6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
Your water heater is a staple in your home…which you don’t often think about until there’s something wrong with it.
As your family depends on your water heater for a lot of things – like hot showers, dishwashing, laundry, and cleaning, the average person can use water of varying warmth up to 20 times a day. When you multiply that usage by each household member, the demands of a water heater are brought into perspective. That’s why a good and reliable water heater is a critical household appliance. Could you imagine how miserable you would be starting your day off without that nice hot shower in the morning?
Although you can help prolong the life of your water heater by annual maintenance, sometimes it does need a repair by a professional. However, with usage strain and the age of the tank, eventually, your water heater will need to be replaced. If your water heater is getting on in years, it’s best to look out for the warning signs it needs to be replaced before it breaks down altogether, leaving you without hot water.
1. If your Water Heater is 10 years old or Showing Signs of Age
Hot water heaters have a limited lifespan. Although they often last upwards of 10 years, they are not intended for use past that period.
If you are unsure how old your water heater is, you can check the serial number listed on the manufacturer’s sticker. This number will start with a letter, followed by a series of numbers. The first two numbers indicate the year of the manufacture date.
2. You are Experiencing Discoloured Water
If your hot water comes out with a rusty flavour or a red tint, it could be from rust inside of your water heater. Like all metals, the metal inside your hot water tank can rust with time, leaving you with rusty water which may be unsafe and should be replaced as soon as possible.
3. Your Water Heater makes Unusual Noises
Are you hearing clunking, banging and other loud rumbling noises from your water heater? This could be due to sediment beginning to build up when the heater is in use.
A noisy water heater could indicate a need for replacement in older tanks or might be more easily solved with a tank flush performed by a certified plumber.
4. The Hot Water Tank is Leaking
When something leaks that’s not supposed to, that’s always a bad sign. When it’s a tank filled with hot water? Definitely not good!
When the metal in a water heater becomes hot, it contracts and expands. The metal in older, overused heaters may begin to crack, causing leaks around your water heater.
If you notice puddles when the heater is in use, you likely have a leak, which could indicate the need for a new heater.
5. There is Inadequate Heating
Naturally, a water heater with one foot in the grave will begin to lose function. If your hot water is no longer coming out hot or is only hot some of the time, it may be time to replace the heater.
Sometimes the devices and mechanisms inside will wear down or break, causing your heater to stop heating. In some cases, this may require a simple repair. However, it could also require a full replacement.
6. There is Sediment or Sand Build Up in your Water Heater Tank
When you run water from the tap, the water coming out looks murky, muddy or sandy. This is a sign there is sediment build up in the bottom of your water tank, and could be the gateway to a serious corrosion issue. Corrosion will make your tank prone to leaks.
Every home uses hot water supply differently, so it’s important to understand the different types of water heaters and features best suited for your household needs. Let the experts at Crystal help you choose from a variety of brand name eco-friendly tank/tankless water heaters for your home.
Contact us today at 519-756-6888 to get started.
