Should I replace my water heater before it fails?
With proper maintenance, most standard tank water heaters will last anywhere between six to 12 years, while a tankless water heater can last up to 20 years. Many problems can arise that can cause your water heater to malfunction, leaving you without hot water. Not all of these problems will require water heater replacement as a solution. Mineral and sediment build-up, for instance, if caught early and flushed regularly from your system often doesn’t warrant replacement.
On the other hand, a rusty tank is a sure sign you need to replace the unit. Age is the primary reason to consider replacing the water heater, even if it seems to be working fairly well. Once it closes in on its life expectancy it will tend to start showing signs of wear, as parts age and have to work harder to produce hot water. If anything, you’ll notice it affecting your utility bills. A newer unit will always be more energy efficient than an older unit. When you begin to have problems with your water heater and need reliable water heater repair or replacement in Marietta, GA, you can always count on the professionals at BDS Plumbing Solutions Inc. Find out how we can help by calling (770) 672-0095.
What are the signs you need a new water heater?
Typically, when it’s time for a water heater replacement, you’ll notice common problems associated with the water heater’s failure.
- Age: With an average lifespan of about 10 years, the older your water heater gets, the less efficiently it will run. You may be spending a lot of money on repairs or it’s costing you on your utility bills.
- Strange Noises: Sediment build-up in the bottom of the tank causes rumbling or banging noises as the sediment hardens. This is often an indication it’s time to replace the unit.
- Rusty water from tap: If rusty water pours from your tap it could indicate your water heater’s tank is rusted or corroded.
- Hot water not lasting: The older the water heater, the more sediment builds up, creating less capacity to heat.
- Leaks: Puddles developing around the tank indicates the tank is fractured and leaking. This could be due to rust or corrosion. In time, as the tank expands and contracts, the fracture can lead to a burst tank.
Can I replace a water heater myself?
While most city codes allow homeowners to replace water heaters on their own, they are required to get permits to do so. They also have to have the installation inspected to ensure everything is installed properly and is working right. With water heater replacement, many things can go wrong when the unit isn’t correctly installed: fires, explosions, scalding, water and gas leaks, as well as the development of mold and other dangerous microorganisms like legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a pneumonia-like illness.
Can water heater be repaired?
While issues like leaks or sediment build-up often require water heater replacement, sometimes a repair might be all that’s necessary. Leaks, for instance, can originate from a variety of sources on the water heater. If it’s a malfunctioning temperature and pressure relief valve that’s causing the leak, then all that’s normally needed is a repair. On the other hand, a leaking tank will need to be replaced. Sediment build-up will cause rumbling noises. Flush your unit regularly to clear out the sediment. The longer sediment remains in the unit, the more damage it causes, and in time you’ll need to replace the unit.
Water heater replacement for low income families
Low-income families can qualify for governmental assistance for water heater replacement and repair through programs like the Heating Repair and Replacement Program. These programs also encourage energy conservation through good maintenance of water heaters and furnaces such as repairing leaks and winterizing units by wrapping and insulating them.
Water heater replacement for mobile home
For mobile or manufactured homes, water heater replacement can prove complicated. That’s because, to comply with regulations set down by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, mobile homes have to use specially designed water heaters. Any new water heater installed in a mobile home has to meet HUD regulations.
What happens if you don’t flush your water heater?
Regular flushing should be part of water heater maintenance, primarily to clear out sediment build-up that can reduce your tank’s ability to produce hot water. Sediment can also clog the pressure and relief valve, which regulates pressure so your tank doesn’t explode. Flushing also keeps your tank from corroding.
Water heater replacement near me
If your water heater is aging and has problems like leaks, it may be time to replace it. For expert water heater replacement in Marietta, GA, look to the professionals at BDS Plumbing Solutions Inc. To set up an installation time, all you need to do is call (770) 672-0095.