Heaters for Your Home

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Installing a water heater is no easy feat. Water heating is a heat transfer process that uses an energy source to heat water above it’s natural temperature. Just as gas water heaters require a gas supply, a cold water supply, and a flue connection, electric water heaters have an extensive installation process to ensure smooth functioning. These projects are best left to a professionally licensed water heater installation company, such as R.A. Dobson. 

There’s a lot to consider before purchasing a water heater for your home. To help you decide which water heater works best for your family, here’s additional information below on five of the best water heaters that R.A. Dobson offers: 

Gas Water Heaters

AO Smith ProMax® Gas Water Heater

The ProMax® Gas Water Heater is a great option for someone looking for reliability and value. Some of the features it includes are:

  • The DynaClean dip tube, which reduces sediment buildup.
  • It’s C3 Technology protects your heater against ignition of any flammable vapors. 
  • A 6-year tank and parts warranty.
  • Green Choice gas burner that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 33%. 
  • A Piezo igniter for easy pilot ignition.

Learn more about ProMax® Gas Water Heaters.

AO Smith Conservationist® Standard Vent Gas Water Heaters

For those looking for a more energy-efficient gas water heater, look no further than the AO Smith Conservationist® Standard Vent Gas Water Heater. This model includes:

  • A 10-year tank and parts warranty.
  • Blue Diamond glass coating which delivers more than twice the corrosion resistance of industry-standard glass lining.
  • An environmentally- friendly Green Choice gas burner that reduces NOx emissions by 33% compared to standard burners.
  • An LED status indicator that monitors system operation and service diagnostics.
  • The DynaClean II system that protects your system against excess lime and sediment buildup. 

Learn more about the Conservationist®.

Bradford White ICON System™ Gas Water Heaters

The Bradford White ICON System™ is a top-notch gas water heater that offers innovative features to the water heater, including: 

  • An advanced temperature control system for accurate water temperatures.
  • Intelligent diagnostics assisting with troubleshooting.
  • A separate immersed Thermowell.
  • An integrated Piezo igniter. 
  • A Pilot-on indicator. 

Electric Water Heaters

AO Smith ProMax® Electric Water Heaters

If you are looking to install an electric water heater as opposed to a gas water heater, the AO Smith ProMax® Electric Water Heaters is extremely easy to use and offers features such as: 

  • Thick CFC-free foam insulation for higher efficiency.
  • Different model sizes–tall, short, lowboy– are available for your convenience.
  • DynaClean dip tube 
  • PermaGlas® glass coating.
  • A durable, tamper-resistant brass drain valve.

Learn more about AO Smith ProMax® Electric Water Heaters.

Bradford White Energy Saver Upright Electric Water Heaters

These energy-efficient electric water heaters from Bradford White can save you up to $300 annually in energy costs. The features that make the Bradford White Energy Saver Upright Electric Water Heater so efficient include: 

  • Fully automatic controls.
  • Factory-installed Hydrojet® Total Performance System which reduces sediment buildup.
  • Direct heat transfer with immersed screw-type elements.
  • A Vitraglas® enamel tank lining that gives your water heater a longer life.
  • A protective magnesium anode rod.

Learn more about Bradford White Energy Saver Upright Electric Water Heaters.

R.A. Dobson: Professional Water Heater Installation Services in Sterling, VA

Installing a gas or electric water heater is a job completed best by professionals, and it doesn’t get much more professional than your team at R.A. Dobson. Many of our water heating options are high efficiency so that our customers can enjoy greater savings on utilities. If you are in need of a water heater installation in Sterling, Virginia, you can expect the best from R.A. Dobson. 
Get the peace of mind you deserve! Contact us now at (703) 481-3700 for a free estimate on a water heater repair or installation today.

Water heater repair Sterling VA

5 Common Problems With Home Water Heaters

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A water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, as they are used daily to provide heated water for your sinks, showers, baths, and other vital aspects of your home’s internal systems. While they do run smoothly compared to most other appliances, water heaters can still have their issues from time to time. If you do notice any problems with your water heater, you may fix it on your own or but it’s highly recommended that you call a professional technician to help like R.A. Dobson.

At R.A. Dobson, our team is highly-skilled in HVAC and plumbing services, including furnace replacement, bathroom repairs, and our excellent water heater repair services. For residents of Sterling, Virginia and throughout Northern VA, we have provided our assistance at affordable rates  for over 40 years. We have ensured their satisfaction by offering our knowledge, as well as top-of-the-line appliances. Below, we list some common problems that might arise with home water heaters:

1. Leaks

One of the most troublesome issues that may arise with water heaters are leaks. Water can leak from the top of the heater because the pipes have become too loose. In some cases, the T&P pipe valve may have failed and needs to be replaced. On the other hand, you may have a leak coming from the bottom of the water heater. Sometimes there will be normal condensation at the bottom, but if you notice an excessive amount of water has been expelled, you may have an overflow going through a T&P valve unwilling to close.

2. Lack of Hot Water

If you notice that your shower doesn’t heat your water, then this could be an indication that your water heater is having underlying issues. The most common reason for this predicament is due to a broken circuit breaker. In this case, you should check the breaker box. Also check if resetting the switch on the thermostat works. If that’s not the reason, then it is probably outdated and must be replaced. Also, consider if you have a large enough water heater for your household size. If not, then it’s advised that you replace your old heater with a larger one.

3. Water Is Too Hot

Unlike having a lack of hot water, another sign that your water heater is having issues is when your water temperature is too hot. In this case, you need to call in a professional to help you with wiring issues. If your water is taking too long to reheat, then the cause for this issue is from the type of model you have. Newer models run faster than older ones, and various models produce different results.

4. Low Water Pressure

In the case that you may have low water pressure, installing larger pipes into your unit should solve the problem. Larger pipes will allow more water to flow through and generate more of the desired pressure you want. Usually, the case for low water pressure is that pieces of sediment, calcium deposits, and rust have blocked the pipes which contribute to the water pressure.

5. Dirty or Oddly Colored Water

If you see any rust-colored water then this could be a sign of corrosion in the anode rod or tank. If you replace the anode rod, you can add years to your water heater, as the corrosion doesn’t get serious enough to rust out your whole tank.

Additionally, if you smell any mold or rust coming from the unit then you should also replace the anode rod. The pungent odor from hot water indicates bacterial build-up. Even more so, if you choose to replace your old anode rod with a powered anode rod, this will get rid of the smell and give the tank a longer lifespan.

R.A. Dobson: Professional Water Heater Repair or Replacement in Sterling, VA

It is always important to know what is going on with your home’s internal systems, including the water heater.  For residents of Sterling, VA and throughout Northern Virginia, We at R.A. Dobson can help you through our numerous services, including our professional water heating repair and maintenance. Our team of professionals aspires to assist and answer any questions that you may have in regard to the installation process or routine cleanings. At R.A. Dobson, we provide a number of different water heater models that fit anyone’s budget. We aim to satisfy our customers with top-of-the-line service and reliability.

 

Contact us at 703-481-3700 today! We look forward to hearing from you.

Water heater repair Sterling VA

Signs You Need A Water Heater Installation

Blog, Water Heater Maintenance

Every day we go about our lives and enjoy the different uses of hot water in our homes. However, small changes may occasionally occur and go unnoticed, especially if we have tight schedules and are busy with our other priorities. If you have noticed a thing or two about your water heater, it’s a good idea to look into it right away. A professional water heater expert can address any changes to your water, which may include unordinary sounds or the water temperature slowly changing from hot to warm to cold.

Whether your water heater is leaking or there’s standing water around it, you may want to immediately contact a professional water heater installation specialist such as R.A. Dobson in Sterling, VA. Our team of home appliance repair experts are highly-trained in providing quality heating, air conditioning, and plumbing services to residents throughout the Northern VA area. Below we have provided a few signs of potential water heater issues for you to keep in mind so you can be ready for any problems that may arise.

Water Around the Heater

It’s never a good sign when there’s water surrounding your water heater. If it’s difficult to fix your leaky water heater, you might need to replace it by a professional water heater repair specialist. Getting rid of the water heater professionally will prevent recurring floods or water damage to your home or business. Before trying to remove the water heater, be sure to let the water cool down first by disconnecting the electricity or turning off your gas unit.

Strange Noises

It’s normal for a water heater to make a few noises as it’s heating up. What isn’t normal is the heater making crackling and popping sounds. If your water heater is making those noises, this can indicate that there is sediment buildup. Sometimes sediment gets into the water heater and hardens as it’s heated and reheated. Once hardened, it can come into contact with the heating element inside of the tank, causing the popping and crackling noises. This is the heating element trying to burn the sediment away. The more it happens, the less efficient your water heater becomes as this uses more gas or electricity.

Muddy or Cold Water

Another sign that you need to change your water heater is when the water coming out of your faucet or tub is a bit rusty or unclear. The water’s changing color may be an indication that the water heater tank is in the process of corrosion. If the water looks a bit muddy or feels as if there’s sand or some other material in it, this may indicate that there is sediment buildup in your tank. There’s also an issue when your water comes out cold, which indicates that the water heater has an internal issue. If the water is lukewarm, that may be a sign that your heating element is slowly on its way out, too.

How Old is Your Water Heater?

Do you remember how old your water heater is? Most water heaters last about 10 years, and if yours is around that age, it is probably time to replace it. Of course, the actual time to replace your water heater depends on various factors such as how often it is used. A water heater professional can determine when it’s time to replace your water heater. If you aren’t sure how old your water heater is, then you can double check the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker.

Take Care of Your Water Heater Repair & Installation Needs With R.A. Dobson Inc. Today!

If you think your water heater is experiencing issues, don’t wait until the problems get worse! With R.A. Dobson in Northern VA, our dedicated professionals are available and efficient enough to provide the quality services you need for any water heater problem you may have. We provide various services ranging from water heater repair services to heating and air conditioning that can be customized specifically to your home needs.

 

Contact us at (703)-481-3700 to set up an appointment as soon as possible and don’t forget to take advantage of our available coupons during the holidays too!

What Are the Parts of a Gas Water Heater?

Blog, Water Heater Maintenance

One of the many things in life we take for granted is our water heater. We usually only think about it when it leaks, stops working, or requires professional water heater repair. As soon as our shower water runs cold, we know we have to go inspect the water heater and see what went wrong. Unless you’re a trained water heater repair expert, you might know very little about how a water heater operates and how to fix it when something is wrong.

There are two main types of water heaters: electric and gas. Gas storage water heaters are the most common type of water heater in the United States. Gas water heaters have a lot of important components that all work together to bring you hot water. Understanding how your gas water heater works will not only give you a greater appreciation for it, but will also help you know how to better take care of what keeps you warm, especially during the cold Northern VA winters. Below is our quick guide to the most important parts of your gas water heater.

  • Cold Water Supply Line: This tube in your water heater tank brings cold water into the tank to be heated. There is a control valve that you can use to shut off the cold water in the event that your water heater stops working or has sprung a leak.
  • Gas Valve: This incredibly crucial part of your water heater supplies the gas that heats up the cold water. Like the cold water line, this can be shut off in case of emergency or for maintenance.
  • Gas Burner: A gas burner is the part of the water heater that heats up the water with a gas flame beneath the tank of water. This burner turns off once the water reaches a certain temperature to avoid overheating.
  • Ventilation Pipe/Flue: This pipe or tube removes combustion gasses from the gas burner and exhausts them outside of the tank.
  • Temperature/Pressure Release Valve: A water heater’s pressure valve is installed to get rid of extra pressure that builds up inside the tank. If your water heater starts to build up too much pressure, use the valve to release hot water.
  • Hot Water Outlet: Finally, the hot water outlet tube carries the heated-up water from the tank to other areas of your home like your shower and your laundry room.

Water Heater Trouble? Call R.A. Dobson!

Since 1975, R.A. Dobson, Inc. has provided water heater repair and water heater installation in Sterling, VA and the surrounding Northern Virginia region. We have a wide selection of electric and gas water heaters will keep you comfortable with hot water all winter long, with top-of-the-line brands like A.O.Smith, Bradford White, State and more.  Our installation and repair experts understand how crucial it is to have a properly functioning water heater. This is why we offer affordable pricing, quick and accurate installation, and superior customer service.

Contact us today at 703-982-0111 if you need water repair installation in Northern Virginia.