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Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, providing the hot water you need for bathing, cleaning, and cooking. But like any other appliance, it won’t last forever. Knowing when it’s time to replace your water heater can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly damage to your home.
At Peaden, we have extensive experience working with water heaters in all capacities. We can help you identify the signs of a failing water heater and ensure a smooth new water heater installation in Bradfordville when the time comes.
Signs Your Water Heater Is on Its Last Legs
Here are the key indicators that your water heater may be nearing the end of its lifespan:
Age of the Water Heater
Water heaters generally last about 8-12 years, depending on the type and how well they’ve been maintained. If your water heater is approaching or surpassing this range, it’s time to start considering a replacement. Check the manufacturer’s label or serial number for the installation date if you’re unsure of its age.
Rusty or Discolored Water
If the hot water coming out of your taps looks rusty or discolored, it could be a sign that your water heater tank is corroding from the inside. While rusty water can sometimes result from corroded pipes, if it only occurs when running hot water, your water heater is likely the culprit.
Lack of Hot Water
Is your water running out faster than usual? If your showers have suddenly turned cold midway through or you’re finding it hard to get enough hot water for basic tasks, your water heater might be losing efficiency. Over time, sediment buildup in the tank can reduce its capacity and heating ability.
Strange Noises from the Tank
A water heater that starts making loud rumbling, popping, or banging noises is likely suffering from sediment buildup. As the sediment hardens over time, it can damage the tank and reduce its efficiency, signaling that a replacement is needed.
Leaks Around the Water Heater
Any visible water pooling around the base of your water heater is a major red flag. Leaks typically occur when the tank has cracked due to age or wear. While some leaks can be repaired, a leaking tank often means it’s time for a new water heater.
Rising Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy costs, an old or inefficient water heater could be to blame. Over time, water heaters lose efficiency, requiring more energy to heat the same amount of water. Upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model can reduce your bills significantly.
Frequent Repairs
How often are you calling for water heater repairs? If your water heater has needed multiple fixes in recent years, those costs could quickly add up. At a certain point, it becomes more cost-effective to replace it with a new unit rather than keep patching up an old one.
Choosing the Right Water Heater
When it’s time for a replacement, you’ll need to decide between a traditional tank water heater and a tankless model. Tankless water heaters offer energy efficiency and endless hot water but may have a higher upfront cost. Traditional water heaters are more affordable initially but require more space and energy to maintain a constant supply of hot water.
At Peaden, our expert plumbers can help you choose the best water heater for your home’s size, water usage, and budget.