5 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Water Heater

Have you started noticing some problems with your hot water? Is it running out faster than usual or not getting up to temperature? These and other issues could be a sign that your hot water heater is not working as it should. So, how will you know if you can repair the unit or if you should invest in a new one?

When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?

Here are five signs it’s time to replace your water heater.

1. You have repaired your water heater more than once during the year.

Many homeowners prefer the smaller upfront cost of making a repair rather than replacing an entire system. Sometimes, a repair is all that’s necessary. However, if the issue goes deeper than a simple repair, it is far more cost-effective to bite the bullet and replace everything. This is partially why it is so important to talk to a professional. They can tell you if the issue is surface-level or long-term.

2. Water is leaking and pooling around the unit.

Extensive leaking and pooling indicates your water heater is past its lifespan and needs to be replaced.

3. You are seeing water that is “bad.”

“Bad water” can refer to hard water, dirty water, or discolored water. If your faucets produce rust-colored water, chances are high that the heater itself is rusty. Whether you put your tap water in or on your body, it needs to be pure.

4. Your water is not up to temperature.

This issue seems like it would be the best indicator that you need a new water heater, but many homeowners dismiss cool or lukewarm water as “one of those things.” Remember, your water heater has one job – to heat water! If the heater isn’t doing its job, it needs to be inspected for either repair or replacement.

5. You own an old or outdated system.

Like every appliance and system, water heaters will eventually wear out. If you have noticed a lot of issues with your water heater and it’s over ten years old, you might want to consider replacing it rather than repairing.

Replacement vs. Repair

How do you know when it’s only a repair issue? Look closely at the following factors.

1. Age

As already mentioned, lifespan plays a huge role in whether you should repair or replace. The average lifespan of a water heater is about 10 years. If the heater is older than that and causing problems, it might need to be replaced soon anyway.

2. Expense

Does the cost of the repair justify the lack of replacement? If it costs the same amount of money (or less) to bring a new heater in, always choose replacement.

3. Overall Performance

If your heater is downright unreliable and constantly needs to be fixed, it might be smarter to just replace it.

Your family’s comfort is our priority. Contact Rheem Pro Partners today for all of your heating and air conditioning repairs and emergencies. We serve homeowners in Colorado and Wyoming and want to see your needs met with the skill, experience, and care of licensed professionals.