How do you know it’s time for a new water heater? While water heaters can’t talk, they can communicate some telltale signs that it’s time to do something. Most homeowners get around 10 years out of a water heater. However, that doesn’t mean that your water heater will make it that long. Take a look at the big signs that it may be time for a new water heater.
Age
Yes, most water heaters will sail right through without issues until the 10-year mark. However, keeping a water heater beyond 10 years isn’t recommended even if everything seems okay. First, your water heater’s actual manufacturer’s lifespan is the measure to go by when determining if your unit has reached its expiration date. The general recommendation is to swap in a new water heater once every decade to stay ahead of any problems that can arise from an aging water heater that’s malfunctioning. The government’s ENERGY STAR program warns that you could be risking leaks and flooding if your water heater is more than 10 years old.
Rust
Rust is one of the biggest problems you can run into with a water heater. The biggest sign that a water heater has a rust issue is rusty water. Yes, rust can actually come through your faucets when something is amiss with your water heater. Rust that is visible on your water heater’s inlet valve is also a sign that a water heater needs to go.
Loud Noises
A water heater that’s operating smoothly will generally be very quiet. However, loud clanging or knocking sounds indicate that something is wrong. The biggest culprit behind loud sounds coming from a water heater is sediment accumulation. When sediment builds up on the bottom of a water heater, this makes it impossible for the unit to run properly.
Leaks
The same sediment buildup that causes loud noises and slow heat-up times can also cause leaks. A leak can be the most destructive repercussion of not replacing an old or damaged water heater in time. Leaks are also caused by things like pressure buildup, extreme temperatures and vale issues within the unit. Here are some early signs of leaks that can help you to spring into action before you have a big mess on your hands:
- Moisture around the base of your water heater.
- Puddles around the base of your water heater.
- Corrosion on the side of the water heater’s tank.
One trick is to place a moisture sensor near the base of your water heater. This will help you to know if moisture appears before major leaking occurs. If the sensor goes off, you can call in a professional to help you determine if it’s time for a repair, replacement or moisture-management plan.
Cold Water
If your water is taking a long time to heat up, this is a sign that something is off with your water heater. A water heater’s inability to heat up quickly can be linked to everything from sediment to a broken heating element. Get this checked out if you find yourself waiting for a long time for the water to reach a comfortable temperature when showering or doing dishes.
Is It Time for a New Water Heater?
The good news is that today’s water heaters are much more efficient than the unit that’s been in your home for 10 years or more! In fact, you can easily compare the energy savings offered by different models before making a choice. Give us a call today if you need a water heater replacement in chantilly!
