Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
The average water heater lasts for around a decade. Some will last more than ten years if properly maintained, but if you are approaching a decade, it is time to start planning for a replacement. However, let’s say you’ve only had your water heater for seven years. Does it need to be replaced? Probably not. If your water heater is only seven years old, functioning efficiently, and meeting your needs, there is no reason to replace it.
Other signs that it may be time to replace your water heater include:
- It takes your water heater a very long time to heat
- Your hot water is discolored or has an odor to it
- Your water heater makes a lot of noise
- There is visible damage to your water heater
- You see signs of the tank leaking
Another very good reason to consider replacing your water heater with an upgraded model, even if you think you can get a couple more years out of your existing water heater, is if you are finding that your current water heater is unable to meet your needs. It can be incredibly frustrating if your current water heater is not appropriately sized for your home or isn’t big enough to meet your hot water needs. This can also lead to overuse of the water heater, causing it to wear out or break more often.
Keep reading to learn about the three main questions we are asked about water heater upgrades.
Tankless vs. Conventional Water Heaters: Which Is Best?
This is a tricky question to answer as there is no definitive answer. Both conventional water heaters with storage tanks and tankless models have their benefits. Conventional water heaters tend to be less expensive, are reliable, and are the most common type of water heater in the U.S. However, tankless models have the edge over conventional ones in energy efficiency, longevity, and space-saving. However, tankless water heaters do require a greater up-front investment.
Benefits of tankless water heaters:
- Don’t require excess energy to keep a large tank of water warm
- Use up less space in your home
- Require very little maintenance
- Last for 20 to 25 years
Can You Improve Your Energy Efficiency with a New Water Heater?
Yes, you can absolutely improve your energy efficiency and save money on your power bill by installing a new water heater. This is especially the case if you have a water heater with a storage tank and are replacing it with a tankless water heater. You will save even more energy if you purchase a water heater specifically designed to be more energy efficient. We recommend looking for a water heater that is ENERGY STAR certified.
Can Your Water Heater Help You Conserve Water?
Typically, water heaters contribute to excess water usage when they are inefficient at heating water or when installed at a significant distance from where you need the hot water. If you want to conserve water and are considering getting a new water heater, we recommend installing point-of-use tankless water heaters in the areas you are most concerned about.
For example, if you have a shower you use frequently that is a long way from your water heater, requiring you to run your shower for an extended period before the hot water reaches it, it may be worth installing a point-of-use tankless water heater in that bathroom.
Another solution to this problem is to install a hot water recirculating pump in your home. These appliances keep hot water moving through your plumbing system, ensuring that when you turn on the hot water tap, you have hot water almost instantly, no matter where you are in your home.
Wondering if it’s time for you to upgrade your water heater? Give Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing a call. We’re here to guide you.