Why You Should Replace Or Repair An Old Water Heater

Do you have a broken water heater? It can be hard to decide whether to get it repaired or just replace it and move on.

However, we will make this an easy decision for you. Just ask yourself the following 3 questions and once you have your answers, you will know exactly what you should do.

How serious is the problem?

Is the tank on your water heater leaking and corroded? That is something you really can’t salvage. So your only option in that situation will be to replace it. However, you can repair a pressure-relief valve or leaky drain valve.

For the different problems that can potentially be repaired, it is recommended by consmerreports.org that you get a repair estimate first. Then you can weigh that versus the expense of having to buy a new water heater.

The cost of a new water heater will depend on:

• The cost of the water heater itself
• The plumber’s installation rates

Here are a few general estimates:

The average cost for replacing a hot water heater: $650-$750.

The average cost for installing a tankless hot water heater: $850-$1050

Note: Installing a tankless water heater might cost more than what is mentioned here since extra plumbing might need to be done if you haven’t had a tankless water heater before.

If repairs are costing you close to half or more than what it would cost to buy a new water heater, then you should consider replacing your old one and buying a new water heater. The older that a water heater is the less you should tolerate the cost of having to repair it.

How old is your water heater?

The following are the average lifespans for water heaters:

• Tankless water heater: 20 years or longer
• Storage water heater: 10-15 years

If you have never had any yearly water heater maintenance done, then the lifespan of your water heater is going to be a lot lower compared to the averages, so just remember that.

If your old water heater is almost at the end of its average life and isn’t covered under warranty any longer, then it is a good idea to invest in a new water heater. Even when your repair costs are not high.

Why is that?

Because there is a good chance that next year you will have to repair it. And you will really be kicking yourself for spending money on a water heater that was about to die.

How often do I complain about my hot water?

Are you complaining a lot about not having enough hot water? Are your water heating bills high? Do you have low water pressure?

If so when combined with the factors of old age and expensive repairs, it is time for your water heater to be replaced.

Tankless vs. Storage Water Heaters

If you make the decision to replace your old water heater, you will want to consider whether to get a tankless (on demand) or storage water heater.