Have you noticed that your water is not as hot as it should be? Or, you may have noticed water dripping from your water heater.
These are a couple of many warning signs you need a new water heater.
First off, you will want to have an idea about how long your water heater will last. That way, you can better understand whether there’s an issue with the hardware. Also, we’ll cover the various signs that a conventional water heater is close to failure.
The Commerce Department states that the average conventional water heater can last between 10 and 12 years. But if you have a tankless water heater, the Department of Energy says these types last for at least 20 years.
Throughout this section, we will explain the various issues that you will likely face with an aging conventional water heater. Moreover, you will find suggestions on how to deal with these warning signs and whether you need to contact a plumber.
You must immediately address your water heater’s issue if you find water pooling around the bottom of your tank. Also keep an eye out for water dripping from the unit.
These symptoms show that your heater’s tank has serious internal issues.
From there, SFGate Home Guides advises you to turn off the gas or disconnect the electricity to your unit. That way, your water heater can cool. Once you finish that step, inspect your appliance and determine the leak’s source.
If you are within the Mississippi Golf or Nashville area, we recommend that you contact our plumbing specialists as soon as possible. We are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week and are ready to help.
As your water heater ages, sediment will accumulate over the tank’s lower heating element. Because of this buildup, when the water heats, the sediments will harden.
As a result, you may hear rumbling or banging coming from inside your heater.
Have you noticed rusty water gushing from your faucets? If so, this is a sign that your sacrificial anode rod has rusted away.
This rod extends through your tank and protects it from limestone, iron, and other mineral particles. Fragments that would otherwise corrode your tank.
Since this rod is not functional anymore, the water inside your water heater will likely gather corrosion, which will lead to rust.
If you catch the rust early enough, you could buy and install a new anode rod. However, we recommend contacting a specialist to confirm the issue and to install a new anode rod.
Sediment buildup within your water heater’s tank and connections often leads to low water pressure. Moreover, with this low water pressure, more sediment will accumulate faster. This growth will later lead to more issues with your hot water tank.
Handle this issue once you notice it, and you could extend your water heater’s lifespan.
Conversely, low water pressure could mean that your system is reminding you to service it. Either way, we recommend hiring a local professional to flush your system.
If you notice that your water is too hot or cold, you will want to consider checking your water heater for issues. Otherwise, your water heater’s condition may further degrade.
In this scenario, you will want to tinker with your water tank's thermostat settings. If your water’s too hot, adjust the settings to a lower temperature. If your water is cold, you should raise your thermostat level.
From thereon, you will also want to mark your set water temperature to see whether the temperatures shift on their own.
Over time, water heaters lose their water-heating efficiency. Also, if your heater has sediment buildup, this will further demoralize your appliance’s ability to heat water.
Because of these factors, you may notice that your hot water isn’t lasting long. Also, your heater may need more electricity to heat your water.
If you want to avoid sediment building up in your water tank in the future, you may want to consider investing in a tankless water heater.
Most of the warning signs that your water heater is going out involve sediment accumulation, broken hardware, and wear on your system. If you notice anything off with your water heater, contact a professional as soon as possible.
Are you in Nashville, Tennessee, or around the Mississippi Golf and have issues with your water heater? Broussard’s plumbers are here to help. When you are ready to repair or replace your water heater, fill out our form to get an estimate.
