When it comes to water heaters, newer is usually better. A lot of technology has changed in the past 10 to 20 years, meaning the water heater in your home might be costing you a fortune. Did you know the U.S. Department of Energy estimates 30% of our home heating costs come from our water heaters? Replacing older models with newer and more efficient ones can bring savings in your energy bill, which adds up in your pocket.

Mr. Rooter employee walking towards a home.

Any time water and power meet, it is always a good idea to have a trained professional make the connection. Unless you have plumbing skills, this can be a disaster waiting to happen. If there are no surprises along the way, installation should take between two and three hours to complete.

The plumber will first remove the old water heater. He or she will then measure and place the new water heater in the right place. Finally, the plumber will connect the old water heater to the pipes. In a matter of hours, you’ll be back to having hot showers and doing laundry.

Water Heater Replacement

A lot of times, a water heater just needs replacing. There is no other way around it. The average lifespan of a water heater is 10 to 13 years. If you have recently purchased your house or have no idea about the installation date of your system, now would be a good time to go check. Replacing your heater before it decides to stop working means you’ll be able to replace the tank when you are ready and not need emergency services.

Some signs it is time for a replacement unit include:

  • Leaking
  • Sediment in the water
  • Rusty water
  • Electrical malfunctions (or pilot light in gas models)
  • The tank shows signs of rust
  • You suddenly lose hot water
  • Your hot water becomes less efficient

Any of these signs indicate a larger problem is on the way, and it is time to replace your tank before it is too late. Energy efficiency is another good reason to replace your water heater. Older models do not have the same Energy Star ratings as today’s models do. Installing a new system may seem expensive up front, but it will pay for itself as the savings rack up on your utility bills.

Water Heater Service & Repair

Sometimes a repair of your water heater is possible. If a small part breaks, an experienced plumber can replace it for you, saving the cost of purchasing a whole new tank. A lot of it will depend on how old your tank is and if spare parts are still available. Depending on the age of your tank, the manufacturer might not even make the parts anymore.

If the frequency of repairs increases or more issues arise, it is probably time to consider replacing the entire system. Call on Mr. Rooter Plumbers to help with all your water heater needs. We’d be happy to walk you through the process of replacing your hot water system with the perfect fit for your household.

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