Why Your Water Heater is Key to Home Comfort
A Water Heater Replacement is a critical home improvement project that affects your daily comfort and energy bills. It’s time to consider one when your unit is 8-12 years old, leaks, produces rusty water, makes strange noises, or fails to provide consistent hot water. The replacement process involves:
- Assessment – Determining if repair or replacement is needed
- Selection – Choosing between tank or tankless systems
- Professional Installation – Having licensed technicians handle the job
- Testing & Maintenance – Ensuring proper operation and care
Your water heater is essential for hot showers, clean dishes, and laundry. It’s also the second-highest energy expense in most homes, accounting for up to 20% of energy use. When it fails, replacing it quickly becomes a top priority.
Modern, energy-efficient options offer significant improvements. Heat pump water heaters can save a household of four more than $330 per year on electric bills, while tankless systems can last 15-20 years—far longer than the 8-12 year lifespan of traditional tanks.
This guide will walk you through recognizing the warning signs and choosing the right system for your family’s needs.
I’m Dan Walsh of AAA Home Services. My team and I have delivered reliable Water Heater Replacement solutions throughout Greater St. Louis for years, ensuring every installation meets the highest standards of safety and performance. We understand that a proper installation is crucial for your home’s comfort and efficiency.
Your Complete Guide to Water Heater Replacement
Step 1: Recognizing the Signs You Need a Replacement
Recognizing the early warning signs of a failing water heater can save you from the headache of a cold shower and potential water damage. Here’s what to look for:
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Age (8-12 years): Most tank water heaters last 8-12 years. If yours is in this range, its efficiency is likely declining, and the risk of failure increases. Consider a proactive Water Heater Replacement. Tankless models last longer, often 15-20 years.
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Leaks or Pooling Water: Any water around the base is a major red flag indicating a potential tank crack. This requires urgent attention to prevent water damage and mold, often meaning a full Water Heater Replacement is necessary.
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Rusty or Discolored Water: If your hot water is rusty, the tank’s interior is likely corroding. This signals an impending leak and affects your water quality.
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Rumbling or Banging Sounds: These noises are usually caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This sediment hardens, forcing the unit to work harder and less efficiently, potentially damaging heating elements. Learn more in our guide on Hot Water Heater Not Working? What’s That Noise?.
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Inconsistent Water Temperature: If hot water runs out quickly or the temperature fluctuates, it could be a faulty thermostat, failing heating element, or sediment buildup reducing the tank’s capacity.
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Rising Utility Bills: An aging, inefficient water heater uses more energy, increasing your bills. If your costs are rising without a change in usage, your water heater may be the culprit.
When facing these issues, a Water Heater Replacement is often more cost-effective than repeated repairs. As James S. from Chesterfield, MO, shared: “Can’t say enough of how great Dan and Tim were in getting us a water heater replaced within a matter of hours. The customer service was so impressive, from the initial call to the follow up call to make sure everything was working as it should. AAA will be my one and only source for any home appliance or home service needs from here on out.” Learn what to do when your unit fails in our article on a Broken Water Heater.
Step 2: Key Considerations for Your Water Heater Replacement
After deciding on a Water Heater Replacement, choosing the right unit is the next step. Key factors ensure you get an efficient system for your St. Louis area home.
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Sizing Your Heater: Proper sizing is crucial. An undersized unit means cold showers; an oversized one wastes energy. We consider:
- Household Size: How many people live in your home?
- Peak Hour Demand: When is hot water used most?
- First-Hour Rating (FHR): For tank heaters, this is how much hot water is available in the first hour.
- Gallons Per Minute (GPM): For tankless heaters, this measures flow rate. A 3.5 GPM unit might serve 1-2 fixtures, while 7+ GPM is better for 3-4.
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Fuel Type: Water heaters run on gas (natural or propane) or electricity.
- Gas Water Heaters: Often have lower operating costs and heat water faster.
- Electric Water Heaters: Can be more energy-efficient with lower upfront costs, but operating costs depend on local rates.
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Energy Efficiency: This is where you can achieve long-term savings.
- Benefits of ENERGY STAR Models: We recommend ENERGY STAR certified models. A heat pump water heater (HPWH) can save a household of four a significant amount on electric bills each year. Learn more about the Benefits of ENERGY STAR models.
- Federal Tax Credits: Eligible heat pump water heaters may qualify for federal tax credits (available through 2032). We can help you steer these opportunities.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH): These electric units are 2-3 times more efficient than standard models because they move heat from the surrounding air into the water.
Choosing the right unit involves balancing costs with long-term savings. We’re here to help you make an informed decision for your Water Heater Replacement project. For a deeper dive, visit our page on More info about New Water Heaters.
Step 3: Tank vs. Tankless: Choosing the Right System
A major decision in a Water Heater Replacement is choosing between a traditional tank or a tankless (on-demand) system. The best choice depends on your needs.
| Feature | Traditional Tank Water Heater | Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 8-12 years | 15-20+ years |
| Upfront Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Operating Cost | Higher (constantly heats stored water) | Lower (heats water only when needed) |
| Hot Water Supply | Limited by tank size; can run out during peak demand | Continuous, on-demand supply; virtually endless hot water |
| Space Required | Large, cylindrical unit; requires dedicated space | Compact, wall-mounted unit; saves floor space |
| Energy Efficiency | Less efficient (standby heat loss) | Highly efficient (up to 30% more efficient than tank models) |
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On-Demand Hot Water: The top feature of a tankless system is its endless supply of hot water. It heats water as it flows, so you never run out, even during peak usage.
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Energy Savings: Tankless units only heat water when needed, reducing standby energy loss. They can be up to 30% more efficient than tank models, leading to annual energy savings.
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Lifespan: Tankless units last 15-20+ years, compared to 8-12 years for traditional tanks, meaning fewer replacements over time.
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Installation Requirements: Tankless installation is more complex, often requiring specific gas line, venting, and electrical work. Professional installation is critical.
Consider your household size and usage. A large family may benefit from a tankless system’s endless supply, while a smaller household might find a traditional tank sufficient. Our team can help you choose the best Water Heater Replacement for your St. Louis home. Read more in our article, Choosing a Traditional vs Tankless Water Heater.
Step 4: The Professional Water Heater Replacement Process
A Water Heater Replacement is a complex job involving water, gas, and electricity. For safety and code compliance, professional installation is essential.
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Safety First: Working with pressurized water, gas, or high-voltage electricity is dangerous without proper training. Our licensed pros handle these elements safely.
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Licensed Professionals: Our technicians are licensed, insured, and experienced, ensuring your new unit is installed correctly and meets all regulations.
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Old Unit Draining and Removal: We begin by safely shutting off utilities, draining the old tank, and removing it for proper disposal.
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New Unit Placement & Connections: The new unit is positioned, and water lines are connected securely to prevent leaks.
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Gas or Electrical Hookup: This critical step is handled with precision, whether connecting to a gas supply line with leak checks or wiring to your home’s electrical system.
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Venting Requirements: Proper venting for gas models is vital to safely expel combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide. We ensure all flue pipes meet safety standards.
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Local Permits and Codes: A permit is often required for a Water Heater Replacement in the St. Louis area to ensure the work is inspected and compliant. Our team handles this process for you.
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System Testing: After installation, we test the system for proper operation and leaks, and we’ll explain maintenance basics.
Entrusting your Water Heater Replacement to professionals ensures a safe, code-compliant installation. Maureen B. from Ballwin, MO, shared her experience: “I have been using this business for the last 10 years. I have used them for plumbing, HVAC and appliance repair. Of all the plumbers we have hired they were the most professional, reliable, good quality and overall good people! Family owned and they are just excellent.”
Finalizing Your Installation and Ensuring Long-Term Performance
After professional installation, proper care is key to getting the most from your investment.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
Proper care is crucial for extending your water heater’s lifespan and maintaining its efficiency.
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Warranty and Instructions: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s warranty and instructions, as regular maintenance is often required to keep the warranty valid.
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Annual Flushing: To maintain efficiency and extend your unit’s life, we recommend having your water heater professionally flushed annually to remove sediment buildup.
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Anode Rod Inspection: The anode rod, which protects your tank from rust, should be inspected periodically by a qualified technician and replaced when necessary to prolong the tank’s life.
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Temperature and Pressure Valve Checks: The temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is a critical safety feature. Our technicians check it during maintenance visits to ensure it functions correctly.
Following these steps will ensure efficient operation and extend your water heater’s life. For more tips, see our Water Heater Maintenance Tips for Your Home. If you need help, we’re here for Water Heater Repair Service.
Why Trust AAA Home Services for Your Installation
Choosing the right installer is as important as choosing the right unit. AAA Home Services delivers top-tier service to homeowners across the Greater St. Louis, St. Charles, and Warren County areas.
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Over 50 Years of Experience: With more than five decades in business, our expertise ensures we can handle any water heater challenge.
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Licensed and Insured Technicians: Our fully licensed, trained, and insured technicians adhere to the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
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Local Service: As a local company, we understand the area’s building codes and homeowner needs, allowing us to provide custom solutions.
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Fair and Honest Approach: Our commitment to fair, transparent pricing has earned us thousands of positive reviews and a reputation for integrity.
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Safety and Code Compliance: We prioritize your safety by strictly adhering to all local codes and regulations, ensuring your new water heater operates safely and efficiently.
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Peace of Mind: When you choose us for your Water Heater Replacement, you’re choosing a partner dedicated to your comfort and satisfaction, with support long after installation.
Don’t let a failing water heater disrupt your home. Our team is ready to provide expert installation and exceptional service. Experience the AAA Home Services difference today.
