When Will My Water Heater Need Replacing?
You probably don’t think about your water heater much until it quits working. And you’re dealing with cold showers. It works hard to give your the U.S. home with hot water 24 hours a day, and, unsurprisingly, it will eventually wear out.
Here’s how long your water heater will probably last and some early signs that yours is needing to be replaced. Ultimately, how long your water heater will keep running depends on what kind you use and how frequently it’s working.
Tank Water Heater
Most people have a tank water heater that holds 40 to 50 gallons of water. This kind continuously heats water, so it’s always at the proper temperature when you desire it. Tank water heaters are very common due to their more economical price tag, but they don’t typically work as long as other types.
Here’s how long you can expect yours to run:
- Gas water heater: 10 years
- Electric water heater: 12 years
Tank water heaters can quit working because of numerous troubles, but an oxidized tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special component referred to as an anode rod that clears corrosive fragments from the water. Down the road, the rod will corrode, and grit will increase at the bottom of your water heater, rusting out the lining within the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much longer life span than its tank-style cousins. These water heaters may last as long as 20 years.
Along with working for a longer amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient. Rather than storing huge amounts of water that’s reheated continuously, a tankless model warms water when you want it. This does away with standby heating and the mark it makes on your monthly energy costs.
You might not realize it, but warming up water accounts for a sizeable portion of your energy expenses. In actuality, it’s the second largest source of energy utilization in a standard residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they have lasting energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that stores water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Indications Your Water Heater is Dying
Your hot water heater will start showing signs that it’s breaking down. Here’s what to keep an eye out for and when to get in touch with a plumbing pro like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
1. Inadequate Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most typical symptoms that your water heater needs to be replaced. You could see hot water getting used up faster, or that it’s taking additional time for water to heat up.
2. Leaks
It’s time to call a plumber if you’re experiencing water leaks or water gathering around the foundation of your water heater. Sometimes you might just need to have connections secured or a piece replaced, but it might also be a sign the tank is compromised.
3. Water Isn’t Clear
If you live in an area with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely used to having cloudy water. But if your water all of a sudden switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, you should have your water heater examined by a professional to prevent damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is likely growing in the tank and rusting it.
4. Odd Noises
It’s common for your water heater to create some noise as it works. But popping and rumbling isn’t normal and is a sign you should get specialized assistance. As sediment builds up in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and could use added energy in the process.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Makes Water Heater Replacement Fast
Waiting too long for water heater replacement could result in that can damage your residence. There’s also the inconvenience of lacking hot water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing hints it needs to be replaced, contact our Experts at 866-397-3787 to schedule a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the right decision for your residence.
