When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?

Many people don’t think about their water heater when everything is running smoothly. However, once the water heater starts acting up, it may seem like the issues are never-ending. While a good plumber can fix some water heater issues by replacing a component or through other regular maintenance, sometimes it is less costly to replace the water heater. Here are the most commons signs that your water heater is beyond repair:

It’s old

The age of the unit often dictates its performance. Although most water heaters can last well over ten years, a 20-year-old unit is likely due for replacement. Even if it is seemingly working well, people usually will not get more than 20 years from their residential water heater. Consider looking into your options early when the appliance is old, so you’re not surprised with an emergency replacement. In the case of your home’s water supply, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. 

No hot water

If the volume of hot water is not up to its standard performance or temperature, you may have a failing water heater on hand. Another issue could be the size of the unit. Sometimes if the hot water is running out too early, so you may need to upgrade your system to get more hot water supply to your home. Lukewarm showers may not be reason enough to replace a unit, but it could indicate a problem worth investigating. 

Increased water bills

When a water heater malfunctions, it takes up more energy. Has your heating bill increased in recent months? Is it not due to seasonality or increased usage at home? If so, the water heater might be working extra hard to heat your water. Unfortunately, this often happens when the water heater is old or deteriorated and almost always requires a replacement. 

Significant corrosion 

Corrosion is a gradual process of the metal degrading as a chemical reaction to its environment. Rust is an example of corrosion, as it is a mix of water and oxygen that slowly destroys your water heater. Fortunately, water heaters resist significant corrosion via a plumbing component called the sacrificial anode rod. Well, that anode rod also corrodes, and if you don’t replace it in good time, the effects of corrosion can be severe on your appliance. If you see corrosion on your water heater, get in touch with a water heater specialist to save or replace the unit.

Repairs are getting to be too much

Keep track of recent repairs on your water heater as a good rule of thumb. If the number of repairs exceeds two times in a year, you need to consider a replacement. Not only will it cost more in the long run by continuously repairing a depleted unit, but it can also result in future damage to your home’s piping. So take the plunge and install a new water heater.

Choose the best replacement

Today, water heaters come with many versatile options depending on your home’s needs. Tankless, solar, gas, or electric water heaters all have their unique pros and cons and can be a complex topic to navigate. But, all in all, if you need to replace your current water heater, you don’t need to get the same old unit your neighbors have. Instead, you can find something that will fit your lifestyle and hopefully help you save in the most critical areas.

Frontier Plumbing of Las Vegas is a full-service commercial and residential plumbing company offering a full spectrum of plumbing services. We are determined to exceed your expectations! Call 702-602-6705 today!