Why Is My Water Pressure Low? And How Do I Fix It?

• Shortage of Hot Water: If your hot water runs out quickly during a shower (e.g., after just a minute), leaving you with lukewarm water, it could indicate an issue with the cold water side of your tank. This might require a repair, especially if the tank is relatively new.

• Leaks: Water dripping from the pressure relief valve is often a simple fix. However, leaks from the top, bottom, or welds of the tank usually mean it’s time for a replacement, as these issues are rarely repairable.

• Age of the Tank: Most hot water tanks have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. If your tank is older than this and experiencing issues, replacement is often more cost-effective than repair.

Repair Costs: Repairs typically cost between 250 and 500. However, if your tank is out of warranty, investing in repairs may not be worthwhile, as other components could fail soon.

Replacement Costs: A new hot water tank can cost between 1,500 and 2,500 for standard models. For newer, high-efficiency models with additional components (like blower motors), replacement costs can range from 2,500 to 3,500.

Warranty Considerations: If your tank is still under warranty, repairs may be covered. But once the warranty expires, replacement is often the smarter choice to avoid recurring repair costs.

• The issue is minor, such as a faulty pressure relief valve.

• Your tank is relatively new and still under warranty.

• You’re not ready to invest in a replacement due to budget constraints.

• Your tank is over 7 to 10 years old and out of warranty.

• You’re facing frequent repairs or major issues like leaks.

• You want the peace of mind that comes with a new, warrantied unit.

• Schedule regular maintenance to extend the life of your tank.

• Monitor for signs of wear, such as rust, leaks, or inconsistent water temperature.

• Consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model if your current tank is nearing the end of its lifespan.