Your water heater is an appliance that will immediately disrupt your life at home once it stops working. Hot water is a vital commodity for everyday activities such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning, so knowing the signs that your water heater is failing is important. You can avoid costly repairs by spotting problems early.
Unusual Noises
If your water heater starts making strange noises, it may mean trouble. Common noises include popping, rumbling, and hissing. These sounds often indicate a problem with sediment inside the tank, which overheats and causes damage to the heating elements. The most common cause of sediment is generally minerals in hard water. If these minerals accumulate at the bottom of the tank and create hot spots, they will make unusual noises. If left unattended, an unusual amount of sediment buildup could bring about leaks or even the rupture of a tank.
Inconsistent Water Temperature
When you shower or run the water, are the temperatures different each time? Inconsistency should signal that your water heater isn’t working well with the set heat. This may mean a failing thermostat or heating element. Other times, a malfunctioning dip tube might be the culprit. This device allows cold water to mingle with hot water at the head of the tank.
Leaks Around the Unit
Puddles or moisture around the sides of your water heater are big warning signs that it needs service immediately. Leaks may also develop from the tank, fittings, or pipes. Small leaks tend to balloon into bigger, more serious problems such as flooding and major water damage in your house.
Discoloration or Odor in the Water
The quality of your hot water may indicate what’s going on inside your water heater. Rusty, brown, or any kind of strange-smelling hot water could indicate bacterial growth or too much corrosion inside the tank. This may not only affect your appliances but also create health hazards. Rust-colored water indicates that your water heater is starting to rust on the inside, which, with time, may lead to leaks.
Age of the Water Heater
The average lifespan of most water heaters is 8 to 12 years. If your unit is close to the upper limit, you need to start observing its performance more closely. Older water heaters are bound to develop problems and not work as effectively as newer models. If you notice your water heater is old and developing minor issues, you may want to start thinking about replacing it.
Water heater failure is often a result of poor maintenance and delayed repairs. So, if any of these warning signs appear, seek assistance. If you suspect that your water heater is on the fritz, contact A Better Plumber today for prompt service to help keep your home in Waldorf, MD comfortable and safe.
