Replacing your water heater before it fails prevents sudden floods and boosts energy efficiency for your Albuquerque home. We encourage our customers to upgrade their water heaters when their unit is nearing the end of its life, especially if they are starting to see signs of aging. Tank models typically last eight to 12 years and tankless heaters have a 15 to 20-year lifespan. However, hard water and high altitude shorten lifespans.
Watch for early signs that your unit needs replacement so you can get the work done on your schedule, not on an emergency basis.
Key Signs It’s Time for a Water Heater Upgrade
Here are the most common red flags we see in Albuquerque water heaters:
- Check the age: Look at the label for the manufacturing date. If it’s approaching the end of its life, consider replacing it
- Leaks or puddles: Leaks around the base often mean rust or a failing tank.
- Rusty or discolored hot water: When the water coming out is brown or murky, this is a sign of corrosion. Flushing might help, but just for a while.
- Rumbling or popping noises: These noises come from sediment buildup in the water heater. That’s common with our mineral-rich water but it makes the heater work harder and fail sooner.
- Inconsistent hot water: Lukewarm showers or hot water that runs out quickly mean that a water heater needs attention.
Why Upgrade a Water Heater Before It Breaks?
Proactive replacement beats emergency fixes every time. A failing heater can burst, causing thousands in water damage. If you see signs of impending failure and you start making decisions about replacement, you’ll avoid rushed decisions about the best unit to purchase. You’ll be able to look around for good prices, rebates or other advantages. And avoid water damage at the same time!
Benefits of a New Water Heater
New models offer big advantages. Most are more energy-efficient, which will start saving you money. Here are the top advantages:
- Lower energy bills: Save as much as $100 to $500 annually with a tankless water heater that heats on demand, or a heat pump model that transfers heat from the surrounding air into the water.
- Endless hot water with tankless systems: This is perfect for busy families with back-to-back showers.
- Reduced space: Go tankless and free up garage space.
- Eco perks: In addition to ENERGY STAR units that cut costs by 30%, you may qualify for rebates from gas or electric providers.
- Longer life and reliability: Newer water heaters offer easier maintenance as they are equipped with newer technology that’s more resistant to hard water damage.
- Fewer moisture issues: Newer, efficient models reduce condensation that can cause moisture issues.
Best Times to Schedule a Water Heater Upgrade
Fall is the perfect time to schedule an upgrade because failures often show up in winter. Beat the winter demand which could mean you have to wait or pay more.
Expect four to eight hours for a tank installation. Tankless units require more time due to the venting needed.
Choices of Water Heaters for Albuquerque Homes
Here are the choices to consider if you’re going to upgrade:
- Gas tank heaters last eight to 12 years, are affordable upfront and quickly supply hot water. But they use more energy during all those hours they keep the tank heated. They are best for families on a budget.
- Electric tanks also last eight to 12 years. They are fast and easy to install since no gas line is needed. Their operating costs are higher but they are ideal for all-electric homes.
- Tankless gas or electric models last 15 to 20 years and provide endless hot water. However, they cost more upfront and need venting. They are a good solution for households that use a lot of water.
- Heat pump models last ten to 15 years, are more efficient, and may offer rebates. Be aware that they heat water more slowly and use more space.
By calling Rocketman Plumbing, we can not only provide fast, accurate service, but we can also recommend the best model for your household because we deal with water heaters every day!
Maintenance Tips to Extend Water Heater Life
All water heaters last longer with the right care. Take these steps routinely:
- Flush the tank annually to clear sediment.
- Test the pressure relief valve yearly.
- Insulate the tank and pipes to reduce heat loss.
- Replace the anode rod (metal rod inside the tank that attracts corrosive elements and protects the tank) every three to five years to fight rust.
These tasks are simple and fast when you know water heaters like we do! Call Rocketman Plumbing when you need help.
Call Rocketman Plumbing for Repair or Upgrade!
Keeping your water heater for a few more years? Or are you ready to look at replacement? Call Rockeman Plumbing for an honest quote and recommendations based on our years of experience. We’re ready 24/7 to repair or replace your water heater to keep you, your family and your guests comfortable. Call us at: 505-243-1227
