North South Carolina PlumbingRepair or Replace a Water Heater? A Straight Guide for Carolinas Homeowners
Quick answer
Look for the manufacture date on the label. Most tanks give about 8 to 12 years.
Check the age
Look for the manufacture date on the label. Most tanks give about 8 to 12 years.
When repair makes sense
A bad thermostat, element or thermocouple on a young unit is usually worth fixing.
When to replace
A leaking tank cannot be repaired. Rust in the water, repeated repairs and age past 10 years point toward replacement.
Tank or tankless
Tank is cheaper. Tankless takes less space and can last longer but may need gas and venting upgrades.
Cost
Published local ranges for a tank install are about $1,100 to $2,400.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell how old my water heater is?
The serial number on the label usually encodes the year and month. Ask a plumber to decode it if it is unclear.
What does a flush do?
It removes sediment and can improve efficiency and quiet noises, though it does not fix a failing tank.
What is an anode rod?
A sacrificial rod that protects the tank from rust. Replacing it can extend tank life.