Water heaters don’t last for eternity. Even one that’s regularly serviced will only work around 8–12 years, on average. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s critical to know the symptoms that it’s dying. Otherwise, you could be without heated water for a few days while you wait for a new one.
Here are six common hints that your water heater is wearing out.
1. Your Water Heater is Older than 10 Years Old
Just because your water heater is aging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going bad, but it does mean you’ll likely have to replace it momentarily. As the years go by, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to warm water. In the end, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating components to malfunction. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which might damage your Marshalltown home.
By getting a new water heater, you’ll receive the most energy-efficient options. If you go with an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you could receive extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, because an ENERGY STAR model could save you up to $3,500 on utilities over its lifetime.
Changing from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even greater amount. For residences that use less than 41 gallons of water per day, a tankless water heater is usually 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters frequently work for around 20 years, which is about double the life span of a tank water heater.
2. Water Heater is Losing Water
In some instances leaks are just the outcome of loose connections, incorrect pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a sign that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any event, you’ll need skilled support from B & G HVAC to determine the problem.
3. Water is the Wrong Color
If your typically clear water suddenly appears cloudy or rusty, your water heater may be the problem. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has grown in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either instance, B & G HVAC recommends having your water heater checked out by a professional.
4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water
As sediment increases in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater needs more energy to create warm water. As a result, it will require longer for it to heat up water, and hot water will be used up more quickly. Both are a sign that your water heater is failing.
To stop sediment from accumulating in your tank, B & G HVAC advises having one of our pros flush it annually.
5. Water Heater is Making Odd Noises
Similar to cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a clue that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, causing the strange sounds. Over time, the stress on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Always Having to Have Water Heater Repair
Over its life, your water heater might require minor repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re frequently calling B & G HVAC for assistance or a critical part has stopped working, you need water heater installation.
It’s draining when your water heater is just about to stop working or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you contact B & G HVAC at 641-316-3360 for water heater installation in Marshalltown. From picking the right style for your needs and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the entire process simple. Call us to schedule your appointment now!