Water heaters typically last 10-15 years. If you’re getting close to the recommended lifespan, consider replacement now rather than waiting for yours to die at an inconvenient time.
Make sure you choose the right size water heater for your household needs. If you have a family of 5, for instance, you may need a 50-gallon tank or more.
Water heaters are not cheap, and the cost of replacing an old one is even more expensive. Despite the high price tag, it is a necessity to have a working hot water heater in your home.
Depending on the type of water heater, it can cost anywhere from $600 to $3500 to replace a tank or tankless model. Typically, the most affordable way to go is by simply swapping out an existing unit for an identical model. This eliminates the need for additional fuel tanks, supply lines or power venting systems.
However, if you want to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model, you will need to add electrical wiring ($550 to $2,300), gas line installation ($275 to $825) or a water line ($350 to $1,900). These extra costs should be considered when choosing your new unit.
The location of your water heater will also play a role in installation costs. Those installed in tight spaces, like crawlspaces or barns, usually cost more to replace than those in easy-to-access areas. Furthermore, installing a larger water heater will often require a permit. Local permitting fees cost between $25 and $300 and are required when altering plumbing, electricity or gas lines. Most plumbers handle these permits for their customers and include the fee in their overall estimate.
If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan, it is likely time to replace it. Waiting until it fails completely could leave you without a hot water supply for several days. If you’re not ready to invest in a new unit, consider making repairs instead. Most plumbers can make minor adjustments that will give your current water heater a few more years of life before it’s time to replace it.
If you do decide to replace your water heater, be sure to check out available rebates and incentives. Many manufacturers offer financial incentives when purchasing a high-efficiency model. These rebates can offset the upfront cost and provide long-term savings on your utility bills. If you’re unsure where to find these offers, ask your contractor or search online for available rebates.
Energy Efficiency
Warm and running water is an essential part of modern life, allowing for showers, hand-washing, washing dishes, cooking and laundry. It’s easy to take it for granted until a malfunctioning water heater forces you to seek out a replacement, often at the worst possible moment, just before guests arrive for a week-long visit. Instead of rushing out to put in whatever model is available, search for the energy-efficient option that best suits your needs.
Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified water heater will help you cut your utility bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While these units may cost more upfront, the energy savings will quickly pay for them. In addition, rebates and other financing options are available for ENERGY STAR models.
The age of your current water heater is another factor that influences energy efficiency. The average tank lasts about a decade, and older models consume more energy to heat water than newer units. Sediment buildup, corrosion and other problems can also reduce efficiency, leading to a rise in energy consumption.
Even if your water heater isn’t old enough to fail, you can save money on your energy costs by installing an ENERGY STAR unit or making other efficiency improvements. For example, insulate your water heater and pipes to reduce energy losses. In addition, lowering the temperature of your water heater can save 3 to 5 percent on heating costs.
A leaky water heater is another major source of energy waste. A single drip per second from a leaky tank or water pipe can cost you up to $1 a month in energy expenses. By fixing leaks, you can save gallons of water and cut your energy bills.
You can further lower your utility bills by switching to a hybrid electric water heater (HEWH). While these units still account for only 1 percent of the market, they offer substantial energy savings. In fact, the EPA estimates they can cut your energy usage by up to 20 percent. If you’re considering a HEWH, speak to local contractors who are familiar with these products to ensure proper installation.
Installation
Running water is a necessity for most of us. From bathing to doing laundry and dishes, we depend on hot water to keep our homes clean and comfortable. However, if your old water heater starts to fail, it may cause serious damage to your home and lead to expensive repair bills.
If you’re thinking of replacing your old water heater, you should know that it is a fairly involved project and should be performed by a professional. Water heater installation requires proper connection of the plumbing and gas lines to ensure safe operation. It is also important to ensure that the new water heater is installed in a location with proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide leaks. If the existing water and gas lines need to be extended or modified, this will add to the overall cost of the project.
During the installation process, your plumbing professional will make sure that the new water heater is properly connected to the existing pipes in accordance with your local building codes. This includes connecting the incoming cold and outgoing hot water lines. Your plumber will also install a new junction box and drain line and connect the electrical wires to the new water heater. In addition, your plumber will disconnect the old water heater and dispose of it properly.
Installing a new water heater can be tricky for homeowners who don’t have much plumbing experience. It is especially dangerous to attempt this project while the old water heater is still in place and filled with hot water. The first step in the installation process is to shut off the water and power to the old water heater. If you have an electric water heater, shut off the circuit breaker. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas at the valve closest to the unit. Next, you’ll need to drain the water heater tank by attaching a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank. Open the drain valve slowly and allow the water to drain completely.
Finally, you’ll need to disconnect the gas line from the old water heater and disconnect the vent pipe if it’s a gas model. Then, remove the access panel on the old electric water heater and disconnect the wires from the thermostat by using a screwdriver. You should also remove any insulation from the top of the tank to avoid damage when removing it.
Maintenance
No homeowner likes to be confronted with the fact that their water heater needs to be replaced. But, there comes a time when even the best and highest quality models do not last forever.
As a general rule, water heaters have a lifespan of about ten years. If they are kept in good condition, however, this time period may be extended significantly.
One of the most obvious signs that a water heater is getting old is when it starts to leak. Leaks may come from the tank itself, or they may result from problems with the tank’s fittings or connections. In either case, it is important to have a professional examine the situation immediately. Leaks can soak or destroy belongings and cause serious water damage.
Another sign that a water heater is getting old is if it begins to make loud noises. A loud, rumbling sound is often the result of mineral and sediment buildup inside the tank. This debris can rust through the tank and cause serious damage. The best way to deal with these issues is by flushing the water heater on a regular basis, which drains out the sediment and allows the unit to function properly.
If you notice that your hot water has a metallic taste, this may indicate that the metal inside the water heater has rusted through. A corroded tank may be leaking into your plumbing, which can lead to flooding and ruin your possessions. In most cases, it is essential to have the tank drained and replaced as soon as possible.
Many homeowners attempt to perform their own water heater replacements, but this is not a good idea and should only be done by licensed professionals. It is dangerous to work with natural gas, propane, or electricity, and the proper safety precautions must be taken. Also, there are a number of state and local laws that require a permit to do any type of work on a home’s water and gas lines. A professional plumber will be familiar with these regulations and will know how to do the job safely.