Why Water Heater Replacement is Best Left to the Professionals

It's never a good sign when the hot water goes out. In general, a tank-type water heater will last somewhere between eight and 10 years, but it's a good idea to perform routine maintenance and make sure you check for signs that it's not working properly – you can nip a hot water emergency in the bud. Some signs that your water heater is about to bite the dust include:

• Corroded tank: Most hot water tanks are steel, so they will eventually rust. If your tank is rusted, you may notice that your water has a brownish tinge.

• Clogged drain valve: Sediment collects at the bottom of the tank over the years, which can block the drain valve and cause issues.

• Leaking tank: Leaks are usually an indication that there is an internal problem with your tank, which can rarely be fixed.

No matter what the diagnosis is, it's important that you leave replacing your water heater to the professionals, and here's why:

Regulatory requirements

In 2015, the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act mandated that water heaters manufactured after April 16 had to meet updated requirements for energy consumption. While this move will no doubt save homeowners and the government a lot of money on their energy bills, homeowners now have to be doubly careful when selecting their hot water heaters – you'll need to specify that you want a unit compliant with the new energy-efficient standards. A plumbing professional can help you find the right one – whether it's a tankless water heater, a hybrid heat fixture or one that works via solar power.

Expertise on hand

Water heaters are bulky, and there is a protocol for disposal of these fixtures. A certified plumbing expert like the ones at Roto-Rooter can help you make sure you're following all the proper guidelines for disposing of your unit and provides handy assistance for carrying it out of your home. In addition, plumbers have access to all the tools you'll need for extraction of the old unit and installation of the new.

When it's time to replace your water heater, give the professionals at Roto-Rooter a call. We'll be able to help you choose the right tank, replace the unit and dispose of your old one properly – so you don't have to. Get in touch today.