When to Replace Water Heater | Repair vs. Replace

When Should I Replace My Water Heater?

When to Replace Water Heater

If you have an old or faulty hot water heater, it could result in expensive water damage. These situations can cost a homeowner thousands in repairs. But how do you know when to replace water heater? 

Here are some signs that may indicate you’re ready for a replacement:

Old Age

As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to replace your water after 10 years of use. However, some hot water heaters can last more than 20 years. But if you have a 30 year old water heater, it may be time for a replacement. The models today are very energy-efficient, which could save you tons on your utility bills. Experts recommend keeping a close eye on your system and watching out for any red flags.

Higher Utility Bills

If you notice unusually costly utility bills, this is a red flag. This could very well indicate your water heater is nearing the end of its life. However, it could also mean your system has a leak or broken component. Fixing these could solve the problem. Keep an eye on your utility bills and call an expert if they seem a bit too high.

Leaks

If your water heater experiences any type of leak, you should replace the entire system right away. When leaks happen, they’re usually caused by a buildup of pressure inside the tank. This can occur when the water temperature or pressure is too extreme. Leaks can also happen if the system’s relief valve is malfunctioning. Unfortunately, neglecting this problem could result in a life-threatening tank explosion.

Here are some signs that indicate you may have a leak:

• Moisture around the base of the unit
• Puddling near the base
• Water corrosion on side of tank



If you notice any of these issues, call a professional right away for assistance.

Knocking Sounds

Is your water heater making strange noises? While loud sounds could indicate sediment buildup, it’s important to listen for these noises. When this sediment becomes hard, it can travel throughout your tank, usually causing knocking, banging, or other weird sounds. This could be a sign that your tank is starting to deteriorate. To keep your system working correctly without any strange sounds, try flushing it regularly. This should break up any deposits and eliminate the weird noises. However, if the problem continues or the issue is too severe, replacing your water heater might be the best option.

Cloudy, Rusty, or Cold Water

If you ever notice different colors in your water, this usually means your water heater isn’t working as it should. If you see rust-colored water or notice your water has a metallic smell, this could indicate a few different things, including:

• You need to replace the sacrificial anode rod
• The tank itself is starting to rust



If you notice any rust, this is usually caused by corrosion in the steel lining. Unfortunately, for homeowners experiencing this problem, they should replace their unit right away.

Have cloudy water? This could indicate a sediment buildup in the tank. Noticing cold water that never gets warm? This could mean a heating element is malfunctioning.

When to repair or when to replace hot water heater

Now that you know when to replace a water heater, there are some instances where a repair is the better option. Hot water heaters have a few key components that can be replaced if they're damaged or broken.

Replaceable water heater parts include:

• Motors
• Thermocouples
• Burner assembly
• Heating elements
• Valves
• Thermostats
• Igniters

If you only need to replace one of these parts, you’re in luck! However, there are times when a replacement is encouraged.
Consider buying a new hot water heater if:

• The system hasn’t been maintained properly
• The water heater is over ten years old
• There are system issues or other signs of wear (listed above)

If you’ve only had your water heater for a few years, a repair job could be a great solution. A water heater repair is also the smart move if you have a fixable broken part.

Importance of Routine Maintenance

If you want to make sure your water heater lasts as long as possible, regular maintenance is essential. However, unlike other home maintenance tasks, water heater maintenance can be a little more challenging. But unless you want to deal with several repairs or a new system replacement, following a maintenance schedule is highly encouraged.

To ensure your system stays working great, you should drain, flush, and clean it at least once annually. For homeowners in areas with hard water, these maintenance tasks may be needed every six months.

Rather than worrying about when to replace water heater, you could go for the tankless alternative. Not only do these systems usually last far longer than the standard version, but they also require less maintenance.

Not sure when to replace water heater? If so, you’re not alone. Be sure to read this blog before making a purchase decision.