When to Replace vs. Repair Your Water Heater: A Plano Homeowner’s Guide

A water heater never fails at a convenient time. Whether you are dealing with lukewarm showers, inconsistent temperatures, or a sudden leak, the big question becomes: Should you repair your water heater or replace it altogether?

For homeowners in Plano, Allen, McKinney, Wylie, Murphy, Richardson, and North Dallas, making the right decision can save hundreds of dollars—and prevent future breakdowns.

This guide explains the factors that matter most so you can confidently choose the best option for your home.

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Before deciding whether to repair or replace, it helps to understand average lifespans:

• Traditional tank water heaters: 8–12 years

• Tankless water heaters: 15–20 years

If your system is near or past its typical lifespan, replacement is usually the cost-effective choice. Water heaters at or beyond 10 years old become less efficient, more prone to leaks, and expensive to maintain.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair (Not Replacement)

Not every issue means your water heater is done for. In many cases, a professional repair restores performance without the cost of installing a new unit.

Here are the issues most commonly fixed:

1. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems

Gas units often lose flame due to a faulty thermocouple, dirty ignitor, or gas flow interruption. These are typically affordable repairs.

2. Heating Element Failure (Electric Units)

If your water is warm but not hot, a burned-out heating element may be the culprit—and easily replaceable.

3. Thermostat Malfunction

A bad thermostat can cause inconsistent temperatures. Replacing it is far cheaper than replacing the whole system.

4. Minor Sediment Build-Up

If your tank hasn’t been flushed regularly, sediment can reduce efficiency. A professional flush can restore heating performance.

5. Small Leaks from Fittings

Leaks around the T&P valve, drain valve, or connections can usually be repaired without replacing the entire tank.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater

If your system shows any of these red flags, replacement is the smartest and safest choice:

1. Your Water Heater Is 10+ Years Old

Most units begin to deteriorate internally around this time, especially in North Texas where hard water accelerates wear.

2. Rusty Water or Metallic Taste

This usually means the tank’s interior lining has corroded—once rust starts, the heater’s lifespan is essentially over.

3. The Tank Is Leaking

Tank leaks cannot be repaired. Once the steel tank cracks, replacement is mandatory.

4. Frequent or Costly Repairs

If you’ve repaired your water heater two or more times in the past year, or the repair cost is over 40% of the price of a new unit, replacement will save money long-term.

5. Inconsistent Hot Water or Running Out Quickly

Worn internal components and sediment buildup reduce capacity. If flushing doesn’t help, the tank is near the end.

6. Energy Bills Are Increasing

Older units lose efficiency. A new tank or tankless model can significantly lower monthly utility costs.

Should You Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater?

Many North Texas homeowners—especially in Plano, Allen, Prosper, McKinney, and Frisco—are switching to high-efficiency tankless units.

Benefits of Going Tankless

• Endless hot water

• Up to 30% lower energy usage

• Longer lifespan (15–20 years)

• Space-saving design

• Ideal for growing families or larger homes

A professional evaluation can determine whether a tankless upgrade would benefit your household and plumbing setup.

Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replacement in North Texas

While exact pricing varies by brand and installation conditions, here are general guidelines:

Average Repair Cost:

$150–$600 depending on parts (thermostat, heating element, ignitor, valves)

Average Replacement Cost (Installed):

• 40–50 gallon gas water heater: $1,500–$2,800

• Electric water heater: $1,400–$2,500

• Tankless water heater: $3,500–$6,500

A professional inspection ensures you aren’t replacing a unit that still has years left—or repairing one that will fail again soon.

How MRC Plumbing Solutions Helps You Make the Right Decision

We don’t believe in upselling or pressure tactics. Your home, budget, and safety come first.

When you call MRC Plumbing Solutions, you get:

• Honest assessment of whether repair or replacement makes financial sense

• Upfront pricing—no surprises

• Code-compliant installation and high-quality parts

• Options for tank, tankless, high-efficiency, and warranty-back

  • The problem is isolated (thermostat, element, ignitor)

  • The tank is not leaking

  • The repair cost is under 40% of replacement

  Replace your water heater if:

  • It’s 10+ years old

  • The tank is leaking

  • You’re facing repeated repairs

  • Energy efficiency has dropped

  • Sediment buildup is severeed systems

• Service from licensed professionals who understand North Texas plumbing conditions

You deserve a plumber who listens, explains your options clearly, and delivers long-lasting work.

When to Call a Professional Immediately

Contact a licensed plumber right away if you notice:

• Water pooling around the heater

• A strong rotten-egg or gas smell

• Loud popping or banging noises

• Scalding hot or dangerously fluctuating temperatures

• No hot water at all

These signs indicate safety issues or imminent failure.

Final Recommendation: Repair or Replace?

Here’s a quick rule of thumb for Plano homeowners:

Repair your water heater if:

• It’s under 8 years old

• Water shows rust or discoloration

If you’re unsure, our team will evaluate your system and explain your options clearly.

If you’re experiencing water heater issues in Plano, McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Wylie, Murphy, Richardson, Garland, North Dallas, or any surrounding area, MRC Plumbing Solutions is ready to help.

Call 972-357-1400 or visit www.dfwplumber.net to schedule service.

You deserve a solution that lasts.