Most homeowners don’t think about their water heaters until they take a cold shower. Your water heater works daily, often for years, without any maintenance or attention. So, it’s not surprising that many people don’t realize there are warning signs that indicate it might be time for a replacement.
Your water heater is essential to your home’s comfort and convenience, so it’s important to be aware of the signs that you might need a new one. Addressing these problems early will save you the headache—and expense—of dealing with a broken water heater in the middle of winter.
1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old
The average lifespan of a water heater is about ten years. If your unit is reaching this age—or if you can’t remember when you bought it—it might be time to start considering replacing it. Of course, adequately maintained units can last longer, but if you don’t know when the last time your unit was flushed or inspected, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
2. Your Hot Water Isn’t as Hot as It Used to Be
If you have to crank up the temperature on your water heater or wait longer for hot water, it could be a sign that your unit isn’t performing as well as it used to. This loss in performance is usually due to sediment build-up in the tank. The good news is that you might be able to improve your water heater’s performance by having it flushed and inspected by a professional.
Are you starting to notice more rust-colored water coming from your taps? This is another sign that your water heater needs attention. Rust usually indicates that the anode rod in your tank has corrosion and needs to be replaced.
3. There’s Water Pooling Around Your Water Heater
If you notice pooled water around your unit, it’s time to call a professional plumber immediately. This problem could be due to several factors, including a faulty pressure relief valve or a cracked tank. Either way, this problem must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage to your home or unit.
Your water heater plays an essential role in your home’s comfort, so it’s critical to pay attention to warning signs that indicate it might be time for a replacement. If your unit is more than ten years old, isn’t performing as well as it used to, or there’s water pooling around it, call a professional plumber immediately for an inspection and repair or replacement estimate. Addressing these issues early will save you money and headaches down the road!