Hot Water Systems

Most tanks are built to last 8-12 years, so past that point it is really a question of when, not if. Waiting it out usually means the failure happens at the worst time, and a leaking tank can damage flooring or a wall cavity on its way out. If yours is past 10 years, replacing it on your own schedule, rather than an emergency one, is usually the more sensible and often cheaper option once you factor in the damage risk.

It comes down to age and the fault. A unit under 8 years old with a failed thermostat, element or valve is usually worth repairing, those parts are inexpensive relative to a full system. A tank over 10 years old, or one that is actually leaking, is the honest replace case, repairing a leaking tank just delays the same outcome. We inspect it, quote both options with the running-cost difference, and let you decide.

Yes, replacement is the easiest time to change type, for example moving from electric storage to a heat pump for lower running costs, or to gas continuous-flow if you have reticulated gas available. We size the new unit to your household and talk through the upfront cost against the running-cost difference so the choice is a straightforward one, not a guess.