Most homeowners don’t know when their water heater is about to fail. Realizing that your water heater needs replacement early can save money and eliminate the stress that comes with the rush of replacing one.
The following are five signs suggesting when it might be ready to have your water heater repaired or replaced:
Your Water isn’t Heating Up
If your water isn’t getting hot, this is usually the most apparent sign your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced. On the other hand, some homeowners notice fluctuating water temperatures. If your water is hot one minute but cold the next, it’s time to call a plumber.
More often than not, this occurs due to the accumulation of mineral deposits around the water heating components of the heater.
Leaking Water Heater
If your home’s water heater is leaking, your hot water tank needs repair. Start with a visual inspection for leaks, something you can do yourself or call a professional.
If these leaks are left untreated, they will ruin your tank and cause hefty water damage to your home. Water damage means hiring a restoration service and getting your water heater replaced.
Water Discoloration
If you notice your water has rust-colored water piping in your home, it’s a sure sign the heater has begun to corrode and rust, eventually causing a leak. It is the rust that usually discolors the water.
Some homeowners think seeing a rusty color means an issue with the water supply, which is incorrect. You can confirm it’s a water heater issue by running the cold water tap — if it’s brown and not clear, there is a problem with the water heater.
Water Heater Rumbles
You might be hearing noise coming from the water heater when heating up. When a water heater ages, sediment builds up on the bottom of the tank, causing less efficiency, and the heater will have to use more gas or electricity to heat the water.
The Age of the Water Heater
The serial number contains the date when the water heater was manufactured. Consider replacing a water heater that is over ten years old.
Problems with the water heater can be stressful, especially if it happens suddenly. But you don’t have to worry about getting the job done right with Gene Wagner Plumbing, recently ranked as one of the top two plumbers in Southeastern Wisconsin by Milwaukee’s A-List. Contact us or call us at 414-541-9217.
