A water heater is essential to your home running properly! Do you know when it's time to replace it? Watch out for these warning signs.
A functioning water heater is vital to many everyday tasks, like washing the dishes and taking a shower. The last thing you need is for your water heater to break down without warning and leave you unable to do anything until a repairman can get to your house. You also run the risk of flooding damaging your belongings. We partnered with
Done! Plumbing and Heating to give you the top warning signs that you need a new water heater.
Rusty Water
If your hot water is rusty, your water heater is likely rusting on the inside. This could lead to leaking before too long. To see if your hot water is rusty, fill several five-gallon buckets or other large containers. If there is rust, you probably need a new water heater.
There are ways to prevent rust! Adding a magnesium, aluminum, or zinc anode rod to the water heater can help. For more protection, add a second rod of the same metal. To examine the inside of your water heater, attach a hose to the drainage bib, turn it off, and drain it. If the water looks dirty or tastes metallic, you need to replace your heater as soon as possible!
An Old Unit
If you aren't sure of the age of your water heater, you can find out by looking for the serial number on the manufacturer's sticker near the top. Usually, the first two numbers represent the year, but this can vary. It's important to check your manufacturer's website for information on finding the age. If you find that your water heater is more than 10 years old, you need to have it replaced immediately.
To help your heater survive longer, flush it every year. Do this carefully, since the water is hot -- you don't want to get burned! If your unit is located where it will cause damage if it leaks, replace it immediately rather than risking mold or water damage.
Cold Water
Water turning cold before you're done with it is a sign your water heater may be on its last legs. If your shower is turning cold mid-shower, it's time to replace your heater. Sediment can build up over time, which can separate the heat sources from the water and prevent it from getting hot.
Leaks
Metal expands as it heats. This means that if there are even slight cracks in the heater, it may start to leak as it expands. A leak can damage the area surrounding your heater, but it will stop when the metal cools down. Before you replace the tank, be sure there are no other leaks in the fittings or connections. You should also check the heater's pressure overflow pipe.
Lots of Noise
As water heaters age, sediment can build up at the base of the tanks. As the sediment heats and cools with the water, it begins to harden. This wastes energy and uses up your water heater's capacity. You may start to notice banging or loud rumbling coming from your unit. You'll also find yourself running out of hot water much sooner. The extra time needed to heat the water can start to overheat your unit, leading to cracks and holes in your water heater. If you start hearing loud rumbling noises, be sure to check for leaks as well.
Have you noticed any of these warning signs? We've got good news! The sponsor of this article, Done! Plumbing and Heating, is offering $75 off a water heater replacement! Show them some love and get a great deal on a pretty necessary home upgrade!
