Hot water is used almost everyday in your home. Whether you are taking a shower, washing the dishes, or running the washing machine, you are using hot water. If your hot water tank suddenly stopped working you would want to get it fixed sooner rather than later.
Water Heater Troubleshooting
There are some common problems that can occur with your hot water tank that homeowners should keep an eye out for, including water discolouration, if the tank is leaking at the top or the bottom, or if there is low hot water pressure. Fixing these problems could be as simple as adjusting the thermostat or checking for built up sediment. If you have a gas heater, be on the lookout for issues with the pilot (if it will not light or stay lit) or burner flame problems. Even though initially it may seem like an easy fix you can do yourself, with an important home appliance like a hot water tank, it is always better to speak with a hot water tank professional.
Is it time to replace your hot water tank?
Water tanks typically have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years. There are some telltale signs that it is time to replace your hot water tank. If your water no longer heats up to as high a temperature as it used to, it is leaking, the gas pilot will not stay lit, or you can hear noise coming from your hot water tank, you may need a new water heater or need to call a hot water tank repair service, at least. A professional will be able to provide you with the proper advice about whether you need to repair your hot water tank or get a new one.
To Buy or To Rent?
Homeowners have the choice between purchasing a hot water tank or renting one. There are pros and cons to both of these options. If you were to rent a hot water tank, you won’t have to worry about the maintenance or replacement. Renting could be a good option if you are not intending at staying in a home very long. However, if you are planning to stay in your home for a long time, buying your water tank may be better, and more economical, than paying rental fees every month. In the long run, if you are staying in your home owning a hot water tank costs less than renting.
To cost of renting a hot water heater in Ontario is between $13 and $26 a month depending on the size of the heater. In comparison, buying a water heater costs anywhere from $800 to $1200 depending on the size, plus $300 to $400 to install. For example if you were to live in a home and rent your hot water heater, over the course of 15 years at $13 per month you would pay approximately $2340. This is an example where the homeowner would have benefitted from purchasing the hot water heater. But every homeowners situation is different, so comparing the pros and cons to owning versus renting is something you need to do. Get quotes for renting and quotes how how much it would be to purchase and compare.
Call a Trusted Niagara Plumber
Get yourself back into hot water. If you are having a hot water tank emergency, contact our team of licensed professionals at Wellbrook Plumbing. We offer emergency plumbing services where a plumber can come to your home on weekends and evenings to quickly address your problem.