Water Heater Repair - Is Repairing Your Water Heater Worth the Price?

Not many of us know a whole lot about water heaters or water heater repair. However, it is something that every homeowner has to deal with at some time or another because no water heating unit lasts forever. Determining whether or not you should repair your water heater or buy a new one depends solely on what is wrong with it in the first place. Below is a list of problems and what the best solution is for each.

1) Leaks. Almost always, leaks can be fixed very easily. The leak will usually come from one of three places - the drain valve, the pipes or the tank. The drain valve is the easiest fix. You can simply tighten it and in most cases the leak will stop. If the leak is coming from the pipes, inspect the fittings and tighten each one. If the leak persists, the leak is most likely being caused by a hole or crack in one of the pipes due to corrosion. This is a relatively easy fix and is worth it to do because of the relatively small cost, even if you have to hire a professional. Lastly, if the leak is coming from the tank, the tank most likely needs to be replaced. Generally speaking, purchasing a new one is most likely the best fix here.

CONSUMER REPORTS WATER SOFTENERS

2) Water that is too hot or too cold. This is usually caused by a faulty temperature pressure relief valve. This valve is supposed to shut off the water heater's heating element once the water reaches a certain pressure. If this valve is faulty, it can be dangerous because of the scolding hot water the unit could produce, plus the fact that the unit could burst due to built up pressure. Make sure to call a licensed repairman to inspect your unit.

3) Pilot light. If the pilot light keeps going out on your gas water heater, the problem is most likely with the orifice. Clear it from any dirt or debris. The problem could also be with the thermocouple. If this is the case, it will not cost too much to replace it. If you are handy, you could even do it yourself.

4) Water not hot enough. If the hot water being produced is not hot enough or not hot at all, the problem is most likely with the heating element. If this is the case, buying a new one is probably the best option because repair will be expensive.

Water Heater Repair - Is Repairing Your Water Heater Worth the Price?

CONSUMER REPORTS WATER SOFTENERS