There are few things as frustrating as dealing with a water heater leaking. Not only can it be a nuisance, but it can also lead to serious damage to your home if left unchecked. The good news is that there are some telltale signs that your water heater is leaking and needs to be repaired or replaced. Here are the top signs to watch out for:
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Water pooled around the base of your water heater
One of the most obvious signs that your water heater leaks are water pooling around the unit’s base. If you notice the water heater leaking from the bottom, it’s important to act quickly to avoid further damage. It can be helpful to put a drop of food coloring in the tank to see if the leak is coming from the unit itself or one of the pipes leading to or from it.
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A hissing or bubbling sound coming from your water heater
Another sign that your water heater is leaking is a hissing or bubbling sound from the unit. This usually indicates a problem with the pressure relief valve, designed to release excess pressure from the tank. If this valve leaks, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
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Higher than normal water bills
If you notice that your water bills are suddenly higher than normal, it could signal that your water heater is leaking. A leak can cause water to escape from the tank, increasing water usage and leading to higher bills. Descaling the water heater can help.
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Water stains on the ceiling or walls
If you notice water stains on the ceiling or walls near your water heater, it indicates a leak in the unit. Water stains can also indicate a leak in one of the pipes leading to or from the water heater.
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Rust on the exterior of the water heater
Rust on the exterior of your water heater is another sign that there is a leak. Over time, water can cause the tank to rust, eventually leading to leaks. If you notice any rust on your water heater, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
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Musty odors coming from the water heater
When water leaks from the tank, it can cause musty odors to develop. These odors are often most noticeable when you turn on the hot water. You may also notice the odors when you run your fingers along the unit’s exterior. If you notice musty odors, it’s a good indication that your water heater is leaking and needs to be repaired or replaced.
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Decreased hot water pressure
Water pressure decreases as water leaks from the tank. This can make it difficult to get enough hot water for showers, washing dishes, and doing laundry. There are other potential causes of decreased water pressure, but if you notice a sudden drop in hot water pressure, it’s a good indication that your water heater is leaking.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your water heater checked by a professional as soon as possible. A leaking water heater can cause serious damage to your home, as well as a sum of expensive water heater replacement cost, so it’s important to nip the problem in the bud. You can avoid further damage and keep your home safe and comfortable with prompt attention.
What is the Average Water Heater Replacement Cost
One of the most crucial items in every home is the water heater. Hot water is made available for cleaning, cooking, and bathing. It can be really annoying when you encounter a water heater leaking. Replacing a water heater can be expensive, so it’s important to know the real cost before deciding to do so.
Several factors will affect the water heater replacement cost. The type of water heater, the size, the brand, and the age of the unit will all play a role in the final price. The most important factor, however, is the installation cost. This can vary greatly depending on the job’s complexity and whether or not you hire a professional to do it.
If you’re considering replacing your water heater, the first step is determining the real cost of doing so. This includes both the purchase price of the new unit and the installation cost. Once you have this information, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s worth it to replace your water heater.
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Purchase price
The purchase price of the new water heater will be the biggest factor in the overall cost of replacement. Tankless water heaters cost from around $300 to over $1,000. The type of water heater, the size, and the brand will all play a role in the final price.
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Installation cost
The installation cost of the new water heater will also be a major factor in the overall cost. This can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the job and whether or not you hire a professional to do it. Simple replacement might only cost a few hundred dollars, while a more complex job could cost several thousand.
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Total cost
The total cost of replacing your water heater will be the sum of the purchase price and the installation cost. This is the number you should use to compare different options and make an informed decision about whether or not it’s worth it to replace your water heater.
You can do a few things to reduce the cost of replacing your water heater. If you’re handy, you can install the new unit yourself. You can also look for discounts or rebates from the manufacturer or retailer. These can sometimes reduce the overall cost by a significant amount.
The bottom line is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much is the water heater replacement cost in Los Angeles. The factors that will affect the cost vary depending on the situation. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a professional and get a quote for the work.
Schedule a Plumbing Appointment Now
Need plumbing services, especially when you have a water heater leaking from the bottom? Schedule an appointment with our team of experts now. We’ll come to your home or business to assess the problem and provide a solution that fits your needs. We’re always available to answer your questions and help you make the best decision for your property. In addition, we offer budget-friendly water heater replacement costs in Los Angeles. Contact us today to get started!