Water heater

Water heaters wear out in a way that is predictable. Plans usually cover the parts that fail and may replace a unit that cannot be repaired.

What this covers on many plans

• Heating elements and thermostat on electric units
• Burners, gas valve and igniter on gas units
• Pressure relief valve
• Tankless unit components, on plans that list them

What usually causes these failures

• Sediment and scale from hard water
• A worn anode rod that lets the tank corrode
• Leaks from a corroded tank, which usually means replacement
• Age

Often not covered

• Flushing and routine maintenance
• Expansion tanks and venting on many plans
• Code upgrades needed when a unit is replaced
• Water damage from a leak
• Failures a contract attributes to missing maintenance
• Problems that existed before coverage began

Questions to ask before you buy

• Are tankless units covered the same way?
• Are sediment or scale failures treated as covered wear?
• What does the plan pay when replacement is needed?

Coverage depends on the plan you choose. The covered list, exclusions, limits and service fee in your contract decide what is paid. Ask for them in writing before you buy.