Costs & planning
Repair or replace your water heater?
Updated
Short answer
Repair when a replaceable part failed on a heater under about 8 years old. Replace when the tank itself leaks, the heater is past 10 to 12 years, or repairs keep adding up. A leaking tank can't be repaired.
Find the age
The manufacturing date is encoded in the serial number on the label. Many brands use a letter for the month and two digits for the year, or the year and week. A plumber can read it in seconds.
Usually worth repairing
- Thermocouple or flame sensor
- Igniter or pilot assembly
- Electric element or thermostat
- Relief valve
- Drain valve
Usually time to replace
- Water leaking from the tank body
- Rust in the hot water only
- Gas control valve failure on an older tank
- Heater too small for the household
- Venting or code problems that require major rework anyway
What a replacement includes
A code-compliant Colorado replacement includes a permit and inspection, correct venting for altitude, a sediment trap (drip leg) on the gas line, a relief valve discharge pipe, and an expansion tank where the system is closed.
Ask for the brand, size, first-hour rating and warranty in writing. Haul-away of the old tank is usually included; confirm it.
- Permit and inspection
- Correct venting
- Expansion tank where required
- Written warranty
When to call a plumber
Call if the problem keeps coming back, if water is reaching walls, ceilings or electrical areas, or if any step above involves gas, a torch or opening a sewer line. A licensed plumber handles water heater replacement and will explain the cause before starting.
Questions
Is tankless worth it when replacing a water heater?
How long does a water heater replacement take?
This guide is general information for Colorado homeowners, not a substitute for an on-site diagnosis. Local codes vary; your plumber and building department have the final word.