5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Tank Water Heater

Like any appliance in your home, your tank water heater will eventually break down after some time. You’ll inevitably have to replace it, but you likely want to get your replacement before it causes major damage. If you know what signs to look for, you can know the best time to get a new water heater. Here at Alliance Plumbing, we have the water heater experience to know what to look for and can help you know your water heater is in need of a replacement.

Here are 5 signs your should consider a replacement:

Age

How long have you owned your water heater? The average tank water heater lasts 10 to 15 years. If your heater is reaching the double digits, it might be getting time to put it out to pasture. You can check the water heater’s serial number if you’re unsure of how old it is. For instance, a serial number starting with ‘0702’ would mean it was made July (07) 2002.

Rusty or muddy water

If your water is a rusty color, that might be a sign the water tank is starting to deteriorate on the inside. When the tank corrodes, rust tends to develop around the tank seams, the temperature and pressure release valves, the water supply line, or the drain valve. If the water is muddy, it’s a sign of sediment build-up in the tank.

Leaking water tank

If there’s standing or leaking water around the tank, call one of our professionals right away. The tank could be experiencing an internal failure. There’s no easy fix for this, and you’ll have to replace the tank quickly in order to avoid damage to your home. Make sure you disconnect the electricity or turn off the gas and let the water cool before you remove and replace the tank.

Strange noises

Some noise is normal when a tank water heater is operating. However, if you hear cracks and pops, that’s a problem. Noise issues are generally the result of a buildup of sediment in the tank. As the sediment heats and reheats, it’ll eventually harden at the bottom of the tank. The noises are caused by pockets of the air in the sediment boiling along with the tank’s water. Flushing the tank should clean it, but if the noise persists, your tank might be close to cracking or leaking.

Not enough hot water

Another problem sediment can cause is a lack of hot water. The sediment that builds up on the bottom gets between the burner and the water. This results in colder showers and a harder-working heating element. Eventually, the heater will fail and possibly cause a leak. An annual water tank flushing can alleviate the issue, and consider investing in water conditioning if you have hard water.

Why should I trust Alliance Plumbing to replace my water heater?

Alliance Plumbing has two generations of plumbing experience running in this family-owned business. With our expertise, we hire the best, are well-stocked, and look to provide for our Texas community. When you choose Alliance Plumbing, you help support small businesses and building local jobs for our community. If you ever need help with your plumbing, call Alliance Plumbing and we’ll get the job done right!