Water heaters don’t last indefinitely. Even one that’s regularly tuned up will only work around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s essential to be knowledgeable about the signs that it’s wearing out. If not, you might not be able to use warm water for a few days while you wait for a new one.
Here are six common signs that your water heater is wearing out.
1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old
Just because your water heater is older doesn’t necessarily mean it’s needing to be replaced right now, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to replace it soon. As time passes, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it harder for it to add warmth to water. In the end, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating parts to stop working. Corrosion can also lead to water leaks, which may damage your Des Moines home.
By replacing your water heater, you’ll receive the most energy-efficient features. If you go with an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you could be eligible for extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, since an ENERGY STAR style could save you up to $3,500 on energy over its lifetime.
Going from a standard tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For families hat use less than 41 gallons of water daily a tankless water heater is usually 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 run for around 20 years, which is about twice the life expectancy of a tank water heater.
2. Water Heater is Leaking
In some instances leaks are just the result of loose connections, wrong pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a sign that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. Regardless you’ll need skilled support from Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling to determine the trouble.
3. Water is Cloudy or Rusty
If your typically clear water unexpectedly looks cloudy or rusty, your water heater might be the problem. Cloudy water means sediment has built up in the tank, while rusty water is a sign there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either case, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling advises having your water heater examined by a pro
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 create warm water. Due to this, it will take longer for it to heat up water, and warm water will run out much more quickly. Both are a clue that your water heater is going out.
To prevent sediment from accumulatingin your tank, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling suggests having one of our pros flush it yearly.
5. Water Heater is Making Odd Noises
Like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a sign that sediment has built up in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, resulting in the strange sounds. As time passes, the extra work on your water heater can result in cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Frequently Having to Have Water Heater Repair
Over its lifetime, your water heater may have to have small repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re often contacting Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling for assistance or a major part has stopped working, it’s time for water heater installation.
It’s exhausting when your water heater is just about to stop working or has stopped working. But that’s not the case when you contact Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling at 515-207-6569 for water heater installation in Des Moines. From choosing the right style for your home and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the complete process easy. Contact us to book your appointment today!