While there is no single water heater perfect for every
residential or commercial application, we take a measure
of pride in the ability to say that Bradford White offers the
solutions to any water heating need you may encounter. In a
very real sense, Bradford White is the solution to all your
water heating needs.
We offer an extensive line of residential, commercial and industrial
water heaters and also manufacture combination space heating
equipment based on a tank-type design. Bradford White’s
expertise in water heating includes gas, electric, oil, solar
and indirectly powered models. Our product offerings go even
further by offering air handlers, gas and oil burners and power
burners.
This vast experience, coupled with a responsive infrastructure,
allows us to be extremely flexible. That means Bradford White
does change direction, when events dictate, to meet and exceed
the requirements of our customers and our customers’ customers.
Our first goal is to offer a full gamut of products from which
to choose. Secondly, we strive to give you an honest assessment
of the benefits of each product we offer and allow you to decide
the best solution for your needs.
When it's time for a new water heater, calling a professional
may be the smartest thing you could ever do. Here, then, are
30 reasons why we believe every consumer should hire a professional
to install a new water heater.
1. WE BELIEVE IN THE BEST FOR YOU
We're Bradford White, one of America's largest and oldest water
heater manufacturers. We believe we know water heaters and their
potential as well as anyone. We know how well water heaters
can work and how safe they can be when properly installed. We
also know the downfall and dangers of bad installations. That's
why we believe water heaters should be installed only by professionals.
2. THE RULES HAVE CHANGED
As of July 1, 2003 all conventional 30, 40 and 50 gallon residential
gas-fired water heaters must comply with new, stringent standards
regarding Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance. Bradford White
has created the Defender Safety System™, a cutting edge
technology that fully complies with the new standard. Your professional
installer knows that he can count on Bradford White to meet
these requirements now and in the future.
3. A GROWING FAMILY NEEDS MORE HOT WATER
When your family grows or when you add a large tub, a shower
or even an entire bathroom, your demand for hot water increases.
A professional can help you with access to models specifically
built for these types of changes.
4.
THE SAFEST WATER HEATERS ARE INSTALLED BY PROFESSIONALS
The Bradford White Defender Safety System is only available
to professional installers – people whose knowledge, skill
and experience ensure that the right water heater, and one designed
to be very safe when installed correctly. The peace of mind
you realize by having a plumber install your water heater is
a priceless commodity you can get at a reasonable price.
5. A PROFESSIONAL STANDS BEHIND HIS WORK
When you hire a professional to do the installation, he's there
to back up his work and to shoulder the responsibility that
comes with the job.
6. TROUBLESHOOTING IS FOR THE PROFESSIONAL
If you're not familiar with what causes that rattling noise,
that sulfur smell or that sudden reduction in available hot
water, it's best to do the right thing first. Call a professional.
7. ONE CALL DOES IT ALL
When you call a professional to install your new water heater,
you'll get a complete and efficient job well done. The professional
will answer all your questions and use all the right materials.
8. A PROFESSIONAL DOES A FULL SERVICE JOB
When you hire a professional, you'll get delivery and careful
handling of your new water heater, proper installation and removal
of the old water heater from your home.
9. YOUR CHOICES AND OPTIONS ARE VARIED
A professional can show you water heaters with improved features
and higher operating efficiencies and tell you how they may
negate
the need for a large capacity model.
10. AVOID INSTALLATION MISHAPS
Installing a water heater can be a challenge. An inexperienced
installer could inadvertently dry-fire the elements, damage
delicate parts, crossthread gas connections or forget to elevate
the water heater or use earthquake strapping where necessary.
11. A PROFESSIONAL UNDERSTANDS PROPER SIZING
Part of the professional’s job is to properly size the
water heater. That includes calculating the demands from multiple
bathrooms, dishwashers, clothes washers and any other points-of-use.
12. A PROFESSIONAL UNDERSTANDS THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER
VENTING
It is critical to vent the unit to the manufacturer's specifications.
Improper vent size, total length or configuration can lead to
a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide inside the home.
13. INSTALLING THE PROPER T&P VALVE
The temperature and pressure relief valve opens to relieve pressure.
Improper installation or the choice of an inadequate valve can
cause damage to the water heater or a hazardous pressure build-up.
14. WORKING SAFELY WITH A GAS FUEL SOURCE
Oil and Gas-fired water heaters require knowledge of the gas
or oil fuel source and an understanding of gas connections supply
lines and start up. A professional has this experience and knowledge.
15. USING THE CORRECT MATERIALS
The choice of material types and sizes for venting, water inlet
and outlet pipes and electric feed lines is best left to a professional.
16. THE JOB IS DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME
When you have a professional install your new water heater,
you get the most for your money as well as the satisfaction
of knowing the job was completed with expertise and experience
you can trust.
17. A PROFESSIONAL WILL HELP YOU AVOID SCALDING
Water heaters are factory-set at a certain temperature for your
safety. Your professional will explain the settings and the
dangers of improper use of the water heater's thermostat.
18.
A SIMPLE WATER HEATER…ISN’T
With new industry-wide design changes like the Defender Safety
System™, today’s water heaters are more complicated
than ever. Proper installation and service require that water
heater manufacturers provide training and education. This valuable
knowledge is only available to a professional installer.
19. PROPER DRAINAGE IS A MUST
After several years of good service, a water heater could leak
or expel water due to pressure build-up. This could cause damage
to floor coverings and other items. A professional will install
a drain pan and pipe it properly to a drain.
20. GETTING THE RIGHT GAS WATER HEATER FOR YOUR HOME
Gas valves are designed to handle a specific type of fuel. Some
gas-fired water heaters are designed for certain types of homes.
Making the wrong choice can be a serious hazard.
21. KNOWLEDGE OF ELECTRICITY AND ITS USES
Installation of electric water heaters requires knowledge of
the properly rated wiring material as well as knowledge of the
home's electrical capacity. An adequate electrical service is
a requirement.
22. A PROFESSIONAL UNDERSTANDS THERMAL EXPANSION
Do you have an open or closed water system? Closed systems are
subject to thermal expansion and pressure build-up. Open systems
can become closed when check valves, water softeners or water
meters are added. A professional will add an expansion tank
to avoid
problems.
23. PRESSURE BUILD-UP IS A SERIOUS MATTER
Even if your water heater tank doesn't rupture from thermal
expansion, pressure inside the tank can cause a constriction
of the flue tube. This, in turn, can cause a back up of combustion
gases and carbon monoxide inside the home.
24. MULTI-PURPOSE WATER HEATERS MAY BE THE ANSWER
Dual-purpose models can be used for space heating and snow melting
when properly connected to a hydronic piping system. A professional
knows where to find these special models.
25.
MANY SPECIAL WATER HEATERS AREN’T SOLD TO CONSUMERS
As with Bradford White’s Defender Safety System™,
some water heaters cannot be purchased by the public. There
are literally thousands of models with important variations
and safety features that you’ll never know about unless
you call a professional.
26. IT MAY BE TIME FOR A TRADE-IN
Even if your water heater is functioning adequately, maybe you're
not getting as much hot water as you need. It may be time to
upgrade. It's tough for a retailer or non-professional to advise
you. A professional can give you guidance and explain your options.
27. GETTING A PROPER DIAGNOSIS OF THE PROBLEM
If your water heater looks fine but it just won't make hot water,
a professional can diagnose what may be a simple problem. You
may just need an inexpensive replacement part.
28. A PROFESSIONAL HAS THE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE IT
TAKES
A professional has taken years to hone his craft. Installing
water heaters is one of the things he does for a living. When
a plumber comes into your home, he knows exactly what to do.
29. A PROFESSIONAL IS ON TOP OF NEW TECHNOLOGY
Because professionals often attend trade association meetings,
events sponsored by water heater manufacturers and also subscribe
to trade magazines, he or she is the first to know when more
efficient models or technology changes are available.
30. LAWS GOVERNING INSTALLATION
In many parts of the country, state agencies and local municipalities
have laws and codes governing the installation of water heaters.
These laws state that a water heater must be installed by a
licensed professional.