If you have a water heater that’s nearing its end of life, it’s time to consider a replacement. Replacing your hot water heater will save you money in the long run and also give you peace of mind.
A water heater usually lasts about ten years. But it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your unit.
Element Replacement
If your water heater’s heating elements are starting to fail, you may be able to replace them yourself. Replacing the element is a fairly straightforward process, and you can find replacement parts at most home improvement stores.
If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, hire a professional to do the job for you. They’ll have the right tools and the skills to do the job safely and correctly.
To determine if you have a faulty heating element, use a multimeter to test the circuit. Set the dial to the lowest ohms setting and touch the red probe to one screw terminal and the black probe to the other.
If the reading is less than 10 ohms, your heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced. Switch the probes over and test again.
Thermostat Replacement
If your water heater isn’t heating up as much or you have to keep the thermostat turned on longer to get hot water, it’s time to replace the thermostat. It’s an easy DIY repair that can save you money in the long run.
Thermostats are typically held in place against the tank by a special bracket that allows them to sense the internal water temperature. To remove them, locate the bracket and gently pry one side of it while twisting that side upward so it won’t lock again when you try to push the other side of the bracket out of the way.
Next, disconnect the power wires from each terminal on your thermostat. Use a multimeter to test each wire for continuity. Touch a black lead to one of the screw terminals on your thermostat and a red lead to the other. If you see a reading close to zero ohms, your thermostat is fine. If the meter reads close to the maximum ohms, it’s time for a replacement.
Anode Rod Replacement
Anode rods are a necessary component of your water heater, and they are designed to keep the metal lining from corroding. This helps extend the lifespan of your tank and improves the quality of your home’s water.
An anode rod is a long, thin metal rod made of magnesium or aluminum. They are attached to the top or side of your water heater tank.
Before you start replacing your anode rod, it’s important to decide what type of anode rod is appropriate for your water heater. Magnesium anode rods are generally more suitable for homes with soft water, while aluminum anode rods are more appropriate for homes with hard water.
Once you have determined which type of anode rod is best for your water heater, you’ll need to learn how to replace it. This job requires special plumbing knowledge, skills and tools. It’s also a good idea to have a professional perform the job for you.
Dip Tube Replacement
If you are replacing a water heater, it is important to check the dip tube. This is a plastic pipe that delivers cold water from home plumbing to the heater.
Over time, a water heater dip tube may disintegrate. It is also prone to breaks and clogs.
During a water heater replacement, you will need to remove the water inlet pipe and replace it with a new one. This process can be done on your own, or you can enlist the help of a professional plumber.
Once you have replaced the dip tube, you should reconnect the main water supply line to the heater and refill it with hot water. This helps release any air that is trapped in the system.
After the replacement is complete, you can relight your gas water heater or turn the power on to your electric water heater. These steps are a great way to get your water heater back up and running.