When to Replace Your Water Heater: 5 Signs You Can’t Ignore
When you’re getting ready for bed, nothing is worse than stepping into glacial shower water. You need to have a functioning water heater for your family’s health, comfort, and convenience. By learning when to replace water heaters and when to get repairs, you can make sure your family is comfortable all year long.
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
Even with the best maintenance, water heaters eventually need to be replaced. A traditional water heater’s lifespan is just 10 to 15 years. In comparison, a tankless hot water heater can last more than 20 years.
However, there are a few different factors that can determine the water heater’s lifespan. For example, hard water can cause minerals to develop on the heating elements. Meanwhile, sediment buildup can have an insulating effect, making the water heater work harder in order to reach the same temperature.
Performing routine maintenance can greatly influence your water heater’s longevity. For example, flushing and descaling can reduce sediment and mineral buildup, which reduces the likelihood of future repairs or replacements.
If you want to boost your water heater’s longevity, it’s essential to perform routine maintenance. Besides arranging for annual inspections, flushing and descaling your unit can help it last longer.
5 Warning Signs It’s Time for a Replacement
Knowing when to replace a water heater can be challenging if you aren’t a plumbing expert. If you notice any of the following signs that you need a water heater, you should reach out for professional water heater replacement and repairs right away.
- Age: If you develop problems after the water heater is 8 to 12 years old, you may need to replace it.
- Rusty Water: Rusty or discolored water is an indication that your water heater must be replaced.
- Puddles or Moisture: Any water around the unit indicates a leak, so you may need a new water heater.
- Lack of Hot Water: A lack of hot water and poor performance are common warning signs a water heater is failing.
- Weird Noises: A clicking sound often indicates a malfunction with your gas valve or burner assembly. Popping, banging, and rumbling noises can stem from issues with sediment buildup and tank-related issues.
Repair or Replace: How To Decide
Deciding when to replace a water heater can be challenging. The easiest way to determine whether to repair vs. replace the water heater is by performing a cost-benefit comparison. Calculate the total repair costs for the repairs. If they add up to 50% of the replacement cost or more, you’re better off replacing the unit.
Choosing Your Next Water Heater For Your Littleton & Denver Homes
Once you notice the most common water heater replacement signs, it’s time to start thinking about getting a new unit. First, you’ll need to choose between different types of water heaters. Tank water heaters are the traditional option and have a low upfront cost, but they cost more to run. In comparison, tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water, last for many years longer, and are less expensive to operate.
You will also need to narrow down your water heater selection based on its fuel source. Most water heaters operate on gas or electricity. However, it is possible to get solar water heaters as well.
After you determine the water heater type and fuel source, you’ll also need to consider the size and energy efficiency. You can get tax credits for energy-efficient water heaters, making this an extremely desirable option.
Cost Factors in Water Heater Replacement
When calculating how much your water heater will cost, there are a few factors you should consider. Our team also tries to make the process easier through flexible financing options and special promotions.
The following are the biggest factors affecting your cost.
- The installation costs
- Labor hours
- Unit price
- Permit requirements and fees
How To Make Your New Water Heater Last Longer
Fortunately, there are a few maintenance tips you can use to make your new water heater last as long as possible. If you do have any issues with your unit, reach out to our team for professional help.
- Schedule annual inspections to spot and repair problems early.
- Flush your tank at least once a year.
- Descale tankless water heaters to prevent mineral buildup.
- Inspect the anode rod at least every three years for signs of corrosion. As needed, replace the anode.
- Use insulation on the tank and pipes to prevent heat loss. In turn, this means your water heater doesn’t have to work as much and is less likely to wear down.
- Install a water softener in your home if you have hard water.
- Set your water temperature to 120°F. Besides being a safer temperature level, this lower temperature also means your water heater doesn’t have to work as hard.
- Check the pressure relief valve to make sure it is adequately releasing pressure.
Schedule Your Water Heater Replacement Services
The best time to replace your water heater is before there is a major failure. By reaching out to the top-rated water heater experts near you, you can get a professional diagnosis, timely repairs, and convenient installations. Learn more by giving us a call today.
FAQs About Old Water Heater Problems in Colorado
Over time, we’ve found that Colorado residents often have similar questions about old water heater problems.
How much should it cost to change a hot water heater?
The price varies significantly based on the type of water heater, its size, and the complexity of the installation. For a professional quote, reach out to our plumbing experts today.
How do I know when my water heater needs replacing?
You can figure out when to buy a new water heater by paying attention to repairs, performance issues, and the age of your water heater. Often, an old unit that needs frequent repairs may need a full replacement. Similarly, inconsistently hot water, leaks, popping noises, and similar problems are signs you need a replacement.
Is it better to repair or replace a water heater?
It all depends on the age of the water heater, the cost of the repairs, and the overall condition of the water heater. If the repairs cost 50% of the cost of a replacement, you’re generally better off getting a new one.
Can a water heater last 20 years?
With proper care, it is possible for water heaters to last 20 years. While storage tank water heaters last 10 to 15 years on average, a tankless water heater can easily last 20 years or more.
Should I switch from tank to tankless?
For homes that use 41 gallons of hot water or less per day, tankless water heaters use up to 34% less energy. While they have a higher upfront cost, it is often a more cost-effective decision to switch to a tankless water heater. If you are uncertain about which option to use and when to replace your water heater, you can schedule a consultation with our team.
Don’t wait for your water heater to break down completely. Schedule a water heater inspection today to discover the best replacement option possible for your home.