A water heater is one of the most essential plumbing appliances of modern homes. This device provides the hot water that home occupants use for everything from showering to laundry. But as with any appliance, water heaters have a finite life expectancy and can wear out over time. If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan, you may begin to see telltale clues of an impending breakdown.
Instead of waking up to a plumbing emergency, it is important to pay attention to these key indicators and schedule a water heater replacement. A look at the top 10 warning signs that it is time to replace your water heater can help you make an informed decision and ensure the availability of hot water within your home.
1. Insufficient Hot Water
Sudden shortages in hot water can signify that your water heater has reached the end of its performance capacity. If home occupants find themselves running out of hot water while showering or washing dishes, the water heater may have lost its ability to keep up with daily demands.
Primary causes of insufficient hot water include a malfunctioning thermostat or a faulty heating element. In addition, hardened sediment buildup within a water heater can also hinder performance over time. Instead of struggling with a failing appliance, it is often more practical to replace the water heater and resume normal household activities.
2. Rusty Water
Discolored water may indicate degradation or corrosion within your water heater. For example, rusty water can signify that the anode rod within your water heater has failed. The anode rod is an aluminum or zinc device that releases electrons into your water heater to prevent rapid oxidation or corrosion of the tank itself.
This rod attracts water oxidants to slow down the deterioration of the rest of your water heater. If detected early enough during annual inspections, a plumber can replace a failing anode rod.
However, rust-colored water often means that the problem has gone on long enough that deterioration has reached the rest of the tank. Rust can impact the taste and quality of your water as well as permanently stain clothing or fixtures. Extensive rust within the tank can also affect structural integrity and produce leaks. At this stage, it is often more cost-effective to replace the unit itself.
3. Strange Noises
Water heaters should operate quietly and consistently. Unusual noises like rumbling, banging, vibrating, or popping sounds can mean that the appliance is straining to work correctly. This is often the result of sediment accumulation within the tank. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the appliance can insulate the heating element, causing overheating and producing weird sounds.
Additionally, sizzling or hissing sounds can signify issues with the circuit breaker. In either case, a water heater that strains to perform can result in cracks or other emergencies, so it usually makes more sense to replace the appliance sooner rather than later.
4. Higher Utility Bills
Aging water heaters naturally become less efficient over time. For example, mineral accumulation within a water heater can harden and make it more difficult for the device to distribute heat evenly. This can make your appliance work harder to warm up water, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. If you have noticed a sudden spike in your energy costs, an old water heater could be the culprit.
Investing in an energy-efficient water heater may help you save money on utility bills in the long run. In addition, installing an ENERGY STAR-certified water heater between January 1, 2023 and December 31, 2032 may allow you to claim a tax credit of up to 30% of the project cost. Consult with your plumber or contact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s ENERGY STAR program for help selecting the right water heater to maximize your savings.
5. Leaking Device
A leaky water heater is often a clear indication that it is time for a replacement. Evidence of leakage can include water pooling around the base of the appliance or along the seams of the tank. A healthy and functional water heater is a closed system that should not expel water under any circumstances.
If you notice moisture buildup, contact a plumber for an inspection. The plumber may be able to tighten joints and connections or conduct other troubleshooting to locate the source of leakage in newer units. However, cracks or fractures in the water tank itself are usually non-repairable. The solution is to replace the water heater before leaks cause water damage to other parts of your property.
6. Pilot Light Problems
All gas water heaters have pilot lights. If the pilot light malfunctions frequently or has difficulty with reigniting, these issues signify problems with the thermocouple or other crucial components. Pilot lights that go out too often can also increase the risk of gas leaks. If you are experiencing constant problems with this component, consider replacing your water heater with an energy-efficient or tankless device instead.
7. Repetitive Repairs
Frequent repairs can indicate that your water heater has reached the end of its useful life. Water heater repairs can disrupt your daily routine and add up to a significant portion of your budget over time. In fact, several emergency repairs can exceed the cost of simply upgrading the unit. If you have already scheduled multiple repairs for the same appliance, consider replacing it with an updated model instead.
8. Unusual Smells
Unusual or foul odors can signify the growth of bacteria within your water heater. An older water heater that struggles to maintain hot temperatures can result in tepid or lukewarm water within the tank. An internal temperature that drops below 120 degrees Fahrenheit can make the device vulnerable to bacterial growth.
In addition, dissolved hydrogen sulfide gas within a water heater can deteriorate metal components and produce a bad odor. At this point, it is more practical to replace the appliance to lower the risk of exposure to biological or chemical contaminants.
9. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure from your hot water fixtures may be a sign of sediment or mineral buildup within your appliance. Specifically, hardened minerals can build up in your water heater valves and create obstructions or blockage. In the most extreme cases, this can lead to a loss of the delivery of hot water necessary to operate dishwashers or take normal showers. If there is too much sediment buildup, it is possibly more efficient to replace the unit itself.
10. Exterior Wear and Tear
According to the EPA, water heaters are among the most overlooked appliances in the home. Since they are often out of sight in the utility closet, basement, or garage, many families do not give water heaters much thought until something goes wrong. However, all water heaters can undergo normal wear and tear until the end of their life expectancy.
According to the Department of Energy, the average lifespan of a gas water heater is 8-12 years. Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years. But as water heaters approach the end of this lifespan, there are often exterior signs of the need for replacement. For example, you may notice structural deformation or bulging from the tank. This is a serious sign that means the appliance is at risk of bursting, so you should replace the unit right away.
Some models also come with warning lights that indicate errors or failing components within the unit. Even if you simply notice abnormalities along joints or seals, reach out to a plumber who can diagnose the issue and offer the most practical options for replacement.
Contact Us Today
There are several factors that can help you decide whether to replace your water heater. Fortunately, the experts are here to help. AC by J provides water heater replacement services for homes in Scottsdale, AZ, and surrounding areas. We offer installation services for traditional gas water heaters as well as electric water heaters. In addition, our plumbing services experts can help you switch from your conventional model to an energy-efficient tankless water heater instead.
Along with our water heater services, we offer leak detection, drain replacement, or water line installation. Our plumbers can also conduct water treatment services perfect for Scottsdale such as water conditioning, softening, or purification. Whatever the issue, we are here to assist you. Contact AC by J today for all of your plumbing needs.
