Water Heaters
Hot water is essential for everyday comfort, from showers and dishwashing to laundry and cleaning. At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we specialize in reliable water heater services for homeowners in Willoughby, OH, including installation, repair, and maintenance. Customers trust us because we deliver:
- 24/7 Expert Service Right When You Need It
- Fair and Affordable Prices
- We Always Make Things Right
Whether you have a traditional tank model or a modern tankless system, our team ensures your hot water needs are met with dependable, efficient solutions.
Trusted Name. Reliable Service. Schedule an appointment with Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repairs or Replacement
Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, delivering hot water for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and more. When it starts to fail, the signs are often subtle at first, but if ignored, they can lead to costly damage and disruption. At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners in Willoughby, OH identify when it’s time to repair or replace their water heater, ensuring safe, efficient operation year-round.
Common Warning Signs
- Inconsistent or Insufficient Hot Water
If your water heater struggles to deliver consistent temperatures or runs out of hot water quickly, it could be due to a failing heating element, sediment buildup, or a tank that’s too small for your household’s needs. - Discolored or Rusty Water
Brown or rusty water from your hot water tap often points to corrosion inside the tank or aging pipes. In many cases, this means the water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. - Strange Noises
Popping or rumbling sounds from the tank can indicate sediment buildup. Over time, this reduces efficiency and increases the risk of tank damage. - Leaks or Pooling Water
Visible leaks or moisture around your water heater are urgent signs that the tank may be cracking or a connection is failing—prompt repair or replacement is necessary to avoid water damage. - Age of the Unit
Most traditional water heaters last about 8–12 years. If your unit is nearing or beyond this range and showing any of the above symptoms, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Our Expert Solutions
At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our technicians are trained to assess your system, recommend the most cost-effective solutions, and perform professional repairs or installations. Whether you need a quick fix or are ready to upgrade to a tankless model, we’ll help you make the right choice for your home and budget.
Call Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today to schedule a water heater inspection or service in Willoughby, OH, and ensure your hot water system is working reliably.
Benefits of Upgrading to a High-Efficiency Water Heater
If your current water heater is over a decade old, frequently running out of hot water, or causing higher utility bills, it might be time to consider an upgrade. At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners in Willoughby, OH transition to high-efficiency water heaters that offer improved performance, reliability, and energy savings.
High-efficiency water heaters are designed to use less energy while providing a consistent supply of hot water. Whether you choose a modern tank model with better insulation and faster recovery time or a tankless system that heats water on demand, the benefits are significant.
Lower Energy Bills
High-efficiency units consume less fuel—whether gas or electricity—which directly reduces your monthly utility costs. Tankless water heaters, for example, eliminate standby energy loss by only heating water when needed, which can lead to substantial long-term savings.
Reliable, On-Demand Hot Water
Tankless systems provide continuous hot water, ideal for larger households or homes with high hot water demands. You’ll no longer have to worry about running out of hot water mid-shower or during back-to-back laundry cycles.
More Environmentally Friendly
Using less energy means reducing your carbon footprint. High-efficiency systems often qualify for rebates, tax incentives, or utility discounts, making them a smart investment for eco-conscious homeowners.
Space Saving and Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters are compact and can be wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space. They also typically last longer—up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance—compared to traditional tank models that average 8–12 years.
Increased Home Value
A high-efficiency water heater adds value to your home, making it more appealing to potential buyers who are looking for modern, energy-efficient upgrades.
At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we offer professional installation of high-efficiency water heaters, including both tank and tankless models. We’ll assess your home’s needs and recommend the best solution to improve comfort and cut energy costs.
Call Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today to learn more about upgrading to a high-efficiency water heater in Willoughby, OH, and enjoy dependable hot water with greater efficiency.
Professional Water Heater Installation Services
When it comes to installing a new water heater, expert service is essential for long-term performance, efficiency, and safety. At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we provide professional water heater installation services for homeowners in Willoughby, OH, helping you choose and install the right system to meet your home’s hot water demands.
Whether you’re replacing an outdated unit or upgrading to a high-efficiency model, our licensed technicians have the experience and knowledge to handle every step of the installation process with care and precision. We install both traditional tank water heaters and energy-efficient tankless models, ensuring your new system is correctly sized and configured for optimal operation.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Improper installation can lead to performance issues, safety risks, and voided warranties. Our team ensures that every water heater is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and local building codes. We also inspect all connections, test the system thoroughly, and make sure you understand how to operate and maintain your new unit.
Custom Solutions for Your Home
At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we understand that every home is different. That’s why we take the time to assess your household size, water usage, energy preferences, and budget before recommending the best water heater for your needs. We offer straightforward pricing, honest advice, and dependable service—no surprises or pressure.
Tank and Tankless Options
Not sure which system is right for you? We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of tank vs. tankless water heaters, explaining efficiency ratings, expected lifespans, and potential energy savings. Whether you prefer the affordability of a standard tank model or the long-term savings of a tankless unit, we’ve got you covered.
When you trust Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for your water heater installation, you’re choosing a team that values your comfort and stands behind their work.
Call Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today to schedule your professional water heater installation in Willoughby, OH, and enjoy dependable hot water with confidence.
Common Water Heater Problems We Can Fix
A reliable water heater is essential for daily comfort, from hot showers and clean dishes to laundry and handwashing. When your system isn’t working as it should, even small issues can cause major inconvenience. At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we provide expert water heater repair services in Willoughby, OH, resolving a wide range of common problems quickly and effectively.
No Hot Water
One of the most frequent complaints homeowners have is a complete lack of hot water. This can be caused by a failed heating element in electric units, a faulty gas burner or pilot light in gas models, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Our technicians will diagnose the cause and restore hot water promptly.
Inconsistent Water Temperature
Fluctuating water temperatures can stem from sediment buildup in the tank, a failing thermostat, or a compromised dip tube. We’ll inspect the system, flush the tank if needed, and replace worn components to ensure consistent, comfortable temperatures.
Strange Noises
Popping, rumbling, or banging noises usually indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This reduces efficiency and increases the risk of damage. Our team can flush the tank and recommend preventive maintenance to extend your system’s lifespan.
Discolored or Rusty Water
Rusty water coming from your hot water tap may be a sign of internal tank corrosion or deteriorating anode rods. If caught early, replacing the anode rod can prevent tank failure and prolong the life of the unit.
Water Leaks
Water pooling around your heater could result from a loose connection, a leaking valve, or a cracked tank. We’ll identify the source of the leak and perform the necessary repairs, or advise if a full replacement is more cost-effective.
No matter the issue, Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is here with fast, honest service to get your water heater back in working order. Our licensed plumbers have the tools and experience to fix problems on the spot and prevent future breakdowns.
Call Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today for expert water heater repair services in Willoughby, OH—you can trust us to keep the hot water flowing.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Water Heater’s Lifespan
Your water heater works hard every day to supply your home with hot water, and with the right care, it can provide reliable service for many years. At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners in Willoughby, OH get the most out of their water heaters through expert maintenance and smart upkeep strategies. Regular maintenance not only improves efficiency but also extends the life of your system and helps prevent costly repairs.
1. Flush the Tank Annually
Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and causing your water heater to work harder. Flushing the tank at least once a year removes this sediment and helps prevent overheating, strange noises, and premature wear.
2. Check and Replace the Anode Rod
The anode rod helps prevent corrosion inside the tank by attracting minerals and other corrosive elements. Over time, the rod deteriorates. Inspect it every two to three years and replace it as needed to avoid rust and tank damage.
3. Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
The T&P valve is a safety feature that releases excess pressure from the tank. Lift the valve’s handle occasionally to ensure it’s working properly. If water doesn’t release or it won’t reseal, it may need replacement.
4. Set the Right Temperature
Keep your water heater set to 120°F. This temperature is hot enough to meet your household needs while preventing scalding and reducing energy consumption. Lowering the temperature also slows down mineral buildup and corrosion.
5. Schedule Professional Inspections
Annual inspections by a licensed technician from Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can catch small problems before they become major issues. We’ll check all components, perform a full system flush if needed, and make sure your heater is operating at peak performance.
With consistent maintenance and expert support, your water heater can last longer and run more efficiently, saving you money and stress in the long run.
Contact Us for Reliable Water Heater Services
A dependable supply of hot water is essential for your comfort and daily routine. Whether you’re dealing with inconsistent water temperatures, a leaking tank, or looking to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model, the team at Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is here to help. We proudly provide expert water heater services to homeowners in Willoughby, OH, backed by years of experience and a commitment to quality workmanship.
At Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we service all types of water heaters, including traditional tank models and modern tankless systems. Our licensed technicians offer a full range of solutions—installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance—to keep your hot water flowing reliably. We start every job with a thorough assessment and clear communication so you can make informed decisions that suit your home and budget.
When your water heater fails, you don’t have time to wait. That’s why we offer responsive service and flexible scheduling, including emergency repairs when needed. From diagnosing a pilot light issue to recommending the best high-efficiency replacement, we deliver timely, professional service you can trust.
We also offer preventative maintenance plans to help extend the lifespan of your system and improve performance. Our team will flush your tank, inspect key components, and ensure your system is running efficiently, helping you avoid future breakdowns and costly repairs.
No matter what your water heater needs may be, you can count on Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to provide honest advice, fair pricing, and dependable service every step of the way. Our goal is to make sure your home is equipped with a safe, efficient, and properly functioning hot water system.
Call Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today to schedule reliable water heater services in Willoughby, OH and experience expert care for your home’s hot water needs.
