Are you dealing with sudden, unwelcome bursts of cold water during showers? Or noticing drops in water pressure while washing dishes? If so, you’re not alone. Hot water tank issues are among the most common household issues, especially as the unit ages. But how can you tell if you’re due for a full replacement or only a simple hot water tank repair?
In this short blog with Weiss-Johnson, we’ll walk you through several telltale signs of water heater issues, and when a hot water tank repair or replacement may be the better choice. Let’s tap into the details below.
Why Hot Water Tanks Fail
Similar to most HVAC appliances, hot water tanks work as an interconnected system. If one component is broken or out of order, the entire system is affected. While hot water tanks are relatively straightforward, even small issues can eventually leader to bigger problems.
Over time, many hot water tanks often develop rust and corrosion. While stainless steel models offer greater protection against this, others require protective lining to slow the process. But given enough time, the metal will deteriorate. When this happens, rust can leak into your water supply.
Another commonly issue is sediment buildup. Edmonton’s water is considered hard, containing a high content of minerals like magnesium and calcium. Without regular descaling or tune-ups, the heating element or gas burner must work harder to heat water properly. If left unchecked, this can lead to a complete system failure.
Here are some clear warning signs your hot water tank may be failing:
- Rusty or orange coloured water
- Higher-than-normal energy bills
- Inconsistent water temperatures
- Unusual, odd smells
When a Hot Water Tank Repair Makes Sense
Even with regular maintenance, occasional issues can still occur. In many cases, these can be fixed quickly without replacing the entire system. Oftentimes, these are minor issues like a worn-out heating element. Fortunately, professional tune-ups can catch many of these issues early. Preventive care is your best defense against costly hot water tank repairs and even outright replacements.
Signs It’s Time for a Replacement
If your hot water tank heater is needing more extensive repairs or breaking down more often, it may be time for a replacement. These reoccurring issues usually point to a deeper system issue where smaller fixes aren’t enough.
Another key factor to consider is lifespan. Every hot water tank has a pre-determined service age, which you can expect it to last. While it varies by brand and model, most hot water tanks generally last between 8 to 12 years with proper maintenance. But if yours is older than that, you’re at a higher risk for severe, more sudden issues.
So, What’s the Best Choice?
When deciding between a hot water tank repair or a full replacement, there is no shortage of factors to consider. But as a general rule, if your quoted repair costs exceed 50% of the cost to replace, a replacement is generally the way to go.
A technician can give you a detailed recommendation after inspecting your system. Remember: you can’t always tell from the outside if hot water tank issues are minor or severe. Don’t risk the issue becoming worse. If you notice any signs that your water rank may be failing, call in a licensed plumbing expert immediately.
Tank Troubles? We’re Here to Help.
After a long day, dealing with hot water tank issues can feel like a second job. Let us handle it the only way we know how—expertly and exceptionally. Get in touch with us today to book your expert consultation, and say goodbye to leaky tanks and weak water pressure. With more than 100,000 happy customers served, Weiss-Johnson is Edmonton’s choice for truly exceptional hot water tank repairs, replacements, and beyond.
