
Highland Park Water Heater Replacement & Installation
Quick & Efficient Water Heater Replacement Services
How exactly do you know it’s time for a water heater replacement in Highland Park? Is it when your current unit just can’t properly heat your water supply anymore? Is it when your equipment is no longer energy efficient and starts to cost you more money?
Or is it just when you realize how old your current system is and become worried that keeping it is a safety hazard? Any of these factors would be a valid reason to call a technician for a water heater installation in Highland Park. That’s why at Little Tommy’s Plumbing Shop, we’re here to lay out every option for you. Our detailed assessment process ensures you get the most suitable water heater for your household needs, balancing efficiency with cost-effectiveness.
Get the water heater your property deserves. Call (847) 443-9115 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced plumbers in Highland Park, IL today.
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
On average, a water heater will typically have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years, depending on whether it’s an electric or gas unit. However, ignoring necessary repairs or regular maintenance, such as the flushing and draining of the unit, can shorten the water heater's lifespan.
Regular maintenance checks can prevent sudden breakdowns and extend the life of your appliance. Having a professional inspect and service your water heater not only ensures optimal performance but can also help in identifying potential issues before they become costly repairs. At Little Tommy's Plumbing Shop, Inc., we offer routine maintenance plans to keep your water heater in excellent condition, providing peace of mind and enhanced longevity.
The Benefits Of Installing A New Water Heater
Whether your existing water heater needs to be replaced, or you’re moving into your first home and looking to have one installed for the first time, our Highland Park plumbing professionals will guide you through every step of this process. We are proud to offer comprehensive water heater services to residents of Lake County, Northbrook, and the greater North Shore area, including water heater replacement.
With A New Water Heater You Can Enjoy:
- Increased Energy Efficiency: Almost all newer models of water heaters provide homeowners with a chance to strengthen their house’s overall energy efficiency. New gas-fired water heaters have a very decent .5 to .7 Energy Factor rating. If you have found that your utility bills keep going up while the temperature of your water heater continues to go down, consider an upgrade from Little Tommy’s Plumbing. Many modern units come with smart technology features that allow you to monitor and adjust the settings remotely, ensuring that your system operates at peak efficiency and convenience.
- Better Hot Water Recovery Rate: The “First Hour Rating” of your water heater looks at the time when hot water is in the highest demand in your home. Older water heaters tend to recover less water after the first hour, meaning that if everyone in your family takes a shower within the same timeframe each morning, someone is probably getting left out in the cold. Stop shivering through your showers with a new hot water heater that has a better recovery rate from Little Tommy’s Plumbing. Improved technology in newer models ensures faster heating times, reducing wait time for hot water and enhancing overall comfort in busy households.
- More Space in Your House: Old water heaters generally tend to be clunky and awkward, taking up a ton of room. Modern, more efficient energy water heaters are smaller and rectangular, creating greater storage space and increased accessibility in your home. Opting for a tankless option can further maximize your living area, as these systems mount on walls and require less room than traditional tanks, making them an excellent choice for homes with limited space.
Understanding Local Regulations & Climate Considerations
Regulations Governing Water Heaters in Highland Park
When installing or replacing a water heater in Highland Park, it's crucial to be aware of the local regulations and codes. These regulations ensure safety and compliance with current standards for efficiency and environmental impact. Among the key considerations are permits required for installation, which are typically needed to ensure the work meets the community's building codes. These codes often include requirements for venting, which is vital for preventing carbon monoxide build-up, as well as guidelines for proper installation locations and safety measures.
High-Efficiency models are highly recommended, and often incentivized, with many utility companies offering rebates for installations that meet specific Energy Star ratings. To make the process straightforward, Little Tommy's Plumbing Shop, Inc. can assist with the permitting process and ensure that your water heater meets all regional codes and standards, keeping your installation smooth and hassle-free.
Climate Considerations for Optimal Performance
The climate of Highland Park, characterized by cold winters, places specific demands on your water heating system. Cold temperatures can increase demand for hot water, and older systems may struggle to keep up with this heightened need, reducing efficiency and possibly leading to higher utility bills. It's beneficial for Highland Park residents to consider water heaters with higher recovery rates to combat the more extensive usage during colder months.
Insulating your water heater and relevant piping can greatly enhance efficiency by minimizing heat loss. This is particularly beneficial in older homes where heat retention may be a challenge. By selecting a model that optimally matches the demands imposed by the local climate, you can ensure consistent and reliable hot water supply throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions about Water Heater Replacement
How Do I Know When It's Time for a Water Heater Replacement in Highland Park?
There are several signs that may suggest it’s time to replace your water heater, such as unusual noises emanating from the tank, rust-colored water, or consistently running out of hot water too quickly. Another major indicator is age; if your water heater is over 10 years old, it's advisable to consider an upgrade. Inefficient heating performance and frequent repairs are also indicators that replacement might be necessary.
Conducting regular inspections and being aware of these warning signs can prevent a sudden breakdown, which could leave you without hot water. Consulting with a professional from Little Tommy's Plumbing Shop, Inc. can provide you with guidance on whether repair or replacement is the best route, considering longevity and cost-effectiveness for your circumstances.
What Are the Different Types of Water Heaters Available?
Water heaters come in various types, each suited to different needs and preferences. Traditional tank heaters, which store large volumes of hot water, are common in many homes. Tankless water heaters, or on-demand systems, heat water only as needed and can be more energy-efficient. There are also hybrid models that combine features of both tank and tankless units, offering high efficiency with more robust hot water reserves.
Additionally, solar water heaters are gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits and potential energy savings. Each type presents unique advantages, and at Little Tommy's Plumbing Shop, Inc., we can help you determine the best option based on your household's size, water usage patterns, and efficiency preferences.
How Can I Improve My Water Heater's Efficiency?

Your Neighborhood Plumber
You Can Count On Us!
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“It was a pleasure to meet Jordan. He arrived in time. He is friendly, polite and respectful. He solved my problem quickly and explained my options to me. I highly recommend Jordan and Little Tommy's.”- Deena F.
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“Always happy with my interactions with Little Tommy's. Highly, highly recommended. One time when my sump pump backup failed, Tommy was able to face-time me on a Sunday to help diagnose the problem. Last week when my Water Heater was leaking, Tommy was able to come out in 30 mins to quote me a replacement and we were back up and running within the next day. Again, they are highly recommended, and would use again!”- Dustin G.
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“There is a lot to be said about supporting local folks. And over and above that fact Little Tommy's was OUTSTANDING in all aspects of our encounter. From the friendly young lady on the phone, to the quick response, to Jordan the total professional who accomplished the installation. The price was fair and there was a no nonsense quote. I feel totally confident in recommending Little Tommy's.”- Mike L.
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“Jordan did a great job. Our cast iron pipe going out from our house to the sewer line had broken. We had a backup of the sewage water inside our bathroom on the first floor and the basement. Little Tommy’s Plumbing company fixed the issue by removing the part of the cast iron pipe that was broken. It was about 4 feet under the ground and installed a PVC pipe. They also obtained the village permit for this work on an expedited basis. Great company. Reasonable price. Would highly recommend for plumbing repairs.”- Sudhir P.
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“Little Tommy's sent Josh to fix my sink. Delightful experience and result. Josh fixed the problem immediately and then imparted very useful advice and pointers to avert plumbing issues. Best company around here.”- Steve O.
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“Tom from Little Tommy's provided me a thorough and timely quote as I am selling my house. The best thing is that he partnered with a tile and a glass company to provide a comprehensive quote. Great customer service and follow through. I would definitely recommend his service.”- Michael W.
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“Tyler did a fantastic job! It is such a pleasure to do business with a company who is efficient, fast in an emergency, and is trustworthy. I was left feeling they were completely fair and their service exceeded my expectations!”- Linda S.
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“They correctly diagnosed and repaired our issue after the first plumber ghosted us and the flooding began again.”- Craig N.
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“Tom came to my house right away to provide a quote on a somewhat complex basement project. The quote was fair and prompt. The crew was at my house over the course of 3 consecutive days to complete the project, and I could not be happier. Not only did they do a great job (on a not-so-straightforward project), but they were flexible, polite, and patient in working with me to get it done correctly. As a homeowner, it's comforting to have contractors who are willing to explain what they are doing, and they were patient with my naive questions. I would recommend them to anyone and, without question, will be using them for my plumbing needs going forward.”- Tony C.
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