Water heaters usually have a life span of 10 to 15 years. If yours is starting to wear down, not only could it make bathing, cooking, cleaning, and running appliances difficult, but it might also spring a leak that causes severe water damage. Rather than waiting until matters reach this point, use the guide below to be proactive about the situation.

What to Know About Water Heater Replacement

Signs You Need a New One 

While a lack of hot water is the most obvious indicator, there are some subtler signs that precede complete failure. For example, you might notice that what is coming out of the tap is discolored; this usually means there’s rust forming around the tank. Strange noises coming from the water heater are often the result of unhealthy sediment buildup. Puddling in your basement can mean the tank has sustained physical damage. If this is the case, call a plumber right away to prevent major flooding.

Traditional Vs. Tankless Water Heaters

If you determine that a new unit is necessary, you have two main options—a traditional water heater or a tankless model. The first physically stores the hot water and distributes it out as needed. The second calls up water once you turn the faucet and then runs it through a heat exchanger to warm it before sending it out to your fixtures or appliances.

They each have their advantages. Traditional water heaters are more affordable to install than their counterparts and usually are simpler to repair; however, they are neither as long-lasting or as energy-efficient as their tankless counterparts, resulting in higher utility bills. Additionally, they each have their own problems with capacity. For example, a traditional water heater can easily run out of the heated water it had been holding in reserve if you use multiple appliances at once or for an extended period. However, the water will start out hot and get colder as the supply diminishes. Since tankless heaters only treat the water when asked to, they can supposedly produce an endless supply—but only if it is feeding one appliance at a time. If two people are taking a shower, one person’s might start out chilly.

If you’re looking for a plumber to install a new water heater in your home, call Gardiner Plumbing in San Antonio, TX. This plumbing contractor also performs general repairs and remodeling services for customers throughout Hill Country using their 30 years of experience. To learn more about their offerings, visit them online. Request an estimate or meet-up by calling (210) 421-7756.