Water heaters are an essential convenience that no modern homeowner wants to live without. Hence why the market for these workhorse appliances is expected to grow to over $4 billion by 2026. Every new home in the current housing boom will need one.
New construction isn’t the only reason you would need a new water heater, however. No appliance lasts forever and eventually needs replacing.
Be on the lookout for these signs that you may need a water heater replacement.
1. Your Water Heater Is Getting On In Years
The lifespan of a water heater is about 10-to-15 years. A little DIY water heater maintenance can help keep your showers warm well past that point. But the longer you try and keep it going, the more persistent problems you will encounter.
Even if it still appears to be in good working order, it’s a good idea to start planning for a new water heater before issues arise.
2. You Find Leaks Near Your Water Heater
One of the most significant signs of a broken water heater is the presence of moisture pooling around the base. Even if it only looks like a small leak, it can cause a lot of damage in a short time.
Leaks can occur thanks to age, corrosion, or a faulty pressure valve. Left unchecked, a leaking water heater can cause flooding in your home. Flooding costs an average of $6,965 in damages, far exceeding the cost of water heater repairs.
If you notice puddles or wet spots around your water heater, have it inspected by a professional to determine the cause of the leak as soon as possible.
3. You Often Run Out of Hot Water
Running out of hot water is one of the more common water heater problems, particularly if you have guests or a large household. But if it’s happening often, it may not only be annoying, but also a sign that your water heater is on its way out.
Sediment builds up in the water heater’s tank over time. The more of this buildup there is, the less hot water your tank can hold. This is especially the case if you have an older unit.
If it seems like you’re running out of hot water faster than you used to, it may not be your imagination. Most likely, it means your unit is nearing the end of its service life.
4. Rusty Water in the Sink
Water, plus metal, will eventually equal corrosion. However, you shouldn’t be able to see rust particles floating in the water coming out of your taps.
Water heaters have what’s called an anode rod, which attracts sediments and corrosive particles to it. The idea is for these harmful elements to eat away at the anode rod instead of the rest of your water heater.
The anode rod wears out over time, however, and your unit loses that line of protection. Hence, the appearance of rust in your water may signal it’s time for a replacement.
Plan Now for Your Next Water Heater Replacement
While repairs and maintenance can extend the longevity of almost any appliance, there will come a point where its service life has simply come to an end. Planning for that eventuality can save you money by preventing damage to your home, and it can spare you a few cold showers.
Even if your water heater has broken down, you don’t need to let it throw a wet blanket on your weekend. Instead, contact Sewell Electric today to schedule a fast, friendly, and professional water heater replacement.
