You might be wondering whether it’s better to go through with water heater repairs in Grand Rapids, MN or just replace the unit. After all, a water heater is not a small purchase, so you want to be sure you’re making the right decision. However, it’s important to understand that while it’s more cost effective and typically less invasive to perform repairs, this move is not always the best option. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind when deciding to repair or replace your water heater.
Age of the water heater
If your water heater is acting up, the first thing to consider is the water heater’s age. Gas water heaters typically last 10 years, while tankless water heaters last 20 years or more, depending on the model, brand and how you’ve maintained the unit over the years. So, let’s say your water heater is beginning to fail. If it’s near the end of its life, the most reasonable option would be to replace it instead of attempting repairs—especially in cases where the repair is expensive.
Higher energy bills
Although you might not be able to separate out the part of your energy bill used to heat your home’s water supply, there’s a way to figure it out. The most obvious sign is having to turn the shower faucet dial further and further toward the “hot” side to maintain a pleasant warm water temperature. You might also be adjusting the temperature dial on the water heater unit in an attempt to produce more hot water. Either way, it means your water heater is not as efficient as it used to be. It now has to work harder and longer to produce the same results, which contributes to higher energy bills.
In short, if your water heater is old, costing you a lot more money to use and not producing hot water like it used to, then repairs are not likely to be worth the trouble. To be absolutely sure you’re making the right decision, hire a water heater technician to perform a thorough inspection.
Cost and frequency of repairs
When your water heater was newer, repairs were likely small or non-existent. Now that it’s older, it might break down more often. Let’s review a simple cost-benefit analysis that can help homeowners decide between repairing or replacing the unit. The 50 percent rule is pretty simple to follow—it states that any repair costing at least 50 percent of what it would cost to buy a new water heater is probably not worth doing. In this case, it’s better to replace it instead of repair it.
Also consider the frequency of repairs and the water heater’s age. Look back at how frequently your water heater has broken down over the past two years. If the repairs have been numerous, this could be a sign that further repairs aren’t worth it.
Ultimately, if your water heater is in the early period of its lifespan and the repair doesn’t look like it’s going to be very expensive, make the repair! You’ll eventually have to replace the unit, but there’s no reason to do this any earlier than necessary.
When you are in need of water heater repairs in Grand Rapids, MN, look no further than Rapids Plumbing & Heating Inc. Call us today with questions or for a free service estimate!