Water Heater Repair or Replacement in Frisco TX

Posted by Michael Brownstead on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at 11:00 AM By Michael Brownstead / March 8, 2022 Comment

Water Heater Repair or Replacement in Frisco TX

If your water heater is leaking or not heating up, you may be able to repair the existing unit. Learn the signs of needing a full water heater replacement when the time comes.

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Based on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is about eight to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, leaks around the base of the tank or if it works erratically, it's probably time for a replacement. You may also choose to upgrade to a more efficient model to cut your energy expenses.

In some cases, repairs and troubleshooting can save your existing water heater. Before you look for a replacement, make sure that an electrical problem, such as a blown fuse or tripped breaker, isn't the reason for the unit's failure. Regular water heater maintenance will extend the life of your unit, and some repairs — such as replacing a pressure relief valve or heating element — are pretty simple.

Water Heater Maintenance

An illustration of a person opening a temperature and pressure relief valve on a water heater.

Today’s water heaters are manufactured to require little or no maintenance, but these maintenance tips could prolong the life of your water heater. See How to Maintain a Water Heater for more maintenance tips.

Drain the water heater twice a year to rid it of collected sediment that causes corrosion. This also increases efficiency.

Test the pressure relief valve by lifting the valve’s handle and letting it snap back. This should release a burst of water into the overflow drainpipe. If it doesn’t, install a new valve.

Lower the temperature setting on the thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This reduces damage to the tank caused by overheating.

When Replacement Is Necessary?

If you're replacing a water heater, you can replace it with the same type of unit. However, you might also consider upgrading to a larger tank or a tankless heater.

When looking for a water heater, consider these features:

Gallon Capacity: 40-gallon and 50-gallon heaters are the most common.

Recovery Rate: The number of gallons the heater will heat in an hour.

Dimensions: You may need a certain width and height based on where you'll locate the unit in your home.

Energy Efficiency Ratings: A sticker on the side should list the estimated annual cost of operating the unit. High-efficiency models can reduce costs and save energy.

Before making repairs or purchasing a new water heater, check the nameplate on the side of your current unit. Here you'll find helpful information, including the tank capacity, insulation R-value, installation guidelines, working pressure, model and serial number. If you have an electric water heater, the nameplate will also list the wattage capacity and voltage of the heating elements.

This information will serve as the starting point in your search for replacement parts or a new water heater. For help choosing a water heater, read our Water Heater Buying Guide and answer these questions to determine whether or not you want to tackle water heater installation yourself:

How will you dispose of your old water heater? Check local codes governing disposal of such appliances.

Will you be able to physically handle the unit? Water heaters are bulky and heavy. You'll need assistance.

Do you have the tools necessary to do the job? Water heater installation requires adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, a hack saw and pliers. You may also need a propane torch if your installation uses copper pipe.

Do you have time to do the job? Once you start replacing a water heater, you have to finish.

If you are not up to the task of replacing your water heater, look to Legacy Plumbing for all your plumbing needs and be sure to ask for Louis Mena.

Address: 15222 King Rd Suite 1002, Frisco, TX 75036

Areas served:

Frisco and nearby areas

Hours:

Open ⋅ Closes 5:30PM

Phone: (972) 707-2184

Appointments: legacyplumbing.net