Your water heater is a home appliance you may not think about much until you have an issue with it. Then, suddenly, it’s ruining your day! We’ve all been there—you wake up and jump in your morning shower only to realize your water isn’t hot enough or is so scalding hot you can’t even get in.
Whether you’re dealing with inconsistent water temperatures, funky odors, or leaks, it’s not always obvious when repairing your water heater is the solution or when replacing it entirely makes more sense.
At Rooter Solutions Santa Barbara, we understand that homeowners want to make the most cost-effective and efficient choice. Let us guide you through signs your water heater needs repair and when it’s definitely time to replace it so you can make an informed decision for your home and budget.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair
Keep an eye on your home’s water heater and look out for these indications you need to call a professional plumber for repairs.
Water Temperature Issues
The most common and annoying problems when it comes to water heaters are temperature issues. Whether you need a hot shower to warm up in the winter or you have a load of whites to wash, having properly heated water is an important part of daily life. Some water temperature issues can be fixed at home, but many require professional help. Water temperature problems caused by your water heater can show up in different ways.
No Hot Water
One of the most obvious signs that your water heater may need repair is when there is no hot water. This could be due to a variety of issues, for example:
- A faulty thermocouple
- A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
- Water leaks
- Loss of water pressure
- Mechanical failures
If this happens to you, first check the power source and thermostat settings. Then, inspect for leaks and visible damage. If it’s not a power source or thermostat setting issue that you can fix yourself, you’ll need to call a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.
Not Enough Hot Water
Do you find yourself running out of hot water quickly? Your water heater may be struggling to keep up with demand. This could be due to sediment build-up in the tank, a malfunctioning component, or some of the same issues we’ve listed above. Either way, your plumber can help you diagnose the problem and figure out a solution.
Water is Too Hot
Scalding hot water can be just as problematic as no hot water. This often indicates a thermostat problem but could be caused by some of the same issues that result in an inconsistent hot water supply. First, check that your water heater’s temperature is set at 120 degrees or below. If this isn’t the issue, you’ll want to call a professional to fix the problem.
Other Water Heater Issues
Leaking Water Heater
A leak from any part of your water heater usually means something either needs to be tightened or replaced. Leaks can occur in several places on your water heater for several reasons.
- Cold water leaking from inlet
- Leaking valve
- Leaking plumbing connections
- Leaking pressure relief valve
Condensation collecting on your water heater can also cause unwanted dripping around the heater. A plumber can easily replace or tighten a leaking heater piece or add a drain pan underneath if the cause is condensation.
Noisy Water Heater
Unusual noises, such as popping or banging, often result from sediment build-up in the tank. If you notice these sounds coming from your water heater, it’s time for a maintenance check. Your plumber can drain your water heater, which will remove sediment, improving efficiency and extending the life of your water heater.
How to Figure Out It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
Water heaters don’t last forever. Here are indications that it’s time to replace your heater fully, either for safety reasons or cost-effectiveness.
Is Your Water Heater More Than 10 Years Old?
Did you know that 10 years for a gas water heater is like 100 human years? Gas water heaters generally have a working life of 10 years or less. Tankless heaters can last a few years longer with proper maintenance, sometimes up to 15+ years.
If your gas or tankless water heater is approaching the end of its lifespan, consider a replacement. If you are not sure how old your heater is, you can look up the brand name and serial number on it to check the year it was made.
Other Signs You Should Replace Your Water Heater
Even if your water heater isn’t technically approaching the end of its life, these are signs you still need a replacement.
Is the Cost of Repair 50% of the Cost of a New Heater?
When repair costs start approaching 50% of the cost of a new water heater, it’s usually more economical to replace the unit.
Has Your Water Heater Broken Down Frequently In the Last Two Years?
Frequent breakdowns are a clear sign that your water heater is on its last legs. Instead of repeatedly paying for repairs, investing in a new, reliable unit can save you money and hassle in the long run.
Leaking From Sides of Water Heater
If your water heater tank leaks from the sides, it’s likely a sign of internal damage or corrosion. Unfortunately, this type of issue is not something that can be repaired and will require a complete replacement.
Regular Maintenance: Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Water Heater
Scheduling water heater maintenance once or twice a year may seem inconvenient, but it’s essential for extending the life of your heater and guaranteeing a safe water supply. Here are some services that may be included in a typical maintenance appointment:
- Draining the Water Heater
- Visual Inspection
- Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Check
- Anode Rod Inspection
- Gas Water Heater Burner Check
- Venting System Check
- Thermostat Settings
- Insulation Addition
- Water Pressure Check
At Rooter Solutions Santa Barbara, we can provide regular maintenance to help avoid the high costs and headaches of frequent replacements.
Making the Decision: Repair or Replace
Deciding whether to repair or replace your water heater depends on various factors, including the age of the unit, the issues your water heater is experiencing, and the cost of repairs. If you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your water heater, the experts at Rooter Solutions Santa Barbara are here to help. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with us to determine the best course of action based on your water heater issues and needs.
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