Do I Need a Water Heater Repair or Replacement?: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself

Have you ever caught yourself standing outside the shower, waiting for what seems like an eternity for the water to get warm? Almost everyone can relate. But what does it mean? Well, it has to do with your water heater. 

So if you’re running out of hot water in just a few minutes, take careful note. This type of poor performance is usually a sign that something is wrong with your system.

Now, delayed hot water doesn’t necessarily mean you need a new unit just yet. Your water heater may just need some simple repair services. So before you find yourself googling “plumbers near me” and making an appointment, you’ll want to consider whether you need water heater repair or a new water heater installation. Figuring out the difference can be tricky, but asking yourself these five questions can help:

1. How Old Is My Current Water Heater?

The first thing you want to consider is how old your current water heater is. Traditional tank model water heaters have a lifespan of about ten years. So if your unit is more than ten years old and experiencing issues, it may be time to have it replaced with a newer model.

Having a new water heater installed can provide your family with hot water for up to 20 years if properly maintained. Depending on the type of unit you get, your water heater may only need annual service (tank models) or maintenance every few years (tankless models).

2. Has My Water Heater Had Numerous Repairs?

Have you had what seems like endless repair work already done on your water heater? If your current system has needed constant services over the years, it’s definitely time to get a new water heater installation. 

Consistent repairs and recurring issues are an indicator that your current unit is beyond repair. The best bet (and the most cost-effective) will be to replace it with a new model.

3. Am I Happy with My Utility Costs?

When your water heater isn’t functioning correctly, it uses more energy and leads to a spike in utility costs. So you need to ask yourself if you’re okay with how high your bills have been. If you’ve seen a dramatic increase solely because of the water heater, you probably need a new one.

A new water heater installed will significantly cut down on your utility bills because the new system will be at peak performance.

4. Is My Water Heater Meeting My Family’s Needs?

Are your kids rushing through showers in the morning so that they can get done before the hot water runs out? As found in many homes, traditional tank model water heaters can only produce a limited supply of hot water at a time. If this has become an issue for your family, it might be time to get a new unit.

Tankless water heaters use a different heating element than their standard tank counterparts. Tankless units can provide an endless supply of hot water instantly because they warm the water when needed.

5. What Is My Budget Like for Water Heater Installation?

If you’re a homeowner, your primary concern when deciding to repair or replace their water heater is likely the expense. That’s why we advise you to look at your finances and determine what you can afford at the moment and what will be the most cost-effective in the long run. 

Having a simple repair may be less of an expense right now, but if what you really need is a replacement, keeping your current system is just going to cost you more as the years go on. A plumbing service can help you make these decisions and offer financing options to ease the costs.

Contact Kellie Plumbing for Your Water Heater Installation in Franklin, IN 

If you’re in Greenwood, IN, and wrestling with the dilemma of getting your water heater repaired or a new one installed, the experts at Kellie Plumbing can help! Our team of professions will bring years of experience to your home’s unique needs, assessing whether a simple repair job or a new water heater installation will be best for your family.

The professionals at Kellie Plumbing specialize in water heater repairs and installations. We’ll tackle any water heater issues your system may have with the utmost care and concern. Rest assured that when you choose us, your home is in good hands. Call us today to schedule an appointment!