Water Heater Repair & Replacement

When Is Water Heater Replacement Necessary?

Residents and commercial owners would prefer not to spend money on any unnecessary system in their homes. A dependable water heater, however, is a crucial resource we can’t live without. Even if the heater has lasted for many years, there will eventually come a day when the most reliable heater can’t keep going. This is where it becomes essential to look for signs that the water heater should just be replaced instead. Rather than letting an inefficient, old heater use up lots of energy, it is a better idea to save money with a more effective system. 

A few of the most common signs that a water heater is on its way out include:

• An inability to run hot water more than a small trickle 
• Strange sounds of whistling, hissing, banging, or rattling
• Unusual odors whenever the water heater turns on
• Abnormally low water pressure
• Warm water that only lasts for a few minutes
• Signs of rust or corrosion inside the tank

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

How long a water heater lasts depends on a number of factors, including frequency of maintenance, extent of use, quality of installation, make and model, and more. However, it is generally safe to assume that a tank water heater will last anywhere from 8 to 12 years and a tankless water heater will last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. 

The Economic Value of Water Heater Replacements 

Of course, anyone who owns a house or a business will always seek to avoid gratuitous replacement. Nevertheless, if a water heater starts cutting out, it is critical to have it replaced before it breaks down fully. This will end up saving money in the long run. For one thing, the water heater will run more efficiently, since it does not have faulty parts. Old gas burners and exhaust flues will cause the system to use up a lot more energy. With these kinds of broken or corroded parts, the utility bills will rise dramatically. A more modern replacement is designed to utilize gas or electricity more effectively, which saves a lot of money.

Another reason for a water heater replacement is that it is more cost-effective than buying lots of single parts. Malfunctioning components, like a drain valve or a pressure relief valve, can be expensive on their own. If it turns out that the whole gas burner and assembly are impaired, the cost could be substantial. Instead of purchasing multiple, separate elements whenever they fail, it is better to get a whole new system from the start. Our skilled plumbing contractors at Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C are ready to offer dependable support for any water heater care.  

Additional benefits of a new water heater include:

• Faster hot water recovery rates
• Extended system warranties 
• Reduced energy consumption 
• Space savings (If you opt to purchase a tankless model)
• Increased supply of hot water 
• Quieter system operation

There are several types of water heaters, each designed to meet different needs based on efficiency, capacity, and energy source. Here are the main types:

1. Conventional Storage Tank Water Heater

• Stores and heats a set amount of water (typically 30–80 gallons).
• Available in electric, gas, or propane models.
• Provides a steady supply but can run out, requiring time to reheat.

2. Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heater

• Heats water only when needed, providing continuous hot water.
• More energy-efficient but may struggle with high-demand households.
• Available in electric, gas, or propane options.

3. Heat Pump (Hybrid) Water Heater

• Uses electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water.
• Very energy-efficient, reducing electricity consumption by up to 60%.
• Works best in warm climates and requires ample space.

4. Solar Water Heater

• Uses solar panels to heat water, typically with a backup system.
• Environmentally friendly and reduces energy bills.
• High upfront cost but long-term savings.

5. Condensing Water Heater (Gas Only)

• Ideal for homes using natural gas.
• Captures and utilizes exhaust gases to improve efficiency.
• Best suited for households needing large amounts of hot water.

6. Point-of-Use Water Heater

• Small, tankless units installed near a specific faucet or appliance.
• Provides instant hot water without waiting for a central system.
• Ideal for sinks, dishwashers, or remote locations.