Cold water or discoloration can point to a serious issue with your water heater. However, it’s not every homeowner that wants to diagnose if water heater replacement is required.
Fortunately, if you’re experiencing water-related issues around your home, there are a few things you might want to check. Some things might be a quick fix but others will require a new hot water heater.
Reach out to our expert residential plumbing professionals if you’re in need of assistance!
Signs You Need Water Heater Replacement
Determining when it’s time to replace your water heater is important to avoid sudden breakdowns, water damage, and inconvenience. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time for water heater replacement:
Is it Making Funny Noises?
It’s not uncommon to write off a minor noise around the house. But if your water heater is making knocking or rumbling noises the time might be nigh for replacement.
Loud, knocking noises coming from your water heater point to the buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank. As the sediment moves around the tank, it will make a bit of noise.
Unfortunately, as it thickens, it will actually make your water heater less efficient and water heater replacement may be necessary!
If you hear any odd noises, be sure to check it as soon as possible. Maintenance may still be able to save your water heater and prevent water damage.
How Old Is it?
One of the first considerations when it comes to replacing your water heater is its age. After all, there’s only so much even the best-maintained water heater can deal with.
How often water heater replacement is required can depend on the type of tank. A water heater tank can last from 6-12 years while a tankless water heater can last for more than 20!
So, if you drain, flush and clean your water heater at least once a year, it may have some life in it yet.
Is the Water Rusty or Cloudy?
There’s more than one kind of water that points to water heater damage!
If you’ve noticed rusty water or water discoloration, it may simply require a little repair.
However, it may also mean that your tank is corroded. In the event of corrosion, you may need to look into water heater replacement cost sooner than later.
Cloudy water, on the other hand, can indicate sediment buildup and may simply require cleaning. But if the issue persists, replacement will probably be required.
Have You Noticed a Leak?
A leak around the home can sometimes require water damage restoration or even a little repair.
But leaks around the bottom of your water heater point to a heater nearing the end of its life. They’re usually caused by expansion of metal in the tank that occurs over the heater’s lifespan.
As the heater does this more, fractures occur that lead to leaks.
And, while new water heater replacement parts can rectify the issue temporarily, it’s still a sign that your heater is on its way out.
Conclusion
A water heater that isn’t working can be caused by many different issues. Some of these might mean a little bit of maintenance and some minor repair. However, others may require DIY water heater replacement or enlisting the help of seasoned professionals.
If you think it might be time to invest in a new water heater, contact the experts at Plumbing Squad at (866) 324-9553 or reach us on our website.
