Most homeowners just assume that hot water will flow effortlessly through their shower heads in the morning…until, one day, it doesn’t. Unfortunately, waiting for your water heater to fail before replacing it can lead to a stressful day without hot water and hefty repair costs you didn’t plan for. Here are a few reasons why it’s better to proactively replace your water heater.

6 Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Water Heater Before It Goes Out

Imagine waking up on a chilly morning, expecting a warm shower, only to find out your water heater has given up. Now you’ve got to rearrange your whole day, make frantic phone calls to see which plumbing company can fit you in and figure out where you are going to find a few thousand dollars to pay for the water heater replacement.

Proactively replacing your water heater lets you avoid all that chaos.

1. Avoid a Water Heater Disaster

Probably the biggest motivation to be proactive with your water heater replacement is to avoid a water heater disaster. An aging water heater can develop leaks, which can lead to costly water damage and avoidable repairs to flooring and walls.

Replacing a water heater is already a large expense. You definitely don’t want to add repairing water damage to that bill if you don’t have to.

2. You won’t be left without hot water for a long period of time.

Another significant reason to replace your current water heater proactively is to avoid being without hot water for an extended period of time.

Although at Barnett Plumbing & Water Heaters we try our best to provide same day service for emergency repairs, it is always easier for both of us if we can plan ahead. We can schedule planned water heater replacements at a time that is convenient for your household and avoid leaving you without hot water when you need it most.

3. Replace Your Water Heater at a Convenient Time

If we are scheduling your water heater replacement in advance, we can choose a time that works for your schedule. You won’t have to cancel any appointments or declare an emergency work from home day to fit it in.

Selecting a date and time for your water heater replacement that doesn’t interrupt your schedule frees you up to get Sarah to piano at 3, Billy to his soccer practice at 5 across town and John to the library for that last minute group project he “just found out about”.

We know that life is already hectic enough without the unexpected.

4. No Rushed Decisions

Proactively replacing your water heater ensures you won’t be caught off guard when your old water heater reaches the end of its lifespan.

Instead of making a rushed decision, you’ll have the opportunity to get a professional opinion about which water heater options are best for your household and do your research to choose the most energy efficient option for your needs.

Unfortunately, if your water heater has already failed, you won’t have time to shop around. Your sole focus will be on getting the problem solved as quickly as possible.

We want you to have all the time you need to find a water heater that fits your household needs, helps the environment, and saves you money on your energy bills.

5. No Surprise Bills

If you aren’t planning on replacing your water heater, you might not be financially prepared to buy a new one. Although Barnett Plumbing offers hassle-free financing that makes a water heater replacement accessible for anyone, no one likes surprise bills.

Planning ahead gives you the luxury of knowing exactly how much your water heater will cost well in advance. That way, you can save up for the replacement over time or easily work the payment plan into your budget.

6. Save Money on Your Energy Bills

Almost as an added bonus, proactively replacing your water heater allows you to make your home more environmentally friendly.

Newer water heaters are generally more energy-efficient, reducing your home’s carbon footprint.  If you are ready to move beyond a standard water heater, you could look at a heat pump water heater to help you save even more money or a tankless water heater to help you save space.

A proactive water heater upgrade gives you more time to consider your options, save up the money you need, and schedule your water heater replacement at a convenient time. It’s a win-win-win for all of us.

6 Signs That Your Water Heater Will Need to Be Replaced Soon

Now, just because proactively replacing your water heater is a much better idea than waiting for disaster to strike, that doesn’t mean you should get rid of a perfectly good water heater.

Instead, learn to recognize signs that your water heater is on its last leg so that you can prepare. Here are 6 signs that your water heater will need to be replaced soon:

  1. Age– Most water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. Check the manufacturing date on your water heater. If it is approaching the end of its life expectancy, it’s time to start planning for a replacement.
  2. Dirty or Smelly Water– If you are seeing discolored water or notice your water has a foul smell, it might be time to call a professional plumber to take a look.
  3. Strange Noises– There are several reasons why your water heater might be making noises. While flushing the system to remove sediment might help temporarily, persistent noises can mean trouble. The easiest way to figure out where the noises are coming from, and how big of a deal they are, is to call a water heater professional to solve the mystery.
  4. Running Out of Hot Water– This could be because your tank is simply not big enough for your household. Proactively upgrading to a bigger hot water heater tank will ensure you’ve got enough hot water for everyone.
  5. Inconsistent Temperature– If your hot water is constantly going from hot to cold and is hard to regulate, there might be an issue with the thermostat or temperature valve. One of our water heater experts will be able to help you figure out the reason behind the temperature shifts and make any necessary adjustments.
  6. Leaks– If you notice water pooling around the base of your water heater, you should always call a professional plumber to help you get to the bottom of the leak before it turns into a whole flood.

Proactively Replace Your Water Heater

Proactively replacing your water heater is a smart move for homeowners. It helps you avoid the inconvenience and increased costs that often come with water heater failures.

By planning ahead, you’ll have time to choose a new model that’s energy-efficient, reliable, and best fits your needs. Plus, instead of being taken off guard by a day without water and a big bill you didn’t plan for, you’ll be prepared for your water heater replacement, making it a better experience for everyone.

Water heater replacements don’t have to be a disaster. Plan ahead so that you can experience a stress-free water heater replacement. Give us a call today at (925) 492-7672 to get started.

Here’s my personal promise to you: When you call or schedule an on-site estimate — whether for a repair or a replacement — there will be no pressure. No obligation. We will not sell you a water heater you don’t need or want.

Instead, you will get the guidance and support you need to make the best choice for your household. Don’t lose sleep over your water heater. Plan ahead for a proactive water heater replacement.