Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until it stops working. Some water heaters can develop leaks or other problems that can cause serious damage to your home. But like any appliance, water heaters have a limited lifespan. If you are wondering whether it is time to replace your water heater, here are four clear signs that it’s time for an upgrade.
1. TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATION
Your water heater plays an essential role in your daily life providing a steady supply of hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry. One of the most common signs that your water heater needs to be replaced is a drastic temperature change. If you notice that it takes significantly longer to get warm water, or that the temperature fluctuates more than usual, it may be time for a new water heater. You might also notice when you turn on the shower and find that the water pressure is much lower than it used to be, which means that your water heater is not able to heat as much water as it used to. Also, keep an eye on your monthly water bill. If you notice a sharp increase in the amount you’re paying, it could be because your water heater is working overtime to try to keep up with demand.
2. LEAKING
If you notice leaking on the floor, it is very important to take action immediately. This may be a sign that your water heater is beginning to fail and needs to be replaced. You may also notice rust increasing on the bottom edge of your water heater. This means water has been leaking for quite a while and could lead to a flood of water on the floor, eventually, if not taken care of quickly. Brown and cloudy water leaking from your water heater are likely due to sediment buildup. Over time, the metal components of your water heater can start to corrode, causing the safe drinking water in your home to become contaminated. Leaking water heaters can cause extensive damage to your home, and include safety concerns that list with nearby electrical components, so it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. Don’t wait until your water heater completely fails before replacing it, otherwise you could be facing some serious repairs.
3. LIFESPAN
Most homeowners do not think to check when their water heater was last replaced. Depending on the make and model of your water heater, it is recommended that you replace it every 8 to 12 years. You can check the manufacturer’s serial number to get an idea of how old your water heater is, but even if it is still within the lifespan, there are other factors to consider. For example, if you have been having problems with your water heater or it is not as efficient as it used to be, it might be time for a replacement even if it isn’t technically “old.”
4. WEAR AND TEAR
Just like any other appliance in your home, your water heater is subject to wear and tear. Over time, this wear and tear can take a toll on the performance of your water heater, leading to knocking and hissing noises. If you notice these noises coming from your water heater, it’s important to take action. Check the repair history of your water heater. If there have been multiple repairs over several years, this could be a sign that the situation is not being properly maintained. Replacing your water heater will avoid any unnecessary safety issues. Consider newer models that are more energy efficient and can save you money on your electricity bill. They also come with a variety of safety features that older models didn’t have, so it is worth it to invest in a new one.
CALL FLOTEK PLUMBING TODAY FOR ALL YOU WATER HEATER NEEDS
Flotek Plumbing provides high-quality water heater services in St. Charles, IL, and surrounding areas. Contact us when you need assistance with water heater installation for a new unit or water heater replacement services to upgrade to an efficient water heater. Like other appliances, water heaters need regular maintenance to operate efficiently. You can rely on our experienced, licensed plumbers to provide necessary water heater repair services on traditional or efficient systems.
