Water heaters don’t last for eternity. Even one that’s regularly tuned up will only last around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s critical to know the signs that it’s dying. Otherwise, you might not be able to use heated water for a few days while you wait for a new one.
Here are six common hints that your water heater is going bad.
1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old
Just because your water heater is older doesn’t necessarily mean it’s wearing out, but it does mean you’ll likely have to get a new one shortly. As time passes, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it harder for it to heat water. Eventually, the sediment will corrode the tank and cause the heating components to stop working. Corrosion can also result in water leaks, which might damage your Cache Valley home.
By installing a new water heater, you’ll have access to the most energy-efficient options. If you install an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you might be eligible for extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, because an ENERGY STAR model could save you up to $3,500 on utilities over its lifetime.
Switching from a regular tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For houses hat require less than 41 gallons of water per day a tankless water heater is often 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters typically run for around 20 years, which is about two times the lifetime of a tank water heater.
2. Water Heater is Leaking
In some instances leaks are just the outcome of loose connections, wrong pressure or a faulty valve. But they can also be a symptom that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any event you’ll need pro support from Western Mechanical, Inc. to get to the bottom of the issue.
3. Water is the Wrong Color
If your typically clear water suddenly appears cloudy or rusty, your water heater could be the problem. Cloudy water is a symptom sediment has collected in the tank, while rusty water is a clue there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either case, Western Mechanical, Inc. suggests having your water heater examined by a professional
4. There’s Inadequate Hot Water
As sediment builds up in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater consumes more energy to produce hot water. Because of this, it will take longer for it to warm water, and warm water will be used up more quickly. Both are a sign that your water heater is going out.
To stop sediment from accumulatingin your tank, Western Mechanical, Inc. suggests having one of our specialists flush it annually.
5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises
Similar to cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a hint that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more strenuous for the water heater to heat water, causing the weird sounds. As time goes on, the strain on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Constantly Requiring Water Heater Repair
Over its lifetime, your water heater could have to have small repairs, such as valve replacement. But if you’re often calling Western Mechanical, Inc. for help or a crucial part has gone out, it’s time for water heater installation.
It’s exhausting when your water heater is just about to stop working or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you contact Western Mechanical, Inc. at 435-753-5515 for water heater installation in Cache Valley. From selecting the right style for your needs and budget to expertly putting it in, we make the complete process easy. Contact us to book your appointment today!