When Should You Get Water Heater Replacement?
Save Money and Replace the Water Heater at the Right Time
Replacing a water heater is usually an expensive proposition. Not only does a water heater cost hundreds of dollars, but the labor for the project generally doubles the cost. Faced with paying the high cost for fast water heater replacement, homeowners must understand the perfect timing involved in water heater installation. Replacing the water heater too early wastes money by not maximizing the value of the current water heater. On the other hand, keeping a failing water heater working leads to higher repair costs and higher bills.
Here are three signs that water heater replacement is imminent. This information can help homeowners plan the perfect time for replacement and maximize their savings.
Signs of Corrosion
Corrosion is one of the chief problems in a water heater. Corrosion occurs when the metal in a water heater becomes damaged by oxidation from constant contact with water. The signs of corrosion often include:
- Discolored Water: Corrosion inside the water tank can leach into the water, causing it to be discolored.
- Unpalatable Water: When corrosion is visible, it often leads to poor-tasting water or foul smells.
- Green or Red Deposits: Green deposits will form on corroded copper lines, while red deposits indicate rust on iron-based materials. These are the most obvious visible signs of corrosion outside the water tank.
- Odd Noises: Corrosion in the tank can cause water to boil near the heating elements, causing an audible thumping noise that requires attention quickly.
The best way to avoid corrosion is to observe water heater maintenance. However, once corrosion has started attacking the water heater, it can’t be reversed. Water heater replacement is the only long-term option.
Inadequate Hot Water Volume
Water heaters lose efficiency over time. This will not only affect monthly utility bills but is most noticeable in the shower. When a tank is new and running at peak efficiency, it can supply larger volumes of hot water. As the tank ages, it will have to work harder to supply a smaller volume of hot water. This means showers will run cold, and people must wait longer between hot water usages for the tank to recover.
Conversely, a new tank will likely be more efficient than the current tank, saving money on monthly bills. It will also have a quicker recovery period, meaning less waiting for the water to heat up if it gets depleted.
Old Age and Expensive Repairs
Wear and tear is something that owners should count on, and the water heater is not exempt from this. As a water heater ages, a tank or a tankless water heater will experience more problems. This will lead to more frequent repairs that will continue to mount until the owner decides to replace the system. Water tanks generally last about ten years, while tankless water heaters can last as long as 20 years. If the water heater is nearing this age range and needs repairs, water heater replacement is a better investment.
About Discount Mechanical Heating & Plumbing
Discount Mechanical Heating & Plumbing helps owners stretch their maintenance and repair budgets. This family business offers flat-rate pricing for most jobs to remove the stress and potential surprise of a repair bill. Call today for outstanding plumbing service in Anchorage, AK.