Does Your Tankless Water Heater Need To Be Replaced?

Plumbing professionals from Scottsdale, AZ share signs that may require tankless water heater replacement

United States - November 14, 2023 / AZ Water Solutions /

Here's How To Tell If It's Time To Go About Replacing A Water Heater

Nothing lasts forever, and unfortunately for homeowners, those hundreds of dollars they spend on a water heater can only buy them so much time. With daily use, water heaters will wear down and show signs that they need to be replaced. To help homeowners figure out when that time has come, here are a few of the most common signs that a water heater has reached the end of its lifespan.

Concerning Water Heater Corrosion

old water heater Corrosion occurs when a material—usually something metal—reacts with another substance, such as water, hydrogen, oxygen, or certain salts and acids. When this happens, rust is formed, which can compromise the strength and integrity of that material. Since water heaters are made to contain and even facilitate the flow of water, they are expected to have their fair share of corrosion, a process that is slowed down significantly by the presence of an anode rod.

Eventually, the anode rod succumbs to corrosion and becomes depleted, allowing rust to make its way to the water flowing out of fixtures around the house. This, along with discolored water that is accompanied by a faint metallic odor, are signs that the water heater in question could be due for a replacement.

Inability To Produce Hot Water

Hot water production is the primary purpose of a tankless water heater, and any failure to produce hot water in the quantities required should lead homeowners to question whether or not it is time to replace it. After all, no one wants to endure tepid baths or cold showers, and neither would they want to step into a stream of warm water only to be left shivering when the hot water supply quickly runs out. While it is possible to investigate the cause of the problem and come up with a fix, homeowners should also weigh on whether the cost of this particular water heater repair is more expensive than going for a new unit that will likely need fewer fixes or maintenance moving forward.

Nearing the End of a Tankless Water Heater Lifespan

Tankless water heaters are a newer invention than the original storage tank water heater that is more widely used in most homes, but they are by no means made of lesser quality. Tankless water heaters have a longer life expectancy than traditional water heaters, which are expected to last 10-15 years. In contrast, a tankless water heater's lifespan is about 5 years longer or more.

Homeowners who have units about a decade or two old may want to start considering getting a replacement, especially if its age shows through observable wear and tear. Older heaters that are not well-maintained are also more prone to frequent breakdowns, so it might be wise to consider if the accumulated cost of so many repairs may be costing homeowners more than just replacing the old unit with a new one.

About AZ Water Solutions

AZ Water Solutions is Maricopa County's trusted plumbing solutions provider. They provide a full range of water safety services that cover everything from home filtration systems to water softener installation and repairs. They offer free quotes, straightforward pricing, and personalized customer service that allow customers to afford life-giving water safety solutions. Call them today for a water heater replacement service in Scottsdale, AZ.