Repair or Replace? What Option Is Best For My Water Heater?

Imagine this, you just got home from a long day at work, you’ve made dinner, done the dishes, and put the kids to bed. You finally hop into the shower and you’re met with ice-cold water. That’s an “Oh No!” moment!

We tend to forget that our water heaters work hard behind the scenes every day, and like any appliance, it won’t last forever. But how do you know if it just needs a little TLC… or if it’s time to replace it altogether?

Here’s your guide to spotting the signs.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

If you notice any of these, a repair might just be enough to get get you back to hot showers and peace of mind:

1. Lukewarm Water – If the water isn’t getting quite hot enough, it is possible a simple thermostat or heating element could be failing.
2. Strange Noises – Those random popping, banging, or rumbling sounds usually means sediment has built up inside the tank and it might just need to be flushed or cleaned.
3. Rusty Water – Yellowish or discolored water is usually a sign of rust inside the tank or corroded pipes. This sign can be alarming, but it is usually harmless.
4. Small Leaks – Drips around the unit don’t always mean replacement; sometimes it’s just a loose connection or valve issue.

Oh No Pro Tip: Annual maintenance, like flushing your water heater, can prevent many of these problems and extend its lifespan. Give us a call at 602-559-9055 if your water heater is due for a flush.

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

On average, most water heaters can last 8 - 12 years if they are taken care of properly with regular flushes and maintenance. Tankless models can and often do last longer. If yours is over a decade old and showing obvious signs of trouble, it may be smart to have a replacement installed.

Signs It’s Time for a Replacement

If you’re noticing any of the following, replacement might be the most cost-effective choice:

• Frequent Repairs – If you’ve had more than 3 service calls in a year,it might be time to consider a replacement.
• Major Leaks – If your unit is leaking from the actual tank itself, that typically cannot be fixed and it should be replaced.
• Inconsistent Hot Waterr – Your showers should not be shifting from hot to cold unpredictably. If it is, your system could be failing and it is time to replace it.
• High Energy Bills – It’s no secret that an older unit will have to work harder to keep your water temperature under control. That means more frustrating moments for you and more money out of your pocket.

Why Fall Is a Great Time for Water Heater Service

Keep in mind, the holiday season typically means more guests and your water heater will work harder than ever. Getting ahead of potential problems now means no icy surprises when your family and guests hop into the shower.

Call the Pros Before It Becomes an “Oh No!” Situation

If your water heater is acting up, don’t wait until you have an “Oh No!” moment. Our team at Oh No Plumbing & Air Conditioning will help you figure out if a quick repair will do the trick—or if replacement will save you money and stress in the long run.