Don't feel like you need to replace your water heater at the first sign of trouble. However, there are definitely circumstances when it makes more sense to replace your system, including:
Age
If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it's best to say goodbye. Even if you've avoided any breakdowns, keeping it could be tempting fate. Sooner or later, it's going to break down, and you'll wish you'd acted sooner.
The older your water heater gets, the more outward signs of struggle it'll display. You'll hear weird sounds and the water will be nowhere as warm as before. 1-800-Plumber +Air of Indianapolis can install a great, new water heater for you.
Constant Repair Calls
It's okay to need your water heater fixed a couple of times. However, if it keeps happening, you should just move on. Any further repairs would just be delaying the inevitable.
Avoid problems with a yearly water heater inspection. A technician can also advise you on whether you'd be better off just purchasing a new water heater.
Cracked Tank
Some water heater leaks can be resolved, but not ones from cracked tanks. This happens to older systems, as their parts get worn and their tanks start to rust. There might also be a great deal of sediment at the base, leading to further cracking. Be sure to flush your water heater regularly to remove sediment.
Check around your water heater once a week for any signs of leakage. If necessary, use a wet/dry vac to clean up the water. Shut off the tank completely, cutting off both its water and power supplies. Then, call a professional water heater technician to report the leak and discuss the next steps.
Wrong Size Unit
Hot water is not an infinite resource. This becomes abundantly clear when your unit is too small for your home. At least one person's going to have a cold shower.
A water heater that's too big will provide hot water. However, it's far more than necessary, and your energy bills will shoot up.
Don't guestimate with water heaters. Find a professional company like 1-800-Plumber +Air of Indianapolis to help you determine the right size water heater for your home.
Selling Home
About to put your home on the market? What's more likely to sway potential buyers: an old and possibly worn-out water heater, or a newly installed, energy-efficient one? Anything that can save new homeowners a small fortune should be appreciated.
You don't need to replace an otherwise-operational water heater. However, if you're hoping to sell your home and you know your heater is past its prime, get a replacement. You can also save money on your water bills in the interim.
Choosing a Water Heater
Once you've decided you need a new water heater, you need to make sure you choose the right one. Here are some things to consider in your search:
Tank or Tankless?
The prototypical water heater has a giant tank for storing water. However, it's not the only kind. Tankless water heaters do just the same while taking up far less room. They also have greater longevity, twice as long as some tank heaters.
If you've relied on tank water heaters, you might not realize the freedoms of a tankless system. For further information about tankless water heaters, reach out to 1-800-Plumber +Air of Indianapolis.
Size
As we mentioned earlier, your water heater needs to be the right size for your home. Don't try to save money by purchasing a too-small water heater. Alternately, don't waste money with one that's too large.
Pay attention to the first hour rating (FHR) of any water heater you're considering. This is how much hot water a given unit can produce in an hour (in gallons). Determine how much hot water you use in a typical week, considering different activities like showering and washing clothes. Look for a water heater FHR that will fulfill your needs.
Electric vs. Gas
There's no outright consensus for which is better, electric or gas water heaters. However, it's still good to examine the benefits and drawbacks of each one. Gas water heaters are more expensive at first, but electric water heaters are more expensive to maintain. Conversely, you shouldn't get a gas water heater if you don't already have a gas setup.
Tankless water heaters also come in gas and electric models. Keep in mind that gas ones can operate on either natural gas or through propane. Make sure you're clear about what yours runs on.
Energy Efficiency
Heating water takes up a massive amount of energy. Look for a more energy-efficient water heater, one with ENERGY STAR certification. Read reviews to see if other customers saw noticeable declines in energy bills.
This is one of the best arguments for a tankless water heater. Instead of constantly warming up the water, regardless of demand, you'll get hot water exactly when you need it. Call 1-800-Plumber +Air of Indianapolis to learn more about how a tankless water heater could help you.
Reviews
Outside opinions are a must when looking for a water heater. Check out reviews for water heaters on trusted sources like Consumer Reports. If you know someone who recently had one installed, ask them about it and if they'd recommend it.
Don't make any decisions until you've had some professional consultation. If you're considering a water heater, call 1-800-Plumber +Air of Indianapolis for further discussion. We'll help you determine the perfect water heater for your home.
