When to Fix Your Water Heater: Understanding the Signs
Your water heater plays an integral role in your daily activities, such as cooking, cleaning, and bathing. A faulty water heater can be a serious inconvenience in your home and even lead to bigger problems. However, not everyone knows when to fix or even replace their water heater. In this blog post, we'll discuss some signs to look out for to determine when it's time to repair your water heater.
Age of the Water Heater
The age of your water heater plays an important role in its performance. As your unit gets older, it becomes less efficient and might start to have problems like leaks, rusting, or sediment buildup. If your water heater is past or approaching the end of its expected lifespan and you're experiencing issues, it's best to replace it.
Discolored Water
If you notice rusty or discolored water when using your faucet, it could be an indication of rust inside your water heater. As this rust accumulates and flakes off, it can cause blockages and can lead to leaks. Leaks in the water heater can be dangerous, and you should address them immediately. If you see rust in your water, it's a sign to replace the heater as soon as possible.
Odd Noises
Water heaters should operate quietly, and any unusual sounds could be a sign that there is a problem. Common noises include popping, hissing, screeching, and loud humming. These sounds might indicate different issues in the water heater; for example, there could be mineral buildup or even a faulty thermostat. If you hear any of these noises and you're unsure about the cause of the issue, it's best to call a plumber to inspect and repair your heater.
Water Temperature Changes
If you turn on your shower or taps and experience extreme temperature changes, it could be a sign that your water heater is malfunctioning. The inconsistent temperature could be an indicator of sediment buildup in the tank, a malfunctioning heating element, or a broken thermostat. In any case, it's important to take care of these issues as soon as possible, as they can lead to more significant damage.
Leaks or Moisture Buildup
Water leakage or moisture buildup around your water heater is a significant indication that something is wrong. Most leaks in the water heater occur due to the over-pressurization of the tank or valve problems. If you notice any leaks or moisture around your water heater, it's important to call a plumber and have it repaired immediately.
If you're experiencing problems like rust-colored water, leaks, strange sounds, inconsistent temperature changes, and age, it might be time to consider repairing or replacing your water heater. Make sure to work with a professional plumber to address any issues with your water heater early on to avoid any safety hazards and expensive damages.
Contact a company such as Master Plumbing Services to learn more.