How To Know When the Water Heater Needs To Go

Knowing When It’s Time To Say Goodbye to the Water Heater

A water heater is like the old faithful in the household—it helps ensure that showers are warm in the winter, that radiators keep the household comfortable, and that clothes are appropriately cleaned in the washing machine. But like the refrigerator and stove, a water heater isn't good forever. Here are some ways to know that it's not just a quick fix but that a full water heater replacement is in the cards.

There Are Signs of Corrosion

Corrosion is a real concern in water heaters and becomes more common the older they are. It can occur for a number of reasons, including age, the chemistry of water itself, and even sediment buildup within the system. Corrosion is extremely detrimental to a water heater's longevity and health, creating new challenges and increasing the risk of leaks and water damage. 

Signs to look out for in tank corrosion or water heater corrosion are rusty-looking water coming out of the taps and in the toilet, a strange, metallic-y taste or smell in the water, and rust or corrosion visible outside the water tank. Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of the water heater and, if left, can lead to larger problems, including total system failure. Therefore, a professional must be called immediately to perform a water heater replacement and assess the extent of the damage, which could include leaks or flooding in the house or on the property. 

Every Shower Is a Cold Shower (And It’s Not Your Choice)

It's like that one hotel on the side of the highway where no matter how far to the "H" the shower knob was pushed, the water stayed lukewarm or just frigid. Sometimes, even water heaters in the home cannot perform the jobs they once were relied on to do - like the hot shower at the end of a long work day. If a water heater is no longer heating water effectively and there are lots of cold and lukewarm showers in the house, or if the shower starts hot but gets cold very quickly, it could be a sign that the unit is getting tired and may need to be retired and replaced. 

The roots of these issues could come from sediment buildup in the system, failure of a heating element, or even tank corrosion, all of which compromise the water heater's ability to do its job. At the end of its life, it is less frustrating and uncomfortable to recognize the unit's no longer able to do its job of water heating, stop enduring cold water showers and inconsistent hot water supplies, and call in a professional for a new water heater installation. 

The Heater Isn’t Young

No matter how much energy and precaution is put into a water heater, like all things, it has an average life expectancy and will not be able to work for hundreds of years. The average life lifespan of a traditional tank water heater is usually between 8 and 12 years. A tankless water heater generally has a longer lifespan but is only expected to last between 15 and 20 years with good maintenance and care.

Like all electronics and beings, as water heaters age, they become less efficient and are more prone to damage, malfunctioning, and other issues. This can result in higher utility bills, cold showers, inconveniences in the flow of hot water, and just daily nuisances. If a water heater is reaching the outer limits of its life expectancy or requires constant repair and professional intervention, it might be a warning sign that a water heater replacement is coming up. If a water heater is getting old, tired, and inefficient, investing in a new water heater could mean improved energy efficiency and a newer, more trustworthy water tank. 

What Is About Plumbing, Inc.?

About Plumbing, Inc. is the one-stop shop for all plumbing needs. With straightforward pricing and satisfaction guaranteed, it is a trustworthy option for professional and friendly service. For plumbing services in Jefferson County, MO, call About Plumbing, Inc. today.

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