Water Heater Repair or Replacement? How To Tell Which Is Needed
Since most homeowners aren’t professional plumbers, it can be hard for them to tell whether their water heater needs repair or if it’s time to replace the entire unit. This can be tricky because water heater replacement isn’t exactly cheap. But at a certain point, paying for repeated repairs costs more money than water heater replacement. Luckily, certain telltale signs can help homeowners determine when they should consider replacing the water heater instead of repairing it. Read on to learn about these three signs and how they can affect the home’s water heater!
There Are Signs of Corrosion
Corrosion is one of the most common reasons for water heater replacement. Although storage tank water heaters feature an anode rod designed to prevent the tank itself from rusting, there often comes a time when the anode rod just doesn’t cut it anymore. Of course, not replacing the anode rod (part of regular water heater maintenance) can speed up this corrosion process. Unfortunately, when the water heater tank starts to rust, it’s about time for a water heater replacement.
However, most corrosion in tank water heaters happens on the inside first. If there’s corrosion visible on the outside, it’s a safe bet that the inside looks a lot worse. So, how can homeowners tell if the inside of the tank is rusting? The hot water tells the tale. The tank is most likely corroding if the hot water (and ONLY the hot water) has a brown or rusty tint. If both the hot and cold water are discolored, it could be an issue with the home’s plumbing. Likewise, if the hot water has a metallic smell, it’s a sign that the tank is rusting, and it’s time for a new water heater installation.
The Unit Stops Heating Water
A lack of hot water is the most obvious sign that the water heater is malfunctioning. After all, that’s the appliance’s only job. But this can come in many forms. If it takes longer than normal to get hot water, or the faucet needs to be cranked up to get it warm, then it’s a sign that the water heater might be failing. The same can be said if the hot water runs cold quicker than usual.
Sometimes, these issues can be attributed to a faulty thermostat, but the more likely cause is a failing water heater. Getting a professional plumber to look at the unit can help homeowners determine whether they need water heater repair or replacement.
Frequent Repairs and the Water Heater’s Age
Like any other appliance, a water heater is only good for a finite time. Most tank water heaters last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. So, one way to determine if it’s time for a new water heater is to consider its age. However, if an old unit (over ten years old) seems to be working fine, there’s probably no need to replace it. If the unit is old and has frequent problems that require repairs, replacing the water heater before repairs get so costly they exceed the price of a new water heater installation.
Newer and more efficient tankless water heaters last longer than their storage tank counterparts, lasting between 15 and 20 years. Homeowners looking for a new water heater should consult a professional plumbing company to see which type is right for them!
About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service
Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service has proudly served Evansville, IN, for over 100 years! They offer upfront, no-surprises pricing, excellent workmanship, and honest recommendations. They also provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact them today for water heater replacement in Evansville, IN.
