It’s easy to take hot, running water for granted, but if your water heater fails completely, you’ll have nothing but cold water for showering, cooking, cleaning dishes, and washing clothes. If you hope to prevent a total breakdown, you must know the signs that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. Here’s how to tell if it’s time for a new water heater.
- The appliance is getting old: Storage water heaters have a lifespan of roughly 10 years. Check the installation date on the side of the tank to learn how old the water heater is and estimate how many years it might have left.
- The water heater isn’t producing enough hot water: It’s possible to fix something simple like a blown-out pilot light, tripped circuit breaker, or misadjusted thermostat. However, if the reason for no hot water is a broken heating element or another failed internal component, it may be time for a new water heater.
- You see rust on the tank: A corroded water heater cannot be repaired. If the steel has rusted through, it will soon begin to leak, threatening property damage. Keep an eye out for a rusty water inlet or pressure relief valve as well. If corrosion has set in here, it has likely taken hold inside the tank as well.
- The water heater makes funny noises: If sediment accumulates at the bottom of the tank, your water heater may begin making rumbling sounds. You can address this by flushing the tank, but eventually, a noisy water heater will break down and need to be replaced.
- Water is pooling around the tank: Loose fittings, condensation, or a dripping temperature and pressure overflow pipe could be to blame for puddles of water around the tank. However, if the tank itself is leaking, you should replace it to prevent catastrophic failure and the water damage that could come with it.
- Your hot water looks, smells, or tastes strange: Be wary of rust-colored water flowing from the hot water faucet. A metallic smell or taste is another warning sign of rust inside your water heater.
- The water heater keeps breaking down: If you have already had your water heater repaired more than once or twice in the past year, this indicates that the appliance is nearing the end of its useful lifespan. More problems are sure to come, especially if the water heater is getting old, so consider putting your money toward an energy-efficient replacement instead.
If you notice one or more of these signs, you know it’s time for a new water heater. Hoover Electric can help, with great deals on top water heater brands, plus financing options that let you buy today and pay over time. Invest in a high-end storage or tankless water heater to reduce your utility costs for many years to come! Ready to schedule water heater installation in Clinton Township? Call us at (586) 756-5676 to speak with a licensed plumber today.
