Water heaters don’t run forever. Even a well-maintained one will only run around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s critical to be knowledgeable about the hints that it’s dying. Or else, you might not be able to use heated water for several days while you wait to install a new one.
Here are six common clues 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 wearing out, but it does mean you’ll likely have to install a new one momentarily. As the years go by, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to warm water. Ultimately, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating components to stop working. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which can damage your Shamokin and Sunbury home.
By installing a new water heater, you’ll have access to the most energy-efficient features. If you go with an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you may receive additional rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t end there, because an ENERGY STAR water heater 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 hat need less than 41 gallons of water per day a tankless water heater is typically 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 typically run for around 20 years, which is about double the life span of a tank water heater.
2. Water Heater is Leaky
In some instances leaks are just the consequence of loose connections, incorrect pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a hint that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. Regardless you’ll need pro help from LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. to figure out the problem.
3. Water is the Wrong Color
If your normally clear water suddenly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater could be at fault. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has collected in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either situation, LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. suggests having your water heater checked out by a pro
4. There’s Inadequate Hot Water
As sediment accumulates in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater works harder to produce hot water. As a result, it will require longer for it to warm water, and hot water will run out much more quickly. Both are a hint that your water heater is going out.
To stop sediment from building up in your tank, LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. suggests having one of our professionals flush it every year.
5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises
Just like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a hint that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, leading to the odd sounds. As time goes on, the strain on your water heater can create cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Constantly Requiring Water Heater Repair
Over its life span, your water heater may need little repairs, such as valve replacement. But if you’re constantly getting in touch with LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. for support or a critical part has stopped working, you need water heater installation.
It’s draining when your water heater is on the brink of failing or has stopped working. But that’s not the case when you call LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. at 570-648-0748 for water heater installation in Shamokin and Sunbury. From picking the right solution for your needs and budget to expertly installing it, we make the whole process uncomplicated. Give us a call to request your appointment today!