Water Heater Repair & Replacement
When you rely on Elin Servies for water heater repair, maintenance or replacement, you can expect professional service from skilled plumbing experts. Water heater repair can be dangerous for inexperienced homeowners, so Elin Group offers 24-hour emergency water heater service. Your household will have hot water again as quickly as possible–in many cases, the same day.
When It’s Time for a Water Heater Replacement
Water heater replacement depends on age, condition, and budget. Get tips on whether it’s time for a water heater replacement from Elin Heating & Plumbing.
Water heaters are non-issues UNTIL you get hit with that first icy shower or giant puddle in the basement. Then you have to think fast: Repair or replace?
If it’s a conventional storage-tank water heater nearing the end of its 10 to 13-year life, replacement is obvious: New models are up to 20% more efficient and can save up to $700 in energy costs over the life of the unit.
However, if your water heater is only a few years old, repair may be the way to go. Not sure whether to repair or replace? Here’s how to decide.
How to Diagnose Water Heater Woes
Conventional water heaters are simple. Cold water enters the tank and is heated by an electric element or gas burner. A thermostat regulates the temperature, usually 120 to 140 degrees. As the water heats, pressure builds inside the tank. When you turn on a tap, pressure sends hot water out the faucet.
Because water heaters contain few moving parts, only a few things can go wrong.
- Pilot light on gas water heater flickers out.
- Circuit breaker for an electric heater trips.
- Burner or heating element fails.
- Theromostat breaks.
- Valve sticks.
Repairing or replacing any of those parts is relatively inexpensive: A plumber can do the job for $150 to $300. But if the tank is more than 10 years old, or if it’s leaking, a new water tank likely is in your future.
When Replacement is Your Only Choice
Over time, water minerals react with steel, corroding water heater tanks. When water heaters spring a leak, repair isn’t an option.
On the bright side, modern water heaters are far more energy-efficient than older models. Manufacturers now inject foam insulation between the tank and its outer shell, resulting in higher heat retention. New glass liners make tanks less prone to corrosion.
You’ll pay $500 to $1,500 to purchase and install a new conventional storage unit. A high-efficiency model that meets Energy Star standards saves up to 20% in energy costs.
Tankless, heat pump, and solar water heaters offer even bigger savings and also qualify for a federal tax credit. These products could cost three to five times more to buy and install, so consider payback carefully.
Get A Free Estimate
We are more than happy to give advice on which solution is most suitable for your needs, depending on your Plumbing Serviecs. Why not ask us to view your property and discuss the various options with you now. Our advice is free!