Water heaters have a finite lifespan; once they reach the end of that lifespan, they need to be replaced. How do you know when your water heater has reached the end of its useful life? This blog post will discuss some signs indicating it’s time to replace your water heater. If you’re wondering whether or not your water heater is past its prime, keep reading!
Your Water Is Lukewarm or Not as Hot as It Used to Be
If you’ve noticed that your water isn’t as hot as it used to be, it’s a sign that your water heater has reached the end of its useful life. While this doesn’t mean that you need to replace your water heater immediately, it’s important to keep an eye on it and be prepared for when it needs to be replaced. A few things can cause your water heater to stop working as well as it used to. The most common causes are sediment build-up and corrosion.
Sediment can build up over time and clog the heating element, preventing it from working properly. Corrosion can also occur, particularly if your water heater is made of steel. This can cause the metal to weaken and eventually fail. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a plumber in Port Richey, FL, to have your water heater checked out. The plumbers will be able to tell you if it’s time to replace your water heater or if there’s something else that needs to be done. However, if you find that your water heater is more than 10 years old, it’s probably time for a new one.
You Hear Strange Noises Coming from Your Water Heater
Another telltale sign that your unit is on its last legs is if it starts making strange noises. The noises may be caused by a build-up of sediment in the bottom of the tank. Sediment can act as an insulator, preventing heat from reaching the water. As the water heater struggles to heat the water, it may make banging, popping, or ticking noises.
If you notice any of these noises coming from your water heater, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional plumber. They will be able to determine whether the unit needs to be replaced or if it can be repaired. In either case, don’t wait until your water heater fails – if you keep an eye out for signs like strange noises, you can plan ahead and have a new unit installed before you’re left without hot water.
The Pilot Light Is Going Out Often
If you have a gas water heater, there’s a small flame at the bottom that ignites the gas. That’s called the pilot light, and it’s lit all the time. If it starts going out often, that’s a sign that your water heater has reached the end of its useful life. This is usually due to a faulty thermocouple, which is responsible for sensing when the pilot light is lit and shutting off the gas supply when it’s not.
A faulty thermocouple will cause the gas supply to be shut off more frequently, which will, in turn, cause the pilot light to go out more often. If you notice this happening, it’s best to call a professional plumber in Port Richey, FL, to come and take a look at your water heater.
The pilot light can also be sensitive to drafts; as the water heater deteriorates, it becomes more susceptible to drafts. If you notice that your pilot light is going out frequently, it’s a good idea to call a plumber to inspect your water heater. They can help you determine whether it’s time for a replacement. In the meantime, be sure to relight the pilot light whenever it goes out, and take care not to leave any flammable materials near the water heater. These precautions can help prevent a fire until you can replace the water heater.
Despite Using the Same Amount of Water, Your Energy Bills Are Rising
As your water heater ages, it becomes less efficient. Therefore, they may need to work harder to maintain the same water temperature. As a result, they use more energy and drive up your utility bills. Therefore, if you’ve noticed that your energy bills have been slowly creeping up, even though you’re using the same amount of water, as usual, it could be a sign that your water heater is nearing the end of its useful life. You should contact a plumber for inspection of your unit and a recommendation on replacement. A new water heater can improve your home’s efficiency and lower monthly expenses.
The Tank Is Rusting or Corroding
Another common sign that your water heater has reached the end of its useful life is the presence of rust on the tank or corrosion on the elements. If you notice either of these problems, having your water heater inspected by a qualified plumber is important. In most cases, rust and corrosion are indications that the tank or elements are starting to fail and need to be replaced. However, rust and corrosion can be remedied in some cases with a simple repair. Regardless, if you notice rust or corrosion on your water heater, it’s best to have it checked out as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Don’t Wait Until You Are Left without Hot Water
Your water heater is an important part of your home, and it’s important to keep an eye on it for signs that it needs to be replaced. By doing so, you can avoid being left without hot water in the middle of a cold winter day. Call a qualified plumber in Port Richey, FL, for an inspection if you notice any of the above signs. They will be able to tell you whether your water heater needs to be replaced or if it can be repaired.
Our Experts Can Help with all Your Water Heater Needs
If you’re unsure whether your water heater needs to be replaced, our team of qualified plumbing professionals at Holistic Homes can help. We offer various water heater services, including installation, repair, and maintenance. We can also help you choose the right water heater for your home and budget. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment. Our plumbers are available 24/7 for emergencies, so don’t hesitate to call us if you need our water heater services.