A water heater helps raise the temperature of the water used for cooking, bathing, cleaning, drinking, and other purposes. It is among the most popular appliances in homes. Since it is used frequently, a water heater is bound to undergo damage and break down. Water heater replacement costs are usually high, and the job is complex. That’s why hiring a reputed contractor to replace the appliance is a good idea.
Signs a water heater needs replacement
If a water heater does not work as it should, a simple repair job may be enough to fix it. But sometimes it is better to replace the appliance instead of repairing it.
Breakdowns and leaks
Water heaters last around 8 to 12 years on average. If a household has been using their heater for well beyond that lifespan, they should consider replacing it. Not doing so can cause the appliance to become increasingly vulnerable to leaks and breakdowns. Proactively replacing the heater is much better than waiting for its performance to deteriorate.
Increased energy bills
Brand-new water heaters use energy efficiently. But as they wear and get older, their efficiency levels diminish, and they use a lot of power to heat water to the desired levels. This dwindling efficiency is irreversible. So, when users notice a sudden rise in energy bills without any other problem in sight, they must replace their heater before other performance-related issues emerge.
Poor water heating
A water heater near the end of its lifespan often struggles to heat water. This usually happens because the heating elements no longer work as they should. It may also occur due to the sediment buildup within one’s tank over the years. The sediment creates a layer of insulation between the water and the tank’s heating element.
Replacing the individual heating elements can remedy the situation if a water heater is less than seven years old. On the other hand, if a heater is older than seven years, replacing the device itself instead of its components is a good idea.
Rusting within the heater
Water heaters are used extensively throughout the year. The constant heating and cooling of water within the tank causes its metal surface to contract and expand. Over time, the seams of the tank lose their shape, and small amounts of water vapor escape through them. This results in the formation of rust within the tank. Rusting is one of the more surefire signs that a tank needs to be replaced.
Banging or popping sounds
New heaters work smoothly without making much noise. But over the years, sediment starts settling on the tank’s inner surface. Initially, this deposit consists of smaller particles, but eventually, it forms a larger, more solid mass. This sediment mass starts moving around the heater tank as water is constantly refilled and drained. As the sediment moves, it bangs against the sides of the tank and creates a clanging sound. This sound is heard every time the tank is turned on.
In such scenarios, regular maintenance will not improve the heater’s performance. Replacement is a better solution to tackle the problem once and for all.
Water heater replacement costs
Multiple factors influence the cost of replacing the appliance, such as its size, type, and labor expenses. The average price ranges between $1,800 to $2,000. Users wanting to dispose of their old heater may have to pay more.
Tips for hiring water heater replacement contractors
Many contractors out there can perform water heater replacement tasks for homeowners. As so many options are available, users must make decisions after considering a few factors.
Read online reviews
Assessing the contractor’s reputation is vital. Since replacing or repairing a water heater is a complex task, it is best to choose a company that is well-known in the market. One way to know whether a service is reliable is to read online reviews. Many websites let customers review contractors and rate them based on their work. These reviews paint an accurate picture of the contractor’s services and help people make an informed decision.
Check certification
A certification from an appropriate authority raises the credibility of any contractor. Usually, clients can request contractors to show this certification in order to verify their credibility. Contractors who do not have the necessary certification or accreditation must be avoided at all costs.
Look for experience
Companies that have been around for a long time are a safer bet when it comes to any repairs or replacements. Such companies will likely know how to do the job quickly and efficiently. Choosing a company with years of experience over a new provider is advisable, even if the latter offers cheaper water heater replacement prices.
Since replacing a water heater is a big task, one should not rush the process. Researching and comparing multiple contractors can help one get the job done correctly.
