When Does the Water Heater Need to Be Replaced?

Ensure the Family Has Warm Water Year Round

Getting stuck in the shower with no hot water is a travesty at any time of the year, but this problem is magnified when temperatures drop. Instead of being able to take a hot shower to warm up on a cold day, homeowners will be forced to suffer, shivering through an icy shower. When this happens, the water heater is to blame. While the problem may come out of the blue, it is more likely that the water heater showed signs of failure that the owner failed to notice. 

To prevent this from happening, homeowners are encouraged to watch for the following signs that indicate the need for water heater replacement. 

Erratic Temperatures or Insufficient Hot Water

The job of a water heater is to provide a certain volume of hot water at a certain temperature. Some water heaters may fail to heat water completely, while others may fail to provide adequate hot water, leading to shorter showers. 

Still, others may provide tepid water that never reaches the setpoint dictated by the water heater. In any case, these are signs that interventions are needed. Water heater repairs may be sufficient to rectify any of these problems, but if they become more frequent or are coupled with any other signs, water heater replacement is a good idea. 

Leaks 

water heater Leaks are a serious problem regarding water heaters because several pipe connections may leak at some point in their lifespan. These leaks aren’t considered water heater leaks and can be easily repaired. The more serious leaks from water heaters occur in the water tank or internal plumbing. Leaks in the tank cannot be repaired and will require replacement. 

To spot leaks, look for water pooling in the drain pan or wet spots around the unit. Rust is also visible as it attacks iron-based metals in the water heater. Hissing noises may also indicate water dripping onto the hot burner.  

Old Age and Signs of Corrosion

water heater corrosionWater heaters have a predictable lifespan. While some manufacturing practices can help some last longer than others, the best general rule regarding the life expectancy of a water heater is age. Most water heaters will have failed or need significant repairs at an age of around ten years. Beyond the point, the water heater will be unsafe and inefficient, and replacement is the smartest option. 

To preemptively spot the signs that water heater replacement is needed, homeowners should look for signs of corrosion around the system. Corrosion indicates that internal protections within the water heater have failed, and the water tank is rusting and will start to leak soon. Water heater maintenance can allow professionals to spot corrosion early if homeowners feel out of their depth looking for corrosion. 

About 2 Plumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling

2 Plumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling is a veteran-owned company specializing in water heater maintenance and remodeling projects. Their experienced and expert plumbers can help water heaters last as long as possible with their top-notch services and financing opportunities. Call today for a water heater replacement in Sacramento, CA.

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