Key takeaways:
- Murfreesboro homes, especially older ones, may need a new water heater if the current one no longer heats water.
- Deciding between a tank and a tankless water heater depends on your family’s daily routine.
- A professional water heater installer in Murfreesboro can ensure that replacing your old water heater is a smooth process.
You use hot water every day for showers, washing dishes, and doing laundry. When your water heater acts up, finding yourself without hot water is a major inconvenience.
Many Murfreesboro homes have older water heaters that don’t work as well as they used to. Replacing your water heater before it stops working can save you from icy showers and high utility bills. Here’s what you should know about water heater replacement and how to choose the right option for your Tennessee home.
Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing
Your water heater should last around 10 years. However, it might fail sooner, especially in the Middle Tennessee area, where water tends to be hard and cause sediment buildups.
Watch out for these water heater red flags:
- You’re getting lukewarm or inconsistent hot water. Your showers don’t stay warm, or it takes longer than usual for the water to heat up.
- You notice rust-colored water or odd smells. This usually indicates there is corrosion inside your water heater tank.
- There are popping noises or visible leaks from the tank. Knocking, rumbling or popping sounds mean mineral buildup is making your heater work harder. Leaks, no matter how small, require immediate attention.
- Your water heater is 8 to 12 years old. Even if it seems fine now, it may suddenly stop working.
If you notice one or more of these problems, act soon. Ignoring them can be costly, especially if your tank starts leaking and you have to call an emergency plumber.
Tank vs. Tankless Water Heater: What’s Best for Your Tennessee Home?
You can replace your old water and pick the same type of appliance. However, getting a new water heater is an opportunity to upgrade and explore other options that might be a better match for your lifestyle.
Tank Water Heaters: Affordable and Easy to Install
A tank water heater stores a set amount of hot water (usually 40 to 50 gallons) in a large cylinder. It heats the water constantly, so it’s ready whenever you need it.
It’s a popular option because:
- The upfront cost is usually lower.
- It’s easy to install and replace.
- Tank water heaters are great for homes with multiple hot water points.
However, there are a few downsides to consider:
- A 40 to 50-gallon tank takes up space in your home.
- Keeping water hot all the time uses energy.
- When the tank is empty, you have to wait for more hot water.
Tankless Water Heaters: More Energy-Efficient
A tankless water heater, or on-demand system, heats water only when you turn on the tap. There is no big tank taking up space in a closet or basement.
Here’s why Tennessee homeowners are choosing tankless water heaters:
- They’re great for small spaces.
- They are more energy efficient, which means lower energy bills.
- As long as the flow rate is good, you’ll never run out of hot water.
Tankless water heaters aren’t a good match for everyone:
- You usually have to install them close to the shower or sink, which makes it hard to provide hot water at multiple points at the same time.
- You’ll have to pay for some modifications if you don’t already have a tankless model in place.
- The installer might also have to upgrade your home’s gas or electrical systems during the installation.
- Because of this installation process, the upfront cost is usually higher compared to a tank water heater.
The best option depends on your unique needs and budget. Many Murfreesboro homes were built decades ago and still have traditional tanks. When these older units reach the end of their lifespan, swapping for a new tank unit is often simpler and less expensive, especially if your hot water needs haven’t changed. However, upgrading to a tankless model makes sense if you don’t mind spending a little more to unlock energy savings.
What to Expect from a Professional Water Heater Installation
A water heater installation in Murfreesboro involves several steps. Here’s what to expect:
- Your water heater installer will visit the site to determine if they need to do any gas or electrical work. If so, they’ll need to obtain a permit first.
- If you’re just replacing a water heater without modifications, they’ll start working right away. They’ll begin by draining your old tank and safely disconnecting it from water and power sources.
- They will then remove the old unit and bring in the new water heater.
- Next, if you’ve chosen a tankless water heater, the technician will measure and mount it on the wall. Sometimes, they may need to update your home’s wiring or gas lines before testing the installation.
- The installation is simpler with a tank water heater since your installer will simply connect the new tank to the water pipes and gas lines already in place.
Calling a professional with extensive experience with water heater repairs and replacements in Murfreesboro matters. You need someone who knows what they’re doing to avoid issues with a poorly installed water heater.
Get Expert Water Heater Replacements from Airstream in Murfreesboro
Airstream has been serving the Murfreesboro community and the greater Middle Tennessee area since 2012. If your water heater is approaching the end of its lifespan or you’re noticing issues with your hot water, we’re here to help. We’ll inspect your current system, explain your options, and handle everything from removal to installation.
Book your water heater replacement or schedule an inspection today with our convenient online form.
FAQ
How long does a water heater last in Tennessee?
Water heaters here usually last 8 to 12 years. Hard water and extra use can shorten that lifespan, but you can make your tank water heater last longer with regular flushes.
What are some hot water issues that mean I need a replacement?
As water heaters reach the end of their lifespan, you’ll typically notice issues like not getting enough hot water or unusual smells and noises.
Can I install a water heater myself?
Installing a water heater means connecting the unit to water pipes, as well as electrical or gas lines. It’s much safer to have a professional handle it instead of attempting a DIY replacement.
Are tankless water heaters better?
If you want lower energy bills and endless hot showers, a tankless system may be a good match for you. However, if you need hot water simultaneously at multiple points, a tank model is usually best.
