When Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater?

When Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater?

  • DeMarco Mechanical

Water heater replacement is not something most people think about until they try to take a shower and discover that there is no hot water. Since water heaters require little maintenance, many homeowners overlook signs of water heater damage and do not know when to replace theirs.
The key to minimizing costs associated with your water heater is to troubleshoot problems as early as possible.

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

According to HVAC experts, water heater life expectancy is typically anywhere from 8-12 years. However, there are various factors that affect the average life of a water heater including the maintenance plan, the quality of the water filling the boiler, and the type of water heater. So if your water heater is more than 12 years old, it is a good time to start planning for a water heater replacement.
If you notice a defect in your property’s heating system, it is probably time to replace your water heater. But before you do so, it is important to determine the true cause of the problem. Sometimes the cause of the problem is not a faulty water heater, rather a blown fuse or another electrical issue.

Signs Water Heater Replacement Is Necessary

Here a few of the most common signs of water heater damage:

  • Water Leaks. A good indicator that there is a crack in your water heater is a water leak. The first thing you will need to do is identify the source of the leak. You can do this by cutting the water supply in your house and checking for any loose valves. Tighten them if necessary and see whether that stops the leak. If it does not and the leak persists, there is structural damage and you will most likely need to replace your water heater. This is something that needs immediate attention. The leak can potentially flood your home which will mean even more costly repairs.
  • Discoloured Water. Because water heaters are made out of metal, they are prone to rust. This is expected as your water heater gets older. A sign that your water tank is beginning to rust is discolored water coming out of your taps. Rusty tap water usually precedes a leak and is often the first telltale sign of water heater damage.
  • No Hot Water. This sign is what usually gets people’s attention. If you either have no hot water, or it turns cold quicker than usual, your water heater may be malfunctioning. In some cases, mineral sediment from the water will accumulate as the water heater ages. Those minerals harden at the base of the heater and interfere with the water heater’s ability to heat water.
  • Weird Noises Coming From the Heater. Any strange sounds from your water heater is a sign that your water heater is on the verge of breaking down. One of the ways you can be sure is by draining the heater to see if the noises go away. In the event they do not, your water heater needs replacing.

If you find yourself dealing with one or more of these issues, ask for an expert’s opinion. This way, you can rest assured your water heater problem is properly taken care of, and if need be, your water heater is correctly replaced.



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