A water heater doesn’t get much thought until it stops working. When faced with the prospect of cold showers, the homeowner has to quickly decide whether to repair or replace the unit. If the heater is a conventional tank-style unit reaching the end of its 10-year lifespan, replacement is the obvious choice. However, if the unit has not reached the end of its useful life, water heater repair in Weatherford TX may be a viable option. Below, homeowners can get more information on deciding the repair vs. replacement issue.
Diagnosing Water Heater Problems
A conventional water heater is fairly simple. Cold water goes into the tank, where it is heated by a gas burner or electric element. The thermostat regulates the temperature, keeping it below 140 degrees. As water heats, pressure builds in the tank, and the pressure is released when the tap is turned on. Water heaters contain very few moving parts, and not much can go wrong except:
- The pilot light goes out on a gas unit
- The circuit breaker is switched off
- The heating element or burner fails
- The thermostat fails
- A valve sticks
Repairing or replacing parts is usually inexpensive, and plumbers can usually do it for less than $300. However, if the tank is more than a decade old, a new unit is likely in the future.
When Replacement is the Only Option
Over the years, minerals in the water corrode the heater’s tank. When a water heater develops a leak, repair is not an option. Today’s water heaters are more energy-efficient than older units are. Manufacturers put foam insulation between tank and shell, allowing the unit to retain more heat. It can cost up to $2000 to buy and install a new water heater, but the homeowner can save 20% or more in utility costs.
Maintaining the Water Heater
Whether the homeowner opts for repair or replacement, water heaters last longer and perform better if they are maintained regularly. The tank should be flushed yearly to remove harmful sediment, and the anode rod should be checked every three years. This rod catches corrosive elements and it should be replaced when it deteriorates. By staying on top of water heater repair in Weatherford TX, homeowners can avoid the hassle and expense of total water heater replacement.
