Repair or replace?
Most tank water heaters in the East Valley last 8 to 12 years. Hard water shortens that: minerals settle in the bottom of the tank, the burner or elements work harder, and the tank eventually rusts through. A plumber can tell you in one visit whether you're looking at a $200 fix or a new heater.
Usually worth repairing: a failed thermostat, heating element, gas valve, thermocouple or pilot assembly, a leaking drain valve, or a tripped high-limit switch on a heater that's under about eight years old.
Usually time to replace: a leak from the tank itself, rusty hot water, a heater past 10 to 12 years, or repeated repairs.
What a replacement includes
- Removal and disposal of your old heater
- A new gas or electric tank sized for your household (40, 50 or 75 gallon)
- New supply connections, a code-required expansion tank and a correctly piped temperature and pressure relief valve
- Venting and gas connections checked and leak-tested
- A walk-through of your new heater and how to flush it
Keep it running longer
An annual flush clears the sediment that hard water leaves behind. Pair it with a water softener and a new heater can last years longer. Thinking about going tankless? We'll price both so you can compare.