Pittsburgh Water Heater Services & Installation

The recommended water heater temperature for Pittsburgh homes is 120°F. This temperature is hot enough to ensure adequate hot water reaches fixtures throughout your home while preventing scalding risks. Setting temperatures higher than 120°F wastes energy and accelerates mineral buildup in tanks, especially with Pittsburgh’s moderately hard water. If you have young children or elderly family members, this temperature provides an important safety margin.

Water heater explosions are extremely rare but possible when safety mechanisms fail. Most modern units have multiple preventative features including temperature-pressure relief valves that release excess pressure. Regular maintenance by Taggart Plumbing ensures these safety systems function properly. Warning signs of dangerous pressure buildup include popping sounds, leaking relief valves, or visible tank distortion. Never cap or bypass safety valves.

To turn on a water heater in Pittsburgh: First, ensure the tank is completely filled by opening hot water taps until water flows steadily. For electric models, flip the dedicated circuit breaker to “on.” For gas models, turn the gas valve to “on” position, set thermostat to “pilot,” then press and hold the pilot button while lighting the pilot light. Once lit, turn the thermostat to desired temperature. If you’re uncomfortable with this process, Taggart Plumbing can safely handle it.

The best water heater for your Pittsburgh home depends on household size, usage patterns, and budget. Traditional tank models offer lower upfront costs but higher operating expenses. Tankless units provide endless hot water and energy savings but require larger initial investment. For large families with high hot water demands, indirect water heaters or high-recovery tank models often work best. Taggart Plumbing evaluates your specific needs to recommend the optimal system.

Consider replacing your Pittsburgh water heater if it’s 7-10 years old, requires frequent repairs, shows signs of tank corrosion, or doesn’t provide sufficient hot water. Upgrading makes financial sense when repair costs exceed 50% of replacement price or when energy efficiency improvements will offset investment costs. Taggart Plumbing can evaluate your current system’s condition and help you determine if repair or replacement offers better long-term value.