QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT WATER HEATERS
1Returning home after an absence of several days, I notice that the color of my water is rather yellowish or brownish. Why?
The yellowish or brownish color is an indication that your hot water tank is in an advanced state of deterioration. You should immediately contact a L’eau Pro counselor for quick assistance.
2What can I do to make my hot water tank more efficient and to make it last longer?
It is suggested to run through the bottom of the tank (in the floor drain) about 8 liters (2 gallons) of hot water to remove any residue that would be at the bottom. This should be done once a year.
3I regularly lack of hot water. What could be causing this problem?
1. Your adolescents consume too much !
2. Your water heater element is broken.
3. Your water heater thermostat is broken.
If it is not the cause mentioned in 1., contact your L’eau Pro counselor.
4Lack of hot water ?
The valve for hot water supply is closed.
5The water that should be hot is not. Why ?
Check the condition of the circuit breaker in your electrical panel. If you reseted your breaker many times and the problem is not solved, contact a L’eau Pro counselor.
6Is the lifetime warranty provided by both L'eau Pro and Rheem manufacturing?
Yes! L’eau Pro offers a lifetime warranty on the Marathon hot water tanks (manufactured by Rheem). They are covered by a lifetime warranty against leakage of water from the tank. You should also know that they are more efficient and environmentally friendly.
7Why should we install a draining board ?
The national plumbing code requires that a draining board is installed in all hot water tanks. It is also recommended that the latter is connected to a drain, if possible.
8What are the risks associated with the use of a tank of more than 10 years?
Most of hot water tanks last on average approximately 10 years. The fact of using a hot water tank that is still in place after 12 years is considered by many insurance companies as a negligence of the owner.
Therefore, your company may deny a claim in relation to any damages to your home by an old water tank, especially if it is a multi-unit building or condo.
9Can I replace my 40 gallon tank with a 60 gallon tank?
Yes! Changes may have to be made to the electrical connection of the hot water tank to allow greater electricity demand. Consult a L’eau Pro counselor for more information.
10What does BTU mean?
The acronym BTU means British Thermal Unit. It is a unit for measuring the thermal energy (heat). A BTU is the amount of energy required to heat one pound of water of one degree Fahrenheit – the measurement is taken at the heaviest point. In other words, if you put 16 ounces of water in a pan on a gas stove, to 59°F, it will take a BTU to raise the temperature to 60°F. Gradually, as the flames will produce BTU, the water temperature will rise until it reaches the boiling point, which is 212°F.
11In terms of efficiency, in Quebec, are gas water heaters more efficient than electric ones?
The average cost of a BTU is roughly the same for a gas or electric water heater (depending on the cost of supply of your source of energy). The electrical system is more economical because it is more effective (100%). Gas water heaters have an efficiency ranging from 55% to 96% depending on type and condition. These factors influence the performance of a water heater.