Water heaters don’t work forever. Even one that’s regularly tuned up will only run around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to be aware of the clues that it’s failing. Or else, you could be without warm water for a few days while you wait for a new one.
Here are six common hints that your water heater is going bad.
1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old
Just because your water heater is older doesn’t necessarily mean it’s failing, but it does mean you’ll likely have to install a new one momentarily. As the years go by, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to warm water. Eventually, the sediment will corrode the tank and cause the heating parts to fail. Corrosion can also result in water leaks, which may damage your Cottonwood & Verde Valley residence.
By getting a new water heater, you’ll have access to the most energy-efficient features. If you install an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you may receive extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, since an ENERGY STAR model could save you up to $3,500 on utilities over its lifetime.
Changing from a regular tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even bigger amount. For houses hat require less than 41 gallons of water daily a tankless water heater is typically 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters typically work for around 20 years, which is about double the life span of a tank water heater.
2. Water Heater is Leaking
Sometimes leaks are just the outcome of loose connections, wrong pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a sign that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need professional support from Connolly Electric & Mechanical to get to the bottom of the issue.
3. Water is the Wrong Color
If your usually clear water suddenly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater might be at fault. Cloudy water means sediment has collected in the tank, while rusty water is a hint there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either situation, Connolly Electric & Mechanical advises having your water heater examined by a specialist
4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water
As sediment increases in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater works harder to make hot water. As a result, it will take longer for it to produce hot water, and heated water will run out much more quickly. Both are a hint that your water heater is going out.
To keep sediment from accumulatingin your tank, Connolly Electric & Mechanical recommends having one of our specialists flush it every year.
5. Water Heater is Making Unusual Noises
Like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a sign that sediment has built up in your tank. Sediment makes it more strenuous for the water heater to heat water, leading to the unusual sounds. Over time, the strain on your water heater can result in cracks and leaks.
6. You’re Constantly Requiring Water Heater Repair
Over its lifetime, your water heater might have to have small repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re constantly contacting Connolly Electric & Mechanical for assistance or a crucial part has failed, it’s time for water heater installation.
It’s exhausting when your water heater is just about to stop working or has quit working. But that’s not the case when you get in touch with Connolly Electric & Mechanical at 928-862-5977 for water heater installation in Cottonwood & Verde Valley. From selecting the right style for your needs and budget to expertly installing it, we make the entire process simple. Give us a call to request your appointment now!
