By: Joe Bousquin
Water heaters eventually break, but repairing or replacing depends on age, condition, and budget.
Conventional water heaters are simple. Cold water enters the tank and is heated by an electric element or gas burner. A thermostat regulates the temperature, usually 120 to 140 degrees. As the water heats, pressure builds inside the tank. When you turn on a tap, pressure sends hot water out the faucet.
Because water heaters contain few moving parts, only a few things can go wrong.
Repairing or replacing any of those parts is relatively inexpensive: A plumber can do the job for $150 to $300.
But if the tank is more than 10 years old, or if it’s leaking, a new water tank likely is in your future.
Over time, water minerals react with steel, corroding water heater tanks. When water heaters spring a leak, repair isn’t an option.
On the bright side, modern water heaters are far more energy-efficient than older models. Manufacturers now inject foam insulation between the tank and its outer shell, resulting in higher heat retention. New glass liners make tanks less prone to corrosion.
You’ll pay $500 to $1,500 to purchase and install a new conventional storage unit. A high-efficiency model that meets Energy Star standards saves up to 20% in energy costs.
Even with conventional water heaters, replacement might not be as simple as hauling out the old and hooking up the new. Many local building codes now require you to upgrade the following:
If you know your way around plumbing tasks, you may be able to install the new unit yourself. Most manufacturers provide detailed instructions, and you’ll need to check your local building codes. Turn off the water and gas or electric before you begin, and take particular care to vent gas models properly.
Whether you repair or replace, water heaters will perform better and last longer if you flush the tank once a year to remove sediment. A bonus: Without all that gunk inside, your water heater will operate more efficiently, saving you money.
Also, check the anode rod—sometimes called the sacrificial rod—every three years. An aluminum or magnesium probe inside the tank, it collects corrosive elements and should be replaced when caked or eaten away. A new one costs about $30.
Stay on top of these simple maintenance tasks and you can avoid thinking about water heaters again for a long time.
Visit HouseLogic.com for more articles like this. Reprinted from HouseLogic.com with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.
