Is it Time to Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?

Water heaters are a large home appliance that account for about 15-20% of your monthly electricity expense.  A typical water heater lasts between 10-15 years, but what are the signals that your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced?

Maintenance Tip

• Keep your water heater thermostat at 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce energy usage and to slow tank corrosion.

• Reduce your hot water usage by installing low flow showerheads and faucet aerators and/or wash more loads of clothes on the cold water setting.

• Insulate your water heater to reduce heat loss with foam or fiberglass insulation of R-16 or higher for gas or oil-fired tanks and R-22 or higher for electric tanks.

• Have a licensed plumber perform a yearly maintenance check to drain sediment from the tank, inspect the unit for rust or corrosion, and to check the heating components are working properly.

When to Repair

A leaky pressure-relief valve or drain can be repaired.  A burned-out heating element is typically fixable as well.  Check your warranty to see if the issue is covered or hire a licensed plumber to assess the problem.  A corroded storage tank needs to be replaced right away.  Also, if your water heater is approaching the 8-10 year mark, it may be time to upgrade to a new unit and preferably a more energy efficient unit.

Replacement Options

Although replacing your current water heater with a standard unit can be less expensive upfront, more energy efficient water heaters can use up to 50% less electricity than standard ones that will save you money on your electric bills long term.  It is important to consider the capacity (how much hot water the unit can deliver in a given period) and what type of unit to buy.  Tankless water heaters, solar water heaters, hybrid electric, and natural gas on-demand are examples of energy efficient water heating systems.  Each has advantages and disadvantages as well as varies in cost.  Check with a licensed plumber about each option and check with your local utility about possible rebates.

Click to view a Consumer Reports Water Heating Buying Guide.

Call the Arizona Plumbing Council at 602-285-5563 to be referred to an expert, licensed Plumber who can help you with your plumbing needs.