A water heater is a significant appliance in any household, providing you with hot water for warm showers, cleaning, laundry, and dishwashing. It meets the continuous hot water demands of the entire house, but even a minor issue can disrupt the water flow.
While an experienced plumber can repair small issues and even a few big ones, certain problems can’t be fixed by repairs and require a replacement. Annual repair and maintenance of your water heater can prolong its life. However, your water heater will need replacement eventually, particularly if it has been heating water for years.
Here are seven major signs your water heater needs a replacement:
Frequent Repairs
The most common sign your water heater needs replacement is that it requires too many repairs. If you have called the plumber too often during the year to fix the water heater, it is time for a replacement. Typically, a water heater shouldn’t need more than two yearly repairs.
Leaking Water
While a skilled plumber can repair the leaks in the valves, a leak in the tank can’t be repaired. It is a major sign of severe corrosion and indicates holes and cracks in the tank. It is more cost-effective to replace the water heater instead of trying to repair it.
Discolored Water
If the color of the water has turned reddish or rusty, it may be a sign of rust in the tank. With time, all metals start to rust. This results in rusty water that can be dangerous for you and your family. The only solution is to replace your water heater.
Rusty or Dirty Water
Dirty water is a sign of water corrosion in your tank. Replacing the anode rod can be a cost-effective solution, but if it doesn’t work, you need to replace your water heater before it leaks.
Increased Heating Bills
Any issues with the water heater would reflect on your heating bills. Hot water makes up a major part of the heating consumption in any household. Therefore, water heating bills will increase when the water heater loses efficiency. It is ideal for getting the heater checked by a professional plumber to determine if any water heater repair is possible before you replace it.
Rusting on the Tank
Rusting is another major sign your water heater needs replacement. Rusting in the tank is a major sign of corrosion and indicates that the problem is beyond repair. It is wiser to replace the water heater to avoid water damage or leaks.
Lack of Hot Water
If the heater is struggling to meet the hot water demands of your house as it used to, it could be one of the indications the water heater needs to be replaced. In some cases, flushing the heater could fix the hot water issues since sediment build-up decreases the unit’s efficiency. However, you need a replacement if flushing doesn’t work.
Consult Reliable Plumbing & Heating Services
Getting water heater repair and maintenance done by professional plumbers can prolong its lifespan. Moreover, getting it inspected by our skilled plumbers will help you make the right decision. Get in touch with us, and our professional plumber will thoroughly assess your water heater and give you the best advice.