Enjoy hot water... but don't get burned at the door
(NC)-Chances are, you probably use hot water dozens of times a day. Whether it's tackling the dishes or a soak in the tub, hot water plays a key role in your daily routine. But most consumers never think about it until it stops working or when a door-to-door salesperson comes knocking.
Some door-to-door salespeople take advantage of the fact consumers have a limited understanding of their home's equipment, signing homeowners up for contracts with long-term commitments, exit fees and high rental rates. To help prevent this, Reliance Home Comfort, Ontario's expert on water heaters, dispels common myths about the natural gas water heater in your basement.
Myth: A new water heater will save me money.
In reality: New water heaters only offer marginal savings, and even replacing a 15 year old tank will only save about $6.30 a month in energy costs, before you even consider the cost of the tank. What really matters is how you choose to use hot water in your home. The best way to save money is to use hot water wisely.
Myth: Older tanks = dirty water.
In reality: Water heaters are designed to work for years without accumulating any significant buildup or rust. If you do notice a rust-coloured tinge to your hot water, or feel it's taking longer to heat the water, call your local service provider.
Myth: Proactive maintenance improves efficiency.
In reality: Maintenance is best done when homeowners notice a problem, like insufficient hot water or a rust-coloured tinge to the hot water.
Myth: Older tanks do not meet safety standards
In reality: Water heaters are installed according to the code at the time of installation. Any updates to safety standards will have to be completed only when the tank is replaced.
Myth: Tankless water heaters are right for everyone
In reality: Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than a storage water heater, which could translate into savings of up to $4-$5/month, depending on the age of storage tank being replaced. But because tankless water heaters work differently than they may be used to, consumers should walk through a needs assessment before investing in tankless.
"It's your doorstep and your decision," says John Krill, director of operations support at Reliance Home Comfort. "We encourage consumers to get the facts and speak with their current provider before they sign on the dotted line." You can visit www.burnedatthedoor.com to learn more about water heater safety and maintenance, your rights as a consumer and to report unscrupulous door-knocking in your community.
courtesy of: newscanada
Visit www.LisaTollis.ca for more information about Real Estate & Listings in the Ancaster-Hamilton-Burlington Ontario and All of the Surrounding Areas.
Lisa Tollis SRES.
Sales Representative
Seniors Real Estate Specialist
Royal LePage State Realty, Brokerage.
Hamilton Ontario
Office: 905 574 4600
Toll Free: 1 877 574 4601
www.LisaTollis.ca
