Most well-maintained water heaters last 10 to 15 years. Water pooling around the base of your water heater, rusty water in your sinks, a metallic taste or smell, and water that doesn’t get hot are all telltale signs of a malfunctioning water heater. Use our guide on water heater replacements to decide if it is time to replace the one in your home.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
It is not uncommon for water heaters to have small leaks before they reach the end of their lifespan. Having a water heater specialist fix these leaks promptly is paramount to getting the most life out of your unit. In addition to leaks, here are a few additional signs that your water heater has seen the end of its days.
Expensive Water Bills
High water bills are a top indicator of a faulty water heater. According to industry experts, water expenses are the second-highest utility bill after HVAC costs. Although buying a new water heater can be somewhat costly, it can quickly pay for itself in reduced energy bills if you choose a high-efficiency model.
Rusty Water in the Sink
Rusty water in your sinks may appear dark brown, light yellow, or even red. Do not drink or bathe in this water. Instead, book a water heater inspection immediately. Consuming very small amounts of rust likely won’t harm your health, but consuming significant amounts can lead to iron poisoning.
Old Age
If your water heater is over 10 years old, have it inspected. It likely has a lot of sediment buildup, corrosion, and loose fittings, indicating it’s time for a replacement.
Deteriorating Anode Rods
Anode rods made of magnesium come standard in water heaters to reduce the risk of rust and corrosion. However, when the anode rods begin to deteriorate due to excessive sediment buildup, a faulty heating element, or broken parts, this can cause the unit to leak. A water heater specialist can check the rods to see whether to replace them or the whole unit.
Odd Noises
When a water heater makes unusual sounds. Popping, pounding, and rumbling are all possible sounds you might hear from a water heater. Sediment accumulation at the tank’s base is a common culprit for noisy hot water heaters. A water heater can run for years with a decent amount of sediment build-up.
Should You Wait to Replace a Water Heater?
Don’t wait until your water heater completely breaks down to replace it. If you do, you increase the likelihood of a gas leak, water damage, or other costly problems. You can save time and money by replacing it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or by listening to the experts when they advise a replacement.
Broken water heaters result in no access to hot water. Think about how inconvenient it would be to live without hot water, even briefly. Thankfully, Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing offers several on-demand water heater services, including unit replacements.
Prepare Now for a Water Heater Replacement
When your water heater stops functioning, you won’t have days to research your options. You will want the appliance replaced as soon as possible so you can take hot showers, wash dishes, and do laundry! Take the time now to plan for a replacement to ensure a smooth and quick installation.
Maybe you have always used an electric tank water heater. If your existing device fails, you’ll likely start shopping for a replacement that is functionally equivalent. However, depending on your circumstances, natural gas or solar electricity might be the best option for your new unit. In addition, you should consider the fact that tankless technology can lower your expenses for heating water by a considerable amount.
Schedule a Water Heater Replacement Session Now
Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, serving American Fork, specializes in a variety of heating, cooling, and plumbing services, including water heater replacement, indoor air quality, sheet metal fabrication, AC installation and repair, heat pumps, and more. If you notice your water heater is starting to fail, contact Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing today to book an inspection.
