If your showers are turning lukewarm, your water heater is making strange noises, or your energy bills are creeping up, you may be wondering whether it’s time to repair or replace your old water heater. This is one of the most common questions homeowners in Burleson ask—especially when their system is 8–12 years old and starting to show signs of wear.

The answer depends on age, condition, performance, and safety. Here’s what you should know before making a decision that impacts both your comfort and your budget.

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Most traditional tank water heaters last 8–12 years, while tankless units can last 15–20 years with proper maintenance. If your system is reaching the end of its expected lifespan, breakdowns become more frequent and efficiency drops sharply.

Should I repair or replace my old water heater?

You can usually find the manufacture date on the serial number sticker. If your unit is creeping up in age, replacing it may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

Signs Your Water Heater May Still Be Repairable

Not every problem means you need a new unit. Some issues are minor and can be fixed quickly and affordably. Consider repairing if you notice:

  • A single worn-out part, such as a thermostat or heating element

  • Small leaks around fittings or pipes

  • Sediment buildup causing rumbling or popping noises

  • Water that’s warm but not hot, often due to thermostat miscalibration

Many of these repairs can be resolved during a routine water heater service, especially if your system is under 8 years old and otherwise in good condition.

When Replacement Makes More Sense

Even with proper maintenance, water heaters eventually reach a point where replacement is the smarter—and safer—option. You should consider replacing your water heater if:

1. The Tank is Leaking

A leaking tank cannot be repaired. Once the metal has rusted through, the structural integrity is compromised. This issue nearly always requires full replacement.

2. It’s More Than 10 Years Old

Older heaters become inefficient and more prone to breakdowns. Over time, you spend more money on repairs and higher utility bills than you would on a new system.

3. Rusty or Discolored Water

Rust in your hot water is a strong indicator of internal corrosion, and eventually the tank will fail. If rust appears frequently, replacing the unit is recommended.

4. Rising Energy Bills

As water heaters age, they require more energy to heat the same amount of water. If your utility costs keep increasing, upgrading may save you money long-term.

5. Repairs Are Becoming Frequent

If you’re calling a plumber several times a year, the cumulative cost likely exceeds the investment of a new system.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to an energy-efficient water heater can reduce water heating costs by up to 50%—a major reason many homeowners choose to replace outdated units. (Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating)

Benefits of Replacing Your Old Water Heater

A new system offers more than just reliability. Homeowners often enjoy:

  • Lower monthly energy bills

  • Faster recovery times and more consistent hot water

  • Improved safety, especially replacing older gas or corroded units

  • Quieter operation

  • Better home resale value

With modern technology, water heaters today are built to be cleaner, safer, and more efficient than older models.

Why Professional Inspection Matters

Whether you’re leaning toward repair or replacement, a professional evaluation is the best way to understand your options. A licensed plumber can:

  • Assess internal tank health

  • Test thermostats, heating elements, and valves

  • Check for leaks or corrosion

  • Measure efficiency and performance

  • Provide honest recommendations based on condition—not sales pressure

Superior Plumbing offers thorough inspections and full-service options, including water heater repair and replacement, leak detection, and system upgrades that fit your home and hot water needs.

Real Testimonial

“Our water heater kept going out, and we weren’t sure whether to fix it or replace it. Superior Plumbing inspected it, explained our options clearly, and helped us choose a new unit. The upgrade was worth every penny!” – Holly S.

So… Should You Repair or Replace?

Here’s a simple rule of thumb:

  • Repair if it’s under 8 years old, has a minor issue, or has no signs of corrosion.

  • Replace if it’s over 10 years old, leaking, corroded, inefficient, or breaking down repeatedly.

Your home’s hot water supply impacts bathing, cleaning, cooking, and comfort—so choosing the right path matters. Superior Plumbing can help you make the smartest, most cost-effective decision for your home.

Call today to schedule a water heater inspection and get clear answers about the health of your system.