Signs Your Water Heater May Need to be Replaced
The average lifespan of a tank water heater is 8-12 years. This depends on how well you maintain and use a water heater. A tankless water heater lasts about twenty years. If you are near that time, or your water heater is doing anything we discuss below, it may be time for a replacement.
No Hot Water
If the hot water isn’t coming, no matter how long you leave your faucet running, that is a tell tale sign that you need to call a plumber. It is important to note that this isn’t if the water is hot enough. It is if the water doesn’t get hot at all. Complete lack of hot water can be caused by poor maintenance and sediment build up in the tank that reduces the available capacity.
Leaks
If you find any moisture or water pooling around your water heater, it is likely a leak in the system. If your water heater is leaking it is a serious issue. It can be the result of pressure building up inside the tank. This can happen due to the temperature being too hot or the relief valve not working properly. Pressure that has built up inside the tank can cause it to explode if not handled quickly.
Rusty or Cloudy Water
There can be issues like recent construction nearby or a problem with the city’s water that can cause rusty or brown water. If you’ve determined that none of those could be the problem, then it is likely that your water heater isn’t working properly. This can mean that the sacrificial anode rod needs to be replaced. Or the steel lining inside the tank has started to become corroded.
Cloudy water can indicate sediment build up in your water heater. If you have flushed your tank recently then it might be time to give your water heater a replacement.
Weird Noises
Your water heater is designed to be silent, so if you are hearing any noise then giving a plumber a call is a wise idea. Noise can be the cause of sediment build up. Sediment generally occurs in with usage, however when it builds up it can harden into bigger clumps. That generally is the noise you hear.
Corrosion
Corrosion is a big sign that your water heater is wearing down. This can happen in the unit itself or on the water lines around it. That can contribute to the break down of the unit itself. Some signs of corrosion include rusty or cloudy water but also a rotten egg smell in your water can occur.
Final Thoughts
While these situations may need a water heater replacement. However, there are some situations in which parts can be replaced which includes anything that needs a burner or heating elements, valves, thermostats, igniters and more. There is also more possibility of repair if your unit is less than 10 years old.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you’d like help with your water heater. We will immediately handle any emergency plumbing, drain, and water damage problem, including excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines.
