Water Heater Giving You Trouble? How To Tell If It's Time For A New One

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When it comes to your plumbing, your water heater is one of your most important fixtures. Without it, you'd be taking cold showers all the time. The last thing you want is to take cold showers when you don't have to. If you've been dealing with non-stop problems with your water heater, it might be time for a new one. If you're not sure you need to invest in a one yet, here are four warning signs that will help you decide. If any of the warning signs described below seem familiar, it's time for a new water heater.

Your Water Heater is Outdated

If you can't remember the last time you had your water heater replaced, or it's the original equipment, it's time to consider a replacement. If you're not sure how old your water heater is, you can find out by looking at the manufacturer's tag that's attached to the top – or side – of your tank. Once you've located the tag, look at the sequence of numbers on it. You can determine the year your water heater was manufactured by looking at the first two numbers in the sequence. So, if the first two numbers are 05, your water heater was manufactured in 2005.

Your Water is a Darker Shade of Rust

When you turn your faucet on, your hot water should be crystal-clear. If you water is discolored, your tank could be compromised. This is particularly true if your water is tinted the color of rust. Rust-colored water shows that the inside of your tank is also rusty, which means it could be getting ready to burst. If your water is a darker shade of rust, it's time to have it replaced as soon as possible.

Your Hot Water Doesn't Last

If you used to be able to enjoy a 30-minute hot shower, and now your hot water only lasts about 5 minutes, your tank may be wearing out, especially if it's usage hasn't changed. Try turning the thermostat up on your water heater. If the hot water continues to run out quickly, it's time to consider a replacement.

Your Tank is Making Strange Noises

If your tank has suddenly started making strange noises, it might be trying to tell you something. Over the years, your water heater will fill with sediment, especially if you have hard water. As the water heats up, those hard water deposits will break away and start banging around in the tank. Once that happens, those deposits could crack the interior liner of your water heater. If you're hearing popping, banging or cracking from inside your tank, it's time for a new one.

Check with companies like HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric for more information.


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