How to Determine If You Need Your Water Heater Replaced

Your water heater is one of the most crucial appliances in your home. Even with regular care and maintenance, however, water heater problems can occur at inconvenient times. Of course, these problems can always be addressed by trusted plumbing and  heating repair  professionals, but depending on the water heater’s current condition, it may be more cost-effective to get a full replacement. 

If you’re not sure when to upgrade to a new heater, our technicians at R.A. Biel Plumbing and Heating have shared what you need to look for below:

Age.  The lifespan of your water heater will depend on the model you have installed, the quality of the water and its usage. While it’s possible for a water heater to last beyond its estimated lifespan, this doesn’t mean it will stay as energy-efficient as it was when it was newly installed. To give you a clear idea of a water heater’s lifespan, traditional tank-type heaters last from eight to 12 years, while tankless ones can stay operational for up to 20 years or more. If your traditional or tankless water heater is near the end of its average lifespan, it may be time to consider a replacement this spring.

Strange noises.  If you hear a banging or rumbling noise while using your water heater, this is a strong indicator that it’s already nearing the end of its lifespan. This occurs mainly with traditional water heaters, so to prevent this, most manufacturers recommend flushing the tank at least once a year to keep the warranty intact. Of course, not every homeowner does this, so the calcium builds up, hardens and eventually forms a thick crust. This can cause the water heater to creak and bang when in use. If this is the case, have it checked by an expert in water heater and  air conditioning repair  to see if repairs can still be made. 

Unusual water temperature.  If you start to feel that your hot water isn’t as hot as it used to be, this could indicate a problem with your heater. This may also be the case if you find yourself standing at the sink while waiting for the water to heat up, or if you constantly have to adjust the settings in the shower. This could also mean your once-insulated pipe is now a bare conduit for your precious hot water, which means the hot water loses its heat before it even reaches you!

When it comes to top-notch water heater repairs, you can always count on our team at R.A. Biel Plumbing and Heating to get the job done right. If you need  drain and sewer repair  or any plumbing-related service, give us a call at (505) 327-7755 or get ahold of us through our convenient  contact form.

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