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Originally Posted On: https://mikelambertsplumbingheatinginc.com/signs-you-need-a-new-water-heater/

Your water heater has a limited lifespan. When this critical appliance reaches its limits, it puts your home at risk of issues with hot water availability, energy efficiency, and water damage. Recognizing the signs of a failing water heater early will help you avoid inconvenient unit breakdowns and costly home repairs.

In this blog, Mike Lambert’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc.’s water heater specialists help you explore the warnings that tell you when it’s time for a replacement, from inconsistent water temperatures to unusual noises and leaks. Understanding these indicators will help you make informed decisions and ensure your home continues to enjoy reliable and efficient hot water.

• Common water heater problems
• Average water heater lifespan
• Water heater replacement considerations

There’s not much worse than getting into your shower only to realize frigid water is the only option available. That’s an unmistakable sign your water heating is having issues, but it isn’t the only thing you’ll need to look out for. In the next sections, our plumbers explain the most common water heater problems and what causes them, how long water heaters typically last, when you should consider a replacement, and how to check your unit to determine its age.

A reliable water heater ensures warm water is always ready at the turn of a tap. However, like any appliance, it can encounter issues over time, regardless of its make or model.

Below are some of the most frequent water heating problems homeowners face:

• No hot water
• Inconsistent water temperatures
• Low hot water pressure
• Rusty or discolored water
• Foul smelling water
• Leaking hot water tank
• Unusual noises from your unit
• Water taking too long to heat
• Frequent on/off cycling
• Broken or stuck pressure relief valve

Several factors could be at play when your water heater isn’t providing enough hot water. One common cause is sediment buildup in the tank, which reduces its heating efficiency and available capacity. Another issue is a malfunctioning thermostat or heating element, which may prevent your unit from reaching your desired temperature.

Sometimes, your water heater may be too small to meet your household’s increasing demands. Booking an inspection, identifying the root issue, and fixing the affected areas will help you restore your hot water supply.

A corroded tank is one of the most common causes of water heater leaks. This deterioration causes tiny cracks inside your tank, which can grow into holes. Excessive pressure buildup within this system, often caused by a malfunctioning thermostat or a faulty pressure relief valve, can also lead to leaks. Additionally, worn or loose connections, including supply lines or fittings, provide another pathway for water to escape.

Fixing a leaking hot water tank depends on the source and severity of the leak. For minor issues, like loose fittings or connections, tightening or replacing the affected parts will often resolve the problem. Replacing these components may be a straightforward fix when the leak results from a damaged pressure relief valve or drain valve.

However, leaks originating from the tank itself are typically irreparable. In this case, installing a new water heater is the best solution to prevent further damage or water loss.

Don’t ignore what a noisy, hot water system is trying to tell you. When you hear rumbling or banging sounds, popping or cracking, humming, vibrating, hissing, sizzling, tapping, or knocking—and it’s coming from your hot water unit—it pays to listen closely. These new noises can stem from various sources, like sediment deposits, loose elements, or expanding and contracting pipes.

In some cases, repairs are all you need to solve the problem, but in many cases, replacing your unit is the more economical option over the long term. If your water heater is nearing the end of its manufacturer’s recommended lifespan, a replacement is a move that will protect your home and secure your hot water supply for many years to come.

Water heaters have an average lifespan of between 8 and 12 years. Check with your heating unit’s manufacturer for more specific information about its expected service life.

Here are some things that affect their longevity:

• Placement
• Water quality
• Unit design
• Installation quality
• Maintenance

Did your water heater come with your home when you bought it? Was it brand new at the time, or has it been in service longer than you think? If you’re unsure about its age, now is the perfect time to find out and make sure it’s still safe, efficient, and reliable.

Here’s how to determine its age:

• Locate the manufacturer’s label: Look for the label on your water heater that displays the serial and model numbers.
• Decode the serial number: Manufacturers often embed the production date in the serial number. The format varies by brand, but the first digits usually represent the year and month of manufacture.
• Check documentation: If you have installation records or warranty paperwork, these may indicate your unit’s installation or manufacturing date.
• Contact the manufacturer: If the serial number is unclear, contact the manufacturer or visit their website for assistance. Many brands offer online tools or customer service to help identify your unit’s age.
• Consult a professional: A licensed plumber can inspect your water heater and provide an estimate of its age and condition.

Replacing your water heater becomes necessary when the cost of repairs outweighs its value or when frequent issues disrupt your hot water supply. If your unit is over 8 to 12 years old, its efficiency may be on the decline, leading to higher energy bills and inconsistent performance. Visible signs, like the persistent leaks, rust-colored water, or unusual noises we discussed above, indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Have your household’s hot water demands grown? Upgrading to a larger or more energy-efficient model is a good way to secure reliable and economic performance.

A dependable water heater is one of the silent pillars of a comfortable home. By recognizing the signs of a failing unit—whether it’s inconsistent temperatures, leaks, strange noises, or simply old age—you can steer clear of unexpected water heating system breakdowns and leaks. At Mike Lambert’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc., our water heater specialists help you diagnose issues, determine your system’s age, and decide whether repair or replacement is the best option.

Contact us at (833) 969-4330 today, and we’ll help you make sure your home continues to enjoy hot water at the perfect temperature for years to come.