Water heaters can be damaged due to poor maintenance, hard water, and even general wear and tear over time. You might notice a problem with your water heater if it’s leaking water or can no longer keep up with your home’s needs. In some cases, a failing water heater produces lukewarm, stinky, or discolored water. Before sinking money into a repair, it’s important to consider if a replacement is a better option. How do you know whether to repair or replace your water heater?

Your Water Heater’s Age

The typical tank water heater provides a home with approximately 10 to 12 years of use. A tankless water heater could last 15 to 20 years. If your water heater is approaching the end of its estimated life, it might make better sense to replace it now. After all, even if you make a repair now, you may face an increased need for repairs or a complete and inconvenient failure soon. When you replace your old water heater, you can look forward to significantly fewer problems and repair bills. You’ll also benefit from warranty coverage on a new appliance for additional savings.

The Cost of Repairs

You need to compare the cost of repairs with the cost of a new water heater. Even if your water heater is still a few years away from the end of its estimated lifespan, it may be more cost-effective to replace it if the repair costs are significant. As a rule of thumb, consider replacing your water heater if the repair costs are more than half the cost of a new appliance. Remember that a water heater may require more repairs as it ages, so the current repair bill may be followed by several others in the next few years.

Energy Costs

As technology improves, newer water heater models that are far more energy efficient hit the market. If your water heater is nearing the end of its life, you might discover that newer models consume much less energy. In addition, they might heat the water faster, which could lower water consumption as well. Take a closer look at the energy efficiency rating of your current water heater in comparison to a new model that’s affordable. Consider this alongside repair and replacement costs and the age of your current water heater to make an informed decision.

If your water heater shows signs of damage, it’s important to compare the cost and benefits of a repair versus a replacement. For all your home’s water heater service needs, call Andy’s Plumbing in Ormond Beach, FL today.