Hot water has become a necessity. From showering to washing dishes and doing laundry, it ensures the smooth running of daily life.
Unfortunately, water heaters are prone to damage over time. Here are 5 common signs that your water heater needs repair or replacement:
Exceeded Lifespan
The average lifespan of a traditional water heater is between 10 to 15 years. Whereas, tankless water heaters can last for 20 years. Once your water heater exceeds its lifespan, chances of frequent breakdowns increase. You may be able to keep it running with temporary repairs but the original efficiency won’t be restored.
If you’re moving into a new house, ask the owners about the age of the water heater. You can also get an expert plumber to assess its age and condition. Replacing your water heater is more cost-effective than paying repair costs every few weeks.
Insufficient Hot Water
Frequently running out of hot water in the shower? This is a clear sign that something is amiss. Reduced efficiency of your water heater can be caused:
- Faulty thermostat
- Sediment buildup
- Pilot light issues
- Faulty healing coils
Before your water heater completely breaks down, call an expert and get the necessary repairs done.
Rusty or Discolored Water
Discolored or rusty water coming out of the water heater taps is a sign of damage. Corroded pipes are the main culprit behind rusty water. Contaminated pipes deteriorate the quality of water. Other causes of discolored hot water include:
- Sediment buildup
- Mineral buildup
- Pressure changes
Rusty water is a health hazard. The iron oxide in rusty water can lead to red, itchy, or inflamed skin. Moreover, exposure to rusty pipes can result in lead poisoning.
Pools of Water Around the Heating Tank
The heating tank is the equipment of your water heater. If you notice pools of water around it, call an expert. Leaks can be caused by a corroding water tank. Call a water heater repair expert to avoid a complete system breakdown.
High Energy Bills
If you notice a sudden spike in your utility bills without any change in your water usage, your water heater could be the culprit. An aging water heater works twice as hard as earlier to be efficient. This can overburden your HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills. Install a modern water heater with energy-efficient features for cost savings in the long run.
Choose a Reliable Plumbing Service
Repairing or replacing a water heater is expensive. Selecting a reliable plumbing service can increase the efficiency and longevity of your heating system. Follow these tips to get the best plumbing service:
- Choose a water heating install service that offers licensed plumbers so all safety regulations are met.
- Evaluate the experience and expertise of your selected company.
- Read client reviews to assess the quality of the plumbing services.
- Consider 24/7 plumbing availability.
- Choose a service with moderate pricing so you don’t go over budget.
- Examine the warrant and guarantee of the services.
- Choose a service that offers energy-efficient solutions to reduce your utility bills.
