Is Your Water Heater on Borrowed Time? Our Water Heater Replacement Guide

Your water heater is responsible for providing hot water for showers, laundry, dishwashing, and more. But like all home appliances, your water heater system has a finite lifespan, and it’s important to know when it’s time for an upgrade so you can prevent disruptions to your daily routine.

In this guide, the expert plumbers at Colonial Heating & Cooling provide a comprehensive breakdown of how to know when it’s time to replace your water heater and what considerations to keep in mind when selecting a new system.

Common Indicators of a Failing Water Heater

There are several signs that can indicate it’s time to consider upgrading to a new water heater system, including:

• Age: The average lifespan of a water heater is around eight to 12 years with proper maintenance. If yours is approaching or exceeding this time frame, it’s wise to start considering a replacement model, even if it appears to function normally.
• Leaks: Any signs of water pooling around your water heater should be investigated immediately. Leaks can indicate corrosion or damage to the tank, which could lead to catastrophic failure if not addressed immediately.
• Noises: Over time, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, causing popping, rumbling, or banging noises during the heating cycle. This buildup reduces efficiency and can ultimately lead to the need for replacement.
• Efficiency: If you’ve noticed a significant increase in your energy bills or a decrease in the amount of hot water available, your water heater may be struggling to operate efficiently, signaling the need for replacement.
• Repairs: When you find yourself constantly calling for water heater repairs and your repair costs are 50% or more than the price of a system replacement, it may be more cost-effective to consider a water heater upgrade.

Selecting the Right Water Heater Replacement

When it comes to choosing a replacement water heater, there are several factors that homeowners should keep in mind as they seek out the appropriate solutions for their needs:

• Size: Determine the appropriate size of the water heater based on your household’s hot water usage. A larger family will require a higher capacity system to ensure an adequate hot water supply.
• Efficiency: Look for energy-efficient models that can help lower your utility bills while reducing your environmental impact. Energy-efficient options may include tankless water heaters, heat pump water heaters, or high-efficiency storage tank models.
• Budget: Balance your budget with long-term savings. While some energy-efficient models may have a higher upfront cost, they can often save you money in the long run through reduced energy consumption.

Consider traditional storage tank and tankless water heaters when exploring your options. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, which can be more energy-efficient, but they may have higher installation costs and may not be best suited for large families.

Consult With Professional Plumbers

Replacing a water heater is not a DIY project. Professional plumbers have the expertise and experience to accurately assess your needs, recommend the appropriate replacement solution, and ensure proper installation in compliance with building codes and regulations to ensure optimal performance and safety.

By consulting with professional plumbers, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth transition to your new water heater system. Additionally, professional installation may be required to maintain warranty coverage on your new unit.

Choose Colonial as Your Water Heater Installer

Don’t wait until your water heater fails to start thinking about a replacement. If you’ve started to recognize the signs of a needed upgrade, Colonial Heating & Cooling can help you find the ideal water heater system to suit your unique needs. From tankless water heaters to standard gas and electric storage tank models, we offer a wide range of hot water solutions designed to address your specific requirements.

Find the right water heater for your home by calling our team to schedule a water heater replacement in the Plymouth area today!