Why is your water heater an important part of your home? Well, it provides you with hot water for bathing, washing dishes, and laundry. ( The idea of no hot water brrr) They are pretty critical to our everyday life. So what do you do if you think your water heater is going out? 9 signs that will help you identify if your water heater needs repair or replacement.
Lifespan of a Water Heater
Water heaters can last up to 12 years, tankless systems lasting even longer. If your water heater is over 8 years old you may want to start thinking about a replacement. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking to replace your water heater:
- Type of water heater
- Quality of the unit
- Regular maintenance
What Causes a Hot Water Heater to Stop Working?
How old your water heater is isn’t’ the only thing that may make your water heater start going out. Here are some things that cause your hot water heater to stop working:
- Sediment build-up
- Rust and corrosion
- Loose fittings
Signs a Water Heater is Going Bad
To keep your hot water heater performing properly it is a good idea to have maintenance on your water heater. Here are some warning signs that your hot water heater is going out:
1. Your Water Heater Is Making Strange Noises
A water heater making strange noises could be a sign that the unit is going out. These sounds may include popping, banging, or even rumbling. Hot water heater noises are usually caused by sediment build-up on the bottom of the tank. When this happens it can cause the unit to overheat and eventually fail.
2. Decreased Water Temperature
Do you notice that the water temperature is not as consistent as it used to be? This could be a sign that it is beginning to fail. Have your water heater checked out as soon as possible as they can be indicative of a much larger problem.
3. Low Water Pressure
Good water pressure from your cold water faucets but low water pressure from your hot water faucets could be a sign that there is sediment build-up in your hot water heater. Sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank and cause many problems.
4. Discolored Water
Your water being yellow or discolored is a sign that the anode rod in your water heater tank is beginning to fail. The anode rod is responsible for protecting the interior of the tank from corrosion, so if it’s failing it’s only a matter of time before the tank itself starts to rust.
5. Hot Water Runs Out Fast
Finding yourself running out of hot water more quickly than usual is often a sign that your water heater is on its last legs. When water heaters start to go bad they often lose their ability to heat water properly, which can result in shorter showers and less hot water overall.
6. Water Heater Leaks
If you notice your water heater leaking it’s definitely time for a replacement. Water heaters are designed to be airtight, so any leaking is a sign that something has gone wrong. Leaking water heaters can cause a significant amount of damage to your home. If your hot water heater is leaking turn it off immediately and get a professional to look at it.
7. Frequent Repairs
Frequent water heater repairs are a good sign that it may be time to replace it. With each repair there is the potential for new problems to develop. If you find yourself making frequent hot water heater repairs it may be more cost-effective to replace your water heater.
8. Higher Energy Bills
Sediment buildup in your water heater will reduce energy efficiency as it ages. Over time these minerals from the water will settle to the bottom of the tank and build up making it difficult for heat to transfer evenly throughout the tank, this can lead to your water heater not working as efficiently as it once did.
If you notice higher energy bills this may be a sign that your water heater is not as efficient as it once was. You can extend the life of your water heater by draining it every six months to get rid of the sediment.
9. Water Smells Odd
If your water smells strange it is usually caused by bacteria growing in the tank. Bacteria love the warm, moist environment of the water heater especially if you keep your temperature below 120 degrees. You can usually get rid of bacteria by draining and treating your water. If the problem persists you may need to replace your water heater.
Written by: Lisa Gray LEGs Media