You’ve been using the same water heater for years now, and it’s been working just fine. But is it really fine? Or could it be working better? It’s hard to tell sometimes, but a few signs indicate it might be time for an upgrade.
As a responsible homeowner, you need to take immediate action and replace it to avoid overhead maintenance and repair costs. You must be wondering what signs indicate that your water heater is not well-functioning anymore.
Also, if your tank or tankless water heater is making weird noises, leaking, or not providing enough hot water, then it’s definitely time for a new one. Also, remember that your heater makes different sounds depending on the type of problem faced. Keep reading for more information on the signs you need to upgrade your water heater and what to look for in a new one.
Noises From the Water Heater
The very first thing you’ll observe in your malfunctioned water heater is that it starts making strange noises. If you’re hearing strange noises coming from your water heater, it might be a sign that it’s time for a replacement. Below are some common noises and their indications:
- Rumbling Sound
To begin with, this is one of the most irksome and common sounds you may hear from your water heater. It indicates that your heater needs immediate professional help or repair.
The water heater makes this sound when the sediments begin accumulating in the water tank. It can be heard in the tank and tankless water heater.
- Screeching Sound
According to Peni Accomplish’s professionals, when loose valves support air passage from the water heater, the heater makes this type of sound. However, if you get immediate assistance, it can save you from unexpected overhead repair costs.
When you begin to hear a screeching sound from your water heater, it is a sign that you need to get a new water heater immediately.
- Hissing
A hissing sound is most commonly reported in the electric water heater. Generally speaking, it is not something serious, but if the noise continues, then immediately get an expert for inspection. Timely inspection and maintenance will protect the water heater from further potential damage.
Age, corrosion, and sediment can all cause your water heater to make strange noises, so if you’re hearing anything out of the ordinary, it’s best to call a professional.
They can determine whether or not the water heater is still safe to use. Besides, it also assists in giving you a rough estimate for a new one. Waiting too long to replace your water heater can usually end up costing you more in the long run, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Poor Performance of the Unit
Have you been observing that your water heater has stopped performing as it used to before? Or is it taking too long for you to shower and finish all your hydro-specific jobs? Or are you always running out of hot water every time you get in the shower?
The performance of a water heater holds critical importance. So, if you’re seeing any of these warning signs, it might be time to upgrade your water heater. Let’s highlight some of the signs indicating your heater’s performance has been affected:
- No hot water problem
- Discolored water
- Low hot water pressure
- Pungent water
- Water takes too much time to heat
If you observe any of these signs, replacing your heater with the new one is better. A new unit will not only work more efficiently, but it will also save you money on your energy bill in the long run. So don’t wait—if your water heater is more than 10 to 20 years old, it’s time for a replacement. But before that, don’t forget to get your heater checked by a professional water heater consultant to understand the issue with it and know if it really needs a replacement.
Corrosion and Leaks in the Tank
Water heaters are often taken for granted until they start to fail. And by the time they give clear signs that they need to be replaced, it can be an emergency situation. That’s why it’s imperative to be conscious of the signs that indicate you need a new water heater before it’s too late.
One of the most common indications is corroded metal around the tank. If you see rust or flaking metal, it’s a sign that the water heater is no longer effective and needs to be replaced.
Another common issue is leaking in the tank. If you notice water stains on the ceiling or running down the wall, it’s a sure sign that you need a new water heater—and probably very soon.
Several reasons contribute to corroding the water heater at your place. Some of these reasons are:
- Water with too much magnesium and aluminum
- Scale and sediment buildup
- Fusion of steel and copper
- High water pressure
Age of the Unit
Considering the age of the water heater is quite important. You must be wondering why? The reason is quite simple. It helps the homeowners in knowing when it’s the right time to change and replace the water heater.
One of the main signs that it’s time to replace your water heater is the age of the unit. If it’s been in service for 10-15 years, then it needs to be replaced without any thought. And even if it’s younger than that, keep in mind that the typical life expectancy of a water heater is only 8-12 years. So if you’re on the upper end of that spectrum, it may be time for an upgrade.
Signs of Wear and Tear on Parts
If you invest in a quality water heater, then it is understood that a brand-new water heater never loses its functionality in a month or two. So, what exactly should you be looking for? Here are five signs that it might be time to replace your water heater:
- The age of your water heater is 15 years or older. If it’s on the older side, it’s probably not as energy-efficient as newer models, costing you more money to operate.
- The tank is corroded or rusted. This could be a sign that the tank is beginning to fail and could leak, causing water damage to your home.
- Leaks are coming from the tank. This is a big sign that it’s time for a new one because it means the tank can no longer hold water and will need to be replaced.
- The water heater makes strange noises. If you hear banging, popping or other strange noises coming from your water heater, it could be a sign that the internal components are failing and need to be replaced.
- There is not enough water as there used to be, or there are fluctuations in temperature. This could indicate that the burner or heating element is failing and will need to be replaced.
Conclusion
The water heater is one of the basic needs of every household. However, it comes at a price and requires investment for years to come, which is fair enough. But as it is an electronic appliance, taking good care of it can extend its overall life span. However, once you are aware of the time to replace the heater is challenging.
To make it simpler for you, we have listed some of the most prominent signs you might observe when your water heater needs to be replaced. You should upgrade your water heater if it doesn’t meet the four criteria mentioned above.
If you need assistance with your water heater repair or replacement or if you are unable to understand the signs, get in touch with Peni Accomplish, a professional water heater replacement and repairing services provider.
