Water is a vital resource in any home. The water heating system in your house is essential for providing hot water for daily activities. You use it for countless things, ranging from cooking and cleaning to taking showers and using the toilet.
Sometimes, you need hot water to do certain activities. These include:
- Washing dishes
- Taking baths
For example, even a small amount of hot water is needed for tasks like washing hands.
Over time, however, your water heater may not function as well as you would like. So, how do you know it’s time to make water heater repairs? The following are some warning signs that you may need to replace your water heater.
1. Your Water Heater Is Aging
Well, most water heaters have a lifespan of eight to ten years. After that period, they often stop working correctly, thus requiring replacement. If you are not sure how old your water heater is, please take a look at the serial number on it. It is often written on a sticker on the device. You can insert the serial number on the manufacturer's website to learn about your water heater. Even if your old heater doesn't show any signs of being faulty, it's a good idea to plan for a replacement soon. That way, you will not be too surprised if it fails suddenly.
2. It’s Producing Strange Noise
Your water heater may start producing rumbling and banging noises as it ages. As soon as it begins producing these sounds, you ought to get a replacement. One cause of the noise may be sediment buildup. As the water is heated and reheated, the bottom of your tank may accumulate sediments. Over time, they begin to harden and grow thicker, making the water heater wear down rapidly.
3. Your Tap Produces Rusty Water
Continuous exposure of metal to water will eventually lead to corrosion after the sacrificial anode is exhausted. This corrosion causes your heater to rust. The presence of rust indicates that the water heater needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Rust could be coming from your water heater itself or the pipes leading to your faucet. Either way, rust is an early warning for future problems. Please act quickly to avoid having to stay for days without hot water.
4. Hot Water Doesn’t Last
The functionality of your water heater may deteriorate due to its age. If getting warm water in your home becomes an issue, this is a sign you need to replace your water heater. It would be best if you had an expert examine the issue and perform the repair.
5. Water Puddle Next to the Heater
If there are water puddles around the tank, please replace the heater as soon as possible. The tank undergoes expansion and contraction several times due to changes in temperature, which may cause fractures.
Please ensure that you replace the tank before it bursts. Leaks can cause further damage, such as wet carpeting or damage to electronics.
Energy Efficiency: Is Your Water Heater Costing You More?
When it comes to your home’s energy use, your water heater is one of the biggest contributors to your monthly utility bills. Whether you have a gas water heater or an electric model, older or outdated water heaters often use more energy than necessary to heat water for your household. This can lead to higher costs over time, especially if your unit is struggling to keep up or is not working as efficiently as it once did.
If you notice your energy bills creeping up, your water heater could be the culprit. Many older water heaters lose efficiency as they age, requiring more energy to provide the same amount of hot water. Sediment buildup, worn-out components, or outdated technology can all make your heater work harder, costing you more money each month.
To save on energy costs, consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient water heater. Modern units, including heat pump water heaters and tankless models, are designed to use less energy while still providing plenty of hot water for your needs. Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank and checking the thermostat, can also help your current water heater run more efficiently.
If you’re concerned about the energy your water heater is using, or if you want to explore options that could save you money in the long run, it may be time to look into a water heater replacement. Investing in a new, energy-efficient unit can make a noticeable difference in your utility bills and help protect your wallet for many years to come.
Get Help with Your Hot Water Heater From Qualified, Experienced Plumbers
There is no denying that a faulty water heater can be a great inconvenience. Fortunately, at Heaney Plumbing & Heating, we are well-equipped to advise you on proper water heater maintenance and also handle any water heater replacement. Please reach out to us as soon as you see any warning signs; we'll be glad to help.