The Complete Guide to Water Heaters in the Pacific Northwest

On a cold February morning in Spokane, with frost still clinging to the windows, a father steps into the shower expecting warmth. Instead, he gets a shock of ice cold water. The water heater in the basement, a unit that has been quietly doing its job for over a decade, has finally given out.

This is a story we hear often. And it does not have to end that way.

The Lifespan Question

Did you know that the average life of a residential water heater is 8 to 12 years? One of the most common failures in aging units is a leaking tank. If your water heater has crossed the 10 year mark, we recommend considering replacement before it causes costly damage to your home. A leaking tank does not give much warning, and the water damage it can leave behind is far more expensive than a planned replacement.

Traditional Tank vs. Tankless

For decades, the standard has been the tank type water heater. It heats a reservoir of water and keeps it ready. It works. It is reliable. But there is another option worth considering.

Have you ever thought about taking a shower with endless hot water? Or maybe you are looking for ways to use less energy? A high efficiency tankless water heater can deliver both. At 97% efficient, only 3% of the fuel burned goes to waste. And while a traditional tank unit lasts 8 to 12 years, a quality tankless system can run for over 20 years.

We use a few different tankless models to make sure you get the best fit for your home. In some cases, when we replace a tank unit, the venting and gas connections need additional work to make your home compatible for the upgrade. One of our technicians will come to your home at no expense to assess your current setup and let you know what, if anything, would be needed.

Hot Water Recirculation

We also offer hot water recirculation systems. These keep hot water circulating through your pipes so you do not have to wait minutes for it to reach the faucet. It is a small upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in comfort and water savings.

Knowing When It Is Time

Here are the signs that your water heater may be nearing the end of its useful life:

• Rusty or discolored water coming from the hot tap
• Rumbling or banging noises from the tank
• Water pooling around the base of the unit
• Inconsistent water temperature
• The unit is more than 10 years old

If any of these sound familiar, do not wait for the cold shower surprise. Contact us, and we will help you weigh your options with honesty and without pressure.

Our Promise

We believe every family deserves reliable hot water. Not just in the summer, but on the coldest mornings the Inland Northwest can throw at you. That is why we take the time to match each home with the right system, whether that means a traditional tank or a modern tankless unit.

Contact Plumb Zebra at (509) 317-9009 to talk about your water heater options.