Water Heater Repair Or Replacement?

Your water heater is often out of sight in your garage if you are a homeowner or closet if you live in an apartment. You don’t really think about it as long as hot water comes out of your faucets and shower. The problem starts when your hot water stops running then you will need the help of a licensed professional who specializes in water heater repair.  However, sometimes the damage to your water heater is beyond repair and you may need a replacement.

The main difference between repair and replacement is you either keep what you currently have, or you have a new water heater installed. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, but it does depend on the age of your heater, the condition it’s in, and your budget.

Does Your Water Heater Need Repaired?

A water heater is a device that only has a few moving parts. This means that there are only a few things that could cause problems. The minor issues such as a broken pilot light or thermostat can be quickly and easily fixed by a licensed plumber. Here are a few warning signs that suggest your water heater needs repaired.

Tepid Water

If your hot water is anything but hot, you may need repairs done. An easy way to check is to take a look at your heater tank to ensure that the thermostat temperature settings haven’t been accidentally changed. It could be an issue with your thermostat or depending on the model you have, there could be an issue with one of the elements or burners inside the water tank.

“Less” Hot Water

If your hot water seems to run out faster, you will need to get repairs done. This is a sign of a faulty element, but it could also be a sign of a more serious issue that would need a replacement.

Noise

As with every appliance that makes use of water, sediment accumulation due to hard water can be an issue. This does pose a risk to your water heater as it can damage it to the point where replacement is needed instead of repairs. So, if you’re hearing strange noises from your water heater it’s time to call in the professionals.

Leaks

Make sure you do a visual check on the area surrounding your water heater regularly. This is to make sure that there are no leaks. Even minor leaks can lead to major trouble when left unattended and need to be professionally repaired immediately. If you can’t find the exact location of the leak, call your local plumber for leak detection services.

Out With The Old And In With The New

Replacing your water heater may seem like a big task but if you continue to use a water heater that needs to be replaced you may have a bigger problem on your hands. You don’t want to wake up one morning and find that your water heater has burst and caused water damage in your home. Remember, if your water heater is leaking and has signs of corrosion – you will need to replace your unit. Also, some insurance companies require you to replace your water heater after a certain amount of time or they will no longer provide you with homeowner’s insurance.

Finding The Water Heater Solution That Works For You

While regular water heater maintenance can prolong the life of your unit there will come a time when it will need to be repaired or replaced. When that time comes you can trust the reliable team at Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric to help you find the water heater repair or replacement solution that works best for you!

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