5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Replacing Your Water Heater

Replacing your water heater might not seem urgent—until it stops working and you’re left with ice-cold showers. At Spartan Plumbing in Arvada, CO, we’ve seen the confusion that homeowners face when deciding on the right replacement. To help you make the best choice for your home, here are five key questions you should ask before diving into water heater replacement.

1. Tankless or Conventional: Which One is Right for You?

This is a big decision. Both tankless and conventional water heaters have their pros and cons, and the choice depends on your household’s needs.

• Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient, heating water on demand. They cost more upfront but could save you on energy bills in the long run.
• Conventional water heaters are tried and true. They store heated water and are usually cheaper to install. However, they aren’t as energy-efficient, especially if you use a lot of hot water.

Our experts at Spartan Plumbing can help you weigh the options based on your home size, water usage, and budget.

2. Why Choose a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater can be a great investment if you’re looking for long-term benefits like:

• Energy efficiency: Only heats water when needed, cutting down on your bills.
• Space-saving: Compact design frees up room, perfect for smaller homes.
• Longevity: These units can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
• Tax credits: Some models qualify for federal tax incentives for energy efficiency.

3. Potential Downsides of Tankless Water Heaters

Despite the perks, tankless heaters come with some drawbacks you’ll want to consider:

• Higher upfront cost: Expect to spend more on the unit and installation.
• Ongoing maintenance: Regular descaling is necessary if you have hard water, which can add to the cost.
• Temperature lag: You might notice a brief delay in getting hot water.

If any of these concerns resonate, it’s worth discussing your options with Spartan Plumbing to determine if the benefits outweigh the downsides for your household.

4. Should You Stick with a Conventional Water Heater?

Conventional water heaters are known for reliability, and sometimes sticking with what you know is the best option. Here’s why you might opt for a conventional model:

• Lower upfront cost: These units are typically more affordable to buy and install.
• Proven technology: Conventional tanks have been around for years and have a well-established track record.
• Energy Star options: Newer conventional models now come with energy-efficient features.

5. How Long Will Installation Take?

A conventional water heater can typically be installed within 2–3 hours, while a tankless model may take a bit longer due to the more complicated setup. Here’s the general process:

• Disconnect and remove the old unit
• Position and secure the new water heater
• Connect it to power and water lines
• Test the system to ensure it's working properly

What You Can Do for Maintenance

• Schedule annual inspections
• Check your water heater’s pressure relief valve
• Drain the tank to remove sediment buildup
• Regularly check the thermostat settings

These simple steps can extend the lifespan of your water heater, whether it’s tankless or conventional.

Let Us Help You Find the Best Water Heater for Your Home

Water heater replacement doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Spartan Plumbing, we’re here to walk you through each step, from choosing the best option to professional installation. If you’re in the Arvada area and have questions or want to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

If you’re still unsure whether your water heater needs repair or replacement, check out this helpful guide from Spartan Plumbing on spotting early warning signs before you find yourself without hot water: Hot Water Going Cold? How to Spot When Your Water Heater Needs Repair. Reach out to us at Spartan Plumbing for expert advice and service tailored to your home’s needs!

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