It’s your hope that your water heater lasts forever, but don’t count on it. Even if you take all the right steps in regards to water heater maintenance, there will come a day when your water heater is shot. And when that day arrives, it’s time to make an immediate change.
Here are five signs that you may need a new water heater:
1. It’s Old
Simply put, the older your water heater is, the greater chance there is that it will fail you in the near future.
As a general rule of thumb, water heaters last for approximately 10 years[i]. If yours is older, don’t be surprised if you begin to notice problems, such as a lack of hot water or tiny leaks.
Note: it’s better to replace your water heater too soon than too late. If you wait too long, it could begin to leak, thus causing damage to your home.
2. A lot of Noise
All water heaters make some noise, but as they age you may begin to notice it getting louder[ii]. This is typically the result of sediment build up at the bottom of the tank. When this happens, banging and rumbling become more noticeable.
In addition to excessive noise, sediment build up also causes your water heater to work harder, thus reducing its efficiency.
3. Leaking Water
You should never see water around the base of your water heater. If you do, there’s a problem and it’s time to call a plumber.
Even a small leak is a big problem, as it’ll eventually widen. And if this happens before you replace it, you could end up with gallons upon gallons of water flooding your floor and causing serious damage.
Tip: don’t assume that a leaking water heater requires replacement. That may be the case, but you should first check all connections and fittings.
4. Rusty Water
Does your water appear rusty and/or dirty? Do you only notice this when you turn on the hot water? If so, it may be a sign that your water heater is accumulating rust on the inside.
Rust build up improves the likelihood of a crack forming, which almost always results in a leak.
5. No Hot Water
This doesn’t always mean your water heater is going bad or has died on you, but it can.
Before you declare that you need a new water heater, inspect your current unit for common problems. For example, if the water heater isn’t getting power, check your breaker box. This is often a quick fix
If that doesn’t work, consult with a plumber who can inspect your unit and help you decide what to do next.
When the Time Comes to Replace a Water Heater
It’s not the most exciting upgrade to your home, but a new water heater will give you peace of mind. Not to mention the fact that it can also improve performance and save you money on your energy bills.
If your water heater is in need of repair or replacement, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
[i] https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/when-to-replace-a-water-heater
[ii] https://www.angieslist.com/articles/4-signs-your-water-heater-about-fail.htm
Categories:
Water Heaters
