If you commonly experience water heater problems, you may consider replacing your unit. If you find yourself asking if you should repair or replace your water heater, think about your appliance’s average lifespan, common water heater issues and the cost for a replacement.
Average Water Heater Lifespan
The typical lifespan of a water heater is 8-12 years. However, the following factors can have a direct impact on how long your water heater lasts, including:
- Local water quality
- Maintenance schedule
- Unit make and model
- Quality of water heater installation
Common Water Heater Problems
- Gas or Power Supply Not Connected – Power and gas supply may sound like common sense, but check these things before troubleshooting your water heater.
- Electrical Issues – A blown fuse or tripped breaker could be why your water is no longer getting hot. Be sure to shut off the power supply before looking into water heater electrical problems. While resetting the circuit breaker or high-temperature cutoff may solve the problem initially, keep in mind that there could be a deeper issue.
- Water Heater Leak – If you are experiencing recurring leaks in your valve or pipes and your water heater is older than 10 years, we recommend you replace your water heater.
- Needs Flushing – If too much sediment has built up in the water heater tank, you may need a water heater flush. An important part of water heater maintenance, a flush will ensure that your water continues to be heated properly.
- Pipe Insulation Needed – Insulating your water heater pipes can help reduce heat loss and raise your water temperature. Pipe insulation ensures that your water stays hotter for a longer period of time.
- Thermostat Temperature Needs An Increase – If you’ve eliminated the above issues, you may be able to increase your thermostat to get more hot water. Keep in mind, however, that your lack of hot water could mean a bigger problem than just a low thermostat setting.
Cost of Water Heater Replacement
The average cost to replace a water heater ranges from $1,800 to $2,000. The total cost of a water heater replacement includes cost, labor and supplies. If you need water heater disposal, this could incur an additional fee.
Still wondering if you should repair or replace your water heater? Contact Mr. Plumber today to get started! Financing available at 0% for 18 months, with payments a low as $13/a month with approved credit. We service and install many types of water heaters, including conventional, tankless, hybrid, and solar.
