All Your Water Heater Questions Answered

Serving Brooklyn Since 1906

Water Heater FAQ

Water heaters and home comfort go hand-in-hand. While their function typically goes unnoticed throughout the day, their presence is made clear the moment they fail. Having a home without hot water can be frustrating, especially if you are left with unanswered questions.

A Petri Technician smiling after installing a new water heater in a Brooklyn, NY home.

At Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning, we’ve been working with residential water heaters in Brooklyn and Manhattan for decades and we understand the problems associated with their heating elements. To help you better understand the warning signs and what to do if you suspect your water heater is going out, here are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions:

Q: Are water heaters different now than before?

A:  In short, yes. Since April 16, 2015, all newly manufactured units must adhere to different standards of energy efficiency. Though newer units are larger, they are designed to be more energy efficient, saving consumers on energy costs.

Q: Should I repair or replace my current unit?

A: This depends on the age of your unit, the extent of the damages and your own budget. If your damaged system is less than 10 years old, the cost to repair may be less than a full replacement. If it’s an older unit, replacing it with a newer, more efficient unit may be cheaper than trying to repair it. It’s best to consult a professional plumber regarding your water heater repair/replace options.

Q: How should I maintain my water heater?

A: Water heaters can benefit from DIY maintenance such as checking/repairing the pilot light and anodes to help prolong operational life. Having the system flushed annually by a professional plumber will also help fight rust and sediment buildup.

Q: What should I know when shopping for one?

A: The options to consider are heat source, heater design, storage type and capacity. By having a professional inspect your home’s layout, you can determine your best solution.

Without maintenance and timely repairs, water heaters can fail prematurely. With this in mind, it’s important to trust professionals to ensure your system is operating in tip-top shape. If you’re in Brooklyn or Manhattan, Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning is here to help. Contact us today at (718) 748-1254.

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4.7 Stars | 1075+ Google Reviews
John Gearity
John Gearity
today via Google

Luke and Albin came to replace a boiler in a new home. They arrived on time. Made quick work of the removal and install. The team was very thorough in their testing of the system and was extremely patient and knowledgeable educating me on the system how it works, how to maintain

Everton Daring
Everton Daring
yesterday via Google

One of the best contractor decisions I made was to work with Petri plumbing. The office staff and technicians were a pleasure to work with. Junior, George and Bjoran were on time, professional and courteous. The team laid drop cloth down inside and outside. After the

James McHugh
James McHugh
5 days ago via Google

Great experience using Petri Plumbing. Steven came to assess the problem with recommendation. Then Ismael and Alter came to do the service. Overall great experience by all of them from beginning to end! High recommend using them!

Contact Us Today

Ready for top-notch plumbing or HVAC service in New York? Look no further. Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning has been the trusted plumber and HVAC company New York homeowners have relied on since 1906. Whether you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, a heating issue, or need a new cooling system installed, our team is ready to help across Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan. Same-day appointments are often available. Fill out the form below or call us now to get on the schedule today.

Petri then in 1906 and now

A Century of Brooklyn Grit, Heart, and Craftsmanship

For over 100 years, Petri has been more than a plumbing company—it’s been a living legacy passed down through four generations of hardworking Brooklynites. What started as a donkey-cart operation run by two brothers-in-law has grown into one of the city’s most respected service companies—built not just on craftsmanship, but on character. Four generations later, the tools have changed, but the values haven’t. Through snowstorms, blackouts, and busted boilers, the Petri family has always found a way—and always will.

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