Your water heater is an important part of your home. Water heater replacement in Rutland, BC, isn’t on the forefront of most homeowner’s minds until after their system has already begun to fail or stopped working completely. Like all mechanical devices, water heaters show signs of breaking down.
The closer they get to expiring, the more obvious these signs become. Recognizing the warning signs of a dying water heater is essential to prevent unexpected breakdowns and potential water damage. Here are some of the common things to take into consideration that might mean your system is nearing the end of its life.
Age of the Water Heater
One of the more important factors to consider is the age of your water heater. Most traditional tank-based water heaters have an average lifespan of about 8 to 12 years. If your water heater is approaching or exceeding this age range, it’s important to be on the lookout for any signs of trouble. As water heaters age, they become more prone to leaks and other issues.
Rusty Discolored Water
When the water coming from your sinks starts to become rusty or discolored it might mean corrosion inside the water heater tank. Over time sediment can accumulate causing the tank to rust from the inside. This symptom can mean your tank is nearing failure and may need to be replaced.
Not Enough Hot Water
When there is a big decline in the amount of hot water that your system is able to produce, that’s a good warning sign that something is wrong. It could mean that the heating element or the entire unit is failing. In some cases, a simple repair may resolve the issue, but an old and inefficient water heater might need replacement.
Strange Noises
Sometimes with age sediment can build up at the bottom of the tank, leading to a popping or rumbling noise when the unit is heating water. These strange noises can mean that your water heater is working harder than it should to heat the water, which might lead to decreased efficiency and higher bills. Regular flushing of the tank can help prevent sediment buildup.
Leaks or Puddles
Any visible signs of water around your water heater should never be ignored. Leaks or puddles near the unit can be a sign of a failing tank or corroded fittings. Even small leaks can escalate quickly, causing water damage to your home and belongings. If you notice any leaks it’s important to take care of the problem as soon as possible!
Increased Energy Bills
Near the end of your system’s life a water heater can often become less energy-efficient, leading to higher energy bills. If you’ve noticed a sudden and unexplained spike in your utility bills, your water heater could be the culprit. An inefficient water heater may take more energy to heat the same amount of water.
Being aware of the warning signs of a dying water heater can save you from unexpected disruptions and potential water damage. Rusty or discolored water, lack of sufficient hot water, strange noises, leaks, increased energy bills, and the age of the unit are all indicators that it may be time to replace your water heater.
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