You might be surprised to know that conventional heaters are relatively straightforward machines. As far as water heater parts go, there are only a few to keep track of. This means diagnosing problems with your heater is a relatively simple affair.

• Regular (i.e. cold) water enters the tank.
• The water is heated by an electric or a natural gas burner.
• There’s a thermostat that regulates the water temperature, which is typically set at 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (48.9 to 60 degrees Celsius).
• Heating water also produces pressure, which then builds inside your water tank.
• When you turn on a tap, the pressure pushes the water out of the faucet—and so now you have hot water for your shower.

The truth is this: you don’t even think about your water heater until you get hit with ice-cold shower water (as you’ve run out of hot water) or when there’s a massive leak going on in your basement (which is likely a whole new set of problems altogether).

At which point, you’re probably thinking whether you should have a water heater replacement or call a professional repair service to have it fixed.

Consider replacing your water heater when:

• Your storage-tank water heater is more than 10 years old
• You notice a significant amount of corrosion (which is due to minerals in the water reacting with steel over time)
• You’ve already had a lot of leaks fixed (and are continuing to find more leaks)
• You want a more energy-efficient

Consider having water heater repairs when:

• Your heater is relatively new (just a few years old)
• Everything seems to be in order, but you’re just not getting any hot water

The service that comes with repairing or replacing parts might set you back anywhere from around $100 to $300.

Of course, the costs might depend on which parts have been damaged (or needs servicing or replacing), your tank type and how it’s still holding up (after all these years), or if there are any other associated problems such as leaks or loose connections.

When we’re looking at purchasing and installing a new conventional water heater, you might be expected to shell out anywhere in the ballpark of $500 to $1,500.

Keep in mind that you should have a consultation with your hot water professional to go over your available options, your expected timeline, and the costs associated.

What are the other costs with a hot water heater replacement?

Depending on where you live, the quick answer is: yes, there might be other water heater replacement costs that you might have to deal with.

Local building codes may require you to upgrade a few other items (or at least make sure they’re compliant and up to safety standards) that come with your water heater:

• Your heater mounting
• The type and/or size of your heater’s venting system
• The drain pan underneath the heater
• Any pipes that supply your water heater

Whether it’s an electric or gas heater replacement, or even with newer model heaters, always ask your friendly neighborhood installer to outline all costs that might be involved before starting any work.

You’ll want to have a professional have a look at your water heater on a fairly regular basis: probably every six months or so.

Maintenance of your water heating system typically involves checking pipes and connections, structural integrity, and flushing. Tank water heaters, in particular, need regular flushing to remove any sediments or gunk to help your unit operate a lot more efficiently (thereby saving you money in energy costs and the occasional heater repair).

Depending on the mineral content of your local water supply, your hot water professional should let you know if you should flush your heater tanks more often.

Another item usually checked is the anode rod, which is expected to be replaced every three years or so. The anode rod is a part made of aluminum or magnesium found inside the tank and collects corrosive elements. If it looks like it has gone through considerable degradation, then it’s time to get a replacement anode rod (which should set you back around $30).

If you believe yourself to be handy when it comes to repair work and you think you can handle yourself quite well when it comes to plumbing tasks, then yes, go right ahead.

Most off-the-shelf water heating units come with detailed instructions from the manufacturers. Just make sure you check your local building codes for proper compliance.

Also—observe proper safety (we can’t stress this enough!). Switch off the water, gas, and electricity before you begin working, and take particular care when it comes to properly venting gas models.