Your water heater is a fundamental appliance in the house. If you want hot water for your laundry, shower, and washing dishes, your water heater must function properly. Like everything else, water heaters have a lifespan and can experience issues. When issues arise, they leave homeowners wondering if they can get by with a repair or if this will be time for a replacement. There are key indicators when assessing your water heater.
Water Heater Age
When deliberating between a repair or replacement, the age of your water heater is significant. The typical lifespan of a water heater is 8 to 12 years. Proper use and maintenance serve your water heater well and encourage it to last longer. When it reaches its maturity or surpasses its lifespan, it’s probably more cost-effective to replace it.
Constant Leakage
A sure sign of a problem is leaks around the water heater. A reputable Philadelphia water heater repair company will tell you if the leaks are minimal and repairable. A repair may be a viable option for a faulty valve or loose connection. However, persistent and substantial leaks that result in significant water damage may warrant a replacement to avoid further issues.
Hot Water Supply Reduction
It’s never convenient to have insufficient hot water. It’s also a sign of a problem. There are several causes of this problem. Don’t be surprised if you have a faulty heating element or a sediment buildup in the tank. When you have a young water heater, these issues are often resolved with a repair.
Strange Noises
Popping, rumbling, or banging sounds are strange and shouldn’t come from your water heater. They often indicate sediment buildup in the tank. Sediment reduces efficiency and potentially damages the tank if left untreated. Flushing the tank to remove the sediment might be effective. A company experienced in water heater plumbing in Delaware County, PA, can provide a professional assessment.
Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion are among some of the more serious concerns for water heaters. If the rust is on the outside, it’s not often a major problem. It is often corrected with maintenance or repairs. However, when rust and corrosion are on the inside, they can cause irreparable damage to the tank.
Increasing Energy Bills
A drastic spike in energy bills without any changes in water usage patterns can indicate an inefficient water heater. Water heaters may lose their efficiency due to wear and tear. In such cases, a replacement with a newer, more energy-efficient model can lead to long-term cost savings.
Determining if your water heater needs repairs or replacement depends on age, the problem, and the frequency of repairs. If you encounter any concerns with your water heater, contact the professionals at Gaceta Plumbing LLC so they can recommend the most suitable course of action.
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