Water heaters don’t work forever. Even a well-maintained one will only last around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s critical to know the clues that it’s wearing out. Otherwise, you might not have heated water for a couple days while you wait to replace it.
Here are six common hints that your water heater is dying.
1. Your Water Heater is Past 10 Years Old
Just because your water heater is older doesn’t necessarily mean it’s failing, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to install a new one shortly. As the years go by, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it harder for it to add warmth to water. Eventually, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating parts to stop working. Corrosion can also lead to water leaks, which may damage your Greater Richmond residence.
By getting a new water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient options. If you select an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you may get added rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, as an ENERGY STAR water heater could save you up to $3,500 on energy over its lifetime.
Going from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even bigger amount. For residences that consume less than 41 gallons of water daily, a tankless water heater is often 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters frequently run for around 20 years, which is about twice the lifetime of a tank water heater.
2. Water Heater is Losing Water
Sometimes leaks are just the consequence of loose connections, wrong pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a clue that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any event, you’ll need pro help from Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to figure out the trouble.
3. Water is the Wrong Color
If your normally clear water abruptly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater could be to blame. Cloudy water means sediment has built up in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either instance, Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling advises having your water heater inspected by a pro.
4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water
As sediment accumulates in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater consumes more energy to produce hot water. Because of this, it will need longer for it to heat up water, and heated water will be used up more quickly. Both are a sign that your water heater is due for replacement.
To prevent sediment from building up in your tank, Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling advises having one of our professionals flush it annually.
5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises
Similar to cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a hint that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, leading to the odd sounds. Over time, the strain on your water heater can create cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Constantly Having to Have Water Heater Repair
Over its life, your water heater could need minor repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re frequently calling Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for help or a crucial part has failed, it’s time for water heater installation.
It’s draining when your water heater is on the brink of failing or has quit working. But that’s not the case when you contact Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at 804-302-6657 for water heater installation in Greater Richmond. From picking the right style for your family and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the entire process easy. Contact us to book your appointment today!