Unless you like cold showers you should probably have a professional fix your water heater. When they break down, it can be tempting to try and fix the issue yourself. However, DIY water heater repairs can be dangerous and may end up costing you more in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore the 7 dangers of DIY water heater repairs and why it’s best to hire a professional plumber.
- Water heater failure rate: According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IIBHS), once water heaters reach the age of 5 years, the failure rate jumps from less than 10% to 12%. This rate continues to increase each year, and by the time a water heater reaches its late teens, the failure rate can exceed 90%.
The Risks of DIY Water Heater Repairs
1. Electrical Hazards
Water heaters are powered by electricity, and attempting to repair them without proper knowledge and training can be extremely dangerous. One wrong move could result in electrocution. Our professional plumbers are trained to handle electrical components safely and have the necessary tools and equipment to do so.
2. Gas Leaks
If your water heater runs on gas, and you attempt to repair it yourself you can put yourself at risk of a gas leak. Gas leaks are not only dangerous but can sometimes be hard to notice. Most plumbers are trained to handle gas lines and have the necessary equipment to detect and fix any leaks safely.
3. Fire Hazards
Trying to fix a water heater can also lead to fire hazards. If the heating element is not installed correctly or there is a gas leak, it can result in a fire. Plumbers can fix your water heater safely and correctly.
4. Water Damage
Water heaters are connected to your home’s plumbing system, and attempting to repair them without proper knowledge and training can result in water damage. A small mistake can lead to a burst pipe or a flooded home, causing more damage and costly repairs. All Utah Plumbing, Heating & Air can fix water heaters without harming your home, using their professional skills.
5. Voiding Warranty
Most water heaters come with a warranty, and attempting to repair it yourself can void this warranty. This means that if something goes wrong with your water heater in the future, you will not be able to get it fixed or replaced for free. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that your warranty remains valid, giving you peace of mind and saving you money in the long run.
6. Lack of Proper Tools and Equipment
Repairing a water heater requires specific tools and equipment that most homeowners do not have. Using the wrong tools or equipment can damage your water heater or even injury to yourself. Most plumbers have the necessary tools and equipment to repair water heaters safely and efficiently.
7. Inadequate Knowledge and Experience
Water heaters are complex heating systems, and repairing them without proper knowledge and experience can do more harm than good. You may think you have fixed the issue, but it could lead to bigger problems in the future. Our trained plumbers can identify and repair problems with your water heater effectively.
Why You Should Hire Professionals for Water Heater Repairs
1. Safety
The most important reason to hire professionals for water heater repairs is safety. All Utah Plumbing, Heating & Air’s plumbers are trained to handle electrical and gas components safely, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. They also have the necessary safety equipment to protect themselves and your home during the repair process.
2. Proper Diagnosis and Repair
Plumbers have the knowledge and experience to properly diagnose and repair any issues with your water heater. They will identify the root cause of the problem and provide a long-term solution, rather than just a temporary fix. This ensures that your water heater will continue to function properly and efficiently for years.
3. Time and Cost Savings
While DIY solutions may seem like a cost-effective option, they can end up costing you more in the long run. If you make a mistake during the repair process, it can result in costly repairs or even the need for a new water heater. Hiring a professional plumber can save you time and money by ensuring that the repair is done correctly the first time.
4. Warranty Protection
As mentioned earlier, attempting to repair your water heater yourself can void its warranty. Hiring a professional plumber ensures that your warranty remains valid, giving you peace of mind and saving you money in the long run. If something goes wrong with your water heater in the future, you can get it fixed or replaced for free.
5. Troubleshooting Guide
All Utah Pluming, Heating & Air’s plumbers can also provide you with a troubleshooting guide for your water heater. This guide can help you identify and fix minor issues on your own, saving you time and money in the future. It also allows you to keep an eye out for any potential problems and address them before they become major issues.
Need Help With Your Water Heater Today?
While DIY solutions may seem like a cost-effective option, attempting to repair your water heater yourself can be dangerous and may end up costing you more in the long run. Our plumbers have the knowledge, years of experience, and tools to safely and efficiently repair your water heater. By hiring professionals, you can ensure the safety of yourself and your home, save time and money, and protect your warranty. Don’t put yourself at risk, hire a professional for your water heater repairs.
