💦 Water Heater Woes: Should You Repair or Replace?

Let’s face it—no one likes a surprise cold shower. Your water heater may not be the flashiest part of your home, but it’s definitely one of the most essential. If it starts acting up, you’re stuck with a tough choice: do you repair it, or is it time to say goodbye and upgrade?

Don’t sweat it (unless the hot water’s working again 😏). The pros at Plumbing Today in Omaha are here to help you make the right call with a quick, no-BS breakdown.

🔧 Common Water Heater Problems (And Whether They’re Repairable)

Let’s start with what might be wrong. Some issues are an easy fix; others are more like the plumbing equivalent of sending a fax in 2025—outdated and not worth the effort.

🚿 1. No Hot Water

• Possible Fix: Thermostat or heating element.

• Repair Cost: Low to moderate.

• Replace? Not yet—this is usually an easy fix.

🚿 2. Rust-Colored Water

• Possible Fix: Replace the anode rod.

• Repair Cost: Moderate.

• Replace? Maybe. If it’s been a while and rust is everywhere, replacement could save you from a bigger mess.

🚿 3. Leaking Tank

• Possible Fix: None. 🧻🪦

• Repair Cost: ...Does duct tape count?

• Replace? 100% yes. Once the tank is leaking, it’s game over.

🚿 4. Strange Noises (Popping or Banging)

• Possible Fix: Sediment flush or descaling.

• Repair Cost: Low.

• Replace? Only if it keeps happening after multiple flushes.

⏳ How Old Is Too Old?

Water heaters usually last 8–12 years (if they’re treated right). If yours is pushing double digits and you’re starting to see issues, replacement is often the smarter long-term move.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Age of Water Heater	Recommendation
0–5 years	Repair it, champ!
6–10 years	Case-by-case. Call us.
10+ years	Replace and upgrade, my friend.