When to change a water heater?
The electric water heater is a piece of equipment that heats water through electricity. Regardless of the capacity of the water heater (40 gallons, 60 gallons or 80 gallons), there are some signs that it is time to change a water heater. This article presents the different signs that it is time to change your water heater and how to change it. If you have just found out that your water heater is leaking or if it has died, Helpmee allows you to find a trusted plumber quickly to change your water heater.
When to change a water heater?
There are several signs that it’s time to change a water heater.
The age of the water heater
The first sign is the age of the water heater. It is recommended to change a water heater after 10 years, even if the warranty on a water heater can extend over a period of 12 to 15 years. The 10-year requirement comes from insurers who have had to compensate for more and more water damage caused by old water heaters.
The quality of the water coming out of the water heater
If the hot water is slightly colored, if it has an odor, or if it contains rust, it may be time to change your water heater.
Finally, if you notice rust on the water heater, it’s no longer producing hot water, its circuit breaker trips frequently, or you notice a water leak, you may need to replace your water heater quickly.
How to change a water heater?
No matter which brand of water heater you choose (Bradford White, Giant, Rheem, etc.), it is possible to install a water heater yourself. However, since installing a water heater requires working with electrical power and water, it is recommended to go through a plumber and an electrician to change and install a new water heater, to avoid any risk of electrocution.
How much does a water heater cost?
In the price of a water heater, it is important to distinguish several factors that will influence its price.
Rent or buy a water heater
On the market, you have the opportunity to rent or buy your water heater. To rent is a little more expensive (between $600 and $1,000 more), but it gives you access to a technician at all times for repairs. It’s up to you to evaluate both options.
Water heater price of labor
The price of the water heater will depend on the brand of water heater (Rheem EcoSense, Watts, Reflecto-Foil, Honeywell, Advantage, Stiebel Eltron, Rheem, Power-Pipe, Eccotemp, SharkBite) and its capacity (40 gallons, 60 gallons or 80 gallons). If you decide to change the water heater yourself, you only have to pay for the price of the water heater, from $250 (for a mini water heater with tank) to $950. You will then have to make arrangements to get rid of your old water heater.
Changing water heater with a plumber
Prices will also vary depending on the brand and size of the water heater. However, you will benefit from the economy of scale of the plumber who buys the water heaters wholesale. For the price of the water heater it will be necessary to add costs for labor and the recovery of the old water heater. It can sometimes be extra if you have too many stairs.
It is also advised to take advantage of the water heater change to install a water heater pan for water recovery. Very useful in case of leakage, it will direct the water flowing from the water heater directly to the drain.
