Having warm water is essential to having a comfortable home. From showers and baths to cooking, cleaning, and laundry, having warm running water is vital to our everyday lives, and we can thank our hot water heaters for it. However, nothing lasts forever, and sooner or later, your hot water heater is going to need to be replaced. But how do you know when it’s time to replace it?
There are several signs that your hot water heater is no longer functioning correctly. While professionals can repair some issues, other problems can indicate that it might be time for a replacement. Here are some of the signs it might be time to replace your hot water heater.
1. Lifespan
Whether or not your water heater has been showing other symptoms, you should consider replacing your hot water heater if it is over 10 years old. While performing proper maintenance on your water heater can extend its life, the average lifespan of most water heaters is between 8 to 12 years. The older the unit is, the more likely you will have to spend money on frequent repairs when it might die soon anyway. So, replacing your older unit could save you money in the long run.
2. Has Not Been Properly Maintained
Proper maintenance is vital to preserving and extending the life of your hot water heater. If you haven’t done regular maintenance on your unit, you might end up replacing it sooner than you expected due to problems that can’t be repaired. You should drain, flush, and clean your tank at least once a year for optimal efficiency.
If you want to have guaranteed peace of mind that your hot water heater will run effectively all year long, take a look at our service agreements designed to fit a variety of home needs.
3. High Utility Bills
One of the most common signs you should replace your hot water heater is if you start receiving higher utility bills. The older and more worn down your hot water heater is, the more energy it has to use to produce the same level of hot water it used to, causing your utility bill to jump up. If you start noticing higher bills, it might be a good idea to get your water heater checked by a professional and see if it’s time to replace it.
4. Showing Signs of Wear
There are several signs that your hot water heater might be wearing down and should be replaced. Here is what you should look out for.
- Leaks – If you notice moisture on the outside of your tank or water near the bottom, that can be a sign that your hot water heater is starting to leak. Leaks result from the buildup of pressure inside your tank caused by the expansion of metal occurring over time as it is exposed to heat. If you notice your tank leaking, you must get it replaced immediately. If not handled properly, it can lead to your tank exploding due to built-up pressure.
- Knocking Noises – If you start frequently noticing banging or rumbling noises while your water heater is running, this can indicate that sediment has built up inside your tank. Sediment build-up can rapidly wear down your water heater and lead to it running less efficiently and risk early failure.
- Rusty Water – If you notice rust-colored water or a metallic odor, it could be a sign that the tank itself is starting to rust. If this is the case, you should replace your hot water heater immediately to keep your home safe and healthy.
- Cold Water – There’s nothing worse than running out of hot water in the middle of a warm shower. If you notice this happening frequently, it could be a sign that a heating element has burnt out or your tank isn’t operating efficiently.
5. Too Many Repairs
If you notice that you are always having to repair your hot water heater, it could save you money to replace it and install a new one. Please keep track of how often you have to repair it in a year. If it is more than twice a year, it’s time to replace it.
If you think it’s time to install a new water heater in your home, give Supreme PHC a call! Our licensed plumbers are here to handle any of your plumbing needs efficiently!
