Your water heater should supply your entire home with hot water on demand. When it can no longer keep up with that demand, the result can greatly impact your comfort. Whether you get a cold shock during your morning shower or a sink full of dishes that just won’t get clean without the heat, unreliable water heater performance is frustrating.
But how do you know when a failing hot water heater needs repair or replacement? Here’s what you need to know.
Why Won’t My Water Get Hot Enough?
There are a few reasons your water may not be getting hot enough. A damaged or failing heating element, sediment building up inside the tank, or a broken internal thermostat can all cause this issue.
Hard minerals in your water supply naturally settle at the bottom of your tank. This layer of buildup creates a barrier between the water inside your tank and the burner. That forces your system to work even harder, which both lowers your unit’s efficiency and is likely causing the temperature fluctuation.
Not only that, but this buildup could be the reason you’re seeing higher energy bills, even if you aren’t getting the hot water you need.
How Long Should a Water Heater Last?
Most traditional tank water heaters last between eight and twelve years. The more regular you are with inspections and needed repairs, the closer you can get to the higher end of that threshold. New water heaters are more efficient and can usually outlast older models.
However, if you’re already outside of this age range, replacing a water heater before the bottom of the tank rusts is ideal to prevent water damage. The internal rust can corrode the tank, creating a hole that eventually leads to leaking.
Key Signs of Failure
Age and temperature fluctuations aren’t the only indicators that something’s wrong. Other warning signs, like muddy or rusty-looking tap water, are clear red flags that your tank is deteriorating. You also don’t want to drink water that looks like this, so that’s another good reason to schedule a water heater installation if you notice it.
Loud rumbling or popping noises are usually not good signs, either. This happens when water boils underneath that layer of trapped sediment.Perhaps the most urgent warning sign is visible moisture around the base of your tank. This is almost always cause for a new water heater, as it’s telling you water is escaping the tank, and the damage is usually something you can’t patch.
If you aren’t sure about how your water heater is holding up, start by scheduling an assessment from a professional. They can help determine whether you need a new water heater right now or if your unit still has some life left in it.
Find Out Whether You Need a New Water Heater From the Pros
Have you noticed any of these signs in your water heater? The team at Quality Comfort Pros can deliver fast and professional service. We treat our customers like family and will walk you through every step of our process. Contact us to schedule an inspection for your system today.
