The day has arrived. Your old water heater is done, unsalvageable, and ready for retirement. It’s toast. Now you need to get a new one! But how can you tell for sure? Would it be possible to just have the old one repaired? Here are the sure signs that your water heater has reached the end of its life and must be replaced, plus some pointers for your new water heater install in Plainfield, IL.
Signs of a Water Heater That Needs Replacement
- Puddles: While an occasional dripping from the pressure release valve is perfectly normal, leaks from any other part of the system are bad news, and significant puddles are also a major concern. Once the water heater loses structural integrity, it’s only a matter of time before it springs a huge, sudden leak. Get it replaced before this happens.
- Rust: Minor rust on exterior components might leave the option of simply replacing those components. But when corrosion sets in on the main body of the water heater—or inside, leaving you with rust-stained water—there’s no saving it.
- Inefficiency: Regular water heater maintenance is important, and it can keep the system at the same efficiency level for several years. However, if you’ve been diligent about maintenance and still have unexpectedly high energy bills that you suspect your water heater is responsible for, it’s time for replacement.
- Poor Performance: A drop in water temperature could be explained by one of the heating elements failing. If the system’s not that old, repair is a good option. But you should consider replacement if you’ve got inconsistent or unsatisfactory temperatures despite maintenance and repair, or if the repairs would be costly and the system is over eight years old.
Tips for a Water Heater Replacement
- Tank and Tankless: Both of these types of water heaters can be excellent choices. It depends on your needs and your budget. If you need a lot of hot water all at once, or if you need a lower initial investment, go with a tank heater. If you need a smaller but never-ending supply of hot water and are able to pay more upfront for a system that costs less each month to operate, choose tankless.
- Professional Installation: One of the biggest contributing factors to water heaters needing many repairs over their lifetime is amateur or DIY installation. The pros know how to set your water heater up for success with perfect stability and secure, tight connections. This is a significant investment that shouldn’t be wasted by shoddy installation.
- Prepare the Area: Your water heater installation will go more quickly and smoothly if you ensure there’s space to easily move the old unit out and the new unit in, through your house, and from the door to the driveway. Also, make sure there’s room for the installers to work in the area where the water heater is located.
We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have about a new water heater installation.
Call J&A today, Sleep-tight tonight!