A homeowner was quoted $3,100 to replace a water heater, got a second opinion, and had hot water restored for just $150.
The difference came down to a leaking pipe, which the second plumber found could be fixed without replacing the heater. The resident took to Reddit's r/Homeowners forum to share their story.
Here's what to know
In the Reddit thread, the original poster reported that their hot water had been getting steadily cooler for about two days.
Once the issues started in the 10-year-old, 40-gallon gas water heater, they contacted three locally recommended, family-run plumbing businesses after spotting a leak above it.
The first plumber provided a $3,100 quote after looking at the unit for just two minutes and declaring it 'dead.'
The second plumber arrived just two hours later, "and determines it is functioning just fine. He assumes the minor leak from the top was the issue and replaced the pipe within an hour. $150. I have hot water." Since the issue was resolved, the OP called the third plumber to cancel the visit.
OP then wrote, "Am I wrong for feeling like the first plumber was swindling me? First, I thought $3,100 was a bit high… Second, I really wasn't sold that the water heater itself was dead."
Commenters were divided over the first plumber's recommendation. One wrote, "3100 is within the range. Unfortunately, you didn't need a new water heater, so that was an upsell."
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A second user added, "First plumber wasn't swindling you. A standard hot water tank at 10 years is considered end-of-life for that product. Will it continue to work a few more years? Quite possibly, maybe even probably."
Another commenter argued that it was "easier for them to sell you an entire unit instead of fixing the burner or the ignitor, etc. Regardless, didn't look like you needed either."
When a replacement becomes necessary, upgrading to a heat pump water heater offers another way to lower energy bills.
For homeowners considering an upgrade, Cala offers smart heat pump water heaters. Its customizable water heaters can help homeowners decrease their energy bills by heating water exactly when it is needed. Cala is an excellent option to consider when planning a replacement.
Where can I learn more?
Other homeowners have also questioned whether a water heater problem called for a full replacement.
• After a water heater drip prompted replacement advice, commenters suggested checking the pressure first.
• A water heater leaking from the top looked terminal until plumbers focused on the vent.
• After a village ordered vent repairs, a plumber quoted $1,600, then pushed a $5,000 replacement.
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