Nobody wants to think about their water heater giving them a cold shoulder. However, these fixtures do not last forever, and eventually, every water heater will need to be replaced. Knowing the signs of a failing water heater can help you avoid a sudden cold shower and costly water damage to your home. Our plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing have compiled the top 5 signs that indicate it’s time to install a new water heater.
Age
Conventional storage water heaters last for 8 to 12 years, but tankless units last significantly longer. A well-maintained water heater can last up to 20 years. Even with regular maintenance, water heaters have a finite lifespan. They will lose their efficiency as time goes on and it will reach a point where a replacement is more cost-effective than continuing to repair an aging unit. While you might squeeze a few more years out of an aging water heater, the increasing frequency of problems and declining efficiency makes replacement the most sensible long-term solution.
If your storage tank water heater is over 10 years old, it’s a good idea to start shopping for a new unit. For a tankless water heater, start planning for an upgrade once the unit reaches the 15-year mark, even if it’s still working. Planning ahead of time allows you to research your options and schedule a replacement before the heater fails completely.
Lack of Hot Water
If you find yourself running out of hot water more quickly than usual, that’s a sign that your water heater is going bad. However, it’s important to troubleshoot other potential causes before assuming the worst. Check for a faulty thermostat or sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank before calling a plumber to replace the unit. You can enlist the help of a qualified plumber in Arthurtown, SC to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate solution.
Decreased Efficiency
Is your water heater struggling to keep up with the demand for hot water? Have you noticed a gradual increase in heating bills without a clear explanation? If that’s the case, these are signs that your water heater is losing efficiency and it’s working harder to do its job. There’s a good chance sediment buildup has accumulated in the tank, causing your water heater to consume more energy to heat water. As your water heater ages, worn-out components and other malfunctions can reduce its efficiency. If you’ve noticed signs of decreased efficiency, get in touch with Mr. Rooter Plumbing for water heater replacement.
Visible Rust or Corrosion
Rust or corrosion on the exterior of your water heater, especially around connections or on the tank itself, is a red flag. It strongly suggests internal corrosion is also occurring. While some external rust might seem superficial, it's often an indicator of more serious damage within. Ignoring visible rust can lead to tank failure. If you see rust, it's time to have a trusted plumber inspect your water heater and likely consider replacement.
Increased Repairs
If you find yourself frequently calling a plumber for water heater repairs, it's a sign that your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan. While small repairs might seem like a good short-term fix, they can become a money pit. As a water heater ages, other components are likely to fail soon after. Instead of throwing money at constant repairs, it's often more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a new unit. A new water heater will provide reliable service for years to come, saving you both money and the hassle of repeated breakdowns.
If you’re concerned that your water heater is on its last legs, reach out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We specialize in water heater repair, replacement, and maintenance. Whenever you need reliable water heater services, we are the plumbers you can rely on to do a great job.
