When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?

Like all home appliances, water heaters have a finite lifespan, and knowing when to replace them can help you avoid disruptions to your everyday routine. By detecting the signs of needed replacement early, you can ensure your home always has access to the hot water supply it needs.

In this blog post, the plumbing professionals at Southern Pride Service discuss the average water heater lifespan, signs it’s time for replacement, and how to decide whether repair or replacement is best for your system. 

Water Heater Lifespan

On average, most modern standard tank water heaters are designed to last between 8 and 12 years with proper system maintenance. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, can last twice as long, typically between 15 and 20 years. 

In addition to routine water heater maintenance, several other factors may impact the lifespan of your water heater system, including the manufacturer, installation quality, and overall water quality in your home. Properties with hard water or poorly installed, low-quality systems will need replacement service sooner than those that do not have these issues. 

Signs of Wear & Tear

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the signs of premature wear and tear to identify when it may be time to schedule replacement service. The following are just some of the most common signs of wear and tear in a water heater: 

• Cold water: If you notice a lack of hot water or it doesn’t stay hot for long, it could indicate a failing heating element or sediment buildup in the tank.
• Strange noises: Rumbling, popping, or banging noises from the tank during operation often indicate sediment buildup inside the tank.
• Water leaks: Any signs of water pooling near the water heater or visible leaks from the tank or connected pipes can indicate wear and tear and, if not treated, may lead to significant damage.
• Discolored water: Rusty or cloudy water from your hot water taps can indicate corrosion inside the tank, which indicates that the tank is deteriorating and may need replacement soon.
• Reduced pressure: Low water pressure or flow from hot water taps might indicate a buildup of sediment or mineral deposits in the pipes or tank, restricting the water flow.

Each sign indicates that the water heater system needs maintenance or possibly replacement to avoid further issues. 

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Deciding When to Repair or Replace Your Water Heater

If you have a newer water heater system that hasn’t needed frequent, expensive repairs, a simple repair or maintenance visit may be all it needs to regain functionality.

However, if your water heater is older than 10 years old, needs regular repair service, or the cost to repair your system is 50% or more than the price to replace it, a water heater replacement may be the more cost-effective solution for your needs. 

Schedule Water Heater Services With Us Today

Is it time to upgrade your home’s water heater system? Southern Pride Service is here to help with our selection of state-of-the-art systems. Offering free replacement estimates and same-day service availability, we strive to make your water heater replacement experience as stress-free and affordable as possible. 

Book your water heater replacement service in Southern Maryland by contacting our team online today.