Having Hot Water Heater Problems? Should I Repair or Replace?

When your hot water stops flowing, you want to get it working again as quickly as possible. In the tense moments of deciding what to do, you may wonder if you should have the system repaired or if it is time to put the old hot water heater out to pasture and replace it with a shiny new one.

Figuring out which of these two options is best can save you hundreds of dollars on top of avoiding unnecessary stress. To help make your decision easier, here are some criteria that narrow down whether you should repair or replace.

How Old Is Your System?

The typical hot water heater lasts around 10 to 13 years on average. With proper, consistent maintenance, a system could possibly last up to 20 years. With poor maintenance, do not expect the system to last much longer than its stated warranty.

If your system has reached past the ten year mark, seriously consider the value of spending money to fix it. Newer hot water heaters may cost a couple hundred dollars more than they used to thanks to new efficiency standards, but those same standards spell out energy savings. The latest systems save an average of 20% a year compared to ones manufactured ten years ago — up to $700 or more over the life of the unit.

How Bad Is the Problem?

Water heaters have few moving parts. If something goes wrong, it is usually the result of:

• Pilot light went out (gas heaters)
• Circuit breaker tripped (electric heaters)
• Sticking valve
• Broken thermostat
• Burning or heating element failure

The first two problems can be easily diagnosed by the homeowner. Depending on the system, simply check on your electric panel for tripped switches or take a peek at what should be a blue flame pilot light. The next two problems usually require a professional diagnostic and can cost around $100-$300 on average including parts and labor. The last problem is more major, but will generally cost less than a new system at $180-$400 on average.

Outside of these minor problems, your tank could be corroded or leaking — a major problem. This condition generally means the system was old, poorly maintained or both. Leaky tanks can sometimes be patched up, but older systems will just have more problems develop over time.

A Formula to Clinch Your Decision

A simple formula can help you determine whether the hot water heating system needs to be replaced or repaired. Take the cost of the system, including installation, and multiply it by the portion of its assumed remaining service life. If your repair costs are well over this number, you should probably replace instead.

For instance, if your system cost $600 to install six years ago and you have maintained it fairly well by draining it almost every year, you can expect it is halfway through its lifespan. $600 times 1/2 equals $300. A $100 repair is a no brainer at this point; a $200 repair generally a sound idea. However, a $400 repair on a six-year old hot water heater may not be worth the money compared to buying a new system.

An expert hot water heater contractor can give you a more definitive answer as to a repair estimate and the possible remaining lifespan for your unit. They can also recommend you a new unit that meets your needs for the best price.

For instance, some homeowners may not have realized the benefits of a tankless water heater for their particular home. You can take a look at our hot water heating buying guide [permalink not available yet] to learn more about the options you could have.

Use ServiceWhale to Get a Professional Opinion Fast

If you are having hot water heater issues and need to get an expert opinion, ServiceWhale can help. Click here and you will be able to get free custom quotes from the most reputable hot water heater repair contractors in your area. They can give you a better estimate on the costs of repairing or replacing, along with their personal recommendations based on experience. Use the link above to get your hot water running again as soon as possible and at the best price to boot!