Signs to Schedule a Water Heater Installation
Although replacing a water heater is rarely on a homeowner’s to-do list, it’s essential to schedule one quickly to avoid major inconveniences. Households depend on functioning water heaters to provide hot water for bathing, cooking, laundry, and other daily tasks. There are numerous signs homeowners can watch for that can indicate their water heater is starting to fail and needs to be replaced.
Corrosion in the Hot Water Tank
Corrosion can be a key indicator that a water heater needs replacement, as a corroded water heater weakens the metal and is at risk for leaks. Corrosion is usually evident to homeowners by rusty-colored water, or they might notice a metallic odor or taste in their hot water.
Other signs that households might notice are visible rust on or even inside the tank and leaks around the tank. Another sign of water heater corrosion that homeowners might notice is rusty valves. If the water heater’s valves are rusted, it’s likely that the inside of the hot water tank is too.
Lack of Hot Water
One of the most obvious signs that a water heater needs to be replaced is a lack of hot water coming from plumbing fixtures and appliances. Households might also notice lukewarm water instead of hot water coming from their fixtures, or they might notice they are running out of hot water sooner than usual. These problems can happen for a variety of reasons, some requiring replacement, while some may only require repairs or maintenance.
Some common issues that can cause temperature problems for the hot water are a buildup of sediment in the system or a malfunctioning heating element that cannot properly heat the water. A broken thermostat can also reduce the availability of hot water, as it can prevent water from heating to the ideal temperature. Other issues that can cause a lack of hot water are an undersized water heater for the house and an aging system that cannot properly heat the water.
Age or Needing Frequent Repairs
If a household’s water heater is getting older, it can perform inefficiently and malfunction, so getting a water heater replacement is recommended. For standard storage water heaters that typically last 10 to 15 years, replacing them after 10 years is recommended. Tankless water heaters can go longer without needing to be replaced since they can last 20 years. However, these are estimates. The exact water heater life expectancy will depend on numerous factors, including how well the system is maintained and the water quality.
If a water heater malfunctions often and needs frequent repairs, it’s also recommended to replace it. Since a new water heater will not have the same chronic problems and inefficiencies, homeowners can save on repairs and energy costs. When experiencing any issues or signs of trouble with a water heater, plumbers can help determine the best solution.
About Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter
Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter has been serving Gilbert and the surrounding areas since 1989. They offer affordable prices, fast service, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for water heater installation and replacement in Gilbert, AZ.