A homeowner facing a $175 water heater repair bill turned to Reddit for advice and received a potentially even cheaper suggestion.
The discussion also raised questions about whether repairing a tank that had been running since 2006 was the best path forward.
Here's what to know
The Reddit post revealed that the quoted work involved new fittings at both the water heater's inlet and outlet. After sharing it with the r/askaplumber community, they identified apparent corrosion around a connection called the cold-side dielectric union.
"Unfortunately at the moment I cannot pay to replace a whole new system at the moment," the homeowner wrote, noting that the tank otherwise had no reported problems.
A couple of low-cost solutions immediately emerged. One commenter suggested tightening the union nut, while another recommended cleaning the connection and replacing its gasket.
For homeowners who eventually need a replacement, a heat pump water heater could help lower energy bills.
More background
Beyond the cost, the homeowner wanted to know whether replacing the unions could compromise the rest of the aging tank.
Faucet aerators or cartridges might need clearing if debris entered the lines when the water was turned back on, one commenter warned. The commenter said replacing the unions would not necessarily compromise the tank.
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The homeowner confirmed seeing moisture in the brownish area. A commenter pointed to apparent dampness at the union's seam, arguing that the buildup was hard-water deposits rather than corrosion.
One commenter recommended replacing the roughly 20-year-old heater outright. Another considered $175 a fair price for a company service call, countering suggestions that the proposed work was unnecessary.
What can be done?
The original poster said they were open to tightening the nuts.
One commenter proposed an alternative connection repair costing about $100 in materials and tool rental. The OP also signaled they were considering this approach. The same commenter who provided the alternative approach named Rheem, A.O. Smith, and Bradford White as potential brands to consider for a replacement.
"20 years is a long time for a heater, I'd recommend starting to set some money aside for this when you can," they added.
For a future upgrade, Cala offers smart heat pump water heaters. Its customizable systems can help homeowners decrease their energy bills by heating water exactly when it is needed. Cala also offers a replacement option, separate from whether this tank's connection needs repair.
The OP didn't update the thread on which route they chose.
Where can I learn more?
Other homeowners have also questioned water heater repair bills and advice to replace their tanks.
• A homeowner advised to replace a dripping water heater received suggestions to check the pressure first.
• A remote cabin owner facing water heater replacement learned a rebuild could cost $70.
• A homeowner questioned a $500 expansion tank quote, while plumbers emphasized the need for support.
• A Midwestern homeowner questioned a $230 tankless heater repair, but professionals considered the charge fair.
• After six years without water heater upkeep, a homeowner questioned a $4,500 repair quote.
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