How long do water heaters last?
Your water heater is one of the most essential appliances in your home. Without it, you’ll have no hot showers or baths, and no hot water for washing dishes or clothes. With regular maintenance, a standard gas or electric tank water heater should last you about 8 to 10 years before you consider water heater replacement. Electric water heaters tend to last a little longer than gas water heaters. The life expectancy of a gas water heater is about 6 to 8 years. If you have a tankless system, you can expect it to last 15 to 20 years before it needs to be replaced.
If your water heater is aging or has consistent problems needing frequent repair, you may want to consider replacing it. For exceptional service when it comes to water heater replacement in Chattanooga, TN, reach out to the professionals at Chattanooga Water Heater Co.. To schedule services, call or text us at 423-718-7342.
How to tell if you need to replace your water heater
Your water heater’s age is the best determining factor when it comes to water heater replacement. Most water heaters will need to be replaced after about 8 to 10 years, though if it is well maintained, the water heater could last longer. Poor maintenance or trouble with installation could decrease the water heater’s lifespan as well.
While age is the primary reason you might consider replacing your unit, there are common signs that indicate it’s time for a new unit.
- Rusty water or tanks: The older a water heater gets, the more likely rust will appear. If you notice rusty colored water or have rusty valves, that’s a sure sign the tank is rusted inside and needs to be replaced.
- Leaks: While some leaks may be due to problems with fittings or connections, leaks often occur as the tank ages and the metal begins to develop gaps and fractures when it expands as it heats up. This is where leaks form and replacement is usually necessary. The tank itself can become damaged as the sediment builds up over time.
- Strange noises: Noises, like rumbling or whining, are usually due to sediment build-up, which will affect performance, often affecting the heat levels inside the tank or the water itself.
- Low temperature or no hot water produced: Any number of issues from sediment build-up to incorrect thermostat settings to too small of a tank can cause the water not to heat up. If your tank is too small, you should replace your water heater.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
At times, when you have problems like leaks or your water heater isn’t producing enough hot water, water heater replacement is in order. However, many of the symptoms that indicate the water heater should be replaced, are often the same signs that just repairs are needed. For instance, if your thermostat is faulty or you have a broken heating element, your unit might not produce any hot water. All that’s required are repairs in this case.
If you are having problems with producing enough hot water to keep up with your household’s demand, one option may be to install a hot water heater booster. These devices are installed on or next to standard tank units and significantly increase your system’s ability to produce hot water. With this device in place, you can operate multiple fixtures like showers and dishwashers at one time without worrying about not having enough hot water.
To find out if you just need repairs or if your unit needs to be replaced, you can have professionals come out for inspection and testing. The experienced professionals at Chattanooga Water Heater Co. provide comprehensive water heater inspection and testing services. To set up these services, give us a call today at 423-718-7342.
An inspection can help determine whether your unit just needs repairs or is ready for replacement. Inspections give you a thorough overview of your water heater’s condition. These services are also useful as a regular maintenance option to ensure your water heater performs at peak levels.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater?
Costs will vary depending on the type and size of the water heater installed. On average, for standard tank water heaters, the cost of the unit and installation runs about $1,300. This will vary, of course, by size. Costs will include the tank, permits, materials, and labor.
In some cases, you will be charged for removal, unless you choose Chattanooga Water Heater Co.. We remove and recycle old units for free. Tankless water heater installation costs an average of about $2,900.
When you are looking for affordable water heater replacement in Chattanooga, TN that fits your needs and budget, count on the experienced professionals at Chattanooga Water Heater Co.. Schedule our services by calling 423-718-7342. Same-day service is received by calling before noon.
