It’s easy to see a replacement water heater as an expense. When you’re constantly spending money to keep things moving, it makes sense that you’d want to hold onto an older appliance to see if you can squeeze another year or so out of it.
However, waiting for your plumbing to give out on you is no way to save money. Replacing your older water heater is more costly up front than crossing your fingers that it’ll last a while longer, but it’s also a wise investment that will help you keep more money in your pocket.
How Old Units Cost You
Water heaters sit quietly and undisturbed in most homes for years. Because they’re often tucked away in basements or utility closets, it’s easy to forget they even exist.
As water heaters age, they lose their efficiency. Your unit eventually must work twice as hard as it did a few years ago. Before you know it, the long run times and high water bills are just too much to bear.
A new water heater won’t have any of those efficiency issues. Better yet, it will come pre-equipped with the latest and greatest technology, making it even more efficient at a baseline, not simply because it’s new.
How Often Should You Replace a Water Heater?
Most traditional tank-style heaters last between eight and twelve years. Anything higher than ten years is a likely candidate for water heater replacement. It may still be producing hot water, but the older it is, the higher the chance it has of leaking.
You can also reach out to your plumber if you aren’t sure; year eight could be the beginning of the end for some models, while others may fare better past year ten.
Do High-Efficiency Water Heaters Save Money?
Yes, modern water heaters are much cheaper to run than anything manufactured a decade ago. Heating water accounts for one of the biggest home expenses, too, so a water heater replacement is a significant investment that pays for itself over time through monthly savings.
Preventing the Expensive “Emergency”
One of the biggest ways you’ll save money with a proactive water heater replacement is avoiding the chaos of needing to replace it in an emergency. And while having no warm water seems like the only “emergency” worth calling a professional about, leaks can be even more damaging and frustrating.
Water heater leaks are a mess. You’ll deal with hidden water damage, possible mold growth, and still have to shell out for a new water heater. It’s always best to get professional eyes on your system if it’s reached the double digits and keep an open mind to replacing it.
The cost of a new water heater is nothing compared to the cost of water damage restoration.
Get a Clear Assessment and Discuss Your Options
Are you ready to talk more about the many benefits of water heater replacement? Contact the team at Quality Plumbing & Mechanical today, and we’ll help you find the best upgrades that won’t break your budget.
