Here’s How to Know if You Need a New Water Heater

A reliable supply of hot water in your home is a necessity, so don’t wait until your water heater fails and you’re facing an emergency replacement. How can you tell if you need to invest in a new water heater? Pay attention to the following signs, then get the advice of a professional plumber.

Appliance Age

The average lifespan of a water heater is between six and 10 years. Exactly how long your heater lasts depends on whether its gas-fired or electric, its workload, whether it’s well-maintained and if you have hard water. If your heater is getting older, you can avoid the headaches of serious age-related problems by replacing it now.

Rust Development

If your water heater has started to deteriorate, you may see rust developing around the tank seams, the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve, the water supply lines, or the drain valve. If the hot water coming from your faucets has an orange or rust-colored tinge, the inside of the tank is starting to corrode.

Water Leaks

Even minor water leaks are a serious cause for concern, especially if they occur around the bottom of the tank. Replacing a leaking water heater promptly can let you avoid the mess of a sudden flood and the expense of water damage repairs.

Tank Noise

As water is heated, certain minerals it contains form into solid sediment that settles to the bottom of the water heater and causes popping and rumbling sounds inside the tank. Accumulating sediment gradually decreases your water heater’s energy efficiency, and will eventually cause it to fail.

Water Temperature Issues

Neglecting to flush your water heater to remove sediment allows it to build up and insulate the elements or burner. This makes it more difficult for the appliance to heat water to the temperature setting on the thermostat. If your hot water faucets are producing only a lukewarm flow, you have a serious sediment problem.

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to have a new water heater installed in your Portland home, contact us at Roth Heating & Cooling for expert advice.