As a Houston commercial plumber, we know that keeping the hot water running is important for your business, whether you’re a restaurant, salon, or dental practice. But with rising energy costs, choosing the right water heater can make a big difference to your bottom line. 

Two main types of water heaters dominate the market: gas and electric. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice for your business depends on a variety of factors.

Need help deciding which water heater is right for your business? AAA Plumbers are fast, affordable, and experienced Houston commercial plumbers who can help! Contact us today for a water heater consultation and quote.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters work by burning natural gas to heat water that’s stored in a tank. 

Why Choose Gas?

Lower running costs: In Houston, natural gas is typically cheaper than electricity, meaning lower monthly bills for your business.

Quick heating: Gas heaters are known for heating water quickly, so you’ll have a constant supply, even during busy periods.

No power, no problem: If the electricity goes out, your gas water heater will keep working as long as you have gas supply. This is a big plus for businesses that can’t afford to lose hot water.

Things to Keep in Mind

Higher purchase price: Gas water heaters often cost more to buy upfront compared to electric models.

Ventilation is key: Burning gas produces fumes, so these heaters need proper ventilation to keep your business safe.

Safety first: Like any gas appliance, there’s a risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning if not properly installed and maintained.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters use electric heating elements to warm the water stored in their tank. 

Why Choose Electric?

Budget-friendly upfront: Electric water heaters are usually cheaper to buy initially than gas models, which can be a big help for businesses watching their spending.

Easy installation: Setting up an electric water heater is generally simpler. There’s no need for gas lines or special vents, which can save time and money on installation.

Safety matters: With no gas involved, there’s no risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning, giving you peace of mind.

Things to Keep in Mind

Higher running costs: Electricity tends to be more expensive than natural gas in Houston, so your monthly energy bills might be higher.

Slower heating: Electric heaters take a bit longer to heat water compared to gas models, which could be an issue during peak usage times.

Power outages are a problem: If the power goes out, you’ll lose your hot water supply. 

Choosing the Right Water Heater – Houston Commercial Plumber

Selecting the perfect water heater for your Houston business involves more than just picking between gas and electric. Consider the following to help you make the best decision:

Hot Water Demand

• How much hot water does your business use daily?
• Are there peak times when demand surges (e.g., restaurant rush hour)?
• A high-demand business might need a larger tank or a faster recovery rate, making gas a potentially better option.

2. Budgetary Considerations

• Factor in both the initial purchase price and the ongoing operating costs.
• While electric heaters are cheaper upfront, gas heaters often lead to lower monthly energy bills in Houston.

3. Energy Efficiency is Key

• Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings.
• A higher EF means the heater uses less energy to heat water, saving you money in the long run.

4. Houston Codes and Regulations

• Ensure your chosen water heater and its installation comply with all local building codes and regulations.
• A qualified Houston commercial plumber will be aware of these requirements.

5. Professional Expertise

• Always consult a licensed Houston commercial plumber for advice and installation.
• They can assess your needs, recommend the best options, and ensure a safe and efficient setup.

Affordable and Professional Commercial Plumbers in Houston 

AAA Plumbers are experienced Houston commercial plumbers who can provide personalized advice, professional installation, and reliable maintenance to keep your business running smoothly. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you find the perfect water heating solution for your building.

The post Houston Commercial Plumber: Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

Assisted living facilities provide a comfortable home setting for seniors who require daily assistance with various tasks. Houston commercial plumbing repair can ensure that your facility residents get adequate and safe access to hot water is essential for their well-being. 

However, balancing the right temperature and pressure levels for safety can be tricky. Without proper safety considerations, hot water can cause burns or other injuries, especially for elders who may have more delicate skin. Understanding common issues with hot water settings can help you ensure that your facility’s water is safe to use while keeping your residents comfortable. 

In this post, we will go over best practices for setting hot water temperatures in assisted living facilities. By prioritizing safety, you can provide a secure environment that allows your residents to access hot water without undue risk. For assistance with your hot water heater or any other plumbing needs, contact our Houston team for commercial plumbing repair.

The Right Hot Water Temperature to Keep Residents Safe

Proper hot water temperature settings are crucial to ensure comfort and safety in any living facility. Setting a water heater to the appropriate temperature not only saves energy and utility costs, but keeps residents safe from scalding hot water and dangerous bacterial growth. 

120 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature setting for a water heater. Water temperatures set above 120 degrees not only means more expensive energy bills, but can also be dangerous for those with fragile or sensitive skin, such as the elderly. 

Houston has hard water and high levels of dissolved minerals in its water supply, and maintaining a water temperature of 120 degrees helps prevent excess minerals from collecting inside the plumbing system. When you prevent this buildup, you help to reduce unnecessary water heater breakdowns and repairs. 

Setting the temperature too low can be extremely dangerous, as it can cause bacterial growth in the hot water tank. Below 120 degrees, bacteria such as legionella can grow quickly. Legionella causes Legionnaires’ Disease, a severe type of pneumonia. This sickness causes lung inflammation, head and muscle aches, shortness of breath, and high fever. For assisted living centers, this is a serious cause for concern. Legionnaires’ Disease is a particularly high risk for older adults or people who are immunocompromised.

If your facility’s hot water heater has been set at a lower temperature, don’t panic. Your commercial plumber can adjust the water heater temperature to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for a set period of time, helping to kill any existing bacteria.

Maintain Safe Hot Water with Houston Commercial Plumbing Repair

Hot water is an essential service in any facility, especially when considering an assisted living facility where the comfort and health of residents are paramount. However, maintaining this service can come at a high cost, and finding cost-saving solutions can be challenging. 

Investing in on-demand hot water systems can provide solutions to both cost and performance problems. These systems can provide hot water only when needed, eliminating unnecessary energy waste and reducing costs for the facility and residents. Additionally, a customized on-demand hot water system can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of the facility, ensuring the comfort and well-being of the residents.

When it comes to plumbing issues in assisted living facilities, seek advice and insight from professionals who know the ins and outs of the trade. That’s where Houston commercial plumbers come in. These experts can provide valuable guidance that’s specific to your facility, helping you to identify potential problems before they become major headaches. 

Quick, Expert Commercial Plumbing Repair and Service in Houston

Houston commercial plumbing repair is a crucial service that any assisted living facility should prioritize. A lack of regular maintenance can cause a decline in the system’s efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and shorter lifespan. Invest in routine maintenance and checks for your hot water system—call our team to book a service appointment today.

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Why Call Your Houston Commercial Plumbing Company for Water Heater Complaints?

If your tenants are complaining about no hot water in their apartments, it’s time to call your Houston commercial plumbing company. There are many reasons to call for repairs immediately for water heater issues. First, obviously water heater issues can cause some serious dissatisfaction among your tenants. If you’ve ever had to take a cold shower because of water heater issues, you probably understand. It’s incredibly frustrating and can just ruin your day when you’re forced to use cold water for your morning routine. 

In addition, access to hot water is essential for habitability. Texas law requires that landlords must provide hot water to their tenants for health and safety. After all, hot water isn’t just nice to have for a long, luxurious shower at the end of a hard day. It’s essential for hygiene, handwashing, washing clothing, and washing dishes, among other things. In many cases, tenants can even legally end their lease if you ignore water heater issues. Therefore, it’s essential to call your Houston commercial plumber at the first sign of trouble. 

Common Commercial Water Heater Issues

There are any number of things that can go wrong for your multi-family water heaters. For example, if apartments share water heaters and both units complain they frequently run out of hot water, it could be a capacity issue. In these cases, it’s best to replace the unit with a higher capacity water heater. Better yet, consider separating the hot water supply and getting dedicated water heaters for each apartment. 

However, in most cases you’re dealing with some type of damage or deterioration. On average, water heaters only last between ten and fifteen years. Over time, they will start to wear out and need repair or replacement. In many cases, it’s due to something wrong with the water heater tank. For instance, sediment buildup or corrosion in the tank. Often, a damaged or worn out thermostat may be to blame for little or no hot water in your apartment complex. Our team can identify the source of the problem and develop an action plan to remedy the issue. 

Water Heater Maintenance from Your Houston Commercial Plumber

Regular maintenance from your Houston commercial plumbing company can help your multi-family water heaters in many ways. Routine maintenance, such as inspection and tank flushing, are essential for keeping water heaters efficient. Maintenance also helps lengthen the life of your property’s water heaters to reduce repair and replacement costs. Get in touch with our experts to design a multi-family plumbing maintenance program that suits your needs and budget. 

AAA Plumbers – Top Houston Multi-Family Commercial Plumbing Company

At AAA Plumbers, we are a trusted Houston multi-family commercial plumbing company you can rely on for your property. We work with commercial and multi-family properties of all types and sizes to maintain and repair plumbing fixtures and infrastructure. Our team is available 24/7 for emergencies and routine service. Call us now at (713) 462-4753 to discuss your plumbing service needs with our experts. 

The post Houston Commercial Plumbing Company: Water Heater Repairs appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

Many commercial building owners are looking for ways to save money and also improve sustainability. Water heating accounts for quite a bit of energy use and expenses. A Houston commercial plumber can help you look at your options for reducing water heating costs. One option is a solar hot water system, which uses power from the sun to heat water. 

Your Houston Commercial Plumber Can Help You Decide if Solar Hot Water Systems Are Right For Your Building

Solar hot water systems aren’t for every building. It’s important to make sure that you will receive a good return on investment before installing these systems for your commercial building. Therefore, it’s important to do a cost analysis on how much you can save in energy costs and compare it to the total costs for this hot water system. These costs include the price for the equipment, costs to have your Houston commercial plumber install the system, and estimated maintenance and repair costs. 

Also, keep in mind that your building needs access to plenty of sunlight. Fortunately, Houston gets a lot of sunny days each year, but you still need an area for the solar collectors that receives direct sunlight. Most commercial buildings use an unshaded flat roof for this purpose. 

In addition, you will need some space next to your conventional water heater. This allows your Houston commercial plumbing company to install the hot water storage tank for your solar hot water system. This tank holds the water heated by the solar system and also connects to your conventional water heater. 

Benefits of Sun Heated Water Systems

There are many reasons to install solar hot water systems in your commercial building. One of the first reasons is that it saves energy costs. Water heaters, particularly commercial-grade water heaters, use a lot of energy. This drives operating costs up. Solar water systems help pre-heat water to save the amount of energy needed for hot water. In fact, on sunny days, solar water heater systems can provide a majority of the hot water needed for the day. 

In addition, solar water heating systems can help you take another step toward your sustainability goals. Solar energy is a renewable energy source, and using it doesn’t harm the environment. Reducing how much traditional energy you use by installing a commercial solar water system is a more environmentally-friendly way to operate your building and get hot water.

Commercial Plumbing Solutions from AAA Plumbers

When you need advanced plumbing solutions for your commercial building, trust our team at AAA Plumbers. We offer Houston commercial plumbing repair, maintenance, and installation. Our plumbers offer years of experience to provide services tailored to your needs. We offer free estimates for all your plumbing service needs. Call us 24/7 at (713) 462-4753 or schedule a service call today.

The post Solar Hot Water for Commercial Buildings appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

If you’re looking for a more energy efficient way to provide residents with hot water, then talk to your Houston commercial plumbing company about tankless water heaters. Going tankless offers many advantages, and many luxury high-rises across the country are switching to tankless water heaters. 

What are the Benefits of Having Your Houston Commercial Plumbing Company Install Tankless Water Heaters?

You may be wondering why tankless water heaters would make sense for a multifamily property. Tankless water heaters of the past did have some issues with keeping up with high demands for hot water supply. However, today’s units are new and improved to help provide hot water to all your residents. Your Houston commercial plumbing company can help install these systems based on your community’s needs.

One of the main benefits of having your Houston commercial plumber install tankless water heaters is the energy savings. Traditional water heaters with a tank constantly heat water and keep it on standby until you need it. By contrast, tankless water heaters heat the water on an on-demand basis. This can quickly reduce energy costs for hot water. Not only does this help reduce energy costs, the lower energy consumption from tankless water heaters is also a great marketing point. Draw in environmentally-conscious tenants by showing off your community’s energy-efficient tankless water heaters.

A common reason so many luxury multifamily communities have switched to tankless water heaters is there’s no need to wait. With a traditional water heater, once the tank of hot water is depleted, then you must wait until the tank refills and heats up again. Instead, tankless water heaters don’t have this problem. They heat water as needed. Therefore, if it’s time for new water heaters, talk to your Houston commercial plumbing company about tankless water heaters.

Also, tankless water heaters for your multifamily property are low maintenance and long-lasting. The traditional water heater generally lasts between 10-15 years and often requires a lot of maintenance for the tank. Because tankless water heaters don’t have tanks, they need less maintenance. Tankless water heaters can last 20 or more years, making them well worth the investment for many multifamily communities.

Possible Downsides of Tankless Water Heaters

However, there are also some disadvantages. While capacity limits for tankless water heaters have gotten much better in recent years, your residents may still experience issues if they are trying to run multiple hot water sources at once. For example, trying to do the laundry and run the dishwasher while taking a nice, hot shower may lead to temperature fluctuations. Generally, tankless water heaters can supply between two and five gallons of hot water per minute. If the demand is higher than that, then it may be better to have your Houston commercial plumbing company install a traditional water heater. 

Also, up front costs for tankless water heaters are generally higher than traditional water heaters with tanks. Installation may be more complicated as well. While they pay for themselves in the long-run from reduced energy and operating costs, this can make it difficult if you have a strict budget for your property. 

At AAA Plumbers, we offer turnkey commercial plumbing services and solutions in the greater Houston area. We’re available 24/7 to help you with your commercial plumbing needs. Whether you need emergency Houston commercial plumbing repair or just need regular maintenance for your apartment plumbing, our team is here for you. Call us today at (713) 462-4753 to learn more and request service.

The post Houston Commercial Plumbing Company: Tankless Water Heaters appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

Tankless vs. Tank-Type Systems

In most cases, tankless systems can be expected to function for as long as 20 years. Tank-type water heaters last for an average of 10 years. Replacing your water heater during the last few years of its expected lifespan can help you to avoid breakdowns that could affect the comfort of your tenants and the functionality of your business operations. Your Houston commercial plumber can provide you with the right guidance when choosing a replacement water heater system for your water heating needs.

Signs Your Water Heater May Be Failing

A water heater will generally provide you with some early warning signs that it is on its last legs. Some of the most common symptoms of a failing water heater include the following:

• Rusty or discolored water could be a sign that your tank system is deteriorating from the inside. Making an appointment for Houston commercial plumbing repair can help you determine the cause of these symptoms.
• Lack of hot water could be indicative of increased use of water in your facilities or reduced performance by your tank-type or tankless water heating systems.
• Loud noises from your commercial water heater can sometimes indicate calcium deposits are present inside your tank-style water heater. This buildup could potentially block your drain valve to cause serious issues with the performance of your water heater over time.
• Leaks from a tank-type water heater cannot usually be repaired and generally require an immediate replacement of these systems. Tankless system leaks, however, can often be corrected with a visit from an experienced Houston plumber.

Consulting with a qualified Houston commercial plumber can help you keep your current water heaters in optimal condition and could extend the life of these essential systems.

The friendly and knowledgeable professionals at AAA Plumbers can provide you with the expert assistance you need to resolve commercial plumbing problems quickly. We work with clients throughout the Houston area to provide scheduled maintenance visits and emergency repair services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call AAA Plumbers today at 713-462-4753 to schedule an appointment with us. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

The post How Long Do Commercial Water Heaters Last? appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

Consider the Application

When setting the temperature for your water heater, consider the ways in which you will use hot water in your commercial facility. If laundry and dishwashing are key elements of your business operations, then setting the water temperature up to 140 degrees or even 160 degrees Fahrenheit could be a solid step toward cleaning these items effectively. Temperatures at or under 120 degrees Fahrenheit are better for buildings that serve elderly people, children or others who could be easily scalded by water that is too hot.

Try a Happy Medium

If you cannot decide between 140 degrees or 120 degrees Fahrenheit, splitting the difference at 130 degrees can kill off most germs while reducing the risk of scalding and saving you money on utility bills. Your Houston commercial plumber can provide you with advice and guidance on how to adjust the thermostat for your electric or gas water heater and can let you know if your current water heater might be on its last legs.

Perform a Balancing Act

Weighing the advantages of hotter water over the risks associated with potential burns from scalding water can help you determine the right temperature for your facility. If your building consistently runs out of hot water, however, turning up the temperature may not help very much. Instead, you may require an upgrade to a larger water heater to serve the expanding needs of tenants, residents and workers in your buildings. A qualified Houston commercial plumbing company can provide you with an expert assessment of your current water heater to determine whether a replacement could save you time and increase satisfaction among your staff members and tenants.

At AAA Plumbers, we offer the Houston commercial plumbing repair services you need to ensure plenty of hot water for tenants, employees and other occupants of your buildings. We can provide you with professional maintenance and emergency repair services available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Our team of experienced and friendly Houston commercial plumbing company technicians can resolve your issues quickly and effectively to create the least disruption possible. Call us today at 713-462-4753. We look forward to the opportunity to serve your commercial plumbing needs in Houston and the surrounding areas.

The post The Right Water Heater Temperature Setting for Your Business appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

Watch The Water Heater

Turn down your water heater to save energy if you know you’re going to be away for a couple of days.  The average lifetime of a water heater is about 8-11 years.  Don’t know how old your water heater is? Check the last four digits of the serial number on the tank to find out the age.  It will show the month & year it was manufactured!

Appliance Replacement

With many busy days at the pool, at the beach, and in the park, doesn’t it seem like summer laundry is ongoing? Give your washing machine a break & visually inspect the hoses and machine itself.   A rubber washing machine hose should be replaced approximately every 3 years. Along with the washing machine hose replacement, there are other appliances that could be changed. Your showerheads, faucets, and toilets are something you could look at replacing to save money.

Watering At The Right Time

The best time to water lawns & landscapes is in the early morning and evening, after the sun goes down.  If you decide to tend to your lawn in the middle of the day, that water can be lost due to evaporation from the heat throughout the day. Save your money and lawn by saving this chore for the mornings & evenings. And with these summer plumbing tips, you can rest easy knowing you have done your part to protect your Houston plumbing.

We know every season brings a different challenge to your plumbing system in your home, apartment building, or commercial building, but whatever the plumbing issue might be, trust our experienced plumbers at AAA Plumbers to fix the job!

The post Summer Plumbing Tips to Save Big appeared first on AAA Plumbers.

Peak Water Usage

Determining the amount of hot water your facility will need during peak usage periods is critical to ensure comfort and conveniences for tenants and productivity for staff members. Known as dump load, this maximum amount of hot water needed to supply your building is measured in gallons and is a good indicator of the proper size of your new hot water heating system.

Recovery Rate for Hot Water Heaters

Most experts recommend gas water heaters for commercial use because of their ability to heat water more quickly. The recovery rate of a particular water heating system is measured in British Thermal Units, more commonly known as BTUs:

• A BTU is defined as the amount of heat needed to raise a pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Water heaters with higher BTU ratings can heat water more rapidly than those with lower BTUs.

By consulting with a Houston commercial plumbing company, you can be sure that you acquire a water heater that is correctly sized and configured to meet your needs.

Why Right-Sized Water Heaters Matter

While the drawbacks of inadequate water heating in residential properties are obvious, understanding the need for right-sized water heating solutions in other industries can help you make the best possible choices for your business:

• Salons, spas and other companies that offer personal services require on-demand hot water to ensure the comfort of clients and the productivity of staff members.
• Apartment complexes and hotels require adequate hot water for washing dishes, laundering clothes and personal hygiene needs. In many cases, multiple water heaters are required to manage the large-scale needs of these facilities.
• Restaurants and food service companies must maintain a supply of hot water to sanitize dishes to stay in compliance with health codes.

Consulting with a company that specializes in Houston commercial plumbing repair and installation can be a good first step toward finding the right water heater for your business needs.

The friendly and knowledgeable professionals at AAA Plumbers can provide you with the expert help you need to manage your commercial buildings effectively. We can recommend the right water heater or boiler solution to ensure a steady supply of hot water for you, your tenants, your employees and your customers. Call us at 713-462-4753 to discuss your needs with one of our Houston commercial plumber experts today. We look forward to serving all of your commercial requirements.

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