Water heaters are designed to last a set period of time before they need replaced. For most of us, we tend to take a “wait-and-see” approach to our water heaters,after continuing to run the heater on borrowed time, past its useful life cycle. Eventually, we will come home to discover water dripping or running out of the bottom of the heater, across the basement floor or other area of the home where the water heater is installed. Then, we scramble around trying to get it replaced so we do not have to go without hot water.
Sign #1
The first sign it might be time to replace your water heater is its age. Most traditional gas and electric water heaters last around ten years, or so. If your water heater is more than ten years old, you are now on “borrowed time,” so need to start seriously thinking about a replacement.
To find out how old your water heater is, you will need to look on the outside of the tank for the model number, serial number, and manufacturer date. Most manufacturer’s but a sticker somewhere along the upper section of the water heater with this information. Once you have it, if you have problem deciphering the manufacture date code, contact your Mississauga plumber for assistance.
Sign #2
Your water heater is making weird noises, like there is rocks inside rolling around. Over time, sediment within the heater will harden. When the heater has reached this point in its life, it is an indication it needs to be replaced as the hardened material will cause a loss of energy efficiency and can cause internal damage leading to leaks and cracks in the tank.
Sign #3
You notice rust-coloured water coming out of your faucets. Rust in the water could come from several sources, including galvanized pipes and well water. To determine if it is the water tank, run only cold water to see if it is clear or rusty. Next, run only hot water. You can also drain out several gallons of water out of the water heater directly. You should drain around ten to fifteen gallons out. Once you reach this amount of water, if it is still rusty, then more than likely your water heater has rusted from the inside and it will only be a short time before it starts leaking.
Sign #4
You start to notice water pooling underneath and around the water tank. This often indicates the tank has a leak in one or more areas. At this point, it is best to call a professional plumber to determine whether the leak can be fixed, if your tank is less than ten years old, or if you need to replace the water tank.
For further questions about water heater repairs and replacements or to schedule service, please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our Mississauga plumbers, here at My Precise Plumbing, by calling (647) 878-9293 today!