Waukegan Water Heater Repair & Installation

Hot Water Heater Services in Greater Chicago Area

Hot water in the home is so accessible that it’s easy to forget how important it is—until you run out in the middle of a shower. Don't get caught without hot water, turn to Kern Heating & Cooling Co. for quality water heater repairs in Waukegan and the surrounding areas. Our skilled technicians work quickly and efficiently to not only diagnose the problem but to create customized solutions. We can help make sure you remain comfortable all year round.

Hot water problems? Call the Waukegan water heater installation and repair experts at Kern Heating & Cooling Co. at (847) 383-0350.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repairs

Call us if you notice any of the following, as they can mean that your water heater needs repairs:

• Long temperature recovery time
• Heating element failure
• Thermostat issues
• Leaking valves or pipes
• Corroded tank
• Electrical overload

While many of these problems can be repaired, if you’re having consistent issues, it may be time to consider installing a new water heater. Nowadays, there are two main types: tankless heaters and traditional tank heaters.

Tankless Water Heaters vs. Tank Water Heater

What Is the Difference Between a Tankless and a Tank Water Heater?

The main difference between a tankless and tank water heater is the way in which they store and heat water. Your standard tank water heater stores and warms water non-stop, including during times that you do not need or use hot water.

In other words, a water heater will use more energy, since when turned on, it will run continuously. On the other hand, a "contemporary" on-demand tankless heater will only heat water during times that you need and use it.

Rather than storing water the way a traditional water heater does, a tankless water heater will heat water as it runs through the tankless water heater appliance. This way, a tankless water heater will be able to save energy and cut your monthly utility bills.

Types of Water Heaters

• Tankless Water Heaters - Using less energy than traditional tank water heaters, tankless units are becoming more popular. Other advantages include compact size and continuous, as-needed water heating. However, small units may not be able to keep up with high demand—for example, if someone is taking a shower while the dishwasher is running. Large units that can heat more water at once are more costly than other smaller models.
• Traditional Water Heaters - Water heaters with tanks keep a supply of water warm constantly so that it’s ready when you need it. Depending on the size of your family, you may need a unit with about a 40- to 60-gallon tank. A good tank water heater can keep up with a family’s hot water demands, but energy is expended keeping the tank’s supply warm at all times.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Water Heater?

The average lifespan of a traditional tank-style water heater is typically around 8-12 years. However, with proper maintenance and usage patterns, some water heaters can last beyond this range.

On the other hand, tankless water heaters, which do not store hot water and are known for their energy efficiency, can last up to 20 years or more with proper care.