How to Tell When It’s Time to Have Your Water Heater Replaced

Posted on: July 26, 2013
By: Alan O'Neill
Posted in: Plumbing

Hot water heaters are generally low-maintenance appliances and can last for well over a decade, but new models are becoming increasingly energy-efficient with each passing year. While it is impractical to replace a unit that’s working perfectly fine just to get incremental energy savings, it is worthwhile to keep an eye out for the warning signs of failure and shop for a replacement water heater before it breaks down completely:

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even common water heater problems can seem like a big deal if you’re left with cold showers or lukewarm water, but you may not necessarily need a replacement; the pilot light could have gone out or the circuit breaker could have tripped, and both are a quick fix. Sediment can also accumulate along the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and causing distinct banging or popping noises inside the tank. A professional plumber can flush the system and clean any sediment and mineral buildup.

Spotting the Early Warning Signs of Failure

Over time, the metal inside of your tank will react with minerals inside the water and oxidize. If you notice traces of rust inside your water or a metallic taste, then it’s likely that your water heater will develop a leak and fail soon. A hot water heater with a rust leak cannot be repaired, as rust damage is widely dispersed and can compromise the integrity of the entire tank.

Get the most out of your home’s water heater and schedule regular plumbing maintenance with Abacus Plumbing & Air Conditioning to receive great savings. We are committed to helping Houston homeowners get the most out their investments, and our plumbing and HVAC experts will provide guaranteed customer satisfaction. Call (713) 812-7070 today to schedule your appointment.