Water Heater Repair vs. Replacement: How to Make the Right Choice

Your water heater is one of the most hardworking appliances in your home; hence, it is one of the most prone to breakdowns, too. In fact, it works hard enough to account for 18% of the total energy consumption in your household. Unfortunately, your unit often only gets attention once it starts giving you the cold treatment.

When malfunctions start plaguing your morning showers, you’re left with no choice but to call for an expert water heater repair and replacement service. Sometimes it feels like your water heater is on its last leg, but other times, a simple fix can bring it back to life. So, how do you know when to go for a repair and when it’s time to bite the bullet and replace it? Here’s an explainer from Rockwater Plumbing.

When to Repair Your Water Heater

Not every issue with your water heater requires a full replacement. Some problems are small enough that a repair will do just fine. Let’s look at some common signs that you can probably stick with a repair:

• Faulty Thermostat

Ever hop into the shower, expecting hot water, and get blasted with the cold? Or maybe your water keeps switching between hot and freezing? That might be a faulty thermostat. This issue is pretty common and can usually be fixed with a quick adjustment or replacement. No need to replace your entire heater for this!

• Water Pressure Problems

There are a lot of potential suspects for the low water pressure problem in the shower. It can be an issue with your main water line, but it could also be exclusive to your water heater. Fortunately, a water heater pressure problem is not major. Most of the time, it’s the sediment that has built up in your shower head that restricts the water flow. A simple flush might solve the issue. You can call a plumber to book regular flushing and descaling services. Once your tank and connections are cleaned, your normal shower flow should be back to normal.

• Pilot Light or Ignition Issues

For those with a gas water heater, the pilot light or ignition system can be tricky. While there are several reasons why your pilot light keeps shutting, this problem isn’t that alarming. Often, it might just need cleaning or a new thermocouple. A professional plumber can often fix them with minimal fuss. So, don’t panic just yet! Sometimes, your water heater can live to fight another day with just a little TLC.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

But what if your water heater isn’t so lucky? There are signs that it’s time to let go and invest in a new unit. If your water heater is showing any of the following signs, it might be time to start shopping for a replacement.

• Age of the Heater

Here’s a hard truth: water heaters don’t last forever. On average, a water heater lasts around 10 to 15 years. If your water heater is older than that, it’s living on borrowed time. Even if it’s still heating your water, it’s probably not as efficient as it once was. You might keep paying for repairs that add up to more than a new unit would cost.

• Leaking Water Tank

Got a pool of water around your water heater? That’s a big red flag. Water heaters aren’t supposed to leak, and when the tank starts leaking, it’s usually time to say goodbye. You might think a leak could be patched, but a compromised tank can’t be repaired. If the tank is leaking, the only real solution is replacement. Leaking tanks are better replaced as they can be a safety risk.

• Frequent Repairs

If you’re constantly calling a plumber for repairs, it might not be worth it anymore. Repeated issues, like temperature problems, leaks, or noises, usually mean the heater’s getting worn out. At a certain point, the cost of repairs adds up, and a replacement would be more cost-effective. The more frequently you have to fix it, the less it makes sense to keep it around.

• Rising Energy Bills

If your energy bills are creeping up for no obvious reason, your old water heater might be the culprit. Older water heaters aren’t as energy-efficient as newer models. This means you could be wasting a lot of energy (and money). A new, energy-efficient water heater could save you big time on your bills.

Unsure What Solution is Fit For You? Get Expert Recommendations and Service from Rockwater Plumbing

So, repair or replace? It depends on your water heater’s age, condition, and the problem at hand. If you’re not sure what the best move is, don’t worry! Our team at Rockwater Plumbing is here to help. We’ll inspect your water heater, discuss your options, and recommend the best solution for your home. Whether it’s a repair or replacement, we’ve got the skills to get your hot water flowing again.

Reach out today and let us help you make the right choice for your home. No more cold showers—just warm, relaxing comfort all year long!