The difference between water heaters from box stores and from a reputable contractor

While things may certainly vary depending on the type, quality and size of heater you have, a typical water heater should last a decade or more. If your water heater has started leaking, shows extreme signs of wear and tear or is simply not working as efficiently and effectively as it once did, looking at your replacement options is probably in your best interest.

You get what you pay for, the saying goes, and water heaters are no different. Generally speaking, you have two options for water heaters. The first is buying your heater from a box store or a wholesale outlet center, and the second is buying your heater from a reputable contractor like a local mechanical company with several years of experience.

If you choose to browse for heaters in box stores, you will probably find water heaters at reduced prices from that of corporate and independent contractors but you must also take into consideration what the labor and installation costs will be of choosing this route.

Typically, a smaller water heater (20-40 lbs.) can be installed by a novice within a few hours, provided they do their research beforehand and ensure they have all the necessary tools to complete the installation. It goes without saying that installing the heater yourself will cost substantially less but will take a lot more work than paying someone else to do it for you. Furthermore, if your water heater is for a large household size and thus over 50 lbs or so, it is probably best for you to pay an independent contractor. Installations of heaters of this size and larger are much harder to install and are best left to professionals.

Lastly, finding the proper water heater for your home may be difficult to do if buying at a box store because of the size of variety of buying options they will undoubtedly have. Make sure to research or ask a professional about the proper type and size of water heater that best suits your home.

Reputable contractors come in various types. You can talk to a local contractor, such as Beeson Mechanical Service. Experts hired by this company are quite knowledgeable and typically have several years of experience. And remember, the warranty you will get on a water heater when purchased from a box store is not the same quality as the warranty you will get from a local contractor.

Reputable contractors come in various types. You can talk to a local contractor, such as Beeson Mechanical Service. Experts hired by this company are quite knowledgeable and typically have several years of experience. And remember, the warranty you will get on a water heater when purchased from a box store is not the same quality as the warranty you will get from a local contractor.