Pray never to see the day when your water heater does not work in the winter. However, there is no need to get all panicky just yet. The good news is that a water heater shows several signs of it going bad. So, all you need to do is pay attention to it and get a replacement or ask for water heater repair asap!
11 Warning Signs Your Water Heater is Going Bad
Here are 11 indicators that your hot water heater will give before going out:
- No supply of hot water.
- Strange noises are coming from your water heater, like knocking, banging, or rumbling.
- Water leaking from the heater is a sign of a serious issue.
- Rust-colored water from your faucets.
- Low water pressure than usual during winters is not normal.
- Not enough hot water by the heater means running out of hot water while showering is a sign that your water heater is going bad.
- Water temperature fluctuations from your faucet show a problem with your water heater.
- The pilot light going out.
- If your heater is over 10-15 years old, consider replacing it.
- A sudden surge in bills shows your unit is taking more energy to generate less amount of hot water.
- Strange smell coming from your water heater.
Water Heater Life Span
The lifespan of your water heater varies on several factors; this includes the type of water heater, the quality of the unit, and its maintenance.
On average, a standard storage-tank water heater has a lifespan of about 8-12 years. On the other hand, a tankless water heater lasts up to 20 years or more.
However, with proper maintenance, like regular flushing of the tank and replacing the anode rod, improvement in life expectancy is seen.
Reasons For Water Heater Failure
There may be one of these several reasons why your water heater has gone bad:
- Lack of proper maintenance: Water heaters need regular maintenance to ensure that they function properly.
- Age of the unit: Generally, water heaters have a lifespan of about 8-12 years. If your water heater is getting old, it will show more sensitivity to wear and tear.
- Corrosion: It is natural, with time, for the inner side of your water heater to corrode, which can cause the unit to stop working.
- Sediment build-up: The build-up of sediment in your water heater can clog the heating element and prevent the unit from heating water.
- Thermostat Failure: The feature controls the temperature of your water in the tank. If the thermostat goes bad, the water heater may not be able to maintain the proper temperature.
- Failed heating element: The heating element or coil directly heats the water in your tank. If it fails, the water heater will not be able to heat it.
Want To Know More?
If your water heater is showing signs of it going bad, better to have your unit inspected by a professional to determine the cause and to make any necessary repairs. If you are in search of an expert, try one from google guaranteed ER Plumbing in Houston, TX. Dial (281) 857-5704 to connect with us.