When an appliance doesn’t function as efficiently or as normally as it usually does, it could be a sign that it already needs to be replaced. A microwave oven that takes longer to heat up a bowl of soup or a garbage disposal unit that no longer crushes garbage properly may need to be replaced.
As such, a water heater that does not give you enough hot water may need to be replaced. The real question here, however, is: should you replace your water heater immediately or try to do some repairs first?
Normally, people opt to repair their malfunctioning or inefficient water heater first since it can be pretty expensive to buy a new one. However, there are times when replacement is a much better option than repair.
We listed some of the signs that will prompt you to replace your water heater:
- It doesn’t heat water as effectively as before – this is one of the first major signs that your water heater needs replacement and not just repairs. The accumulation of mineral deposits or sediments at the bottom of the tank can cause your water heater to malfunction and it’s also possible that the valves that help regulate the temperature are also no longer functioning properly. Most people would replace the valves first before replacing the entire unit, but you can only do so much with replacing the valves.
- Leaks everywhere – Water heaters are like any other plumbing fixture; they are prone to leaks and though leaks can still be fixed, it can only equate to a temporary fix. But when you wake up one morning and find your basement flooded, it’s time to replace your water heater.
- Old age – of course, any appliance or plumbing fixture loses its efficiency as it ages. Your water heater is designed to last for up to ten years, so unless you bought a second hand water heater, you need to replace your water heater if it’s already older than ten years.
If you want a second and professional opinion as to whether or not you should replace or repair your water heater, you can call in a professional plumber to check it out for you.
