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When Should I Replace My Water Heater?

One of the questions we are frequently asked is “When is the best time to replace my Water Heater ?”.  And the simple answer is “It depends”.

You see, try as we might, we can’t predict the exact day your water heater may fail. But we can help you make an education decision based on a few important considerations.

Read on as we dive into the world of water heaters so that you can make the best decision for your needs and budget.

What is the Lifespan of a Water Heater?

Tank-style water heaters typically last anywhere from 8 to 12 years, while tankless systems last even longer. If your heater is at or past the 8 year mark, it may be time to start thinking about and budgeting for a replacement. There are a few factors that determine the lifespan of a water heater:

• Type of water heater
• Quality of the unit
• Regular maintenance

What Causes a Water Heater to Stop Working?

Age is not the only factor that determines how well a heater performs and whether or not it needs to be replaced.  In fact, an 8 year old water heater that is properly maintained will often outperform and out-live an 8 year old neglected unit. Here are some things that can cause a hot water heater to stop working:

• Sediment build-up
• Rust and corrosion
• Loose fittings
• Too high pressure

Tank-style water heaters come equipped with magnesium-style anode rods, which are intended to prevent rust and corrosion. However, once the anode corrodes, it can no longer protect the inside of the tank. Over time, rust will begin to corrode various metallic components within the unit, causing the unit to begin to leak.

Should I Replace My Water Heater Before it Goes Bad?

As we mentioned above, it depends. If you enjoy having a dependable supply  of hot water, you may want to replace your heater before it fails. Otherwise, you could be looking at several days with no hot water while you wait for a new water heater to be installed.

Replacing an older  heater before it becomes an emergency will ultimately save you money, time, and aggravation in the long run. It can also prevent serious damage to your home; a burst hot water heater could flood your home with 50 gallons or more of water.  into your home or garage. Plus, making a quick decision under pressure can leave you with regrets.

Benefits of a New Hot Water Heater

While water heaters are not the most complicated appliances, newer systems are made to be more energy-efficient than ever, which can save you a nice chunk of change on your utility bills. They also have a longer lifespan and better warranties so you can rest assured your home will have the steady supply of hot water it needs for years to come.

After living with a large, bulky tank-style heater, perhaps you’d like to consider a tankless model.  Here’s why more and more homeowners are choosing tankless:

• Energy-efficiency – Instead of continuously heating and reheating water in a tank, they heat water only when it’s needed.
• Space-saving – No need to make room for a large, bulky tank. A tankless unit is small enough to fit in a closet, freeing up valuable space.
• Endless hot water – Ever run out of hot water because 3 people showered before you? You can kiss that worry goodbye! A tankless unit supplies virtually endless hot water.

Is your water heater not performing as it used to? Is it experiencing more repair issues as the years go by? Messmer Mechanical is here to help you determine if repairing or replacing your heater makes the most sense for you. We service, repair, and install all makes and models of water heaters, including tankless, so you never have to go without hot water. Contact us today for more information.