Hot water is one of those little luxuries we tend to take for granted—until it's lost. From washing dishes to a hot shower, your water heater is the center of your home's comfort. Similar to all appliances, however, water heaters are not immortal. When issues do arise, though, the problem is whether or not a water heater repair in Cambridge will suffice or a complete replacement is the more intelligent choice.
At Minuteman Plumbing & Heating, we help Cambridge homeowners with the right choices for their water heaters daily. Here's how to know if you should get yours serviced—and when to replace it.
Learning How Long Your Water Heater Lasts
Most domestic water heaters will last between 10 and 15 years if properly maintained. Lifespan will otherwise vary depending on the unit type, water quality, quality of installation, and servicing frequency. If your water heater is over 10 years old, keeping it under closer observation for performance problems would be best.
When a Repair Might Be Enough
Not all problems need a complete replacement. A professional repair might be all your water heater needs in most situations. Some of the common problems that can usually be repaired include:
1. Intermittent or No Hot Water : If your hot water is depleting too rapidly—or fails to heat—then a malfunctioning thermostat or frayed heating coil may be the culprit. These are usually easy fixes that don't equate to new unit replacement.
2. Odd Noises : Popping and gurgling sounds typically result from sediment accumulation in the tank. This puts extra strain on the heating coils, making them work less efficiently. A qualified tank flush will normally correct this.
3. Leaks or Water Ponding : Even the most minute water leak must be dealt with immediately, but minor leaks can be fixed at fittings or valves. Should the tank itself leak, however, that is the more critical problem—possibly one where it must be replaced.
4. Rusty or Colored Water : Rusty water does not necessarily indicate your tank is finished. Draining the tank or replacing the rusty anode rod can repair it. Regardless, it would be a good idea to have a plumber check the unit out for hidden corrosion inside. 5. Pilot Light or Heating Elements Failure
Gas units with pilot light issues or electrical units with broken elements can most often be repaired. These elements are replaceable, and their repair is normally less costly than replacing a new heater.
When It's Time for a Replacement
Even with routine maintenance, all water heaters will eventually reach a point where repairs aren't worth repairs. Here's how to know if that point has been reached:
1. The Unit Is More Than 10–15 Years Old : If your water heater is 10–15 years old or older, life may be over. In that case, your water heater is likely still operational—but inefficiently. Newer models possess the most advanced energy-saving features and require fewer repairs. At this point, replacement often becomes the wiser investment.
2. Frequent Repairs : If properly maintained, a water heater should not require significant repairs. If you find yourself needing to repair your water heater more than once, that’s a strong signal it’s time for a replacement.
3. Excessive Energy Bills : Older water heaters use more energy than required. New high-efficiency water heaters use less energy to provide the same volume of heated water, which saves you money each month on your bill. If your energy bills are growing without your consumption growing, your water heater is likely to blame.
4. Total System Breakdown : If your unit is completely non-functional or the tank has been compromised, repair is not an option. In such situations, replacement is the only feasible solution to get hot water flowing in your home once again.
The Bottom Line
Your water heater is one of the most worked appliances in your household, and as with anything with an expiration date, it will eventually require a replacement. Minuteman Plumbing & Heating understands the convenience of having hot water available anytime. For this reason, our expert plumbers will meticulously inspect your system and walk you through the least expensive path—a speedy fix or complete makeover.
Don't lose hot water for good. If you've had a burst water heater or don't know what's going on with the water heater, get in touch with Minuteman Plumbing & Heating today. We'll give you our candid assessment and skilled care so you can make an informed choice for your home and bank account.
Call us today and schedule an inspection to experience continuously running hot water.
