5 common tell tale signs to replace your water heater

5 common tell tale signs to replace your water heater

As a homeowner, it’s easy to overlook subtle signs that your water heater is on its last legs. But postponing services can lead to waking up to a cold shower or completely damaged heating system if your unit unexpectedly fails.

As the trusted local plumbing experts, we want to empower homeowners to notice common indicators that it may be time to upgrade your hot water system. 

In this guide, we’ll share 5 telltale clues that your gas, electric, or instant hot water heater requires replacing soon. Being aware of these maintenance red flags allows you to proactively plan for an upgrade on your schedule. 

5 common tell tale signs to replace your water heater

Rust Colored Water from Your Faucets

If you notice rust-colored water or sediment coming from your hot water taps, it likely indicates corroding interior components of your aging water heater. As units near the end of their typical 6-10 year lifespan, corrosion and minerals build up inside the tank. As the water heater operates, this then gets distributed through pipes and faucet aerators. 

Seeing rusty water is one of the most definitive signals that you should replace old water heaters soon. While you can drain and flush sediment as part of your water heater maintenance routine, it’s only a temporary solution on older units.

The cost of repeatedly maintaining an aging system often outweighs investing in a new, more energy-efficient model with a longer warranty.

Long Wait Times for Hot Water

If you’ve noticed you consistently have to wait longer for hot water to reach your faucets and showers, your  heater’s efficiency may be plummeting. Sediment buildup insulating the tank walls, faulty heating elements, or outdated thermostats can all contribute to loss of performance over time. The dip in efficiency also leads to higher energy bills for gas or electric water heating systems.

Signs of Leaks Around the Water Heater

It’s critical to inspect the area around your water heater at least annually as part of routine maintenance. If you spot any puddles, moisture, or rust stains nearby, it likely indicates small leaks from your hot water tank. Minor drips often remain unnoticed over time, eventually causing water damage or mold issues. 

Even small leaks signal deteriorating tank seals, pipes, or valves that continue worsening. Replacement ASAP prevents this from cascading into a major leak or bursting disaster. Catching minor water heater leaks early also reduces the chance of rust and sediment issues mentioned earlier. Here is top 10 tips to boost your home heating efficiency

Strange Noises or Rattling Coming From the Unit

If your conventional water heater model is older than 8-10 years, scale buildup internally can produce strange noises during operation. You may hear rumbling, banging, steam hisses, or rattling from sediment collecting in worn-out heating elements. Unpleasant mechanical noises point towards components needing replacement soon.

On newer tankless water heaters, odd sounds can also indicate a malfunctioning part or improper installation. As local plumbing specialists, our heating engineers at ESBAH can correctly diagnose concerning noises coming out of any hot water system. Let us inspect whether flushing and simple repairs will quiet the issues or if full replacement is required.

High Energy Bills or Unexpected Temperature Fluctuations

Finally, notice if your monthly gas or electric bills for water heating spike higher despite similar household usage. Contemporary water heaters should reliably maintain your preferred temperature settings too. If tank water sporadically goes cold or shifts from hot to lukewarm, advanced wear can throw calibrated thermostats out of whack.

Before these problems spiral into even costlier utility bills or unreliable hot water, replacing outdated systems is key. Newer gas and electric units integrate advanced temperature sensors and insulation that maximize efficiency. 

Does Age of the water heater affect its performance?

One of the widespread misconceptions is that replacing an old water heater is the only way to save service expenses. Although the majority of manufacturers provide a guarantee of between 10 and 15 years, only proper maintenance and at least a yearly inspection can assist extend the water heater’s lifespan and efficiency.

Looking to service or replace your water heater?

As local plumbing experts with over 25 years serving the Birmingham, West Midlands, Solihull, and surrounding regions, ESBAH  understands how to accurately assess when installing a new system is your best option. Contact our team today to schedule a no-obligation evaluation. We’ll check for issues described above and clearly explain whether replacement or repairs make financial sense for your home. 

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