Is your water heater starting to show signs of deterioration? Don’t wait for things to get worse; you can save money and prevent yourself and your family from experiencing unwanted situations by having your defective heater replaced as soon as possible.
Typical water heaters have a lifespan between seven to fifteen years, so it’s all the more necessary to get a new one if the current one you’re using is aged something along that timeframe. In this article, we will tell you some things you need to know about water heater installation.
6 Obvious Signs You Need to Install a New Water Heater
While you can consider hiring a water heater repair service to try and solve your water heater issue, there’s a big chance you’ll spend more on repairs if these persist even if they’ve been fixed. Here are the signs that you need to replace your water heater instead.
1. Leaks. If your water heater is leaking or showing signs of rust or corrosion, it could be for various reasons, such as damage to the drain valve, a hot-and-cold connection being broken, loose gaskets, or a rusty tank.
2. Age. Water heaters typically last between 8-12 years. If your water heater is approaching or has exceeded this expected lifespan, it may be time to consider a replacement.
3. Insufficient hot water. If you run out of hot water more quickly than usual, it could be a sign that your water heater is malfunctioning due to a damaged thermostat.
4. Strange noises. Popping, cracking, or rumbling noises from your water heater could indicate that the tank is corroded or full of sediments. The vibration of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank can cause a weird noise.
5. Rust or discoloration. If you notice rust or discoloration on your water heater or on the hot water flowing from your faucet, it could indicate that you have a rusty water heater tank. A rusted tank is prone to failure, and can cause your water to have a foul color, taste, and smell.
6. Increase in energy bills. Most water heaters have two heating components. If one gets damaged, the remaining component will have to work twice to produce the same amount of hot water, consuming more energy. This can cause an unexpected increase in your energy costs.
Benefits of a New Water Heater
Despite the seemingly high cost of installing a new water heater, the benefits offset the price. Here are the best-known advantages of a new water heater for your home:
Increased energy efficiency. New water heaters are designed to be more energy efficient than older models, helping you save money on energy costs. They’re expected to have a 4% increased efficiency.
Consistent hot water. A newly installed water heating system will provide you with a steady hot water supply, eliminating the long wait for the water to heat up.
Improved safety. Modern heaters are equipped with updated safety features like pressure relief valves and temperature control to prevent accidents and injuries. This is not just a marketing strategy, but a government requirement.
Longer lifespan. A new water heating system can work up to 12-15 years—longer than older models. However, proper care and maintenance should still be observed to ensure your new device is working at its optimal performance.
Better performance. New models come with advanced features that provide better performance, such as temperature control and remote access. There are also models that feature tankless technology for improved environmental conservation.
Enhanced warranty. New water heaters come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which can provide peace of mind and protection in case of defects or malfunctions. Additionally, a longer warranty can help you save money for repairs when a breakdown happens.
Lower maintenance costs. Modern water heaters require less frequent maintenance and repairs than older models—saving you money in the long run, giving you peace of mind, and preventing you from experiencing inconveniences.
Environment-friendliness. New heaters are designed to be more environmentally friendly, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and use less energy than older models. Updated industry standards help manufacturers improve the features of new models to ensure their eco-friendly operation and compliance with government laws.
Can I Install My Water Heater by Myself?
The good news is you can DIY the installation of your new water heater, but there will be massive safety concerns. The process can be complex as it involves working with gas and electrical lines, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Also, you may void the water heater’s warranty if you attempt to install it yourself—and in worst-case scenarios, you could get into a serious accident that may cause serious damage to your home or even injury to yourself or others. So instead, we strongly recommend having a professional plumber or HVAC technician handle your installation.
A water heater specialist, such as a plumber, has the experience, knowledge, and tools necessary for such installation projects. They will ensure that the new water heater is the right size for your home and is properly connected to your existing plumbing and electrical systems. They also make sure that the installation complies with local building codes and regulations, and does not pose a risk to your family.
Call Hansen’s Plumbing Today for Your Water Heater Needs
Hansen’s Plumbing has been in the plumbing service industry since 1987, serving clients in Ventura County, California, and its neighbors. We have an established reputation as the most trusted plumbing service in the county. Contact us today and leave your water heater installation needs to us.
