Signs It's Time For Water Heater Replacement
If you own a water heater, the chances are that you use it almost every day. And just like with all your other home appliances, water heaters will eventually need replacing. It isn't a good experience to have your heater stop working, especially when you need it most.
On average, water heaters are meant to last you about 20 years. You should expect to use it for a lesser time than that until you need to replace it. The only way to prolong its lifespan is to have a plumbing service do maintenance work every few months. By doing so, you can get ahead of any issues that may lead to extensive damage to your water system. Take a look at these three signs to know when to replace your heater.
There's Not Enough Hot Water
When water heaters get faulty, they can no longer supply you with enough hot water. You'll likely have to do with lukewarm water or no warm water at all. The main reason why this happens is due to the accumulated buildup of sediment. This is what causes your heater to be unable to give you enough hot water.
Your heater's components will now have to do more work than usual, eventually causing them to break down. There isn't much you can do about a broken heater, so the most logical thing is to have a professional perform a replacement.
Your Heater Gives Off Rusty Water
Corrosion in your heating system eventually leads to the water collecting rust. This is one of the most common signs that you'll need to have your water heater replaced. In this case, the heater's anode rod is most likely damaged or obsolete.
Water passing through will infuse with the rust from corrosion. The rust forms after water comes into contact with the metal in the anode. If you discover that you have rust water soon after installation, a plumbing services may choose to replace the anode with one made from zinc. If it happens towards your heater's end of life, it makes more sense to replace the whole setup.
Unusual Noises
Water heaters can sometimes make strange noises that sound like cracking or popping sounds. These noises are often loud and uncomfortable. They happen as a result of accumulated mineral deposits that collect around the heating sections. The noises are more common with an older system, where the deposits have already hardened.
In this case, a plumbing service professional may suggest that you replace the entire unit. This way, you're clear of any hazards that may come as a result of the interference. For more information, contact a plumbing service.