Water heaters are like any other appliance; over time, they wear out and need replacing. However, if your home has an older water heater, you may not want to wait until it gives out.
Along with boosting home efficiency with a modern water heater, there are a few other reasons to make the switch. We’ll take a look at some of the benefits so you can decide if it’s the right time to replace your old water heater.
Benefits of Replacing an Outdated Water Heater
One of the most obvious benefits of replacing an old water heater is improving efficiency. Newer model water heaters use less energy to heat the water, significantly saving your utility bills. Using less energy also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and everyone can feel good about doing something beneficial for the environment.
However, improving energy efficiency is not the only benefit you get from a modern water heater.
Savings Beyond Lower Energy Bills
Almost everyone knows new appliances require less maintenance than older ones, which can equal significant long-term savings. Repair and maintenance calls are not cheap. Charges associated with bringing a technician in can be pricey. When you add these savings in with the lower energy costs, you may even offset the cost of the new water heater.
Less Noise
Older model water heaters can make some loud, strange noises, even when they’re not running—popping sounds, knocking, and rumbling noises are all common with older models. Some of the noise can be caused by sediment buildup in the tank. As the sediment hardens, it can start bouncing against the sides of the tank. Cleaning the tank can temporarily stop the noise, but it may not halt all strange sounds.
Not only do you not have to worry about noises from sediment buildups in new energy-efficient water heaters, but these units typically run quieter than older ones. You may even be surprised at how quiet your new water heater is compared to your old clunky unit.
More Space for Your Stuff
Some water heaters are located in basements, and others in garages. Where your water heater is located typically depends on your region. For example, homes in areas prone to seasonal floods and heavy rains rarely have basements.
Regardless of whether your water heater is in the garage or basement, it is probably not the only thing you want to store in the space. Almost everyone has boxes of stuff that need storage space.
Older water heaters take up a lot of space, which can mean you are shoving stuff in overflowing closets and underneath beds. Switching to a modern water heater can free up an amazing amount of space.
Do you want to free up even more storage space? Consider going with a tankless water heater. These energy-efficient models mount onto the wall and only take up around 24 square inches. Suddenly, you have room to store everything from holiday decorations to your children’s cherished toys and school projects.
Enjoy Longer Showers
While you do not want to waste water, it adds to your utility bills and can harm the environment; sometimes, relaxing in a hot shower is nice. Nothing can ease daily stress and soothe sore muscles quite like a hot shower. Your old water heater probably had trouble producing enough hot water for more than a quick shower. One minute, you’re relaxing under the hot water spray, and the next second, you’re shivering.
Even though modern water heaters are smaller than older models, they are still capable of delivering more heated water over a longer period—but how is this possible? New water heaters have a faster recovery rate compared to outdated appliances. With a faster recovery rate, even large families can take hot showers back-to-back without waiting for the water heater to catch up.
Long Lifespan
Installing a new water heater is an investment. The appliances are not cheap. However, new water heaters are designed to last for ten years or longer. A few factors determine the lifespan of your water heater, including frequency of use and maintenance.
If you keep up with the maintenance, typically once-a-year inspections, you can dramatically increase the appliance’s lifespan, which means you may not need to replace the water heater while you live in the home.
Talk to a Professional About Today’s Modern Water Heaters
Replacing an inefficient water heater makes sense for multiple reasons. You save money in the long run and can enjoy showers without worrying about running out of hot water.
When you’re finally ready to replace your outdated water heater, talk to the professionals about your options. They’ll have the guidance and insight needed to help you find the perfect new water heating solution for your home.