Is it Time to Replace your Water Heater?

Is it Time to Replace your Water Heater?

With correct maintenance, a hot water tank can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years.  However, it also works like other appliances at home. You may suddenly be spending for constant repairs and fixes because you just don’t get hot water when you need it.

We come to take our water tank for granted until we wake up and not have hot water to take a shower. That would be a huge inconvenience!

Is it time to replace your water heater? Consider these most common signs to help you decide whether to get your heater fixed or just have a new water heater installed.

Common Signs your Hot Water Heater Needs Replacement

We all want to delay having to purchase a new hot water tank. But sometimes, it just makes more sense to get a new one than to continue to spend on repairs.

If the signs below apply to your case, it is definitely time to replace your water heater.

• Expired warranty on your tank and its components
• Rust and other sediments visible in the hot water supply or water appears rust-colored
• Leaks on the area around the tank
• Dropping hot water temperature while the tap is running
• The tank has water drops which means the packing nut in the valves have worn out

Life span of water tanks vary depending on the model and design, quality of installation, maintenance, and water quality.

If your water heater is more than 8 years old, you may be better off upgrading to a brand-new one to cut your energy expenses.

How to Replace your Hot Water Heater

Are you planning on replacing your water heater? You may think about buying the same brand and model as before but you could also consider upgrading.  The needs of your family may have changed in the last few years. You can choose to decrease or increase your water heater’s holding capacity as needed.

Features to Consider for Water Heater Replacement

• ✓ Fuel source (electric, gas, heat pump or hybrid)
• ✓ Gallon Capacity (most common types are 40-gallon and 50-gallon)
• ✓ Physical Space (Will the unit’s dimensions fit in your physical space?)
• ✓ Energy Efficiency Rating (the annual cost to operate the unit as indicated by a sticker)
• ✓ Rate of Recovery (number of gallons the heater can heat in 1 hour)

Before repairing or replacing a water heater, always refer to the information on the side of your current unit such as model and serial number, insulation R-value, installation instructions, and working pressure.  For electric water heaters, you can check the voltage and wattage capacity.

The best way to replace your hot water heater is to compare available models in the market.

Request for free hot water tank quotes to compare prices and choose the right one that suits your needs and budget.

What’s the best type of water heater replacement?

The first thing you must decide on is the type of water heater to buy.  As mentioned above, there are 3 types in the market based on fuel source– electric, gas or propane, and hybrid.

Electric Water Heaters

This water heater uses 1 or 2 heating elements.  It is actually less expensive and has a wide range of options.  Sizes vary from 28 to over 100 gallons.

Gas or Propane Water Heaters

Gas or propane water heater use burners for heating water.  It also needs to have air.  While it is more expensive, this water heater type is uses less energy than electric water heaters.  Several models are available for 30 up to 100 gallons. Note that you can’t store combustible materials close to it.

Heat Pump/Hybrid Water Heaters

This kind of water heaters use the air’s energy. The air can be from outside or within the room.  It is bigger than standard electric heaters and can be added to a current tank. It can also be built-in.

While cash outlay may be bigger, it uses less energy and can result in savings in energy bills.

You must also consider the needs of your household members when choosing a brand-new water heater.

Recommended Gallon Capacity Based on Size of Household

A storage tank water heater is categorized according to how many gallons of hot water it can hold.   The size of the tank is an important consideration to ensure your family will always have adequate hot water based on needs.

It is also important to consider the rate of recovery, or the number of gallons the tank can heat per hour. When hot water requirement is high, you will need a higher recovery rate.

Below is a guide for choosing the size of water heater based on the size of the household and type of fuel source.

Advanced Features to Look for in Water Heaters

Are you looking for more from your water heater?

Modern technology has made it possible for consumers to expect more from their water heater. Below are some innovative and advanced features that make water heaters more exciting.

Protection from Dry Fire

Electric water heaters can have dry fire protection which keeps the heating component from burning when there is no water. This additional safety feature is handy and ensures the unit lasts longer.

High Efficiency and Energy Star Ratings

It is important to consider water heaters that are economical and good for the environment.  Many models can be a bit more expensive but they cost much less to operate. The energy guide label lets you compare performance of various water heaters based on their estimated operating cost.

Wi-Fi Capabilities

Some electric water heaters feature Wi-Fi capabilities that lets you manage your water temperature remotely.  You can also customize the schedule your hot water is available to save energy.

Electronic Gas Valves

Some gas-type water heaters have electronic gas valves that have fewer parts than mechanical gas valves.  This leads to better water recovery and more accurate performance.  This valve is powered by a device for thermal energy conversion and is easy to install.

Water heating is one of the biggest expenses of a household, making up at least 15% to 18% of our monthly energy bills.  It pays to invest in an efficient water heater as it is more economical in the long term.

Tankless or Storage type – Which is the better water heater?

A storage tank water heater holds hot water which is released when you open the tap.  It is equipped with an insulated tank that heats and stores water.  It also allows simultaneous and multiple use of hot water which makes it very convenient. While the price is lower, it wastes more energy because of standby heat loss.  They usually last from 10 to 15 years.

Storage types can be natural gas, propane, or electric.

In contrast, tankless water heaters provide hot water only when needed.  Less energy is wasted and this can help a consumer save a ton of money on energy costs.  The price is higher than storage type water heaters but operating costs are lower. However, hot water output is limited to 5 gallons or less per minute.  For large households with multiple users, several units may be needed.

The best type of water heater for your home depends on your needs. Whichever you choose, proper maintenance is essential.

If your water heater’s age is getting close to 10 years, it may be time to start researching a water heater replacement that is right for you.

Compare Water Heater Prices and Save Money

Nobody enjoys a cold shower or paying for increasing energy bills.  With the right water heater, your family can enjoy hot water without over-spending.

Look for the best replacement options for your hot water heater with our free quotes. Experienced and licensed plumbers in Montreal and Quebec can help you with affordable quotes to fix or replace your water heater.

You don’t need to suffer another minute without enough hot water for your bath.

Fill-out our short online form and obtain the best water heater quotes repair and installation.