Water heaters are an essential component of any household, providing hot water for various daily activities such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning. However, like any other home appliance, they can encounter issues over time that may lead to the need for replacement. Identifying these common problems early can help homeowners save money and avoid the inconvenience of a sudden breakdown.
One prevalent issue is age. Most water heaters have a lifespan of 10-15 years. As they approach this age range, they tend to become less efficient and more prone to failure. Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan somewhat but eventually, replacement becomes inevitable.
Another common problem is rust and corrosion within the tank. This usually occurs when the sacrificial anode rod designed to attract corrosive elements wears out. If not replaced in time, these corrosive elements will start attacking the tank itself leading to rusty water or leaks which often necessitate replacing the entire unit.
Leaks are another significant concern with water heaters. They typically occur due to internal issues like a faulty pressure relief valve or cracks in the tank caused by constant heating and cooling cycles over many years of use. Small leaks might be repairable but larger ones usually mean it’s plumbing contractors near me time for a new heater.
Insufficient hot water is yet another common issue that may indicate your heater needs replacing. This could be due to sediment build-up at the bottom of your tank which insulates it from heat produced by gas burners or heating elements thereby reducing its efficiency significantly over time.
Noise is also a tell-tale sign that something’s amiss with your water heater especially if it has been silent throughout its life span so far. The noise could be caused by anything from sediment build-up causing overheating and boiling inside your tank to faulty heating elements or even cracks forming due to thermal expansion.
Lastly, frequent repairs are another clear indication that you might need a new heater soon rather than later especially if costs keep escalating with each visit from your plumber. It’s usually more economical to replace the entire unit than continually repairing an old, inefficient one.
In conclusion, while water heaters can last for many years with proper maintenance, they’re not designed to last forever. Age, rust and corrosion, leaks, insufficient hot water supply, noise and frequent repairs are common issues that often lead to their replacement. Being aware of these problems and addressing them promptly can help homeowners avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure a constant supply of hot water in their homes.
Code 3 Plumbing and Drain
7417 NW 84th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73132
405-860-6888
