There’s nothing better than a hot shower to wake up in the morning or to clean up after a long day of work or play. But when the water is cold or inconsistent and doesn’t deliver the hot water you crave, this can be an extremely frustrating situation. There are many signs that your water heater needs to be replaced, from pooling water to tepid temperatures. Check out these top signs that a new water heater is in order, and then call your local plumber in Sacramento to handle the job.
1. Age
If your water heater is older than 10 years or is showing signs of age, the need for replacement is on the horizon. Usually water heaters last between eight and 12 years, but you don’t want to push it. The last thing you need is for it to fail and leak all over your basement floor. Not sure of its age? Check the manufacturer’s sticker for the serial number (starts with a letter, then a series of numbers). The first two numbers will be the year of the manufacture date.
2. Pooling Water Around the Base
Behind the water heater’s exterior case is a steel tank surrounded by insulation. Even the highest quality tank will erode over time – even if you regularly maintain it. If you see standing water around the water heater’s base, this could be evidence of a leak. Prompt replacement or repair is needed.
That being said, not all pooling water is a sign of erosion or leaks. These small pools of water collecting around your water heater could be due to condensation. This condensation could be there one day and not the next, depending on weather. Call a plumber so they can inspect the area and determine the cause.
3. Rusty Water
If you have rust stains around your bathroom sinks, your water heater tank could be to blame. To ensure optimal water quality, you may have to replace your rusty water heater, which can also help you prevent damaging leaks later on.
4. Metallic Water
If your tap water has a metallic taste or smell, your metal water heater tank is likely beginning to corrode. This typically happens with age, but there are certain chemicals or sediment present in your tap water that can cause premature wear and tear on the unit.
5. Cold or Tepid Water
Sometimes you can take a nice hot shower, but other times, the water is tepid or cold. This inconsistency of temperature is a sign your water heater itself is on its way out, or that the tank’s heating element has burned out.
6. Frequent Repairs
If your water heater is approaching the end of its life and you keep having to make frequent repairs, you’re better off buying a new one to save on those costly repairs. Throwing good money after bad is never a good idea. Even if your water heater is in the middle of its lifespan, premature wear can be brought on by heavy household usage or lack of regular maintenance. At any rate, it’s more cost-effective to replace the water heater than to make repeated repairs.
7. Unusual Noises
If you are hearing weird noises coming from the tank, such as banging, clunking, or rumbling, this may be caused by sediment build-up when the water heater is being used. You may just need a tank flush (call your local Sacramento plumber), or if your tank is old, a replacement may be needed.
8. Low Water Pressure
Do you notice strong water pressure emerging from your cold water faucets yet low water pressure emerging from your hot water faucets? This often signals that there is sediment build-up in your hot water heater. When that sediment starts to build up at the bottom of the tank, your water pressure could be affected. If you’re not getting the desired water pressure from your shower or faucets, you may need a new water heater or a tank flush.
9. High Energy Bills
Older water heaters become less efficient over time, which often results in higher energy bills. Have you noticed spiking utility bills lately but haven’t significantly changed your water usage or habits? Your water heater may be to blame. As water heaters get older, they have more difficulty maintaining your desired water temperature, which in turn makes them run more frequently while consuming more energy. It may be time to invest in a newer, more energy-efficient model to experience cost savings on your utility bills.
Get a Free Quote on a New Water Heater Today
If you have noticed any of the above signs and would like a free consultation and quote on a new water heater in Sacramento, contact us at (916) 690-5858 or complete our online form.
