Is It Worth It to Repair A Hot Water Heater?
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as a long hot shower or soaking in a bath after a long day. Water heaters are one of those appliances we depend on for our day to day activities but hardly think about. It is not surprising that when your water heater breaks down it can mean total chaos to your daily routine. No hot water means freezing showers, having to wash dishes by hand and not being able to clean your clothes effectively. If your water heater has begun acting up, you may be wondering ‘should I replace my water heater before it fails. Below, we take a look at how you can avoid not having hot water and whether or not it is time to replace your water heater.
The Cost of Water Heater Replacement
Before you jump into purchasing a new hot water heater, you should ask yourself whether to repair or replace a hot water heater. Before you opt to replace the water heater, you should ensure that it is dead. If your water heater is gas powered, turn it off, check the pilot light and relight it if it is off. Wait for about 20 minutes and see if the heater starts to heat again. If your unit is electric, try resetting it. Ensure the circuit breaker switch is turned on and push the reset button. Check to see if the water heater starts to heat water once again. The best way to ascertain that your hot water heater is dead is by having it inspected by a professional plumber.
The cost of water heater replacement will depend on various factors including the size of the water heater, the brand, the type of water heater and the amount of labor involved in replacing the water heater. The average cost of replacing a 50 gallon gas-powered water heater for example is about $1200. Upgrading to a tankless water heater could cost you up to $10,000.
How long do water heaters last?
When considering whether to invest in a hot water fix or replacement, it is also important to consider how old your current water is. The average water heater lasts for between 8 and 12. There are some that can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be best to have it replaced.
Signs that Your Water Heater is Beyond Repair
Below are some signs that it may be time to invest in water heater replacement:
- Leaking water tank
- Your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan
- Your hot water runs out too fast
- Water coming from your tank is discolored
- The water pressure is low
Is Replacing a Water Heater Before it Fails a Good Idea?
The best way to determine whether you should replace your water heater and how to replace a hot water heater is by consulting with a professional plumber. If you are asking “can a hot water heater be repaired?” Your plumber will tell you if the water heater can be repaired or not. As a general rule of thumb, it would be best to replace a unit that is 10 years old or more.
Discuss your needs and options with a professional plumber. Your plumber will let you know which option will be cost effective.
Call SnoFalls Plumbing for all Your Plumbing Needs
Whether you’re thinking of having your water heater repaired or replaced, you can rely on the team at SnoFalls Plumbing for the best services. We’re a hot water heater repair North Bend service dedicated to providing high quality services. We’ll help you find a cost-effective solution to your water heater problems.
