Buffalo Water Heater Services

Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years. Tankless models, with proper maintenance, can last 20 years or more. If your tank unit is approaching 10 years old and starting to show signs of trouble, it’s worth having it evaluated—repair costs on an aging tank can sometimes approach the cost of a new system.

The main factors are the age of the unit, the cost of the repair relative to replacement, and whether this is a first-time issue or part of a pattern. If your water heater is less than 8 years old and the repair is minor, fixing it usually makes sense. If it’s older, has been repaired before, and is facing another significant problem, replacement is often the more practical long-term investment. We’ll give you an honest read on which direction makes more sense.

Most plumbing professionals recommend 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to be effective at the tap even after traveling through your home’s pipes, but not so hot that it poses a scalding risk or accelerates tank wear from overheating.

Turn off the water supply to the unit and, for gas heaters, turn the control knob to the pilot setting. For electric heaters, shut off the dedicated circuit breaker. Then call us. Even a minor-looking leak can indicate a more significant problem—and water damage from a failing tank can be extensive if it’s left to run.

For many homeowners, yes—particularly those who run out of hot water frequently, are trying to reduce energy costs, or want to free up space in a utility area. Tankless units heat water on demand rather than maintaining a tank of hot water around the clock, which eliminates standby heat loss. The upfront cost is higher than a traditional tank, but lower operating costs and a longer lifespan often make up the difference over time.