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Do you know how long you should expect your water heater to last? Have you been diligent about getting regular water heater maintenance? Has your water heater been behaving badly? At some point, the time will come to replace it. But can your water heater still be repaired? Or has the time come to get a new one? The best way to know exactly what you should do about your water heater is to get help from a qualified professional. Right now, we’re offering a free water heater estimate to all our customers who need help with a water heater in Las Vegas, NV and the surrounding area. Here are the signs that your water heater needs to be replaced.
Strange Sounds
Not all water heater noises mean that the tank or system needs to be replaced. The most common sound you’ll hear is a rumbly, burbling noise like a boiling kettle. That’s just because of sediment at the bottom of the tank, and can easily be remedied with a system flush during maintenance. But if that sound goes on for a long time without repair, that strain can cause other, more lasting damage.
Insufficient Heat
If all that your water heater can produce is lukewarm water, you may have one burner or heating element that needs to be replaced. Is it worth getting this repaired? Sure… unless your water heater is already getting old. Eight to twelve years is about all you can expect, and you don’t want to invest a lot in a water heater you’ll soon be replacing anyway.
Pilot or Burner Trouble
A gas water heater requires actual flame to combust the natural gas it uses for fuel. If your water heater’s pilot is flickering, burning some color other than blue, frequently going out, or not getting the burners properly lit, you need plumbing help urgently. These issues could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning! Your plumber can help you assess whether repair or replacement is the best option.
Leaks
It’s normal for a few drops of water to drip from the pressure relief valve from time to time. What’s not normal is a lot of water coming from that valve, or water leaking from other parts of the system. If it’s just a connection that’s loose, it can be repaired. If the tank itself has started to leak, replacement is your only solution.
Corrosion
If you can see rust on your water heater, the end is near. Once corrosion sets in, it’s only a matter of time before the system springs a leak. It could be small and gradual, but it could also be sudden and do a lot of water damage to the surrounding area of your home. Don’t let it get to that point! When you see rust, it’s time to plan your water heater replacement.
Discolored or Smelly Water
It may be bacterial growth that causes a color or odor to contaminate your water. This can happen if the temperature is not kept hot enough, or if the hot water is rarely used. A sanitizing flush can kill the germs. But corrosion can also cause discoloration and smells. If that’s the source of the problem, replacement is the way to go.
When your HVAC system or plumbing isn’t looking so hot, it’s time to get Johnny On the Spot.