Licensed and Insured.
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Licensed and Insured.
Water Heater Replacements
Clean dishes, showers, baths, laundry- how could we carry on without our water heaters? But did you know they all come with an expiration date? There are plenty of signs your water heater might need replacing, or worse, might be ready to explode.
When is it time to replace your water heater?
The average life expectancy of water heater is 10-12 years. Back in the day, they could last up to 20 years, but they don't make them like they used to! If we see a water heater 10 years or older, we'd recommend just replacing it. Don't know how old your water heater is? Take a look at the serial number printed by the manufacturer. The label attached to the heater should include the production date- the first two digits in the code are the last two numbers of the year. For example, a code beginning in 09 is from 2009.
What are the signs?
There are many signs it might be time for a replacement water heater, and some could be more serious than others.
Change in Water Appearance
- Rust appearing with hot water is more likely related to your hot water tank. If there is rust in the cold water, this is likely linked to your pipes.
- Murky or cloudy water can be a sign of mineral deposits in the system. These deposits can build up over time, causing a clog which can damage the heater elements.
- Murky or cloudy water can be a sign of mineral deposits in the system. These deposits can build up over time, causing a clog which can damage the heater elements.
Not enough hot water
- If there is not enough hot water, outside of when everyone in the house is using the hot water at the same time, it could be a sign of an electrical issue or a sediment buildup around the burner or heating element. You may be able to extend the lifespan of your tank by requesting a flush of the tank annually. This is especially helpful in areas where the water is hard.
Leaking
- Leaking is a pretty obvious sign of a big problem. If your water heater is leaking, turn off the water supply and power to the tank and call a professional immediately. This is a sign the integrity of the tank is compromised and could lead to larger issues if left untreated.
Odors
- A rust or metallic smell coming from your water could be a sign of rust or mineral build up in the tank.
- A sulfur smell could indicate a gas leak. This is an urgent issue that should be addressed immediately. If there is a gas leak left unattended, it could cause an explosion. But we'll go into that later.
Noises/banging/popping
- Your water tank expands and contracts as it heats up and cools. Over time, the metal can get fatigued and begins to flex, causing popping and banging.
Can you replace a water heater by yourself?
We are all for a good DIY project, but some projects are better left to the professional. Especially projects involving water, electricity, and gas. As a professional, we are aware of current housing codes, proper installation methods, and safety protocols involved with an installation. Improper installation can lead to serious injury or a serious repair bill later on.
Can my water heater explode?
Long answer short- yes. If there is a pressure build up or gas leak, your water heater can explode. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission reports approximately 40 deaths and 300 injuries caused by home water heater explosions in the United States alone every year! If you see a leak coming from your pressure valve or notice the smell of rotten eggs or sulfur, call a professional immediately. These are signs of a serious problem that should not be ignored.
Water heater replacements are not something homeowners look forward to, but it is something that should be taken care of as soon as a problem is noticed. Putting off replacing your water heater can lead to bigger problems down the road. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, give us a call so we can come out and assess if the tank can be repaired or if a replacement is needed.
