3 Water Heater Repair & Replacement Options And When Each Is Appropriate

If you are having problems with your water heater, you have a few water heater repair & replacement options to consider. You may be able to repair the existing unit, but beyond that, replacement options include replacing the existing tanked heater or having a tankless water heating system installed. Before you make a decision, take a closer look at the options available so you can make the most informed decision.

1. Repair Existing Units

If your water heater is less than 10 years old, replacing worn or faulty components may be the most sensible option. Things like heating elements and water valves are relatively inexpensive and can be done in a few hours or less. The critical point is the age of the water heater because after around 10 years failures will become more common and the tank itself is subject to deterioration or the accumulation of water-borne debris.

2. Water Heater Replacement

If your water heater tank is leaking or the unit is more than 10 years old, making repairs may be throwing good money away. A leaking tank cannot be repaired in a dependable manner, and older tanks are far more likely to suffer leaks related to internal rust or corrosion. Since the tank is inside insulation covered by an internal shell, the symptoms of a leaky tank may be nothing more than a puddle of water under or near the water heater.

3. Tankless Water Heaters

If you are replacing your water heater, going tankless is worth considering. Tankless water heaters have a longer use-life, take up less space, and lower utility bills. Tankless systems provide instant hot water for sinks, showers, and appliances using an inline water heating system that is usually located close to the heated area. Under the counter, in the attic, or mounted in a closet are all potential locations for tankless water heaters, and additional heaters can be installed to deliver more hot water on a daily basis.

Tankless systems are also a simple way to increase the amount of available hot water for other reasons. A growing family, recent home renovations, or new hot water demands related to clothes or dish washing machines are among the reasons to have an auxiliary tankless water installed. You can install tankless water heaters in conjunction with existing systems, but replacing the old one with a fully tankless delivery method yields the best results.

If your water heater is leaking, you should have it inspected immediately. Water damage resulting from standing water will quickly become an expensive problem, so prompt repairs will save you a bundle.