Is your water heater making strange noises, like the sound of a pounding headache? Does it take more time off than you would prefer, meaning it just isn’t producing hot water like the good old days? And how about the hot water itself. Is it looking a little rusty to you – literally?
Internal tank noises, not enough hot water, and red or brown tainted hot water – three clear signs of a water heater that might be coming to the end of the road. But ultimately that’s okay. After all, it was designed to last about 10 – 12 years. If you’ve gotten at least that much production from you water heater, then you’ve gotten your money’s worth.
Other signs of a failing water heater include these:
Water leaking from the bottom of the tank
That indicates internal tank corrosion and a resulting crack. That can’t be fixed.
Sediment buildup
When water is heated, mineral deposits separate and settle on the bottom of the tank. Sediment builds up over time, reducing the system’s operating efficiency while paving the way for future problems. This is especially an issue if you have hard water.
Too small for the task
Let’s say yours is a 50 gallon system that, at the time of installation, provided plenty of hot water. But as your family and hot water needs grew, the system couldn’t keep up, and worked harder than it was designed to. That’s a sure recipe for premature failure.
High water pressure
Water pressure that’s too high can damage your water heater, as well as your pipes and other appliances. If you notice water leaking from the overflow pipe on the side of the unit, your water pressure may need to be adjusted.
At Anthony’s Plumbing, Heating & Air, we have two types of water heater customers. Those who want to replace their system before they must, and those who want every last drop of hot water they can get before bidding the old system a fond farewell. Whichever camp you fall into, Anthony’s will be here to recommend the right type of system for your family’s needs, and correctly sized for now and what you anticipate your life to be like a few years down the road. Call today to arrange a free new system proposal.
