In many cases, repairing your water heater is the most cost-effective option. However, just because it's right for your wallet more often than now doesn't mean that's always the case. Knowing when its time to purchase a new unit is important for both your bank account, as well as your homes safety and comfort. Check out the 3 most common signs that indicate it's time to replace your water heater.

1. Your water heater is getting old: Traditional water heaters are built to last about 10 years, and tankless water heaters are built to last closer to 20 years. Its lifespan can be increased with proper care and routine maintenance, but once it starts to approach the end of its life, the problems will only start to come in faster and more frequently. The cost of repairing bits and pieces as they start to wear down and break will get expensive quickly, and can easily end up being more expensive than a completely new water heater.
2. Your water heater consistently needs repairs: sometimes, your water heater will never reach its expected lifespan. This can be caused by any number of issues, from excessive use to inconsistent maintenance to poor manufacturing, and anything else in between. The general rule is that if the repair costs at least half as much as the unit itself, its better to replace the unit. However, if you have to call for repairs multiple times per year, the cost will pile up past the point where the most economical choice is to install a new water heater.
3. Water in your home taking longer to heat up: As your water heater starts to break down, it will take longer to heat up your home's water. This means you will need to let it run for longer to get it to the temperature you need, which can then in turn start to increase the cost of your water bill. That, plus the fact that your water heater will need to use more energy to heat up the water in the first place means your utility bill will start to spike- this is a key indicator that something is wrong with your water heater.

Whether you need your old water heater replaced, or you're looking to install a new water heater in your home or business, we make sure the job gets done right for your satisfaction and peace of mind. Contact us at 703-712-7730 and speak with one of our experienced plumbers about replacing your water heater. We provide plumbing services throughout Alexandria, Arlington, Woodbridge, Tysons, VA and surrounding areas.

Water heater technology is always advancing, and there are many options available. RightNOW Plumbing has the experience to install and repair a variety of models. Some of the most popular options are...

• Tankless heaters - These models heat water as you need it. They are more energy efficient than tanked heaters.
• Dual Purpose Heaters - Acting as both a water heater and boiler, these models provide heat to your home and save on space.
• Hybrid water heaters - These models heat the water tank as necessary to save energy; they're the most efficient option.

We also offer traditional tanked heaters. If you're not sure which model is best for your home, we can help. Talk to our water heater specialist in Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Woodbridge or Tysons, VA today by calling 540-479-2219 to get started.