Is it Time to Replace Your Hot Water Heater?

If your water heater is not heating up or if it begins to leak, you can simply repair it and continue using it for a few years. The same applies if there is a problem with the pressure relief valve. Rather than replace the heater, you can just replace the valve.

However, as with any home appliance, the time comes when you can no longer depend on repairs. When this time comes, you need to replace the water heater because, at that point, repeated repairs become even more expensive than replacement. The following are four signs it’s time to replace;

It’s best to have your water heater inspected by a licensed plumber to determine whether your unit should be repaired or replaced but here are some things you can look for yourself.

Your water heater has reached the end of its useful lifespan

Any water heater that is older than 10 years should be considered for replacement. To find out the age of your heater, check the serial number on the upper portion of the heater tank. A typical water heater serial number might look something like this; G111052638.

In this example, G represents Month. Since G is the seventh letter of the alphabet, it means the heater was manufactured in the seventh month of the year – July. The next two numbers, in this case 11, represent the year and means this heater was manufactured in 2011.

Your water heater is making strange noises

Over the years, sediment will build up on the bottom of your water heater holding tank. As the sediment is heated and reheated, it hardens. Over time, the build-up causes the heater to produce rumbling sounds when the appliance is turned on. This is a sign that the metal casing has become weak and the heater is coming to the end of its useful life.

There are water puddles around the tank

If you notice moisture around the tank, there could be a leak. You may even find small pools of standing water on the flooring around the tank. This might be a sign that your water heater has a crack. Most leaks occur during heating when the water inside the tank expands. If all other parts of the heating system; pipes, connections, and fittings are dry but the water tank is moist on the outside, it might be time to replace that tank.

You’re seeing rust in the water

Lastly, if you discover that the water coming from your water heater is rusty, it might be a sign that the tank is slowly rusting from the inside which is very risky. Of course, it could also be the pipes. If you’re not sure, you should call a qualified plumber to test the whole system.

If you’re experiencing any of the above problems it may be time for a water heater replacement. Call Evergreen Plumbing & Heating today to schedule an inspection of your water heater to make sure.

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