Cold showers might build character, but most folks would rather not test that theory every morning. At D&F Plumbing, we’ve been handling water heater installation, water heater repair, and hot water heater replacement since before TV had color. Based right here near Vancouver, Washington, we know older homes bring charm and a few plumbing quirks. If you’re thinking about upgrading your hot water heater in a house that’s seen a few decades (or more), here’s how to keep the project smooth and the water hot.
Check the Bones Before You Buy
Before even picking out a shiny new tank, take a good look at your home’s existing plumbing. Older pipes can mean smaller diameters, funky connections, or corrosion issues. That cute 1940s bungalow in Vancouver, WA, might need a few pipe tweaks to handle today’s hot water heaters.
Mind the Space
Let’s talk logistics. Many older homes weren’t exactly built with modern appliances in mind. Tight basements, narrow hallways, or crawlspaces with all the charm of a horror movie—yep, we’ve seen it all. Getting a new water heater into place might involve creative problem-solving (and maybe a little elbow grease). Pro tip: measure twice. Then measure again.
Ventilation Isn’t Optional
Old homes often have ventilation setups that don’t meet current codes—or worse, no ventilation at all. Gas water heaters need proper venting to keep carbon monoxide from turning your cozy cottage into a danger zone. Even electric heaters need space to breathe and drain safely. We always check ventilation first, so you can breathe easy (literally).
Go Tankless? Maybe. Maybe Not.
Tankless water heaters are all the rage, but they’re not always the best fit for an older home. They often require electrical upgrades or gas line rerouting—not small jobs. Sometimes a traditional tank heater, installed right, will do the job just fine. Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through your water heater options without the hard sell.
Whether you’re replacing a cranky old unit or starting fresh, D&F Plumbing is here with real talk, real service, and real plaid shirts. Call the Plaid Pros for water heater services, hot water heater replacement, or full-on water heater installation in Vancouver, Washington. We’ll make sure you stay warm without getting burned.
