Should I Repair Or Replace My Hot Water System?

Homeowners often need to make a decision between repairing or replacing different appliances and fixtures. The delicate balance between being budget conscious and forward-thinking for long-term cost benefits. This is often a very difficult decision for property owners, particularly for large items like hot water systems.

When deciding whether or not to repair or replace this often forgotten but essential appliance, there are a few things to keep in mind.

You need to consider the age of the system and the demand placed on it. Also, note whether or not the hot water system is inefficient or delivering inconsistent temperatures.

Here’s more information on each of these factors to help you make this important decision below.

If you are purchasing an established home, it may be wise to ask the realtor how old the hot water system is. As a rule of thumb, most last around 8 to 12 years if well maintained. Reach out to the manufacturer or distributor to get more accurate information.

Many homeowners overlook their hot water systems until they leak or become unreliable. This is usually around the 15-to-20-year mark. At this point, it’s best to replace the entire system with a new one.

If your system is new or younger than 8 years, it may be more sensible to repair the system instead, especially if there is only one part that is failing in the system.

However, before attempting any repairs on your own, make sure you are not about to do anything that would void your warranty. It is always the safer option to let a professional assess the issue and make any fixes.

Over time, things change and families grow. If you started living in your home as a couple and over time expand your family, the demand on your system will increase significantly.

Adding newer or larger appliances, like a new washer, may also contribute to less than ideal performance for the current hot water system.

Swapping a smaller system out for a hot water system that services your family’s needs would not only reduce frustration when trying to use hot water around the home, but an update may save you money in the long run

Older hot water systems tend not to be very energy efficient. As a result, this alone can contribute to high electricity bills. Over time that could be saved over time if a new more efficient system is installed.

New systems benefit from new advancements that improve energy consumption. Buying a new system will be the more economical choice in the long run.

While a leaking tank is a serious issue, not all leaks require you to get rid of your existing system. Check to see if any fittings need tightening. If you are not able to locate the source of the leak, call a professional to investigate rather than guessing yourself.

If there is corrosion on the tank, it is likely that the entire system needs to be replaced.

Dirty or smelly water can indicate that the system is cordoning internally. In this instance, the system would need to be replaced.

There may temporary strategies that can help improve the quality of your water in the short term, but it is likely that this issue can only be fully solved by investing in a new system.

Water temperature

A hot water system that is not delivering hot water can possibly be a simple fix. The thermostat may need replacing, in which case there is no need for a completely new system, just a new thermostat.

However, this is where age, usage, and condition come into the equation. The poor water temperature can, indeed, result from something simple like the thermostat. Still, it could be a symptom of a more significant problem, which is why it’s advisable to call in an expert that can take a closer look and identify exactly what the issue is so that you can make the best decision on what to do.

Your budget

If the replacement cost is simply outside of your budget, see if you can get a professional to repair the issue and make it usable until you have the ability to purchase a new one.

If you have a faulty hot water system and need to identify if your current hot water system is best repaired or replaced, you can call our experts at Carrick Plumbing & Roofing today.

We are available to provide you with reliable advice that can assist you with this decision and can also complete any work that you need in a timely manner.