Water heaters are essential appliances that provide hot water for your daily needs. However, like any other appliance, they have a limited lifespan and can develop problems over time.
If you ignore the signs of a failing water heater, you may end up with costly repairs, water damage, or even a fire hazard.
So, how do you know when it’s time to call a certified HVAC contractor to replace your water heater? Here are some signs you should look out for and what to do if you notice them.
Age Of The Water Heater
The first thing to check is the age of your water heater. Most water heaters last for about 10 to 15 years, depending on the type, model, usage, and maintenance.
You can find the date of manufacture on the water heater’s label, usually in the form of a serial number.
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be nearing the end of its life and may need a replacement soon.
Even if it seems to be working fine, it may be less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. You can save money and energy by upgrading to a newer, more efficient model.
Rusty Or Discoloured Water
Another sign of a failing water heater is rusty or discoloured water coming out of the hot water taps. This could indicate that the water heater tank or the pipes are corroding and rusting.
Rust can cause leaks, reduce the water quality, and damage the other plumbing fixtures.
You can do a simple test to determine if the problem is with the water heater or the pipes. Turn on the cold water tap and see if the water is clear or rusty.
If the cold water is clear, then the problem is likely with the water heater. If the cold water is also rusty, then the problem is with the pipes.
If the problem is with the water heater, you may need to flush the tank or replace the anode rod, which is a metal rod that prevents corrosion.
However, if the tank is severely rusted, you may need to replace the entire water heater.
Leaking Or Cracked Tank
One of the most apparent signs of a failing water heater is a leaking or cracked tank. A leak can occur due to various reasons, such as high water pressure, faulty valves, loose connections, or corrosion.
Moreover, it can also cause water damage to your floors, walls, and ceilings and increase your water bill.
A crack in the tank can also cause a leak, but it is more serious and dangerous. A crack can result from thermal expansion, which is when the water in the tank heats up and expands, creating pressure on the tank walls.
A crack can also result from metal fatigue, which is when the tank walls weaken over time due to repeated heating and cooling cycles.
If you notice a leak or a crack in your water heater tank, you should turn off the water and power supply to the water heater and get professional water heater service as soon as possible. A leak or a crack cannot be repaired and requires a replacement.
Inconsistent Or Insufficient Hot Water
Another sign of a failing water heater is inconsistent or insufficient hot water. This could mean that the water heater is not heating the water properly or that the tank capacity is not enough for your household needs.
Some of the possible causes of this problem are:
Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals and debris can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, reducing the heating efficiency and the available hot water. You can prevent this by flushing the tank regularly or installing a water softener.
Faulty Heating Element
The heating element is the part that heats the water in the tank. If it is damaged or worn out, it may not heat the water enough or at all. You can test the heating element with a multimeter or replace it if needed.
Thermostat Malfunction
The thermostat is the part that controls the temperature of the water in the tank. If it is set too low, it may not heat the water enough.
If it is set too high, it may overheat the water and cause scalding. You can adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature or replace it if faulty.
Tank Size
The tank size determines how much hot water you can use at a time. If you have a large household or use multiple hot water appliances simultaneously, you may need a larger tank or a tankless water heater, which heats water on demand.
If you experience inconsistent or insufficient hot water, check the above factors and see if you can fix them.
However, if the problem persists or worsens, you may need to replace your water heater.
Strange Noises Or Smells
The last sign of a failing water heater is strange noises or smells coming from the water heater or the hot water.
This could indicate that something is wrong with the water heater or the water quality. Some of the common noises and smells are:
Popping Or Rumbling Noises
These noises are caused by sediment buildup in the tank, which makes the water boil and create bubbles.
This can damage the tank and reduce the heating efficiency. You can flush the tank or replace the water heater if the noise is loud or frequent.
Hissing Or Sizzling Noises
These noises are caused by a leak in the tank or the pipes, which makes the water or steam escape. This can cause water damage and increase the risk of fire or electrocution.
You should turn off the water and power supply and call a professional water heater service immediately.
Rotten Egg Smell
This smell is caused by bacteria in the water, which produce hydrogen sulphide gas. This can affect the water quality and pose a health risk.
You can flush the tank or replace the anode rod, which may have been consumed by the bacteria.
Moreover, you can also disinfect the water heater with chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide.
Metallic Smell Or Taste
This smell or taste is caused by corrosion in the tank or the pipes, which releases metal particles into the water.
This can affect the water quality and damage the other plumbing fixtures. You should replace the water heater or the pipes if they are corroded.
If you notice any strange noises or smells from your water heater or the hot water, you should investigate the source and see if you can fix it.
However, if the problem is severe or persistent, you may need to call a certified HVAC contractor to replace your water heater.
Conclusion
A water heater is a vital appliance that you rely on every day. However, it can also cause you a lot of trouble if it is not working properly or if it is past its prime. By paying attention to the signs of a failing water heater, you can avoid bigger problems and save money and energy in the long run.
If you need a professional water heater service or a replacement, you can trust Main Heating & Cooling to provide you with the best solution. We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service, quality products, and expert installation. We offer high-quality products, expert installation, and reliable service for all your water heating needs. Contact us today for a free estimate or to schedule an appointment.