When Will My Water Heater Need to be Exchanged?
You probably don’t think about your water heater at all until it stops running. And you’re facing chilly showers. It works hard to give your Canada family with hot water 24/7, and, naturally, it will stop working eventually.
Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some early signs that yours is wearing out. In the end, how long your water heater will keep running depends on what model you use and how frequently it’s running.
Tank Water Heater
The majority of homes have a tank water heater that holds 40 to 50 gallons of water. This kind continually heats water, so it’s always at the proper temperature when you need it. Tank water heaters are very common as a result of their lower purchase price, but they don’t usually run as long as other types.
Here’s how many years you can expect yours to last:
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- Gas water heater: 10 years
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- Electric water heater: 12 years
Tank water heaters can stop working due to numerous issues, but an oxidized tank is one of the most typical. Your water heater has a special piece called an anode rod that draws corrosive particles from the water. At some point, the rod will rust, and particles will accumulate at the bottom of your water heater, rusting out the lining in the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much bigger working life than its tank-style cousins. These water heaters may work as many as 20 years.
In addition to working for a longer amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient. In lieu of retaining large amounts of water that’s heated all the time, a tankless model warms water on demand. This eliminates standby heating and the impact it has on your monthly energy bills.
You might not realize it, but warming up water accounts for a sizeable piece of your energy bills. In actuality, it’s the second highest source of energy consumption in a standard residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they offer lasting energy savings. They are typically 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that stores water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Indications Your Water Heater is Wearing Out
Your hot water heater will start to show signs that it’s breaking down. Here’s what to watch and when to call a plumbing professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
1. Insufficient Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most frequently encountered signs that your water heater is wearing out. You may see hot water running out more rapidly, or that it’s taking extra time for water to warm up.
2. Leaks
It’s time to call a plumber if you’re noticing water leaks or water gathering by the base of your water heater. Sometimes you could just need to have connections checked or a part replaced, but it can also be a indication the tank is compromised.
3. Water is Cloudy
If you are in an area with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re typically accustomed to having cloudy water. But if your water all of a sudden changes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, you should have your water heater checked by a pro to avoid damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is possibly accumulating in the tank and oxidizing it.
4. Weird Noises
It’s common for your water heater to make some noise as it works. But popping and rumbling is never normal and is a hint you need professional help. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and may use extra energy in the process.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Makes Water Heater Replacement Simple
Putting off water heater replacement could lead to that can damage your residence. Not to mention, the annoyance of not having warm water. If your water heater is outdated or showing hints it needs to be replaced, give our Experts a call at 866-397-3787 to schedule a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the right decision for your residence.