Are you unsure whether your water heater is in need of repair or has burned out altogether?
If you notice a problem with your heating unit, here are a few ways in which you can troubleshoot for a solution. These tips will also help you to identify and understand signs as to whether you should replace your unit or repair it.
Water heaters are available in two types, electric and gas water heaters. It is possible to use electric water heaters almost anywhere. However, gas water heaters are mostly installed in houses that already receive a gas supply.
The water heater, unlike the other household appliances, undergoes the maximum workout. Most units available on the market have a lifespan of not more than 8 to 12 years. This however, varies according to factors such as the severity of the prevailing temperature, quality of the installation, the unit design, and the overall maintenance that your water heater has received.
Here are the most common signs that indicate that it’s time to replace your water heater:
Know the age of your water heater
If your water heater is already ten years old and has started leaking from the base of the tank or functions erratically, it is probably the time to get it replaced.
To ensure the longevity of your water heater you need to ensure that common electrical problems such as tripped breaker or a blown fuse is not the reason for the water heater’s failure.
The age of your unit can be the primary reason behind the faults occurring in your system. Hence, it is crucial to know the age of the machine. To find how old your unit actually is, look at the serial number printed on the manufacturer’s sticker, usually pasted on the upper surface of your heater.
If water heater emits rusty water
If you notice rusty water coming out of your heating unit, especially from the hot side piping fitted in your home, you should understand that it is time to get it replaced.
However, if you have fitted a galvanized piping, the rusting may have occurred in the pipes. A few tested ways to avoid replacing a water heater that is functioning correctly is to drain at least five gallons of water from your water heater.
If your water heater makes a rumbling noise
Sediments starts depositing on the bottom of the water tank, as your heater starts aging. The sediments get heated and reheated, and subsequently hardens. When this occurs, you often hear the rumbling noise. This is again a sign that your water heater as reached the end of its life.
If you notice moisture around your water heater: If you notice moisture forming around your water tank, or you notice a fracture or a small leak around the tank, it means that your water heater has reached its age, and it is finally the time to replace it
The instances mentioned above are the most common signs indicating the need to replace your water heater.
Check yours for these signs today, so you can budget the replacement cost and be prepared to replace it rather than have it give out on you suddenly. Call one of our licensed Cambridge plumbers today and schedule a maintenance check!
Please wash your hands frequently. Washing with soap and water for twenty seconds is the preferred method, however when water is not available, please use an alcohol based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Practice social distancing by staying at least six feet away from another person.