A water heater is an integral part of your home and is often overlooked until it stops working. Without a functioning water heater, it becomes challenging to do the simple things like taking a shower or washing dishes. For this reason, homeowners should keep an eye out for any signs that it’s time to consider water heater replacement.
If you notice that you are having to call in a plumber for frequent water heater repair, it may be an indicator that it’s time for a new unit. It’s also possible that the existing unit is too small for your household needs and it would be more cost-effective to buy a larger model.
It’s also a good idea to replace your water heater if it has been damaged in a flood or fire. For example, if the flame arrestor has discolored or been damaged, it’s time for a new water heater. The damage will likely be beyond repair and a new unit will be more cost-effective than attempting costly repairs.
Another important sign that it’s time to consider water heater repair or replacement is if the hot water runs out too quickly. It’s possible that the aging water heater is losing capacity due to sediment build-up. If this is the case, a professional plumber can perform an anode rod service that will help slow down this process. However, if the problem is more significant than that, it may be best to just purchase a new unit.
A leaking water heater should be replaced right away, particularly if the leak is near valuable furnishings or flooring. If the leak is occurring in the basement, it can also cause serious structural issues and even lead to mold.
It’s important to keep in mind that a new tank-type electric or gas water heater will be more energy efficient than an older unit. Depending on the size of your home and family, you can choose from many different sizes of tanks. It’s also a good idea to invest in an Energy Star qualified unit, which will further reduce your utility bills.
If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it’s time to start thinking about replacement. The older units have to work harder than newer ones to provide the same amount of hot water. This results in higher energy bills and can be frustrating to deal with on a daily basis.
Before you decide to replace your water heater, you should turn off the breaker switch in the service panel and disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines. Then, disconnect the water heater’s drain valve and use a pony pump to speed up the process of draining the water tank (see photo above left). Remove any insulation or the access panel, and carefully lift the unit from the floor, being careful not to spill any water. If the floor underneath is not level, it’s a good idea to have some scraps of tile or siding or other waterproof material on hand to serve as shims.