Hot Water Tank Installation And Water Heater Repair

There is a general misconception that when water heaters malfunction, they automatically should be replaced. The fact is that the part of the water heater that would need to be replaced is actually the tank if there is a leak. A majority of issues on the water heater involves replaceable parts. Fixing a water heater is typically much less costly than replacing it. You can also get a water heater test.  This will not just save money and time but will also last longer.

There may be instances to upgrade to another unit, e.g. a tankless system with a supplier such as Garry Richard’s Water Heaters Only. This would be if your needs are greater than those being met by your current water heater.

What Is The Lifespan For A Water Heater?

Standard water heaters offer longevity in the range of 10-15 years. They’re not designed to last much beyond that period. You can get the maximum lifespan if you perform the necessary manufacturer’s suggested routine maintenance as well as flush the system once per year. But ultimately the tank will give out.

A fiberglass tank will last substantially longer and some higher-end units are offered with lifetime warranties attached to the tanks. There is no repair for a damaged tank despite what material comprises it.

Buying the least expensive variety is not always the wisest decision or the most cost-effective. The low-price model could offer a lesser warranty where the more expensive unit comes with a full warranty. These systems are often fitted with heavy-duty anode rods. These are among the most essential elements to maintain the inside of the tank. They attract the contaminants from the water to delay corrosion of the tank. This rod eventually gets corroded and eaten away to the point of needing to be replaced. It’s much less expensive to replace this than the entire water heater. Go to https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/water-heaters-repair-or-replace/ to get some water heater maintenance tips.

The Reasons Water Tanks Fail

When a hot water tank fails, there are generally two main causes for the failure.

• Overpressurization: This is caused by too much heat and excessive pressure from the inlet. If you’re experiencing overheating issues, the hot water temperature should be set at 140F or less. As far as the excessive pressure, an adjustable valve can be installed at the inlet as a means to reduce the flow.

• Buildup of sediment: This is the most common reason for tank failure. Ultimately, a leak will develop due to corrosion or possibly rust because of chemicals and contaminants within the water. Once there is a leak, the tank is going to force water out gradually expanding the leak. 

Selecting The Right Water Heater

When you upgrade your water heater, you should buy an energy-efficient unit that will save significant money throughout the system’s lifespan. Today’s units are nearly 20% more energy efficient than that of the older models with much faster heating times. The insulation is foam as opposed to fiberglass which is much more effective.

Energy-efficient models are going to be a higher price point, but the money that you save in energy bills will absorb that cost fast. A good way to shop is, to begin with the top-of-the-line in energy efficiency and budget down with comparable models. Read more here about common water heater repairs.

How To Know When You Should Replace A Water Heater

As with any home appliance, the options available to you are either repair or replace. The tank is going to be the only component forcing your hand into a replacement water heater. Most other things you should be able to troubleshoot and repair or replace the various components. If you have a water heater that doesn’t give you hot water, this can typically be resolved with a new thermostat. Replacing the parts to the water heater could potentially save you great expense compared to buying a new unit and will keep your current system functioning smoothly. 

Unfortunately, if the tank has aged greater than ten years old or if it has developed a leak, you need to bite the bullet and buy yourself a new water heater. In the end, this may be a stroke of good luck with the upgrade that you purchase allowing for savings on your energy bill. There is always a silver lining.