Imagine you have stepped inside your shower and are expecting a warm and comforting gush of water, only to be welcomed with icy cold water that makes you question your karma. Or maybe you switch on your water geyser only to hear it make a weird rumble that gives you a fright. These are clear indications that your water heater needs love and care. A few other signs your water heater needs attention are leakage issues, constant temperature fluctuation, low water pressure, rusty water, water not heating up, etc.
Now the real question arrives. Should you go ahead and invest in a new water heater or should you fix your old one? The truth is that the answer depends on whether the issue is major or minor. But we have got you covered! Here is a quick guide that will help you discern what is the best move to make.
When to Repair Your Water Heater?
Here are a few cases in which you can consider repairing your water heater instead of getting a new one:
- Minor issues: If your water heater needs a new thermostat or a pressure relief valve, replacing the whole unit doesn’t make sense. Repairing your water heater would be a more cost-effective option in such cases.
- New Heater: If your water heater is under five years old, it makes sense to consider fixing it instead of replacing it altogether. This is because if you purchase your water heater from a reliable brand like AO Smith, it will be covered under a warranty, making it easy for your pockets.
- Budget Issue: If you don’t mind a temporary solution for your broken water heater, then opting for a repair is okay as a replacement would require you to spend a significant amount.
When to Replace Your Water Heater?
When should you consider investing in a new water heater? Here are a few signs that tell you that you must stop delaying and invest in a new water heater for your home:
- Age: If you have an older unit that keeps breaking down every now and then, it makes sense to upgrade and get a new one. This is because it will be a cost-effective decision in the long run.
- Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself constantly calling a repair guy to fix your water heater, it must be an indication that your water heater is on the verge of giving up completely. In this case, it makes sense to invest in a new one, as the multiple payments to the repair guy would be equivalent to the cost of a new one.
- Major Issues: If the tank of your water heater has been cracked or if there is a serious case of corrosion, then spending money on such a water heater makes no sense. Note that such a run-down water heater can be a potential safety hazard for you and your family.
- Energy Efficiency: Homeowners who own a traditional storage tank water heater and want to opt for a more energy-efficient alternative can consider replacing their older units. We recommend you purchase a tankless water heater, as it is energy-efficient and will help you save on your power bill.
- Size Upgrade: If your hot water usage has increased over the years, it makes sense to invest in a new water heater that has a larger capacity. This will ensure that you can enjoy an endless supply of hot water without having to pay a fortune for your energy bill.
Conclusion
To sum it up, you must consider several factors mentioned above before you decide whether you want to repair or replace your water heater. We recommend that you inspect your situation and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of both repairing and replacing your water heater and choose the option that best suits your requirements. If you are still unsure about which decision to go ahead with, don’t hesitate to consult a professional who will be able to help you make an informed decision.
Looking for a one-stop destination to shop for high-quality water heaters and water purifiers that will upgrade the quality of your life? We recommend you browse through the plethora of instant, tankless and storage water heaters on the AO Smith website and pick the best unit for your home!
