Indicative Signs You Need a New Water Heater

Water heating is an important function in any home. However, your water heater typically doesn’t attract attention until it needs a maintenance check, or when it’s at the end of its useful lifespan. If you’re experiencing water heater troubles, use this guide to see if it’s time for a new water heater.

Poor Water Quality

A clear sign of water heater trouble is water discoloration, such as rusty-colored water from the tap that may be caused sand and other debris. Water heaters deteriorate from the inside out, which is usually due to a lack of preventive maintenance and tank flushing and/or a depleted anode rod.

Temperature Fluctuations

Water heaters heat water with a gas burner or an electric heating element. Excessive debris, scale and mineral deposits at the bottom of your tank can drastically reduce efficiency, which may result in inconsistent hot water temperatures at the tap or appliance.Hot/cold temperature swings may also be a sign of a failing electric heating element. For gas water heaters, dirty or failing combustion components may be the cause of temperature fluctuations.

Unusual Noises

Basic preventive maintenance includes monthly mini flushes and an annual full flushing of your water heater. Flushing your tank removes minerals, sediment and debris, which improves efficiency and prevents tank deterioration. If water heater flushing is neglected, you may begin hearing pops, cracks and banging noises, caused by obstructed heat exchange.

Water Leaks

A leaky water heater is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. You don’t want your water heater rupturing and spilling gallons of water into your home. Moreover, a leaky temperature and pressure valve (TPV) is a safety hazard, as this device is needed to relieve excessive pressure buildup inside a faulty water heater. If your water heater is leaking, call your plumbing professional ASAP.

At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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