Water heaters play a crucial role when it comes to having hot water for showers, dishwashing, and laundry. But like all home appliances, they don’t last forever. You need to keep an eye out for warning signs that your water heater is failing before the entire unit malfunctions. Here are some important signs to watch out for that may indicate it’s time to replace your water heater.
1. Age of the Appliance
Traditional tank water heaters will last around 8 to 12 years, but tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years if they are maintained properly. It’s important to know what type of water heater you have and when it was installed. If your unit is near its expected lifespan, you may want prepare for replacement even if it is still working properly.
2. Unusual Noise
If you’re hearing banging, rumbling, or popping noises coming from your water heater, it’s often an indication that sediment has built up at the bottom of the tank. This can cause the tank to overheat and will eventually cause enough damage for the entire unit to fail. Flushing the tank may fix the problem temporarily, but if you’re noticing constant noises, you need to replace your tank as quickly as possible.
3. Discolored Water Coming From Pipes
If the water that is coming out of your pipes is discolored or rusty, it may indicate that your water heater is deteriorating from the inside. Rust in the water often comes from within the water heater, which is a sign that there is corrosion somewhere. This can cause significant leaks and negatively impact your water quality.
4. Excessive Moisture or Leaking
If you see signs of excessive moisture or water around your tank, you should be concerned. Leaks can come from your tank, its connections, or other sources. If your tank itself is leaking, you will probably need to get it replaced to avoid water damage in your home.
5. Expensive Energy Bills
As your water heater becomes older, it also becomes less efficient. If your energy bill suddenly spikes, this could be a sign that your heater is working too hard to warm up water. Replacing your old unit with a new one will help improve efficiency and lower your utility bills.
6. Limited Hot Water Supply
If you’re noticing that your hot water runs out more quickly than normal, this could be a sign that you have sediment build up in your tank or that the heating element has failed. Ultimately, if your water heater is struggling to keep up with demand, it’s probably time to get it replaced.
7. Warning Lights
Many hot water heaters have electronic displays that show error codes or warning lights. These should be taken seriously as they’re usually a sign of an issue somewhere within the unit.
Properly maintaining your water heater is a great way to extend its life, but eventually, you will need to replace it. If you’re in need of a water heater replacement or repair in Rochester, NY, contact the professionals at Nichols Electric and Plumbing.
