The water heater is one of the most expensive and useful appliances installed in any home. However, water heater leakage and noise are common problems that may emerge from time to time. Additionally, water heater rusting may indicate a need for water heater repair and replacement. However, such replacements are very expensive and can break the bank of the homeowner. Fortunately, there are other methods to cover water heater repairs and replacements expenses. Here, we will discuss whether a home warranty covers water heaters, including:
- When Does Your Water Heater Require Repairs or Replacement?
- Home Warranty Covering Water Heater
- What is included in the Home Warranty for Water Heaters?
- How to Replace a Water Heater Under Home Warranty Coverage?
- Costs of Water Heater Repairs and Replacement
When Does Your Water Heater Require Repairs or Replacement?
Usually, your water heater may stop working suddenly without warning signs. However, with proper inspection and timely maintenance, a complete failure of the water heater can be avoided. Here are a few signs of water heater failure:
- Water heater leakage indicates a need for replacement. In some cases, the water may start to pool under the main unit. Such damage is hard to repair because there may be additional leaks in the water pipes as well. Similarly, there are chances of incorrect pressure, lost connection, and faulty valve in the water heater. In such cases, you may require a water heater repair or replacement based on the individual situation.
- Water heater noises such as rumbling or popping indicate the collection of debris in the water tank. Usually, it takes more energy to heat the water, and excessive pressure may lead to leaks and cracks. Hire a trained professional to inspect the condition if you heat water heater noises.
- Water heating rusting occurs due to the deterioration of the anode rod. In case of corrosion, you need to replace the rod. Otherwise, the entire water heater would have to be replaced.
- Installation issues may reduce the efficiency of the water heater. It can cause the whole water heater system to get damaged.
- Sometimes, your water heater system is not projecting hot water to your shower. Check the water heater immediately for any signs of damage in this case.
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Home Warranty Covering Water Heater
Usually, home warranties that cover water heaters have a waiting period. Once your water heater breaks down, you may call the warranty provider for their services. Through their large network of contractors, they will send the nearest contractor as soon as possible. The technician arrives at your premises to judge the condition of the water heater. Finally, it is decided if the water heater repair or replacement is needed. Based on your coverage, the company will pay for the repairs. However, the homeowner may have to pay the service call fee.
What is included in the Home Warranty for Water Heaters?
Most home companies offer comprehensive plans that cover most appliances and systems around your home. In some cases, other devices can be added to these plans for an added fee as well. The home warranty will cover the replacement of a broken water heater. They prefer the replacement if the cost of repairs rivals the costs of replacing the water heater. Similarly, pre-installed water heaters with existing undetected problems are covered by many home warranty companies. Make sure you consider the home warranty plan in detail to know exactly what it covers before making your final decision.
How to Replace a Water Heater Under Home Warranty Coverage?
The following process can be followed for the replacement:
- File the home warranty claim through a phone call or using the home warranty provider’s online website.
- Hire a licensed contractor based on the choices provided by the home warranty provider.
- Once the problem is diagnosed, the company decides whether the water heater will be repaired or replaced.
- In some cases, deductible and a service fee may be imposed based on the specifics of your home warranty contract.
Costs of Water Heater Repairs and Replacement
A water heater usually costs between 150 USD to 700 USD to repair, while the replacement cost can be as high as 1800 USD. On the other hand, regular maintenance costs only 350 USD. Almost similar rates are charged for a Gas Water Heater.
The Tankless Water Heater is the most expensive type, costing between 300 USD to 1300 USD to repair for major issues. Similarly, a complete replacement may cost up to 3500 USD. Maintaining a tankless water heater costs between 70 to 300 USD.
Instead of paying these costs individually, hiring the services of a home warranty company covers the water heater and multiple other appliances for a monthly payment of 25-60 USD. Additionally, you would have to pay the service call fee when you request the replacement services. Still, the final figure is much lower than paying individually for the water heater repairs.
Conclusion
Hire a home warranty service to take care of your water heater repairs and replacements. Let us know in the comments section how the experience turned out for you.
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