Tariffs Are Driving Up Costs—And Waiting Will Cost You More
If your water heater is aging or struggling to keep up, now is the time to replace it. New U.S. tariffs on imported steel and aluminum take effect in March, and that means the cost of water heaters, HVAC systems, and plumbing materials will rise sharply.
Homeowners in Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country who wait to replace an old water heater could end up paying hundreds more once the price increases hit.
Hill Country Hard Water Destroys Water Heaters Faster
Fredericksburg’s water is some of the hardest in Texas, with high levels of calcium and magnesium. That means:
- Faster sediment buildup inside your water heater, reducing efficiency and increasing energy bills.
- Mineral deposits corroding the tank, leading to leaks and early failure.
- More frequent repairs for heating elements, which struggle against mineral-heavy water.
If your water heater has never been flushed or serviced, the damage is already happening. The longer you wait, the more expensive a replacement will be after March.
Signs Your Water Heater Is About to Fail
Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until they have no hot water. Look for these warning signs before it’s too late:
- Your hot water runs out quickly.
- Water takes longer to heat up.
- You hear loud popping or rumbling noises from the tank.
- Rusty or discolored water comes from your faucets.
- There’s moisture or small leaks around the base of the unit.
- Your system is over 10 years old.
A sudden failure means an emergency replacement—which could cost significantly more due to price hikes and potential product shortages.
Why Replacing Now Saves You Money
- Steel and aluminum costs are about to spike. Manufacturers will pass those costs down, making water heaters and HVAC units more expensive after March.
- Waiting could mean a backorder delay. Supply chain issues could lead to longer wait times for new units.
- Emergency replacements cost more. When your water heater fails unexpectedly, you could be stuck paying premium rates for urgent service.
Scheduling a replacement now locks in today’s pricing—before inflation and market demand drive costs even higher.
How the Home Comfort Club Helps You Avoid Emergency Expenses
Not ready to replace your system? A maintenance plan is the best way to extend your water heater’s lifespan and prevent costly, last-minute failures.
The Home Comfort Club includes:
- Annual water heater inspections to catch early warning signs.
- Regular maintenance to prevent sediment buildup and mineral damage.
- Priority scheduling so you’re never stuck waiting for service.
- Locked-in pricing to protect you from sudden market fluctuations.
If your water heater is already struggling, skipping maintenance could mean a full replacement at post-March prices.
Act Now Before Costs Go Up
If your water heater is old, leaking, or underperforming, don’t wait until it’s too late. The cost of inaction is about to get a lot higher.
Call 72 Degrees Texas today to schedule a water heater replacement or sign up for the Home Comfort Club before price increases take effect.
