When Will My Water Heater Need Replacing? 

You probably don’t think about your water heater a lot until it stops working. And you’re facing chilly showers. It works hard to offer your Columbus household with hot water 24 hours a day, and, naturally, it will stop working eventually. 

Here’s how long your water heater will likely last and some warning signs that yours is wearing out. Ultimately, how long your water heater will keep working depends on what type you use and how much it’s working. 

Tank Water Heater 

Most people have a tank water heater that contains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continuously warms water, so it’s always at the proper setting when you desire it. Tank water heaters are popular due to their more economical price tag, but they don’t typically run as long as other types. 

Here’s how many years you can expect yours to last: 

Tank water heaters can quit working because of a lot of issues, but an oxidized tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special part called an anode rod that removes corrosive fragments from the water. Down the road, the rod will rust, and particles will accumulate at the bottom of your water heater, eating through the lining inside the tank. 

Tankless Water Heater 

A tankless water heater has a much longer life span than its tank-style counterparts. These water heaters could last up to 20 years. 

Along with running for a longer amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient. Instead of keeping big amounts of water that’s heated continuously, a tankless model warms up water when you need it. This gets rid of standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly gas and electrical bills. 

You might not know this, but warming water takes up a sizeable chunk of your energy bills. In reality, it’s the second highest source of energy use in an average house, according to ENERGY STAR®

Tankless water heaters are pricier than tank water heaters, but they offer lifelong energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that retains water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy

4 Indications Your Water Heater is Dying 

Your hot water heater will begin to show indications that it’s dying. Here’s what to watch and when to contact a plumbing professional like Stevenson Service Experts. 

1. Inadequate Enough Hot Water 

This is one of the most common signs that your water heater is wearing out. You could notice heated water getting depleted more quickly, or that it requires extra time for water to warm up. 

2. Leaks 

We recommed calling a plumber if you’re seeing water leaks or water gathering around the base of your water heater. In some cases you could just need to have connections checked or a part replaced, but it can also be a symptom the tank is damaged. 

3. Water is Cloudy 

If you are in a region with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re typically accustomed to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, you should have your water heater inspected by a specialist to stop damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is likely growing in the tank and rusting it. 

4. Odd Noises 

It’s common for your water heater to make some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling is not normal and is a hint you should call for specialized support. As sediment accumulates in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and might use additional energy in the process. 

Stevenson Service Experts Makes Water Heater Replacement Simple 

Waiting too long for water heater replacement could result in that can damage your home. Also, there’s the inconvenience of lacking warm water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing clues it needs to be replaced, contact our Experts at 614-334-3192 to schedule a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll go over all the options so you can make the right decision for your residence. 

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