Water heaters are an essential component to a comfortable home. From warm showers to washing machines, hot water plays an integral role in our daily lives — but when should a water heater be replaced? The answer isn’t the same for every home. There are a number of indicators of when it may be time to replace a water heater. Listen to the Coop! Here are the 5 things you should keep an eye out for when it comes to the efficiency and effectiveness of your home’s water heater.
Lukewarm or Cold Water
Knowing when a water heater should be replaced can sometimes be relatively straightforward. For example, if your old water isn’t as hot as it should be or if it isn’t heated at all, then it may be time to consider a replacement. There are several potential causes for a malfunctioning water heater, although not all of them warrant a replacement.
A broken heating component might be the culprit of unheated water, which would just require a replacement. However, the necessary parts may be hard to come by if the system is old, meaning that you may be better off with a full-on replacement. Alternatively, it’s possible that the tank itself isn’t big enough for your home if your hot water needs surpass the limitations of the system. As such, when to replace a water heater will vary depending on your unique circumstances.
Unusual Water Coloration
Is there cloudy or rusty water coming out of the faucet? That’s another potential example of when a water heater should be replaced. Corrosion of the water tank’s steel lining can result in rust, which can enter your water supply and color it a brownish hue. Additionally, any cloudy water can be caused by the buildup of sediment that collects in the tank. Sediment is created from mineral deposits found in almost all types of water. Either way, unusually-colored water is an indication that something is wrong with your water heater, and it may need to be replaced.
Water Leaks
Puddles forming around the tank are another sign that it’s time to replace a water heater. When leaks occur, it can lead to water damage that’s expensive to repair. These leaks are a result of repeated expansion of the water tank over the years, which is caused by the heating cycles. The constant expansions will eventually create gaps that allow water to leak, meaning that this occurrence is likely to happen toward the end of the water heater’s lifespan.
Strange Sounds
Do you hear any odd rumbling noises whenever the water heater is on? This can be caused by sediment buildup, which can make the heater less efficient and even damage the tank. As a result, it’s important to flush out the heater on a regular basis to remove any accumulated sediment — if the tank becomes too damaged from the sediment, then it may be time for a new water heater.
Old Age
When should a water heater be replaced? At the end of its lifespan, of course. Water heaters commonly last around a decade but can have a life expectancy of around 12 years if they are well-maintained. However, it’s still plausible that you may need to replace your water heater when you notice any of the above signs.
Call Cooper Mechanical for Professional Water Heater Replacements
If you ever need to repair or replace your water heater, including conventional or tankless water heaters in Bucks County, PA, and the surrounding areas, reach out to Cooper Mechanical. We offer numerous professional HVAC services to ensure the continued comfort of your home, and hot water heater replacements are no exception. Call our professional service team today for more information and to schedule your appointment.
