Don't Be Left In The Cold: Signs Your Water Heater May Be On Its Way Out
Posted on: 16 May 2018
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Many people do not realize that their water heater needs to be replaced until it dies and leaves them with no hot water. Fortunately, a cold shower does not need to be in your future if you learn what the signs are that a water heater may be near the end of its lifespan. Here are a few of the signs that you may need to have a new hot water heater installed.
The Hot Water Tank Is Leaking
It is recommended that you inspect your hot water tank every few months. During the inspection, you should be looking for obvious signs of rust, cracks, or leaks. If you notice any puddles under the tank, your tank is leaking. Unfortunately, there is no way to repair a crack or leak in your tank. If either is present, the tank should be replaced in a timely manner. This helps prevent water waste and high utility bills caused by warm air escaping.
Your Water Isn't Heating Up Like It Used To
When you turn the water on to hot, you know how far to turn the knob to get the temperature of water you want. However, if it feels like your water isn't getting as hot as it normally does or if it is taking longer between loads of laundry and showers for the tank to fill back up and reheat, your tank may be on its way out.
Your Hot Water Is Cloudy, Murky, or Rust-Colored
When you turn on the hot water, the water running through the faucet or shower head should be clear. If it is cloudy, murky, or rust-colored, you will want to drain your hot water tank and flush it. This helps to remove mineral build-up inside of the tank. However, if the problem continues after flushing the tank, your tank may be rusted internally. This requires the tank to be replaced.
You Hear Banging Sounds Coming From the Tank
The last sign that your water heater may be on its way out is if you hear banging or clanking noises when the hot water heater is trying to heat water. These sounds indicate that parts within your tank are not working smoothly and efficiently. It is rarely cost effective to replace parts inside of a tank. Instead, replacing the tank may be the best option.
If you notice any of these signs, your hot water tank may be near the end of its life. If you fail to replace it, it will eventually stop working and you will be left with cold water running through your pipes. Contact a water heater installation company to order a new hot water heater and have it installed before you are left out in the cold.