27 Jan When to Get a New Water Heater
1/27/17
By: Karli
An Essential Home Appliance
Nothing is quite as shocking as a cold shower or bath. Even if you know what’s coming, it’s shocking every time! Warm water is a personal luxury most Americans enjoy on a regular basis. Providing heated water for showers, tubs, washing machines, or dishwashers, water heaters are a universal convenience homes struggle to do without.
Most home appliances aren’t made to last forever, no matter how efficient and well-made they may be. Home appliances wear out over time and will need to be replaced when they reach their expected lifespan. Water heaters aren’t exempt from this natural fate. It is important for homeowners to know when it is time to get a new water heater and that it is essential not to wait too long. Delaying the purchase of a new water heater could be costly, and even downright dangerous. Below are some general signs it is time for a new water heater in your home.
Signs of Needed Replacement
- Water Heater Struggling to Heat
- Leaking around Water Heater
- Water heater poorly installed, maintained
- Appliance is 8-15 years old
- Water Pressure is Poor
- Deposit Buildups
- Water Heater Less Efficient
- Rusting From Interior
Age of Water Heaters Matter. Water heaters generally are designed to last between 8-15 years. Some models can last longer or shorter than that, depending on how well the water heater was installed, the location of the water heater, and how well the water heater was maintained. After reaching that point, water heaters start to have a lot more issues. Water heaters that are maintained on a yearly basis will last longer than those that haven’t been maintained frequently. If your water heater has reached its expected lifespan, but it is still functioning properly, just be sure to keep an eye on it and to have it checked regularly.
Lack of Hot Water. One of the most obvious signs a water heater needs to be replaced is when it ceases to be reliable for hot water. Maybe you’ve noticed this when you’re filling up the tub, taking a shower, or even just doing the dishes. When the water doesn’t heat up as it has in the past, or maybe doesn’t heat up at all, it’s time to have it fixed or replaced.
Leak in the Water Heater. These, in particular, can be a sign of serious issues, and definitely should get checked out immediately. Leaks in the water heater may be caused by a variety of issues, some trivial, others serious, but ultimately it is better to be overly cautious than careless. Flooding and water damage can be costly compared to simply getting it check out.
Deposit Builds Up. Water heaters tend to have a shorter lifespan when deposits from hard water builds up on the bottom of the appliance. Typically, when hard water deposits collect on the bottom, issues with overheating become a problem since the bottom layer of the water heater is more insulated due to the build up.
Less Efficient Over Time. Older models of water heaters will be less efficient over time, requiring more energy to function while providing less satisfying results. If your water heater takes a long time to heat up, runs out of hot water quickly, or is using more energy than it normally should, call in a professional. Newer models of water heaters will save you more in the long run.
Water Heater Inspection
Regularly having your water heater inspected by a professional can prevent unexpectant issues down the road. Forgetting to check on your water heater every once in awhile could be dangerous, and lead to flooding, or even an explosion on rare occasions. If you suspect something is wrong with your water heater, do not hesitate to get it inspected. Water heaters should be checked and maintained every year or two to ensure everything is functioning appropriately.
Water Heater Repairs & Replacement
If you have recently had your water heater inspected, and replacement is needed, Mathews Plumbing can recommend and install a variety of water heaters. Sometimes, though, all your water heater may need is a few repairs, and not a total replacement. Either way, Mathews Plumbing offers its water heater services in Eastern Idaho cities of Pocatello, Blackfoot, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, and Rexburg. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for a water heater inspection, repair, or a new water heater installation.
https://www.angieslist.com/articles/4-signs-your-water-heater-about-fail.htm
http://www.waterheaterrescue.com/Longevity/what-kills-water-heaters.html