4 Telltale Signs That You Need A New Water Heater
Like most other appliances around your home, your water heater has a finite lifespan, and over time, there are a number of different issues that can cause it to stop functioning like it should, and ultimately, break down entirely. In an ideal scenario, you will have ample warning to start looking at replacement options before your old water heater finally stops working, but it is important to know what signs you should be on the lookout for in order to give yourself ample time to look at options and come to a smart decision. To help you in that effort, our team of water heater specialists has taken the time to put together this short list highlighting several of the most common signs you can be on the lookout for that might indicate your old water heater is in need of replacement or soon will be. We invite you to read through, and if your water heater is displaying any of these signs, give our team of professionals a call and let us help you find and install the perfect new water heater for your home.
Rusty Or Muddy Water
If you notice that the water coming from your faucets is more of a muddy or rusty brown color as opposed to clear when you are running your hot water, it’s a telltale sign that the inside of your water heater is starting to corrode. As your water heater starts to age, rust will normally start to develop around its seams, as well as the temperature and pressure relief valves, water supply lines, and the drain valve. If you notice that the water coming from your faucet has sandy or mud-like particles in addition to the brownish color, it could instead be a sign that your tank has sediment collecting instead.
Rumbling Noises
Another key method of identifying when your home’s water heater is in need of a replacement is to stay aware of the kinds of noises your tank is making while in use. While it is normal for your tank to make some noises while actually heating water, you want to listen out for loud cracks and pops, as these are commonly linked to the build-up of sediment inside of your tank. As this sediment is heated and reheated, it will start to harden, and when that hardened sediment comes in contact with your tank’s heating element, it is going to make a great deal of noise as the heating element burns it away. If you hear these kinds of noises coming from your water heater, the best course of action is to start looking at replacement options.
Water Surrounding Your Unit
If you notice that your water heater is leaking water, the first thing you are going to want to do is to call in a water heater service pro as leaking water is usually an indication of an internal failure of some kind. Leaking water heaters aren’t an easy fix, and most times, the better option is going to be replacing your old water heater at your earliest convenience to help prevent any further flooding or damage to your home.
Know Your Tank’s Age
Most water heaters have a lifespan of roughly 10 years depending on how well they’ve been maintained, which makes it important to stay aware of the age of your tank. If your tank is getting up there in years, or you are unsure of how old your tank is, there is a good chance that it could be nearing the end of its lifespan, and if that’s the case, it might be a good idea to go ahead and start considering replacement options while you still have time to do so at your leisure.
