Water Heaters

Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater in Iowa?

A reliable water heater is essential for Iowa homeowners—especially during long Midwestern winters. If you’re dealing with inconsistent hot water, strange noises, leaks, or rising energy bills, you may be wondering: should I repair or replace my water heater?

The answer depends on several factors, including the age of your system, the type of repair needed, and whether your unit is still under warranty. A professional evaluation from a licensed plumber is always the best way to decide, but the guide below will help you understand your options before scheduling service.

If your water heater is acting up, the licensed professionals at Kovarik Onstot Elite Plumbing are here to help homeowners throughout Ames, Ankeny, and the surrounding communities.

Water Heater Repair vs. Replacement Costs in Iowa (2026 Update)

Understanding today’s costs can make the decision clearer:

• Tank water heater repairs: typically range from $400 to $5,500+, depending on the issue

• Tank water heater replacement: averages $1,800 to $4,500+, including installation

• Tankless water heater service or replacement: generally ranges from $5,500 to $12,500+
  
  

While replacement costs may feel steep upfront, frequent repairs and rising energy inefficiency often make replacement the more cost-effective long-term solution.

The team at KOE Plumbing provides honest, upfront recommendations based on your system—not sales pressure.

Key Factors That Determine Whether You Should Repair or Replace

1. The Age of Your Water Heater

Most water heaters last 10–15 years, though Iowa’s hard water can shorten that lifespan without proper maintenance.

• 8–10+ years old: Repairs often only extend life by 1–2 years

• Under 6 years old: Repairs are usually worthwhile and cost-effective
  
  

Older systems may also require discontinued or hard-to-source parts, increasing labor costs. In many cases, investing several hundred dollars into an aging unit simply delays the inevitable.

If you’re unsure how old your system is, a KOE Plumbing water heater inspection can quickly determine its condition and remaining lifespan.

2. The Type and Cost of the Repair

A common industry guideline is the 50% rule:
If the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a replacement, replacement is usually the smarter financial choice.

Water heating accounts for a significant portion of your annual energy usage, so newer, high-efficiency systems can lower monthly utility bills.

Common Tank Water Heater Repairs

• Thermostat replacement

• Pressure relief valve repair

• Pilot light or ignition issues
  
  

These are usually affordable and worth repairing.

However, a leaking tank almost always means replacement, as tank repairs typically exceed the 50% threshold.

Common Tankless Water Heater Repairs

• $ Annual flush/descaling to remove mineral buildup

• $$ Repair or replacement of heating elements or burners

• $$$ Circuit board replacement causing lukewarm or inconsistent water
  
  

A trained tankless water heater plumber in Ames can determine whether repair or replacement makes the most sense for your system.

3. Your Water Heater Warranty

Valid warranties can dramatically reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Most water heaters include:

• Labor warranty: 1–5 years (from the installer)

• Manufacturer parts warranty: 5–10 years

• Tank warranty (tank systems only): often covers leaks or cracks
  
  

To keep warranties valid, homeowners must:

• Register the unit within 6 months of installation

• Schedule annual maintenance with a licensed plumber

• Use manufacturer-approved replacement parts
  
  

The experts at Kovarik Onstot Elite Plumbing can help verify your warranty status and handle manufacturer claims when applicable.

Get Expert Water Heater Advice from KOE Plumbing

For over 5 years, Kovarik Onstot Elite Plumbing has helped Ames and Ankeny homeowners make confident, cost-effective plumbing decisions. We’re known for:

• Fast response times

• Fully stocked service trucks

• Honest repair vs. replacement guidance

• Expert installation of tank and tankless systems
  
  

Whether you need a water heater repair or a full system upgrade, our highly trained plumbers deliver dependable results—done right the first time.

📞 Call 515-351-8606 today to restore reliable hot water to your home.