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Water heaters have a lifespan of eight to ten years. An old, rusted water heater is nearing the end of its useful life and will start to show signs of wear and tear. At times it’s not clear whether to replace or repair a water heater.
The cost of a new unit may be prohibitive, but the repair costs may be expensive as well. Here are a few things to consider when making the decision.
Current Condition
If dealing with too many issues, such as pressure relief valve failure, or a tank that’s starting to rust, it may be time for a replacement. The water heater is no longer functioning properly and may pose a risk to your home.
The cost of repairs may be high, and it may not be worth fixing an old unit. Consult water heater services in Santa Ana, CA, or your local area to get an estimate of the replacement costs. You’ll also acquire expert advice on ideal choices for your home.
Age of the Water Heater
The average lifespan of a water heater is eight to ten years. If your unit is approaching this age, it may be time to start shopping for a replacement. Even if it’s still in good condition, the warranty may have expired.
Without a warranty, you’ll have to pay for all repairs and replacements. Major repairs can significantly dent your budget, so replacing the unit before it breaks down completely may be wiser.
Increasing Utility Bills
As water heaters age, they become less efficient. They use more energy to heat the water, resulting in higher utility bills.
If you’ve noticed a sudden jump in your water heating costs, it’s probably because the unit is no longer operating at peak efficiency. Replacing it with a newer, more efficient model will save you money on utility bills.
It No Longer Meets Your Household Demands
If you’ve added new members to your household or started using more hot water, the old water heater may no longer meet your demands.
It’s best to replace it with a unit that can keep up with your household’s hot water needs. A medium tank (80 gallons) is ideal for a family of four people.
Extensive Leaks
Leaks are one of the most common problems with water heaters. Minor leaks are usually easy to repair, but extensive leaks mean that the unit is no longer functioning properly. Even after repair, chances are the heater will leak again.
In such cases, replacement is the best option.
Little or No Hot Water Supply
When the hot water supply starts running out too quickly, the unit isn’t heating the water properly. The problem can be a dirty burner assembly, or the pilot light is out. In some cases, the problem may be with the gas supply.
These are easy to fix issues, but it may be time for a replacement if they keep happening. Let an expert inspect the system to determine the cause of the problem. If they recommend a replacement, it’s probably best to follow their advice.
The Unit is No Longer Compatible With Your Home
Some water heaters use outdated technology that’s no longer compatible with your home. If you have an electric water heater, for example, and want to switch to a gas-powered unit, you’ll have to replace the old one.
If you’re switching from a tanked water heater to a tankless unit, the same is true. These changes usually require modifications to your home’s plumbing. It’s best to consult a professional before making the switch.
Making The Decision To Replace
Although replacing a water heater is costly, it’s usually cheaper than repairing an old unit. In some cases, you may even get a rebate from your utility company for switching to a more energy-efficient model.
An expert will inspect the unit and give you an accurate estimate of the replacement costs. They will also help you choose the right system for your home.
