Five Key Signs That It's Time To Replace Your Water Heater

Water heaters, like most appliances, have a finite lifespan, especially considering how frequently this essential piece of equipment is used in most households. Other common factors, like the sediment that may be present in your water supply, will only speed your water heater along faster toward its inevitable demise.

If you’ve ever suddenly lost all hot water in your home due to a failed heating element, or worse yet, suffered a water leak from a dead water heater, then you already know the pain of having water heater failure sneak up on you. If you haven’t been through this nightmare yet, consider yourself lucky, and stay on top of warning signs that a shut-down is imminent. When the time comes, consider hiring a professional for water heater replacement in Albany and the surrounding area.

Five key clues that your water heater is on its last legs include:

1. Poor Performance: If you run the faucets and/or shower and seem to only get cold or lukewarm water, no matter how hot you set the faucet or how long you wait, this may indicate water heater failure. Check the temperature setting on the heater, too, to confirm that’s not the cause. If you still can’t get hot water, checking the heating elements inside the heater is the next step.
2. Check Your Warranty: Appliances have this magical way of dying just after the end of their warranty, and water heaters are pretty reliable in this regard. Many water heaters come with a five- or 10-year warranty; in general, any time after 10 years is a good time to start thinking about a replacement. You can also determine the heater’s age through the serial number; check the manufacturer’s website for more information.
3. Rusty Water Nearby and Inside: If you spot discolored or rusty water leaking and pooling on the floor and nearby your water tank, or if you drain five gallons or so from the internal tank and it comes out rusty, this generally indicates the inside of the tank is rusting away. When that happens, your heater can spring a sizeable—and potentially damaging—leak, so replace the tank/heater as soon as possible.
4. Corrosion and Rust: Check the water tank for any rust and corrosion that is visible. Pay especially close attention to the inlet and outlet connections, and temperature and pressure relief valves.
5. Strange Noises: Sediment from the water and the aging of the tank builds up at the bottom of your hot water tank. As this residue is heated, it bangs against the sides of the tank, and can make some loud and alarming sounds. This causes reduced efficiency and increased damage that generally evolves into a leak, so the noise is your cue to replace the heater.

***Always perform routine maintenance and check-ups on your water heater. If you have any questions or would like the help of a professional for water heater replacement in Albany and the Capital Region, call us or contact us online and we will be happy to schedule an appointment for an inspection. We’re the Albany area’s water heater experts!