When should your water heater be replaced?
A water heater should be replaced if it shows the following symptoms:
- Age of the Unit: Water heaters that are 10+ years old are less efficient and more prone to failure.
- Major Tank Leaks: Internal corrosion causing tank leaks means replacement is necessary.
- Frequent Repairs: Continuous breakdowns can add up to costly repairs.
- Poor Efficiency: Rising energy bills due to inefficient heating.
- Insufficient Hot Water: The unit can’t meet your household’s hot water demands anymore.
- Safety Concerns: Signs of rust, cracks, or electrical/gas hazards.
Benefits of Replacing
- Improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
- New warranties and reduced risk of sudden failures.
- Opportunity to upgrade to more advanced models (e.g., tankless, heat pump).
- Better capacity and technology suited to your current needs.
Choosing the Right Water Heater for your Home
Colorado homeowners have several options when it comes to water heaters:
- Traditional Tank Water Heaters: These store a specific amount of hot water ready to use. They tend to have lower upfront costs but may be less energy efficient over time.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Also known as on-demand heaters, these units heat water only when needed, offering unlimited hot water with increased energy savings. Their compact size is ideal for saving space.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: Utilizing ambient air to heat water, heat pump models provide an energy-efficient solution but work best in moderate climates or well-insulated spaces.
- Solar Water Heaters: Leveraging Denver’s ample sunshine, solar water heaters provide an eco-friendly option, though they may require backup systems for cloudy days or winter months.