Water heaters don’t work for eternity. Even one that’s regularly tuned up will only run around 8–12 years, on average. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to be knowledgeable about the signs that it’s wearing out. If not, you might not have heated water for a few days while you wait to install a new one.
Here are six common signs that your water heater is dying.
1. Your Water Heater is Older than 10 Years Old
Just because your water heater is dated doesn’t necessarily mean it’s failing, but it does mean you’ll likely have to get a new one momentarily. Over time, sediment builds up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to add warmth to water. Eventually, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating components to malfunction. Corrosion can also result in water leaks, which might damage your Excelsior Springs house.
By getting a new water heater, you’ll receive the most energy-efficient technology. If you go with an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you may get added rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t quit there, as an ENERGY STAR water heater could save you up to $3,500 on water heating over its lifetime.
Going from a regular tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even greater amount. For houses 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 usually last 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 broken valve. But they can also be a symptom that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. Regardless you’ll need professional help from Colvin's Heating and Cooling to get to the bottom of the problem.
3. Water is the Wrong Color
If your usually clear water abruptly appears cloudy or rusty, your water heater may be the problem. Cloudy water means sediment has collected in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either case, Colvin's Heating and Cooling suggests having your water heater inspected by a professional
4. There’s a Lack of Hot Water
As sediment increases in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater needs more energy to produce warm water. Because of this, it will take longer for it to produce hot water, and heated water won’t last as long. Both are a hint that your water heater is going out.
To keep sediment from building up in your tank, Colvin's Heating and Cooling advises having one of our pros flush it annually.
5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises
Similar to cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a sign that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more strenuous for the water heater to heat water, leading to the unusual sounds. As time goes on, the extra work on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Frequently Needing Water Heater Repair
Over its lifetime, your water heater may have to have minor repairs, like valve replacement. But if you’re frequently calling Colvin's Heating and Cooling for support or a critical part has failed, you should schedule water heater installation.
It’s draining when your water heater is just about to fail or has quit working. But that’s not the case when you contact Colvin's Heating and Cooling at 816-379-3918 for water heater installation in Excelsior Springs. From choosing the right solution for your home and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the complete process easy. Contact us to request your appointment now!
