How to Know When to Replace Your Water Heater

Your water heater is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system, supplying hot water for laundry, dishwashing, showers and other uses. As with any appliance, water heaters have a limited lifespan, so knowing when to replace yours can save you costly repairs and aggravation. In this post, we’ll talk about warning signs to watch for, when to replace your water heater, and how BCRC Heating and Cooling can help you make the best decision.

How Long Does A Water Heater Last? What You Should Know

Before we get into the signs that it’s time to replace your water heater, it’s good to know the average water heater lifespan. A standard traditional tank water heater has a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. But, the life expectancy can vary according to factors like:

• Water quality in your region
• Maintenance procedures
• Installation quality
• Water heater type (tankless, gas or electric)

If you have a water heater that is nearing or has gone past this average lifespan, it’s a good idea to watch its performance more carefully.

When to Know Your Water Heater is Time to Replace

Water heaters usually provide obvious warning signs before they completely go out. Below are the most common signs that you may need to replace your water heater:

a. Age of Water Heater

Water heaters, as noted above, typically last eight to twelve years. If your device is approaching the end of its useful life you may want to consider replacing it even if it seems to be working fine. Older models may require regular repairs and are less energy efficient.

You can determine the age of your water heater by using the serial number on the manufacturer’s label. The first two numbers usually are the year of manufacture.

b. No Hot Water

If your hot water runs out faster than it used to or the water isn’t as hot as it should be, then your water heater might be struggling to keep up. This problem is often caused by the build up of silt in the tank, which reduces the efficiency of the heating element. A flush may temporarily fix this problem but if it continues then a replacement unit is needed.

c. Brown or rusty water

Rusty water is a serious warning. If the water tastes metallic or appears brownish, your hot water faucets may be beginning to rust internally. Rust that builds up in the tank will compromise the integrity of the heater and cause leaks. While the anode rod may slow down the rusting process, a rusty tank often means it’s time for a replacement.

d. Weird Noises

Sediment builds up over time in the water heater, creating a layer at the bottom of the tank. This material can solidify during operation and cause popping, pounding or rumbling noises from the water heater. These sounds indicate that the heater is not operating as efficiently as it should, which may result in failure.

e. Water Leakages.

If you see water pooling around the bottom of the unit, that’s a surefire sign your water heater needs immediate attention. Corrosion or repeated heating cycles may cause cracks in the tank, leading to leaks. While some leaks can be repaired, a leaky tank usually has to be replaced . Ignoring a leak can lead to severe water damage to your home.

f. Constant Repairs

If you’ve had to get repairs more than once in a short period of time, a replacement unit might be more cost effective. The on-going maintenance also signifies that the useful life of the heater is almost over, besides being expensive. It may be cheaper in the long run to buy a new energy-efficient model.

g. Water Temperature Variable

Inconsistent water temperatures are a symptom that your water heater is struggling to maintain the temperature at the desired level. This could be due to defective thermostats or heating elements but if these are not repaired then replacement may be necessary.