5 Signs that Your Water Heater Needs to Be Replaced

Your water heater will ultimately succumb to age and damage, no matter how sturdy or contemporary it is. Knowing when to replace your water heater can save you time and money in the long run. Because it’s impossible to predict when this plumbing item will need to be replaced, you’ll need to rely on some indicators.

1. The Warranty Has Expired

Water heaters that have been in service for more than ten to twelve years should be replaced. This, however, only applies to basic versions. Water heater tanks, particularly tankless systems, can endure for more than ten years. Simply refer to the warranty’s expiration date as a safe bet. It’s best to start looking for a replacement far before the expiration date so you don’t end up doing a rash purchase.

2. It Doesn’t Effectively Generate Hot Water Anymore

When a water heater fails to provide warm water, it’s a sure sign that something is wrong with it. If this occurs frequently, you should have a plumber or a water heater specialist evaluate the source of the problem. It may only require a minor repair, but if repairs are becoming increasingly necessary, it’s time to hunt for a new and better water heater.

3. Frequent Water Leaks

If there are any puddles of water or dampness in the tank, inspect it. These are telltale symptoms of a water leak in the tank system, which is caused by damage or fracture. Because heating tanks are constantly exposed to warm temperatures, this is a regular problem. The metal compresses or even breaks when it is exposed to a high concentration of heat. However, you should inspect not only the tank for leaks, but also the connections and other elements. If practically every part of the system is leaking, you should acquire a replacement water heater as soon as feasible.

4. Bizarre Noises Coming from the Tank

Apart from a visual inspection, your hearing can also be used to identify whether there are any issues. If you hear a clunking noise or other strange noises, there could be a problem with the machinery. To discover the precise problem, a closer examination is required.

5. Corroded Water

Corroded water might happen if your tank’s interior linings are rusted. Keep in mind that if your water heater breaks down, you should not automatically replace it. The anode rod could be replaced to fix the problem. However, even if you have a new anode rod, you should be cautious if corrosion continues.

It’s not just the rod that needs to be considered, but also the pipe linings in your plumbing system. Your system’s corrosion could have been caused by an old or rusted pipe. Do the following to see if the rust is coming from the water heater: flush out two five-gallon buckets of hot water from the tank, then see if any rust remains in the third bucket. If the third bucket still has corrosion, the rust is coming from the water heater, not the pipes.