People in your home likely appreciate having hot water on demand. For example, they can take hot showers whenever they feel like it. But, if your water heater system no longer functions as it should, people can be frustrated. Below are indicators that you should replace your water heater.
1. Aging Water Heater
Water heater units lose their efficiency with age. Don't expect your 10-year-old water heater to keep up with your household's water demands. It will take longer to warm the water, and you'll sometimes have to take cold showers. So, as your water heater hits the 10-year mark, consider a replacement. The heater will still function, but its good years will likely be long gone.
2. A Leaking Tank
The repercussions of water heater leaks are often quite severe. You can't ignore the leaks, as they can cause damage to your floors or walls. Early fixes can help control the damage. But do you know that fixing some water heater leaks is impossible? If the leaks come from the tank, that's the end of your system.
Water heater tanks are hardy but lose their strength as they age. Besides, your water heater can develop leaks due to corrosion, sediment collection, or too much pressure.
3. Rusty Colored Water
Having rusty hot water coming out of your faucets can be frustrating. But before you panic, find out what’s caused the issue. Does the problem lie with your plumbing pipes, water source, or water heater? If it's your water heater, you will likely have rusty water whenever you turn on the hot water.
You can attribute the rusty water problem to aging or a corroding anode rod. If your anode rod is the problem, the plumber will replace it. However, if rust is in the tank, you'll likely have to purchase a new water heater.
4. Never-Ending Noises
Water heaters are quiet but can make weird sounds when things go wrong. The most common water heater noises are:
- Humming
- Knocking
- Tapping
- Screeching
- Hissing
- Whistling
You can attribute the noises to sediment buildup, faulty heating elements, a broken pressure relief valve, restricted water flow, or heat trap nipples. Luckily, plumbers can fix the said problems, and your heater will resume quiet operations.
However, if these noises recur every time, consider getting a water heater replacement. This is often the only way to solve the noises once and for all.
5. Increased Hot Water Demand
Outgrowing your water heater as your family grows can be easy to. Don't expect a small water heater to produce enough hot water for the household. You can tell you have outgrown the current water heater if you run out of hot water fast or the water temperature is inconsistent.
Unfortunately, small water heaters can't last long because they constantly overwork. Besides, can you put up with an inconsistent hot water supply? If not, get a bigger water heater to meet your household's needs.
6. Frequent Repairs
Water heaters breaking down isn't unusual. These appliances work extra hard, and they are bound to malfunction at some point. However, modern units are strong enough to run for a few years without major repairs.
As your water heater ages, it will often malfunction, forcing you to spend hundreds of dollars on repairs. Frequent breakdowns are a sign that your water heater is nearing its end. As a result, replace the water heater before it's too late. An early replacement will save you a lot in repair expenses.
An aging or faulty water heater can cause you problems. Therefore, get a replacement whenever you spot any of the mentioned signs. The team at PlumbRite will help you install the new water heater. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Additional Service Areas
Omaha, NE
La Vista, NE
Bellevue, NE