You can’t live without hot water. That’s because you use it for bathing, laundry, and even to do your dishes every day. This is why you should make sure that your water heater is functioning properly at all times. If you don’t want to end up with a broken water heater, you should pay your attention to the signs indicating that your water heater is going bad. Here are 10 such signs that you need to keep in mind.
The average lifespan of a water heater
A traditional water heater can last for a duration of around 8 to 12 years. If you have a water heater that is about 8 years old, you will need to start looking for a replacement. This is where you should take a look at the different types of water heaters available and match then with your needs. For example, you need to pay attention to:
- Type of water heater
- Regular maintenance requirements
- Quality of the water heater unit
Factors that can make a water heater to stop working
Age is not the only factor that can make a water heater to stop functioning. Some other factors that can make a water heater stop include the buildup of sediments, corrosion and rust, loose fittings, and having too much of pressure. Inside the water heaters, you can find a magnesium style anode rods. It is responsible for preventing corrosion and rust. However, this will be subjected to corrosion along with time. Such corrosions can make your water heater leak.
Signs indicating a bad water heater
When your water heater goes bad, you will experience a reduction of its performance. For example, it will take a longer time for water to heat. Here are some more signs that you need to be aware of.
Water heater is making strange noises
One of the most common issues that you will notice in your malfunctioning water heater is strange noises. For example, you will hear banging, popping, and rumbling noises coming from it. This can happen due to the buildup of sediments within the bottom of the tank. This can lead you to heat failures as well.
Varying or reduced water temperature
When the water heater is degrading, you will notice a drop of its performance. For example, you will notice that the water temperature is not so consistent as it used to be. You need to start looking for the temperature inconsistencies immediately. Otherwise, you may end up with even a bigger problem.
Lack of water pressure
You expect the water heater to provide a decent water pressure at all times. When this water heater drops, you can suspect that there is something wrong with the unit. The main reason why water pressure can drop is due to the buildup of sediments within the bottom of the tank.
Rusty and discolored water
When you are getting rusty and discolored water from the water heater, the reason is obvious. It shows that there is buildup of rust on your water heater. This would make your water heater fail within a short time period as well. The anode rod placed inside the water heater is responsible for keeping it away from corrosion.
Shortage of hot water
If you find yourself running out of hot water than usual, you need to pay attention to it. This is one of the signs indicating that your water heater is going bad. Along with time, it will further lose the ability to heat up water and function properly. Hence, you need to think of a replacement.
Leaks in the water heater
When you notice a leak in the water heater, you should go for a replacement. The water heaters are designed to remain airtight. But when there is a leak, something serious has happened to it. This can cause significant damage to your home. This is why you should be inspecting the water heater for leaks regularly. Whenever you notice a leak, you will need to get an expert to fix it.
Frequent repairs
If you come across frequent repairs in the water heater, it is the high time to look for a new one. With every repair that you do to the water heater, there is a possibility for a new issue to arise. This can also make the old problems go worse. This is why it is a good idea to replace the water heater, without spending money any further.
Age of the water heater
As mentioned earlier, a water heater can last for a duration of around 8 to 12 years. When your water heater is approaching this age, you should expect it to give problems. Since dealing with these issues can be problematic, you will need to go for a replacement. Then you can experience uninterrupted supply of hot water, without any significant issues.
Odd water small
If you are getting a strange smell from water, it can be due to the growth of bacteria within the tank. Bactria thrives to grow in moist and warm environments. If you keep the water temperature under 120 degrees, there is a high possibility for bacteria to grow. Bacteria can also get due to rust and corrosion within the water tank. You will be able to get rid of bacteria by treating water. However, bigger bacteria problems would make you replace the water heater.
Will your old water heater make you sick?
As you can see, most of these problems can lead you to frustration. However, some of the signs can pose a threat to your good health as well. For example, if you notice a strange smell coming out from the water, you should never drink it. Waster gives out a rotten egg smell due to the presence of bacteria that grows inside the tank. You should properly maintain the water heater, so that you will be able to prevent the growth of such bacteria effectively.
Water Heater Installation Albuquerque
We are Day & Night Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, and we’re happy to provide articles like this one about water heaters to help people and our valued customers learn more about water heater problems, water heater repairs and water heater installation to be concerned about. If you need Albuquerque water heater installation service give us a call at 505-974-5797 to schedule an appointment.
