If you’re wondering when to replace your hot water heater, you’re not alone. Many people who use hot water heaters in their homes are unsure about the proper upkeep, especially when it comes to replacing a unit altogether.

There are, of course, signs that your hot water heater is performing well, including:

• water in your home that just isn’t as hot as you’d like it to be
• leakage
• strange, unexplained hissing sounds

Chances are good that a simple repair may be in order to solve any of the above-mentioned issues. For example, if you have a leaky pressure valve, replacing the valve may be the only solution you need. Another good is example is leaky water supply pipes. This fix may be as easy as tightening the fittings or replacing only the fittings if need be.

On the other hand, some issues you’re experiencing may not be fixed so easily and you may require a new unit to be installed. If you’re thinking of doing your own installation, there are few things you should consider before taking on the job yourself, like:

• Are you generally handy around the house, and do you have the knowledge and patience to complete the job correctly?
• Do you have the time to install a new water heating unit? Remember that while the removal of the old unit and the addition of the new unit is taking place, there will be no hot water available for anyone in your home.
• Are you physically capable of moving both the old and new units? Water heaters can be particularly heavy and you should not attempt to pick one up if you experience any back issues or generally have difficulty lifting.
• Do you have the correct tools for installing a water heater? If you’ve done plumbing work in the past, chances are you have many of the tools readily available. Tools for a water heater installation typically include a wrench, a pair of pliers, a hacksaw, some screwdrivers, and possibly a propane torch if you are working with copper pipes.

Another point to consider is that in order to connect the existing pipes to your new water heater, you may need to add threading to their ends. If your pipes are constructed with PVC, you’ll need to do solvent welding in order to connect them, and if they’re made out of copper, you’ll need to solder the fittings to your copper pipes.

If you have any questions about when to replace your hot water heater and would like guidance, contact Action Plumbing today to find out more about our expert plumbing services. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.