Your water heater isn’t working the way it used to. Maybe your showers run cold too quickly, or there’s rust in your water. The question every Portland-area homeowner eventually faces is: Do I repair my water heater—or is it time to replace it?
The answer depends on several factors: the age of your unit, the nature of the problem, the cost of the repair, and how much longer the system is expected to last.
At Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing, we help homeowners in Portland, Gresham, and Happy Valley make this decision every day. In this post, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of repair vs. replacement—and how to decide what’s right for your home and your budget.
Start with the Basics: How Old Is Your Water Heater?
- Under 6 years old: Most issues can likely be repaired cost-effectively. Parts are still under warranty, and the system has useful life left.
- 6–10 years old: Consider repair if the issue is minor and the unit has been well maintained.
- Over 10 years old: Replacement is often the better choice—especially for traditional tank water heaters.
Water heaters typically last:
- 8–12 years for tank models
- 15–20+ years for tankless models
- 10–15 years for hybrid heat pump systems
If your unit is nearing the end of its life span, investing in a new one makes more sense than putting money into repairs that may only buy you limited time.
Common Issues: Repairable or Not?
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most frequent problems we see—and whether they’re usually repairable.
Repairable Issues:
- Pilot light won’t stay lit (gas models)
- Heating element failure (electric models)
- Tripped circuit breaker or faulty thermostat
- Leaking pressure relief valve
- Minor plumbing connection leaks
- Sediment flushing needed
If your system is relatively new and has no history of recurring problems, these are generally worth fixing.
Issues That May Warrant Replacement:
- Corrosion inside the tank
- Rust-colored water from hot taps
- Cracks in the tank body
- Multiple repairs within the last 2 years
- Sudden drop in performance despite maintenance
Any visible tank damage or advanced rust inside the unit signals a major failure risk—and that means replacement is the smarter, safer call.
Factor in the Cost of the Repair
A good rule of thumb: If the repair cost is more than 50% of the cost of a new water heater, replacement is the better long-term investment.
Typical repair costs:
- Minor valve or thermostat fixes: $150–$300
- Heating element replacement: $250–$450
- Tank flushing or anode rod replacement: $200–$350
- Full tank replacement: $1,800–$3,000+ (depending on type)
If your current system is out of warranty, and your repair estimate is creeping into the four-figure range, that money is often better spent on a more efficient, longer-lasting unit.
Replacement Offers Energy Savings
Even if your water heater can be repaired, it might be costing you extra every month. Older systems are often 50% less efficient than today’s ENERGY STAR® certified models.
By replacing your outdated unit with a tankless or high-efficiency hybrid model, you can:
- Save up to 30% on water heating costs
- Reduce your carbon footprint
- Qualify for rebates and tax credits (up to $1,100 or more)
- Increase your home’s resale appeal
Learn more about upgrade options and savings on our Water Heater Replacement page.
When Replacement Makes the Most Sense
Consider going straight to replacement if:
- Your system is 10+ years old
- You’ve had more than one repair in the past year
- There are signs of rust, leaks, or corrosion
- You plan to sell your home within the next few years
- You want to take advantage of rebates and improved efficiency
We’ll help you compare costs, savings, and system types so you can make an informed, confident decision.
Get Expert Help from Portland’s Trusted Plumbing Pros
Not sure what’s best? That’s where we come in. When you call Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing, we’ll:
- Evaluate your system and diagnose the issue
- Explain your repair and replacement options clearly
- Provide upfront, pressure-free pricing
- Help you explore rebates, warranties, and financing
We’re here to help you make the decision that offers the best long-term value for your home.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Happy Valley, or the Greater Portland area, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is your go-to expert for water heater diagnostics, repairs, and replacements.
Contact us today to schedule a system inspection or request a free quote.
