Water Heater Repair vs. Replace
As a homeowner, determining whether to repair or replace an appliance is a difficult choice, especially when it comes to the financial aspect of your decision. At Norman Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we’re committed to providing our customers with all of the information they need to make an informed decision about their home systems. If you’re trying to decide between hot water heater replacement and repair, consider the factors below.
Aging Equipment
If your water heater is only a few years old, it most likely only needs repairs. However, water heaters are only meant to last 8-10 years. If your water heater is nearing or past this range, it’s probably best to replace it proactively. This way, you can avoid the frequent repairs and elevated risk that come with a heater at the end of its lifespan.
The Tank is Leaking
Water leaks happen, and they’re not the end of the world. There are several places where your water heater may begin to leak, all perfectly repairable. This includes:
- Water heater connections
- Pipes around the equipment
- Cold water and pressure relief valves
However, a leaking water heater tank is a major problem that can’t be repaired. This is because the tank itself can’t be replaced or mended. If you notice water leaking from your water heater’s tank, turn the equipment and the cold water valve off immediately and call a plumber. Otherwise, the tank could burst at any moment and cause significant damage.
Signs of Corrosion
Over time, wear and tear on the inside and outside of your water heater’s tank can cause corrosion, which eats through the metal and causes micro leaks (and eventually larger ones). If you see rust on the outside of the tank, it indicates deeper corrosion that has damaged the tank beyond repair. Similarly, you may notice brownish water from the tap only when you use hot water. This is caused by corrosion inside the tank that you may not be able to see, and it means that water heater replacement should be your top priority.
You Need Frequent Repairs
Sometimes an appliance that needs constant maintenance and repairs to keep running just isn’t worth the time, effort and money you’re pouring into it. Water heaters that are nearing the end of their life tend to require frequent and often expensive repairs, and it may be more cost-effective to replace the water heater altogether instead of repairing it. This way, you won’t have to worry about — or pay for — your water heater’s performance for years.
The Warranty is Expired
Depending on the manufacturer, your water heater could have a limited warranty of 5-10 years. The warranty comes in handy if an expensive part needs to be replaced prematurely, covering the cost of the part. However, an expired warranty means you’ll be footing the bill for any failing parts. It may be better at this point to get a new water heater with a new warranty.
If you’re still torn between water heater repair and replacement, call on Norman Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for a second opinion. Contact us today for more information or to begin your service request.
