When it comes to home appliances in Austin, Texas, most of us tend to overlook our water heaters until they start giving us trouble. However, with an average lifespan of eight to twelve years, a water heater is bound to fail at some point. The question is, should I replace my water heater before it fails?
Factors That Affect Lifespan
Austin’s climate is generally mild, with hot summers and cool winters, making it an ideal environment for water heaters to thrive. However, with high levels of calcium and magnesium in Austin’s tap water, residents may experience a mineral buildup in their water heaters, leading to corrosion and reduced efficiency. Corrosion can shorten the lifespan of a water heater.
Risks of Waiting for Your Water Heater to Fail
There are several important reasons you don’t want to wait for a water heater failure:
- Water Damage: Water damage is one of the most significant risks of waiting for your water heater to fail. A sudden burst or leak in your water heater can cause extensive damage to your home’s floors and walls, as well as to your belongings.
- Possible Emergency Replacement: Another risk of waiting for your water heater to fail is dealing with an emergency replacement. When this happens, you must rush to find a replacement water heater and pay for emergency installation services, which can cost much more.
Is a Damaged Water Heater Dangerous?
While a failing water heater doesn’t pose an immediate danger, it can be hazardous. If the heating element malfunctions, it can lead to scalding hot water coming from your taps. A gas-powered water heater with a damaged or faulty ventilation system can also release harmful carbon monoxide gas into your home.
Signs Your Water Heater May Be Failing
Following are some of the signs your water heater might fail:
- Strange Noises: If you start hearing strange noises coming from your water heater, such as popping, rumbling, or banging sounds, it could be an indication of sediment buildup. The buildup of sediment can eventually cause the unit to fail.
- Inconsistent Hot Water: Another sign that your water heater may fail is an erratic hot water supply. If your showers turn from hot to cold or vice versa, it could mean a failing heating element or a sediment buildup.
- Visible Corrosion and Leaks: Visible signs of wear, corrosion, or leaks on your water heater indicate it is time for a replacement. Water damage and potential harm occur if left untreated.
Benefits of Immediately Replacing Your Water Heater
Some benefits of replacing your water heater when it begins to cause trouble include:
- Researching What You Want and Need: One of the benefits of replacing your water heater before it breaks is researching a new one without rushing. Early intervention lets you explore your options, such as tankless or traditional brands, to find the best fit for your home and budget.
- Upgrading to a More Efficient Model: Replacing the water heater allows you to upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient model. The design of new water heaters is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
- Peace of Mind: Replacing your water heater before it fails can give you peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about hazards or emergency replacements.
How Long Does a Water Heater Last?
Although the average lifespan of a traditional tank water heater is about a decade, this can vary depending on several factors. A tankless water heater can have a lifespan of 20 years or more.
How to Troubleshoot Your Water Heater
If you’re having trouble with your water heater, you must act fast to avoid further damage or inconvenience. Here are some steps you can follow to troubleshoot and resolve issues:
- Check the Power Supply: Ensure your water heater’s power supply functions properly. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure power reaches the water heater.
- Inspect for Leaks: If you notice leaks around your water heater, this could indicate a bigger problem. Turn off the water supply and contact a professional plumber for assistance.
- Adjust Thermostat Settings: If the water temperature is not hot enough or if it’s too hot, adjust it on your water heater. Changing the thermostat settings could be a simple fix to resolve the issues.
- Check for Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment and minerals can build up in your water heater tank, affecting its efficiency and causing potential problems. It’s important to regularly flush your water heater to prevent buildup and ensure proper functioning.
- Call a Professional: If you cannot resolve the issue independently, it’s best to call a professional plumber for assistance. They will be able to diagnose the problem and provide an accurate solution.
Importance of Regular Water Heater Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance can prolong its lifespan and prevent potential issues. Benefits of staying up to date with water heater maintenance include:
- Improved Efficiency – Regular maintenance helps keep your water heater running smoothly, enhancing its efficiency.
- Minimized Risk of Breakdowns – By regularly inspecting and maintaining your water heater, you can catch any potential problems early on and prevent more significant issues.
- Extended Lifespan – Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your water heater.
Water Heater Maintenance Services Offered by Indigo
We offer various water heater maintenance services at Indigo Home & Facility Services to ensure your unit functions properly and efficiently. Our services include:
- Flushing the water heater: This involves draining all the water from your tank to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
- Cleaning and replacing clogged or damaged aerators and cartridges: This action ensures proper functioning.
- Water heater inspection: Our team will inspect your water heater for any leaks and provide necessary repairs.
Indigo Home & Facility Services
Contact Indigo Home & Facility Services in Austin, Texas, for reliable and experienced water heater professionals at (512) 6090-4999. Whether you need maintenance, repair, or replacement of your water heater, we will do the job quickly and efficiently. With our expertise and quality materials, you can rest easy knowing that your new water heater will provide hot water for years to come.