Most homeowners in the Western Washington area aren’t concerned about their water heaters until that first chilly shower or you find a giant puddle. Then you’re forced to think fast: should I repair my water heater or replace it?
Replacement is obvious if it’s a traditional storage-tank water heater nearing the end of its eight- to 12-year life. Contemporary models are usually more efficient and modern and can save energy costs over the life of the unit. However, repair may be the way to go if your energy-efficient water heater is only a few years old. Still trying to decide whether to repair or replace? We’ll help you decide.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention
- Strange noises: popping or rumbling noises
- Temperature fluctuations
- Leaking tank
- Rusty or discolored water
- Foul odors
- High energy bills
When To Consider Water Heater Repair
Leading water heater contractors in Auburn, WA, reveal that you can consider a repair if you notice any of the below-mentioned signs.
1. Faulty or Malfunctioning Parts
Your water heater has several control valves, including:
- Drain valve
- Temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve)
- Gas valve | Gas water heaters only
These valves can eventually become loose or worn out. If they leak or stop functioning, it probably requires replacement. Luckily, these are easy fixes for any water heater technician and can help extend the lifespan of your water heater.
2. Faulty Heating Element
As the name suggests, heating elements are responsible for warming the water in an electric tankless water heater. When the heating elements aren’t installed or maintained properly or are exposed to hard water, they will definitely not function properly. If the heating element is filled with sediment, it won’t reach full temperature, and depending on the buildup, it may even begin to disintegrate. A credible technician from a reputed firm like A Advanced Services can easily replace the damaged heating element with a brand-new one.
3. Sediment Buildup
When water evaporates, it leaves the minerals behind in your water heater tank, which accumulate until they become big enough to damage system components or hinder water flow.
Minor sediment buildup happens naturally. To eliminate minor sediment buildup, schedule an annual preventative maintenance service, which includes flushing the water heater to remove the sediment buildup.
When to Consider Water Heater Replacement
Some problems that generally require replacing the water heater and may not see full results from a repair include,
1. Advanced Sediment Buildup
When sediment buildup accumulates for years and years, it will impact the structural integrity and performance of the water heater. It may create higher pressure levels inside the tank and eventually cause components to erode or malfunction. If this goes on for a prolonged period, no amount of repairs will ever retrieve the normal functioning of a water heater.
2. Rusting
Although the inside of a water heater is coated with a material to prevent corrosion, some parts inside and outside of the unit may still corrode and become rusty. Also, remember that corrosion occurs faster than normal when the material constantly touches water.
3. Prolonged Age
Storage tank water heaters have a lifespan of over 10-15 years, and electric tankless water heaters can last for more than 20 years, provided they receive regular maintenance and regular water quality (soft water, not hard water). When our water heater breaks down, it’s only natural to think a repair will fix it for good. However, that’s usually not the case, and it won’t be long before another repair follows.
It’s best to replace your existing water heater with a newer model after a few years (around 7 to 8 years). The reason is that the cost of all the repairs will be equivalent to or near the replacement rate. Obviously, if you repair an older water heater, there is no guarantee that it will continue to function properly without additional problems. At the same time, a new water heater will come with a manufacturer’s warranty.
4. Low Efficiency
When water heaters deteriorate, they won’t retain heat, as well as when they’re seemingly brand new. If your utility bills are higher than anticipated for the season and the energy bill continues to rise without a clear reason, it may be time to replace your water heater.
When replacing an old water heater, consider an efficient tankless heater, a solar water heater, or an ultra-efficiency heat pump water heater.
Final Takeaway
Still, having trouble choosing between water heater repair and replacement? Contact professional water heater experts from A Advanced Services. We offer installation, cleaning, repair, and maintenance services for commercial and residential standard and tankless water heaters. Our comprehensive range of services ensures you have all the necessary resources for your water heating needs in Western Washington.
Since 2006, our expert team of technicians has been providing top-quality services to our clients and customers in Puyallup, Tacoma, Orting, Bonney Lake, Edgewood, Olympia, Gig Harbor, Auburn, Enumclaw, and Federal Way, WA. As a family-owned and operated company, we provide personalized services and customized solutions for your specific needs.
Contact us at (253) 201- 4517 to schedule an appointment with our team today.
