Common Mistakes to Avoid During Tank Type Water Heater Installation and Maintenance

When cooler temperatures hit Tulsa and the surrounding areas like Broken Arrow, Jenks, and Owasso each November, nothing feels better than a steady supply of hot water for showers, chores, and cozy nights. However, a reliable hot water supply starts with proper tank type water heater installation and ongoing maintenance. Avoiding common mistakes can mean the difference between years of effortless hot water and costly, inconvenient repairs during the holiday season.

If you’re considering a new tank type water heater for your Tulsa home, or want to extend the lifespan of your existing system, understanding these common pitfalls can help you save time, money, and headaches down the line.

1. DIY Installation Without Proper Permits or Codes

Cutting corners by skipping required permits or ignoring local building codes can result in more than just inefficiency—it could create hazards for your home and family. In Tulsa and neighboring towns such as Bixby, Glenpool, and Coweta, all water heater installations must comply with state and municipal codes.

• Improper venting may lead to dangerous gas leaks or carbon monoxide hazards.
• Incorrect connections can result in leaks, water damage, or decreased performance.
• Skipping permits invites costly fines and could void your homeowner’s insurance.

At Colossal Plumbing, our seasoned technicians handle the paperwork for you and ensure every installation meets all local standards for safety and efficiency, giving you total peace of mind.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size Water Heater

Many homeowners in the Tulsa metro area make the mistake of selecting a tank size that doesn’t match their household’s needs. Too small, and you’ll run out of hot water during holiday gatherings. Too large, and you’ll waste energy and money.

To prevent this, our team in South Tulsa and Sand Springs performs precise water heater sizing based on your family’s hot water usage and future plans, considering factors such as:

• Number of residents and bathrooms
• Frequency of laundry and dishwasher use
• Plans for home expansions or renovations.

3. Neglecting Regular Maintenance—Especially Before Winter

Even the best water heaters require routine upkeep. In Northeast Oklahoma, November is an ideal month to prepare for increased winter demand by scheduling professional tank inspections.

Regular maintenance should include:

• Anode Rod Checks: Regularly replacing this component can extend your heater’s lifespan by preventing corrosion.
• Valve and Leak Inspections: Catching leaks or faulty temperature and pressure relief valves early helps prevent major damage and costly repairs.

Neglecting these steps is a leading cause of unexpected breakdowns during the busiest family months of the year.

Is It Worth It to Repair an Old Tank Water Heater, or Should I Replace It?

Homeowners often ask, "Should I repair or replace my aging water heater?" If your unit is more than 10-12 years old and frequently needs repairs, replacement is often the smarter, more cost-effective choice, especially before the coldest Oklahoma nights arrive. Our Tulsa-based plumbers can inspect your system and provide honest recommendations based on your situation and budget.

4. Overlooking Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Installing an expansion tank, updated supply lines, or water hammer arrestors can improve system performance and efficiency—which is especially important with rising utility costs in Oklahoma. We install top-tier brands like Rheem and Bradford White and suggest strategic upgrades for hot water systems across Claremore, Sapulpa, and Collinsville to maximize reliability and safety.

5. Ignoring Professional Help for Emergency Situations

Trying to fix leaks or faulty installations on your own can make matters worse. Emergency plumbing professionals familiar with Tulsa’s unique climate and building codes are always the best choice, especially during peak holiday times when you rely most on your plumbing systems.

Protect Your Home with Local Expertise

Don’t let avoidable water heater mistakes disrupt your comfort this holiday season. With over 23 years of experience in Tulsa and all surrounding towns, Colossal Plumbing delivers flawless tank type water heater installation, maintenance, and repairs—backed by prompt, professional service and no surprise overtime fees.

Ready to ensure your hot water is holiday-ready? Contact Colossal Plumbing today for a thorough inspection or to schedule a new water heater installation—protecting your comfort, safety, and peace of mind all winter long!