Our water heaters are one of the most important appliances in our homes, providing us with hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. But like any other appliance, they don’t last forever.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a water heater replacement in Utah or wherever you are, here are 10 signs to look out for:
- Your water heater is more than 10 years old. This is the number one indicator that it’s time for a replacement. The average lifespan of a water heater is 10-15 years, so if yours is approaching or exceeding this age, it’s time to start shopping for a new one.
- You have to keep resetting the temperature. If you find yourself constantly having to adjust the temperature on your water heater, it’s a sign that it’s not working as efficiently as it used to.
- You’re running out of hot water. This is another common sign that your water heater is on the way out. If you find yourself taking shorter showers or having to wait for the hot water to come back on after using it for a while, it’s time to get a new water heater.
- The water temperature is inconsistent. If you notice that the water temperature from your faucet is inconsistent, it could be a sign of sediment build-up in your water heater. This can cause the water to overheat and can be a fire hazard.
- There’s water around the base of the unit. If you see water pooling around the base of your water heater, it’s a sign that there’s a leak. This is usually caused by a faulty valve or gasket, and it needs to be fixed immediately.
- The unit is making strange noises. If your water heater starts making strange noises, like banging, hissing or popping, it’s a sign that something is wrong. These noises are usually caused by sediment build-up or a failing heating element.
- The water quality is poor. If you notice that the water from your faucet is discolored or has an unusual taste, it could be a sign that your water heater is rusting on the inside. This can contaminate your water supply and should be fixed as soon as possible.
- The unit is taking longer to heat up. If you find that it’s taking longer for your water heater to heat up, it’s a sign that the heating element is failing. This will need to be replaced in order to keep your water heater working properly.
- There’s steam coming from the unit. If you see steam or smoke coming from your water heater, it’s a sign that there’s a serious problem. This could be caused by an over-pressurized tank, a faulty heating element, or a gas leak. If you see any of these signs, turn off the power to the unit and call a plumber immediately.
- You just can’t seem to get it working. If you’ve tried all of the above and your water heater still isn’t working properly, it’s time to replace it. A new water heater will provide you with hot water when you need it and can save you money on your energy bill.