Are you unsure about your water heater’s state or whether a replacement is necessary?

Business owners in Canada, whether they run restaurants, salons, spas, or retail establishments, are aware of the vital function water heaters play in their daily operations. Having access to consistent hot water is essential for comfort and cleanliness. A well-maintained water heater also lessens the chance of unplanned downtime brought on by repairs and maintenance.

Here are several telltale indicators that your water heater may need to be replaced if you’re not sure if it’s time to replace it or if you’re just evaluating its condition right now.

Types of Water Heaters Commonly Used in Commercial Settings

Commercial-grade water heaters are typically powered either by gas (natural gas or propane) or electricity:

• Gas-Powered Water Heaters: These systems rely on a burner, regulated by a gas valve and thermostat, to heat the water.
• Electric Water Heaters: These units heat water through electric elements that warm up when electricity flows through them.

In addition to their power source, water heaters also come in a variety of types:

• Storage Tank Water Heaters: These heaters store large amounts of hot water in tanks so it’s readily available when needed. There are several types of storage tank heaters, differentiated by the energy source, venting system, and overall efficiency.

• Tankless Water Heaters: Also known as on-demand water heaters, these systems heat water only when required. They’re compact and space-efficient, making them ideal for small businesses with limited square footage.

• Heat Pump Water Heaters: These systems use electricity to transfer heat from one place to another, rather than generating heat directly. They pull warmth from the surrounding air—typically in basements or mechanical rooms—and transfer it to the water in the tank.

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance for Your Water Heater

While the thought of replacing or repairing a water heater may seem overwhelming, it’s essential to keep your business’s mechanical systems in optimal working condition. Whether you notice any of the warning signs discussed later or not, don’t wait until something goes wrong.

Routine maintenance is key to identifying issues early, potentially avoiding expensive breakdowns and downtime. Regular inspections also ensure that your water heater operates efficiently, especially during peak demand periods.

Warning Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Business’s Water Heater

Here are some clear indicators that you may need to consider replacing your water heater:

Age of the Water Heater

Several factors influence how long a water heater will last, including:

• Usage levels and hot water demand
• Quality of the initial installation
• How well the unit has been maintained over time

Older storage tank water heaters, in particular, tend to be less efficient, which may be costing your business more in utility bills. While it might seem like postponing a replacement will save money in the short term, the reverse could be true. Inefficient systems can waste energy, leading to higher operational costs.

If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to upgrade to a newer, more efficient model. Even if you’re not experiencing obvious problems, it’s worth consulting a certified HVAC technician for a professional assessment.

Frequent Repairs Are Becoming Commonplace

There is a distinction between the occasional repair and the ongoing need for repairs, even though routine maintenance is essential for extending the life of your water heater. A water heater typically needs repairs more frequently as its useful life draws to a conclusion. In the event that you have had a component repaired recently and discover that another is malfunctioning, it is obvious that you should think about having the system completely replaced.

Increasing Utility Bills

Have your gas or electricity costs increased significantly? One possible cause could be an old water heater. Because older units are frequently less energy-efficient, more power is needed to create the same volume of hot water.

Changing to a more contemporary water heater could help you use less energy overall. Since many recent models are made to be more energy-efficient, replacing your old one could eventually result in lower utility expenditures.

Inconsistent or Declining Performance

You can’t afford to have a water heater that isn’t reliable whether you run a restaurant, salon, or medical facility. It might be time for an examination if your system has trouble producing hot water during periods of high demand, such as while washing dishes during a hectic dinner service or providing hot water to customers at a salon.

Performance issues could be caused by a number of things, such as a tank that is too small to satisfy your company’s needs or damaged heating components. Having a technician evaluate whether your system is still capable is a smart option if you’re experiencing regular hot water shortages or temperature fluctuations.

Rusty or Discolored Water

Do not disregard any rusty, discoloured, or metallic-smelling water that appears to be coming from your faucets. While there are a number of possible causes for rusty water, a water heater that is corroding within is one of the most frequent ones. If there is internal corrosion in the tank, it may indicate that the system is getting close to the end of its useful life and has to be replaced.

Leaks Around the Tank

Your water heater is most likely leaking if you see any of the following: water collecting around the unit, an abundance of dampness, or corrosion on the outside of the tank. Leaks usually indicate a problem with the water heater’s interior construction, and replacing the unit is the best course of action. Make sure you contact an experienced expert to evaluate the situation.