Unique Ways To Tell If Your Water Heater Needs To Be Replaced

Paying attention to your water heater could save you plenty of money and lots of stress. Keep an eye out for these signs that your heater is about to fail, and contact ServiceWhale for an expert opinion and custom quote if you suspect you will need a water heater replacement.

You Notice Rusty Water Coming From Your Water Heater

Look at the water coming out of a hot faucet and note whether it looks rusty or not. If it does, your water heater is likely on its last legs, and you should prepare for the likelihood of its failure.

Your Water Heater Is Coming Up on Its 10th Birthday

With proper maintenance, water heaters can last up to 20 years, but the average water heater typically only lasts between 10 and 13 years. If your system has been poorly maintained, don’t count on it lasting longer than its warranty.

Check the serial number on your water heater to find the date your heater was manufactured, and use the manufacturer’s website to understand how to read the number. If it is older than ten years, consider investing in a water heater replacement.

The latest hot water heaters can cost a couple hundred dollars more than they did years ago, but it’s because they must meet new efficiency standards. You will benefit from the initial investment by saving on energy—the newest heaters tend to save 20% a year compared to those made ten years ago, meaning that you’re likely to save $700 or more over the course of the new unit’s life. With all these costs, you may not want to be looking into private contractors, but thankfully ServiceWhale aims to find you the best contractors at the best price.

Your Water Tastes or Smells Metallic

Smell or taste your hot water to see if it seems metallic. If it does, beware that it is probably close to failing.

There Is Increased Sediment or Muddy Water in the Tank

Drain your water heater to see what’s inside of it. Use a hose connected to the drainage bib, and make sure that your unit is turned off! If you spot sediment or find water with mud in it, your water heater is not operating properly and might break entirely in the near future.

It’s Making Unsettling Noises

Banging and rumbling generally mean that sediment has built up in your heating tank. You will generally hear these unsettling sounds as the tank is heating up. The build-up makes your heater take longer to heat your water, causing extra wear on the tank and permanent damage like holes, cracks, and potential leaks.

You Notice Water Surrounding the Heater

Beware of water surrounding the heater! If it is in a place where you have not previously seen it leak, turn off the gas or electricity the water heater uses. Because leaking water can be a sign of an internal failure in the heater, this could potentially mean serious issues with your water heater. Contact ServiceWhale for expert advice on your next move.