Water Heater Repair vs. Replacement

Author: Your Local Plumber
July 15, 2025

When your hot water runs out mid-shower or your water heater starts making strange noises, it’s easy to panic. But before you rush into buying a new unit, let’s break down a key question every Lacey homeowner faces at some point:

Should you repair your water heater—or replace it entirely?
The answer depends on a few specific factors. Here’s how to make the smart call.

Start with These 5 Questions

1. How Old Is Your Water Heater?
Most traditional tank water heaters last 8–12 years. Tankless models can go 15–20 years with good maintenance. If your water heater is near or past its life expectancy, replacement usually makes more sense.

2. Is It Leaking from the Tank?
If water is leaking from the bottom of the tank, that’s a red flag. Internal corrosion means the tank is likely done. No repair can permanently fix a failing tank. Time to replace. Leaks from valves or connections? That might be fixable.

3. How’s Your Water Quality?
Rusty water? Cloudy water? Metallic smell? Those could be signs of:

Tank corrosion
Failing anode rod
Sediment buildup

Some of these issues can be solved with repairs or a flush, especially if caught early. But ongoing water quality problems usually signal deeper wear.

4. What’s the Cost of Repair?
If a repair costs more than 50% of a new unit, it’s rarely worth it—especially if your heater is over 7 years old. New water heaters are more energy-efficient and can save you money long-term.

5. Are You Running Out of Hot Water Frequently?
This could mean:

Your heater is undersized
Heating elements are failing
Sediment has reduced the tank’s effective volume

Upgrading to a newer, correctly sized unit (possibly tankless) may solve the issue for good.

When a Repair Might Be Enough

You may not need a full replacement if:

The unit is under 6 years old
You have a faulty thermostat or heating element
You notice a small leak from a connection, not the tank
Your water just isn’t getting hot enough (could be a simple fix)

In these cases, a skilled plumber can often get your unit running like new with a same-day repair.

When It’s Time to Replace

Here’s when you should seriously consider installing a new water heater:

It’s over 10 years old
It’s leaking from the tank
Your energy bills are rising without explanation
You’ve needed multiple repairs in the last year
You want to switch to tankless for endless hot water

Newer models are quieter, more efficient, and better at delivering consistent hot water—especially during Lacey’s chilly months.

Need Help Deciding?

At American Plumbing, we’ve helped hundreds of Lacey homeowners decide whether to repair or replace their water heaters. We’ll inspect your unit, explain your options clearly, and never upsell you on something you don’t need.

Call now to schedule a diagnostic visit: (360) 438-0611

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