Repair or Replace? What To Do About Your Water Heater
If your water heater is leaking or not heating up, you may be able to repair it rather than replace it. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your water heater, and some repairs, such as replacing a pressure-relief valve or heating element, are pretty simple. However, if your water heater leaks, if your water heater is older than 8-12 years, or you wish to upgrade and cut your energy expense, it is time for a new heater. Follow our tips to troubleshoot your gas or electric water heater issues and learn how long a water heater should last.
Based on the manufacturer’s suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule, and water quality.
If your water heater is more than ten years old, leaks around the base of the tank, or works erratically or not at all, it’s probably time for a replacement. However, before you begin the replacement process, make sure that an electrical problem, such as a blown fuse or tripped breaker, is not the reason for the unit’s failure.
Troubleshooting Common Issues With Your Water Heater
Perhaps the most common problem connected with a water heater is water that isn’t as hot as you want it to be. This fluctuation in temperature is usually caused by a faulty thermostat or a defective heating element. Check the following when your water is not hot enough:
Electric Water Heater
- Make sure that the power is connected. Reset the thermostat.
- Flush the heater to remove sediment from the tank.
- Insulate the hot water pipes.
- Replace the heating element or thermostat.
- Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat.
- Gas water heater
- Make sure that the gas is connected and the pilot light is lit.
- Flush the heater to remove sediment from the tank.
- Insulate the hot water pipes.
- Clean the gas burner and replace the thermocoupler (a safety device that shuts off the gas automatically if the pilot flame goes out).
- Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat.
Other Common Water Heater Problems and Possible Solutions
Hissing or sizzling noises: Sediment may have collected in the tank. Drain the tank until the water clears. Remove and soak elements in a pan filled with white vinegar for up to an hour and scrape off the collected scale.
Leaking pressure-relief valve: Replace valve.
Water Heater Maintenance
Today’s water heaters are manufactured to require little or no maintenance, but these maintenance tips could prolong the life of your water heater:
- Drain the water heater twice a year to rid it of collected sediment that causes corrosion. This drainage also increases efficiency.
- Test the pressure-relief valve by lifting the valve’s handle and letting it snap back. This action should release a burst of water into the overflow drainpipe. If it doesn’t, install a new valve.
- Lower the temperature setting on the thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This action reduces damage to the tank caused by overheating.
When Water Heater Replacement is Necessary
If you’re replacing a water heater, you can replace it with the same type of unit. However, upgrade possibilities should be considered. For example, you may choose to increase or decrease the unit’s holding capacity to accommodate a changing family. Or, you may opt to go tankless. When looking for a water heater, consider these features:
- Gallon capacity (40-gallon and 50-gallon heaters are the most common)
- Recovery rate (the number of gallons the heater will heat in an hour)
- Dimensions (width and height — physical space may limit your ability to upgrade your unit’s capacity; will the heater fit in the area you have for it?)
- Energy efficiency ratings (a sticker on the side should list the estimated annual cost of operation for the unit)
Before making repairs or purchasing a new water heater, check the nameplate on the side of your current unit. Here you will find helpful information, including the tank capacity, insulation R-value, installation guidelines, working pressure, model, and serial number. If you have an electric water heater, the nameplate will also list the wattage capacity and voltage of the heating elements.
Answer these questions to determine whether you want to tackle the water heater installation:
- How will you dispose of your old water heater? Check local codes governing the disposal of such appliances.
- Will you be able to handle the unit physically? Water heaters are bulky and heavy. You will need assistance.
- Do you have the tools necessary to do the job? Water heater installation requires adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, a hacksaw, and pliers. You may also need a propane torch if your installation uses copper pipe.
- Do you have time to do the job? Once you start replacing a water heater, you have to finish.
Water Heater Service by John’s Plumbing
Numerous factors determine whether a water heater needs to be replaced. Most water heaters have a lifespan of 8-12 years, depending on a variety of conditions, including water quality, type of water heater (gas or electric), maintenance routines, and overall usage. Sometimes you cannot repair the water heater, and it is best to replace the old water heater with the installation of a new water heater. Two types of water heaters are to be considered when replacing your water heater. A traditional tank unit or a high-efficiency tankless model.
Our team of water heater experts can assess each unique individual’s hot water situation and often replace your water heater the same day! Because water heaters account for the most significant use of energy in your home next to heating and cooling, we understand the importance of helping our customers choose a solution that is both energy-efficient and affordable.
When it comes time to replace or repair your water heater, it is essential to be proactive and have a trusted and professionally licensed plumber selected to perform the new water heater installation. John’s Plumbing & Pumps can handle your water heater servicing needs.