Pro Plumbing Tips On Water Heaters From The Colony Plumber
Water heaters with tanks are almost continually under a tremendous amount of stress because they operate non-stop even when you aren’t using hot water. Which means that they require significantly more maintenance and repair than almost any other plumbing fixture.
Our The Colony plumbers at Jar-Dab Plumbing, Inc. recommend that you have a tune-up and inspection of your water heater at least once every year. That way, your water heater will always be functioning in peak condition and you’ll be guaranteeing the longest lifespan possible.
But even if you stay up on repairs and maintenance, you’ll need to replace your unit eventually. You don’t ever want to be without hot water, so it’s important that if you do need if a water heater replacement, you have it done.
You need a professional to tell you whether it can be repaired or if you need a water heater replacement. But there are some signs you can look for to alert you.
Determine The Water Heater’s Age
Most water heaters will have a lifespan of around ten years. That number can vary in either direction, though, depending on the frequency of the maintenance and repairs. If your water heater doesn’t receive proper maintenance, it may only last for four to five years.
If you’ve been using your water heater for more than five years, it’s time to start paying more attention to it and seeing if it might break down soon. Pay closer attention to your energy costs as well. Rising energy costs may be a sign of poor water heater efficiency.
If you haven’t recently, call for an inspection and we’ll let you know how much longer your water has and whether you need a replacement or repairs.
Loud Sounds From Water Heaters
Any noises that you hear coming from your water heater are a bad sign. Most of the time, this means that there’s a build-up of sediment inside the machine that won’t allow water to flow through it properly.
That sediment can be flushed out to increase performance and efficiency. But if the problem has been going on long enough to cause rust and corrosion, a water heater replacement is your only option.
Can Water Heater Leaks Be Repaired?
If you find a leak in your water heater, don’t panic immediately. Some leaks can’t be repaired, but some others can. A water heater leak may be a symptom of a much larger problem, possibly a sign that a break down is imminent.
Keep in mind, though, that not every puddle you find near your water heater is necessarily coming from a leak. The thing to do if you think you’ve found a leak is to contact a professional The Colony plumber for water heater service. We can determine the location of the leak, the cause, and the best next steps. Sometimes, water heaters with leaks must be replaced, but not always.