A lot of people’s everyday routines, including taking showers and washing dishes, depend on their water heaters. You might find it tempting to use an outdated water heater, but doing so can lead to a number of problems. You can make a more educated decision about your home’s hot water demands if you are aware of these drawbacks.
Higher Energy Usage
Traditional water heaters aren’t always as energy-efficient as newer models. When sediment accumulates in the tank, the unit’s ability to heat water efficiently degrades over time. Rising energy costs are a direct result of this inefficiency’s effect on energy usage. What’s more, the increased energy use results in a bigger carbon footprint, which has a detrimental effect on the environment. Investing in a new, energy-efficient water heater instead of using an older one will help reduce your effect on the environment and your wallet.
Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion are big worries when it comes to older water heaters. The internal components of these devices degrade over age, which might cause leaks. The water heater’s steel tank is especially susceptible to rust accumulation over time. As a result, rust particles might end up in your hot water supply. Water with a metallic taste or tint is an indication of rust. Rust and corrosion will ultimately force you to replace your water heater, even if it has regular maintenance.
Poor Water Quality
Although rust is one potential issue, there are other issues to think about when it comes to water contamination. Bacterial growth inside the tank might occur as a result of silt buildup. Bacteria like these can make your hot water smell and taste bad. Plus, your household’s health is at risk if you use water that isn’t safe for cooking and bathing.
Limited Capacity
The need for hot water tends to rise in tandem with evolving lifestyles and expanding families. Some older water heaters may not be able to handle the demands of modern households due to the heaters’ low capacity. Even a unit that seemed sufficient before may not be able to provide enough hot water for a full load of laundry, dishes and showers. When the hot water runs out at the most inconvenient times, such as during peak demand, this limited capacity can be a real frustration. To make matters worse, some older models can be sluggish when it comes to reheating water. With their increased capacity and improved heating technologies, contemporary water heaters are more than capable of handling larger homes.
Increased Maintenance Costs
Older water heaters often need servicing more frequently than modern ones. Over time, problems like leaks, broken thermostats and broken heating components can pile up. The cost of these repairs can add up, making it difficult to afford to keep an older water heater. On top of that, some repairs will be Band-Aid solutions, which will do nothing more than delay the final replacement. A new water heater is an investment that pays for itself over time via fewer repairs and maintenance calls.
Safety Hazards
Using a broken water heater also poses serious safety risks. Some older heaters may not have pressure-release valves to avoid potentially harmful pressure accumulation. In the worst-case scenario, this might cause explosions or leaks. Another concern is water damage from a leaking water heater, which is more common in older models. Water damage can lead to the growth of mold and other hazardous situations. The best course of action is to replace the old unit.
Incompatibility With New Fixtures
Some newer fixtures have precise temperature and pressure requirements that older water heaters may not be able to meet. This compatibility issue may cause subpar performance and premature heater and fixture failure. The best way to make sure all of your plumbing fixtures work together, both now and in the future, is to replace your old water heater.
Noise Problems
Old water heaters also tend to make a lot of noise. As the water becomes hotter due to sediment accumulation, you may hear a rumbling or pounding sound. Having a water heater next to a living area can make this noise much more annoying. Older versions may also have worn-out parts that make a lot of noise while they’re working. The installation of a new, energy-efficient water heater will result in a more peaceful home.
Resale Value Concerns
The value of your property may decrease if you continue to use an outdated water heater. Homebuyers are wary of houses that have old equipment, particularly if such items are dangerous or need replacing soon. Replacing the old heater with a new one is a great selling point that can increase the total worth of your home. This upgrade can even help your home sell faster.
What to Expect During a Water Heater Installation
Water heater installation follows a certain protocol. The service person will first come to your house to inspect the current water heater system. After removing the old heater, they will set up the new one, hooking it up to the power and water systems already in place. This might take a few hours or more, depending on how complicated the installation is.
There are several steps you can take to prepare your home for the new water heater. First things first: make sure the area surrounding the installation site is clear of any clutter. You want to ensure easy access for the technician. Next, make sure there aren’t any young children or pets in the way of the installer; this keeps the home safe for everyone during the installation process.
Scheduling Maintenance for Your New Water Heater
Make sure to schedule maintenance at least once a year to inspect for any possible problems, such as silt accumulation or leaks. Taking this preventative measure will keep your unit running efficiently and for a longer period of time.
Should You Get a Tankless Water Heater?
If you’re a homeowner looking to save money and have more convenience, installing a tankless water heater is a great choice. Tankless water heaters eliminate the need for a storage tank by heating water on demand, creating an infinite supply. This allows you to take hot showers, do laundry and wash dishes all at the same time without worrying about running out of water.
Tankless devices also have the added benefit of reducing energy expenses due to their increased efficiency. This means you’ll enjoy cheaper energy bills. Their small size allows for a variety of installation options, making them ideal for places with limited space. The extended lifetime of tankless water heaters — up to 20 years — makes them an excellent long-term investment.
Air Care Heating & Cooling is ready to help you switch out your old water heater for a new one. Our top priority is to make your home more comfortable and its equipment more convenient to use. We also help homeowners in Shawnee, KS with HVAC installations, indoor air quality, geothermal solutions, mini-split systems and more.
Call Air Care Heating & Cooling now to schedule a water heater replacement for your home.
