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When Should I Replace My Water Heater?

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A water heater is a crucial part of your home’s plumbing system. It provides hot water for showers, baths, doing laundry, washing dishes, and many other daily tasks. But like all appliances, water heaters have a finite lifespan. While the life of a water heater will depend on what type it is and how well it’s maintained, most traditional tank-style water heaters last between 10 to 15 years while tankless units can last 20 years or more. If yours is approaching or has already surpassed this age, you may be wondering if you’re better off replacing it before it fails or waiting until it  stops working entirely.

Reasons to Replace Now

Here are some reasons to consider replacing your aging hot water system before it breaks down:

Leaky water heater being repaired.

1. Avoid Unexpected Disasters

When a water heater breaks down, especially one that’s well past its prime, it could flood your basement, utility room, or wherever the unit is located. This water damage can be extensive and expensive to repair, ruining floors, walls, and even personal items.

2. Improved Energy Efficiency

As they age, water heaters lose their ability to heat water effectively, causing them to use more energy to achieve the same results. Newer models are designed to be more energy-efficient, which means you’ll pay less on your energy bills each month.

3. Better Water Quality

Over time, sediment can build up in your water heater tank, which can affect the quality of the water. These mineral deposits can cause discolored water, bad smells, and even clog your pipes. A newer water heater will have a cleaner, more efficient design, ensuring better water quality for your household.

4. Constant Access to Hot Water

As water heaters age, they may not be able to keep up with the demand for hot water in your home. You might notice that you run out of hot water faster than usual, or it may take longer to heat up. If your current water heater can no longer meet your household’s needs, replacing it will ensure a steady, reliable supply of hot water at the perfect temperature whenever you need it.

5. Avoid Rising Repair Costs

As your water heater ages, it may begin to require more frequent repairs. Replacing the unit before it fails will save you from the mounting repair costs, which can quickly add up. If your water heater is constantly breaking down or requiring maintenance, it’s often more economical to replace it with a new, reliable unit.

6. Avoid a Hasty Decision

Replacing the water heater before it quits allows you to research types and models so you can choose one that best meets your household’s needs, like a larger storage tank or a tankless model. If your water heater fails suddenly, you’ll likely be focused on restoring hot water ASAP and may not have time to consider other, potentially better, options.

Has your water heater seen better days? Is it no longer meeting your hot water needs? Contact Eagle Service Company today for a thorough inspection and, if necessary, new system proposal.