When the time comes for water heater replacement, you’ll want to be sure to find out more about your unit’s history.
Usually, you can find the serial number on the upper part of the water heater tank. The first two numbers are the manufacturer, so if you notice that your unit is over ten years old, you should call a plumber to replace it. However, there are several ways to determine if your unit is truly beyond repair.
If you can’t figure out why your heater has stopped working, the problem may be a faulty dip tube or element. Replacing a faulty dip tube may cost as little as $20 but could result in a more expensive water heater replacement. If this is the case, you may want to call a plumber, as it can be tricky and requires extensive knowledge of the system. A plumber will usually charge between $150 and $300 to replace the dip tube or element in your water heater, and a water heater repair job could cost anywhere from $200 to $500.
When attempting to replace your water heater, you may need additional incidental materials such as pipe thread compound, solder, and venting pipes. You may also need additional pipe fittings and a shutoff valve. The last thing you want is to trip over your new water heater and break the wiring while you are doing it. You should make sure that you have enough room in the electrical box for the new water heater. A plumber can also help you determine what size vent pipe you need.
