Should I Repair or Consider a New Hot Water Service Installation?
Dealing with a malfunctioning water heater can be frustrating, and you’re probably wondering whether it’s better to repair or replace it. A new hot water service installation is not always necessary if a repair is more cost effective.
This is a big decision that affects both your home’s comfort and your budget. While hot water repair may seem like the easiest fix, it’s worth considering whether it’s the best long-term solution for you.
Let’s explore the signs to help you make the right choice.
When to Repair Your Hot Water Service
Repairs can often extend the life of your hot water system and save you money—at least in the short term. Here are some instances where hot water repair may be the best option:
- Minor issues: If your water heater leaks from a valve, has sediment buildup, or has a pilot light that won’t stay lit, these are typical problems you can fix without breaking the bank. A professional plumber can diagnose and repair the problem quickly in these cases.
- Water heater age: Water heaters have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. If your unit is still within this range and functioning well overall, a hot water repair is often the more practical choice.
- Warranty considerations: Confirm if the water heater is still within its warranty period. If it is, the repairs could be covered, making it a more cost-effective choice to repair instead of replacing it. Warranty coverage reduces out-of-pocket costs and extends the life of your current system.
When to Replace Your Hot Water Service
Sometimes, replacing your hot water system is the best long-term solution, especially when signs point to significant issues. Here are indicators that it’s time to consider a replacement:
- Leaking water: If your water heater leaks, especially from the tank itself, it’s often a sign of corrosion or internal damage. Small leaks may be repairable, but a leaking tank means the entire unit needs to be replaced. Ignoring this can lead to water damage and higher utility bills.
- Dirty water: Rusty or cloudy water from your taps indicates sediment buildup or corrosion inside the tank. This affects water quality and signals that your system is nearing the end of its lifespan. A replacement is likely necessary if flushing the tank doesn’t clear the water.
- Low water pressure: Low hot water pressure can stem from various issues, including sediment buildup, deformed pipes, or partially closed shutoff valves. In many cases, simple adjustments or maintenance can restore normal function. However, replacement could be more cost-effective if this persists than ongoing repairs.
- Unusual noise: If you hear strange sounds from your water heater, it’s probably due to sediment buildup. As the water is heated, trapped air or bubbles under the sediment can cause these noises. Flushing the tank might reduce the noise, but if it persists, it could signal the need for a replacement to avoid more severe issues or potential system failure.
- Fluctuating temperatures: Inconsistent water temperatures can signal issues with your hot water system’s heating element or thermostat. If your hot water fluctuates between hot and cold and adjustments do not resolve the issue, consider replacing the unit.
Additional Reasons to Consider Replacement Over Repair
Other factors that indicate it’s time to replace your water heater include:
- Water heater age: Over time, water heaters are more likely to experience wear and tear, leading to issues like leaks, corrosion, and inconsistent performance. Older units may also have outdated components that are more likely to fail, leading to frequent repairs and reduced reliability.
- Increased water heating bills: If you’ve noticed a significant spike in your utility bills, your aging water heater may be to blame. Over time, systems lose efficiency, requiring more energy to heat water.
- Cost and frequency of repairs: Opting for a hot water system replacement is often the better choice if repair costs exceed 50% of the price of a new unit. Major component failures, such as the tank, usually signal the end of a water heater’s lifespan. Additionally, if you frequently call a plumber for repairs, those costs can quickly add up, making replacement a smarter long-term investment than repeated fixes.
- Upgrading your home: If you are renovating or upgrading other appliances in your home, a hot water system replacement might also be beneficial. Newer models are typically more energy-efficient and can complement modern home upgrades.
Is It Time for a Hot Water System Upgrade?
If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your water heater, RD Plumbing Solutions is here to help. We can repair or assist with a hot water service installation. While providing honest, professional advice and recommend the best course of action based on its condition and your household needs.
Call us today to book an assessment
Russell is a qualified Master Plumber, having been in the industry since 2004. He started his own company in 2013, and today, is a reputable company operating in metropolitan Adelaide. We are truly your local plumber!
We specialise in all aspects of plumbing services including 24 hour emergency response, blocked drains, drain camera inspections, pipe relining, gas fitting, hot water service & replacement, rain water tanks and all other home maintenance plumbing services. We aim to exceed your expectations in everyway and deliver the level of service that has made our business what it is today.
