Hot water is essential for any home. A functioning water heater is critical for hot water to bathe and wash dishes and clothes. Unfortunately, water heaters do not last forever. When a water heater starts to show the following signs, you should consider getting hiring a water heater repair service.
- Age: A water heater’s lifespan depends on various factors, including adequate installation and maintenance. If yours is getting old, you should watch out for signs that you may need to replace it soon.
- Rusty water: If there is rust in your hot water tap, it may indicate that your water heater has rust inside. There is typically a layer of glass inside a water heater to protect the metal of the inner tank. However, over time, the metal tank of your water heater can still corrode, developing rust. Once you notice rust coming from your hot water tap, it is important to start looking into replacing your water heater.
- Water discoloration: When your water heater is rusting, it’s not always as straightforward as flakes of rust coming from the tap. Sometimes, the water may be slightly discolored. If you notice regular water discoloration, it may be a sign that your water heater needs replacing.
- Leaks: Water heaters may begin to leak when they corrode. If you see water pooling near your water heater or leaks coming directly from it, it may be a sign that the tank or pipes have corroded. Once a water heater starts rusting, you should consider getting a replacement.
- Strange noises: If there are unusual noises coming from your water heater, it may be a sign that you need to replace it. Noises of concern include popping, banging, or cracking sounds. These noises may indicate that there is sediment built up inside the tank. When sediment builds up, it reduces the efficiency of the water heater. Sediment can also cause a water heater to overheat. When a water heater overheats, it can cause leaks or even an explosion. You should not ignore strange sounds from your water heater.
- Insufficient hot water: Sometimes, an aging water heater may still produce hot water, but it’s not as efficient as it once was. For example, if you frequently run out of hot water or the water is not as hot as it used to be, it may be a sign that the water heater is not working correctly. Insufficient hot water does not always mean that the water heater needs replacing. Sometimes, it’s a sign of a bad heating element or a faulty thermostat causing insufficient heating. Regardless of the issue, you should not ignore low hot water because it can be a sign that the water heater is not functioning as it should.
- High energy bill: An inefficient water heater may use more energy, leading to higher energy bills and wasted resources. As a result, a steadily increasing energy bill without changes in usage might indicate that your water heater needs replacing.
- Pilot light issues: Gas water heaters have pilot lights, which are small flames that light the main burner. When there is no pilot light, there is no hot water. A pilot light that frequently goes out indicates that the water heater needs to be replaced. When you notice pilot light issues, check your water heater immediately.
- No hot water: Not having hot water is an obvious sign that your water heater may need to be replaced or repaired. When you don’t have hot water, it can be a sign that you have lost power to the water heater or the pilot light is out. A lack of hot water does not necessarily mean that your water heater needs to be replaced immediately. However, it is a sign that it is aging and could need a replacement soon.
- Frequent repairs: If you find yourself continuously repairing your water heater, it may be time to replace it. Multiple repairs in a short timeframe are expensive and a sign that the water heater isn’t working like it should. Rather than spending the money to continue to repair the water heater, it may be worth considering a replacement and installing a new water heater.
When you notice that your water heater is not working properly, it is a sign that it may need replacing. Our team offers competitive pricing for Austin plumbing repair services and prides itself on completing every replacement to your satisfaction. If you believe your water heater needs repairing or replacement, contact us today at (512) 608-4999 to book an appointment with one of our team members.