Hot Water Systems Repairs Vs. Replacement

Doing without hot water systems is simply impossible, so by no means should they be taken for granted. If you are not caring about your water heater system, then the result will be nothing but an unexpected flow of ice-cold water. After 8 to 10 years of servicing, the water heaters tend to ask for retirement. With the water heaters failing after seeing good long years with frequent care and maintenance during their service, then it is rather apparent.

 

Now, the 20% more energy–resistant water heater models are from Energy–Star, compared to the models introduced 10 years ago. Rather, over the unit's life, the newer Energy–Star rated models save up to $700 in their energy costs.

Added to it, the present-day water heaters are 20% more water-efficient when they carry the Water Sense label, compared to the standard models. Even in performance, they are the best.

So, replacing a 7 – year old model with the recently upgraded ones is more cost-effective, other than repairing it.

The water heaters function at heating the cold water using either a gas burner or else an electric element. A thermostat maintains the water temperature between 120°F to 140ºF. As the water in the tank starts heating up, pressure starts building up in it. When a faucet is turned on, the pressure releases hot water out of the faucet.

In reality, the water heaters are relatively simple appliances, since they contain a few moving parts, so the count of things likely to break is indeed less.

Water Heater System Malfunctions Which Can Be Easily Fixed Through Repairs

• A faulty burner or heating element

• A broken thermostat

• A tripped circuit breaker for the electric heater

• The pilot light going out on a gas heater

Repairing these elements is rather cost-effective if the water heater tank is of less than 5 or 6 years of age.  

With the ongoing water heater still having a warranty, the repairing costs will be covered by the manufacturer. But if the warranty expires, then an assessment should be done before deciding whether repairing a broken heater is worthwhile.

The rule of thumb here is to fix a heater, only if it is only old by a few years and the repairs will be costing less than 50% of the new appliances' price.

When there is a serious leak, despite its age, then the water heater should be replaced. Corroding tanks are the result of spring leaks from the interaction between the steel and minerals present in water. Repairing the leaking heaters can never be a minor fix since the problem is often originating from an internal failure.

A new water heater purchase and installation price is generally within the $500 and $1500 range. Significantly, the new models are both energy–efficient and less likely to suffer from corrosion failure. Added to it, when other types of heaters are chosen, like a tank less, heat pump or solar, then benefits coming with it is eligibility for federal tax credits.

Once you have installed or repaired your water heater, then you will be able to extend its life through regular maintenance.

1. Flushing the tank for eliminating the sediments once a year for the water heater to last longer and make it more energy-efficient.

2. The anode rod or the sacrificial rod, that is the aluminium or magnesium probe inside the tank collecting corrosive elements – should be checked after every three years. As it starts getting eaten away, it should be replaced.

The decision whether to repair or replace the water heater system should be decided right after observing the issues. The issues that can be repaired and replaced have been pointed out here, hence, there is no question of delays. As soon as your hot water system starts sending out signals, then immediately consult the professionals for repairing or replacing the appliance.

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