6 Clues Your Water Heater is Going Bad

Water heaters don’t last for eternity. Even a well-maintained one will only work around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to know the hints that it’s wearing out. Or else, you might not have warm water for several days while you wait to replace it.

Here are six common clues that your water heater is going bad.

1. Your Water Heater is Past 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is aging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s failing, but it does mean you’ll possibly have to install a new one shortly. Over time, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to add warmth to water. Ultimately, the sediment will erode the tank and cause the heating parts to fail. Corrosion can also lead to water leaks, which might damage your Pella home.

By installing a new water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient features. If you choose an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you may receive additional rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t quit there, since an ENERGY STAR water heater could save you up to $3,500 on utilities over its lifetime.

Changing from a standard tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For families hat need less than 41 gallons of water daily a tankless water heater is usually 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters typically run for around 20 years, which is about two times the lifetime of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaking

In some cases leaks are just the outcome of loose connections, inaccurate pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a sign that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. Regardless you’ll need professional assistance from Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating to get to the bottom of the trouble.

3. Water is the Wrong Color

If your normally clear water suddenly appears cloudy or rusty, your water heater could be at fault. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has grown in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either instance, Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating recommends having your water heater checked out by a professional

4. There’s Inadequate Hot Water

As sediment increases in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater consumes more energy to make warm water. Due to this, it will need longer for it to heat up water, and hot water will run out much more quickly. Both are a sign that your water heater is going out.

To prevent sediment from collectingin your tank, Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating advises having one of our pros flush it yearly.

5. Water Heater is Making Odd Noises

Like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a hint that sediment has built up in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, causing the strange sounds. As time goes on, the strain on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Constantly Requiring Water Heater Repair

Over its life, your water heater may need little repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re often getting in touch with Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating for help or a major part has failed, it’s time for water heater installation.

It’s exhausting when your water heater is on the brink of failing or has quit working. But that’s not the case when you call Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating at 641-628-3621 for water heater installation in Pella. From selecting the right style for your family and budget to expertly putting it in, we make the whole process simple. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!