• How do I know it's time for a new water heater?

    Nov.11.2008

    How can I determine when to buy a new water heater? Also, what's the price range for a 50 gallon water heater for a condo that I own? I deal with ARS for air conditioning but never for plumbing.

    Nathan, Frederick, MD

    Without seeing the water heater or knowing if regular preventative maintenance has been performed (necessary unless you have a self cleaning hot water heater) it is impossible to properly evaluate here. A free check up from an ARS/Rescue Rooter licensed professional is always recommended. The only “killer” to a water heater is a rusted out tank, any other problem that may occur is repairable. There are a couple of things you should take into consideration, including: age of the hot water heater, the frequency of flushing the model requires (annual or semi-annual) and whether maintenance has been performed regularly. If this water heater has not been properly maintained, pre-mature rusting on the inside of the holding tank is possible — and once the tank rusts through, replacement is the only option.

    The price of a water heater replacement depends on several factors such as code upgrades, permits and inspections, make and model of the hot water heater, and warranty. No one can tell you exactly how long your tank will last, but a trusted plumbing professional’s evaluation can help you better understand your specific options thus making your decision easier.

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