When To Repair a Water Heater vs. When To Replace One

There is nothing quite as alarming as hearing running water when no faucet is on. If your hot water heater springs a leak, or if it’s simply not getting hot anymore, you’ll need to decide whether you want to hire someone to do water heater repair or to replace the entire tank. The right choice depends on several factors.

The Age of the Unit

How old is your water heater? If you haven’t had it for very long, consider whether it is still under warranty. If it is, the manufacturer should pay for the repairs, which means more money in your pocket. Keep the average lifespan of a water heater in mind, though. Gas water heaters usually last about 10 years while tankless ones typically last 20 or more. If yours is nearing or past its lifespan, it’s a good idea to replace it regardless of whether repairing would work.

The Cost of the Repair Job

If your water heater isn’t under warranty anymore but still has some years left in its lifespan, then you’ll need to consider the cost of the repair. If the repairs will cost less than 50% of the cost of a new water heater, then it is a good idea to have it repaired instead of replacing it. Of course, the frequency of the repairs matter as well. If you’re repairing your water heater every year, then it’s time to replace it. The new water heater will pay for itself in a matter of a year or two of no repairs.

The Efficiency of the Water Heater

Older hot water heaters were not created with efficiency in mind and you’ll likely find that you need to turn the hot water knob higher and higher to get the temperature that you want. If this is commonplace in your home, then it’s time to swap your old water heater out for a new, energy-efficient model.

Don’t find yourself standing in a cold shower. Get the hot water heater that your home needs and the hot shower that you deserve. Talk to the team at Second Opinion Plumbing to see how we can help.