Did you know that, on average, conventional water heaters last for six to 12 years? By contrast, on-demand water heaters usually have a lifespan of 10 years.

However, improper installation and a lack of maintenance can cut their lives short.

If either is true in your case and your heater is acting up, it may be time to replace it. But before doing so, it’s best to know the water heater replacement mistakes you should avoid at all costs.

We’ve compiled a list of such errors below, so read on.

1. Replacing the Entire Unit

A water heater has many components; aside from the tank, there’s also the anode rod, dip tube, and thermostat. You can check out this water heater parts list for a more detailed look.

Many of those components have a shorter lifespan than the tank. For instance, an anode rod usually only lasts for five years. But if you replace it before it fails, you can prevent water heater damage and even double the system’s life.

Thus, even if you’ve been lax on maintaining your water heater, you may not have to replace it yet. Instead, you may only have to swap out one or more of its faulty components, such as the anode rod.

2. Not Attempting to Troubleshoot or Repair

Don’t just conclude you need a new water heater if your existing one acts up. The wise move is to try troubleshooting the issue first. The problem may not be the system itself but a specific component.

For example, suppose you’ve noticed reduced water pressure from your shower. In that case, the showerhead may only be full of sediments clogging its spray holes.

Fortunately, that’s an easy fix: fill a bag with white vinegar, secure it to the showerhead, and let it sit for one hour. That should de-clog the spray holes and improve the water flow.

3. Choosing the Wrong Water Heater Size

If it turns out you need a new water heater, don’t forget to factor in your current and future hot water demands. Doing so can help you determine the size of your new heater. It’s especially crucial if you’re building a family or your household is about to grow.

If you buy a heater that’s too small, you’ll run out of hot water too soon. By contrast, getting a unit that’s too big can result in wasted water heating energy.

4. Failure to Factor in Energy Efficiency

Water heating accounts for about 20% of your home’s energy use. That’s why it’s best to choose energy-efficient technology when replacing old water heaters. That can help you save on your utility bills.

Your best bet is to invest in an Energy Star-certified water heater. These appliances can be up to four times more efficient than standard models. They also use 70% less energy to heat water, saving you thousands of dollars over their lifespan.

Avoid These Water Heater Replacement Mistakes

There you have it, your guide on the water heater replacement mistakes to avoid at all costs.

However, you don’t need to worry about those errors as long as you work with a reputable installer. A trustworthy water heater installation pro will tell you if your old one is still fixable or if you need a new one.

Are you looking for more informative guides like this? Then please feel free to check out our other recent blog posts!