Water Heater Repair or Replacement Checklist
If you have a faulty water heater and you’re wondering if you can have it repaired instead of getting it replaced, you have to evaluate the problem that you have at hand. Water heater repair is a good option for those who want to save some money. But the question is if your water heater still can be repaired or not
There are many factors to consider when it comes to water heater repair. Check your water heater against all of them so you can decide appropriately the better route to take. Water heaters play a crucial role in keeping you comfortable during the cold winter season.
Factors That Affect Water Heater Repair
The list below includes the factors that affect water heater repair. If you think that you’re extending the use of your water heater too much, it is best that you replace it instead of repairing it for the safety of your family.
1. Check the manufacturing date of the water heater.
Tank type water heaters are expected to last you some 10 to 12 years. If your water heater is working way more than that, then repair is no longer an option. As a matter of fact, you should stop repairing water heaters that is nearing eight years of operation. If the device is that old, then it makes better sense to replace it instead of repair it.
2. Know the type of repair needed.
The actual cost of repair will depend on the damage that the water heater has sustained. There are repairs that are just small and are rather inexpensive. If that’s the case, then repair is your better choice because it’s way cheaper than buying a whole new system. But if it’s the other way around, then that’s when you should consider replacement. Repair jobs that cost over half the price of a new water heater is not worth it. Examples of expensive parts and repair work include faulty thermocouple, gas control or pressure relief valve, and water heater element. Fixing water heater leaks is also a potentially expensive repair job.
3. Find out about the warranty coverage.
High are the chances that you don’t need to get your water heater replaced if it is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Many manufacturers are willing to replace the faulty parts of the device if it is still within the first five years of operation. Check its warranty and see if you can still request a claim against it. In most cases, you only have to pay for labor costs.
4. Understand the type of problem experienced.
There are certain water heater problems that require you to replace a water heater instead of repairing it. Some issues that call for a replacement include low water pressure, hot water no longer produced, and increased energy bill. All of these indicate that there is a major problem that no amount of water heater repair can fix permanently. To make sure, you may call a water heater repair company and hear what they have to say. If they suggest that you get a replacement, then that would be your better option.