New Tariffs Mean Higher Costs for Texas Homeowners
Water heater prices in Austin and San Antonio are about to jump, and if yours is showing signs of failure, waiting could cost you hundreds more.
Starting in March, a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum will increase the cost of water heaters, HVAC systems, and plumbing repairs. Manufacturers will pass those price hikes to homeowners, making replacements and major repairs much more expensive.
If your water heater is over 8 years old, leaking, or struggling to keep up, now is the time to replace it—before the price increase takes effect.
Texas Heat and Hard Water Destroy Water Heaters Faster
Austin and San Antonio homeowners already deal with conditions that wear out plumbing and HVAC systems faster than expected.
- Hard water buildup leads to sediment accumulation inside water heaters, reducing efficiency and causing premature failure.
- Extreme heat forces water heaters to work harder year-round, shortening their lifespan.
- High mineral content in Central Texas water corrodes heating elements, leading to costly repairs or total replacement.
If you’ve never flushed or maintained your water heater, the damage is adding up—and delaying a replacement will only make it more expensive.
Signs Your Water Heater Is About to Fail
Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until there’s no hot water. But these warning signs mean you’re running out of time:
- Water isn’t getting as hot, or runs out too fast.
- Takes longer to heat up.
- Popping, banging, or rumbling noises coming from the tank.
- Rust-colored water or a metallic smell.
- Small leaks or moisture around the base.
- System is over 8 years old.
A total failure could mean going days without hot water while waiting for an emergency replacement—and that’s if units are even in stock after price hikes hit.
Why Replacing Now Saves You Money
Water heater replacements aren’t something you want to be forced into when it’s too late.
- Steel and aluminum costs will surge after the tariffs take effect.
- Waiting until peak demand means longer wait times and potential product shortages.
- Emergency replacements cost more, especially if your system fails at the worst possible time.
Scheduling a replacement now locks in today’s pricing—before inflation and supply chain issues make everything more expensive.
Avoid an Expensive Emergency With Regular Maintenance
Not ready for a full replacement? A maintenance plan is the best way to extend your water heater’s lifespan and avoid a costly, last-minute breakdown.
The Radiant Care Club home maintenance plan includes:
- Annual water heater inspections to catch early signs of failure.
- Priority scheduling so you’re never stuck waiting for a repair.
- Locked-in pricing that protects you from market fluctuations.
- Regular tune-ups to prevent sediment buildup and extend your system’s life.
If your water heater is already showing signs of failure, skipping maintenance could cost you more than just higher energy bills—you could be looking at a full replacement at post-March prices.
Call Radiant Now – Before Prices Go Up
If your water heater is old, leaking, or struggling, now is the time to act. Waiting will cost you more—whether in higher prices, emergency fees, or days without hot water.
Call Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning today to schedule a water heater replacement or sign up for our home maintenance plan before costs surge.
