Top Signs a Water Heater Needs Replacement
Everyone wants to bring in the new year on the right foot. With the magic of winter nights and the holiday season winding down, it's the perfect time to enjoy wrapping up one chapter and starting a new one. This means that no homeowners are going to want to deal with any plumbing emergencies. Especially in January, when the cold is nothing to mess with, the last place anyone wants to be is out of hot water. That's why homeowners need to check the function of their water heaters.
Here are a few things homeowners can keep an eye out for to ensure they are doing everything they can to avoid a water heater catastrophe.
How Old Is the Water Heater?
First and foremost, the age of a water heater is a good indicator of how well it's running. The average lifespan of a water heater is approximately 10 to 15 years, so if homeowners suspect that they are getting close to that age, they should be wary of problems that may arise and have an expert check it out.
If homeowners are unsure of the age of their water heater, they can check it themselves in these few steps:
- Find the manufacturer label typically located on the side of the water heater
- Locate the serial number on the manufacturer label
- Look up the specific manufacturer and how they format their installation dates. Some dates may be MM/YY, YY/WW, etc, all of which are preceded and or followed by other letters and numbers. The specific manufacturer will have instructions on how to decipher the installation date.
Is there Rust-Colored Water or Other Abnormalities?
Another way to determine if a water heater functions properly is by assessing any abnormalities. From rust-colored water to loud noises, here are a few things to look out for:
- Rust-colored water: If homeowners notice rust-colored water coming from any sink, shower, or faucet when they turn on the hot water, that may be a sign that the water heater is rusting and needs replacing.
- Unusual noises: If the homeowners hear a loud noise when turning on the hot water or notice any unusual rumbling when the water heater is on, this may cause concern. As water heaters age, sediment will build up in the tank and constantly be reheated as the hot water is used, which will eventually make the sediment hard and cause various rumbling or other noises.
Is the Water Heater Leaking?
Last but most definitely not least, is the water heater itself leaking? Due to the heating process, the tank is constantly expanding, which may cause a slight crack or fracture. One way homeowners can assess if their water heater is leaking is by checking the tank's surrounding area for a puddle of water.
If they are unsure whether the tank itself is leaking or if they may have other plumbing issues, it is best to have a professional take a look. Establishing a relationship with a plumbing professional before an emergency arises is a great way to ensure that homeowners are prepared.
About Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing knows that when it comes to plumbing problems, there's no time to spare. Their timely service isn't all; this company is committed to providing high-quality service with their trained technicians. Contact them for expert water heater installation in Northfield, MN today!
