5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater

How much thought do you give to your water heater? If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you probably don’t think too much about it at all, unless there’s a problem. Paying attention to your water heater, though, is a good way to notice a problem before it becomes a disaster, or you find yourself without hot water. Small problems can be easily fixed, but here are some signs that it’s time to go ahead and replace the water heater.

• If you’re hearing strange noises coming from your water heater, it may need to be replaced. Aging water heaters often make rumbling noises because of sediment that’s built up in the tank over time. Sometimes you can buy some extra time by flushing the tank, and if you have your tank professionally flushed annually, it’s likely to have a longer lifespan. However, if your tank has been flushed and still makes noise, you’re better off replacing it.
• When the water heater is leaking, that’s never a good sign. A leaky water heater can damage your furniture and carpet, create a welcoming environment for mold growth, or rot your floor and subfloor. If there are puddles around your water heater, first check to see if there’s a problem with fittings and connections to the tank or the temperature/overflow valve that can be fixed by a plumber. If not, it’s time to replace the water heater.
• A water heater that doesn’t heat enough water is a problem. This may be caused by a misadjusted thermostat or a broken heating element, both of which can be fixed. However, it could also be that your water heater is worn out or too small for your house. In either case, you’ll need to replace it.
• Rusty hot water is usually an indication that you need a new water heater. Rusty tap water could be from a rusted water heater, or it could be a problem with your pipes. To determine where the problem lies, fill three buckets of hot water from the tap without running the cold water. If the third bucketful is rusty, you need a new water heater.
• Sometimes, the water heater just gets old and worn out. Most water heaters have a lifespan of about 8 to 10 years, but how do you know if yours is nearing its expiration date? You can find out by looking at the serial number. Serial numbers usually start with a letter corresponding to the month, followed by a number indicating the year. For instance, if your water heater’s serial number begins with B12, that means it was installed in February of 2012. Especially if your water heater seems to need frequent repairs, it’s good to check that number to determine if it’s worth continuing to fix.

If you need a new water heater installed, or you need water heater maintenance or repair, trust the experts at Allen Service. We’ve been a trusted name in plumbing and HVAC in the Fort Collins area for nearly 60 years, having built a reputation for quality work, affordable prices, and exceptional customer service. Call us at 970-484-4841 to schedule a service appointment or contact us through our website.