If you’re spending too much time waiting for your water to heat up, there’s a chance that it might be time to get a new system installed.
When deciding whether or not it’s time to upgrade your water heater, keep an eye out for these 5 signs that indicate it’s time to consider investing in your next system.
1. Your Water Heater Is Over A Decade Old
Water heaters are generally pretty reliable systems, but they do fail occasionally. As they age, they start to wear down and develop leaks that can cause water damage in homes. If your water heater is over a decade old, it’s most likely time to replace it.
You may be able to get a few more years out of your system, but after ten years, it’s best to consider replacing it. If you aren’t sure how old your water heater is you can check the serial number. If you can’t find a date, enter the serial number into the manufacturer’s website.
2. Frequent Repairs
If you are investing in frequent repairs, performing a simple cost-benefit analysis may be beneficial. This will help you determine if it’s cost-effective to replace your water heater. One of the ways to do this is by using the 50% rule. The 50% rule states that if any repair costs 50% of what it would cost to replace, then you should replace it, rather than repair it.
3. Rust Formation
Another sign that you need to replace your water heater is noticeable signs of rust. If you spot rust on the outside of your unit near the water inlet, this is often a sign that rust has begun to form on the inside of your tank as well.
Unfortunately, there is no long-term remedy for a rust problem, so it is likely that you will have to replace your water heater in the near future. If you notice that your water is coming out rust-colored, this could indicate a problem with your water heater or your pipes.
One way to confirm the rust is coming from your water heater is by running about three buckets full of hot water from a spout. If the water still comes out rusty after the third bucket, then your hot water heater likely contains rust. If the rust dwindles as you run the hot water, your pipes could be the culprit.
4. Temperature Fluctuations
If your hot water is turning ice cold in the middle of your shower, you are experiencing what we call temperature fluctuations. While water temperature fluctuations are a common side effect of someone flushing a toilet or starting a load of laundry, this can also be a tell-tale sign that you are in need of a new water heater. As water heaters begin to age they may start to experience a reduced ability to consistently deliver a high-pressure flow of water.
This can also happen to water heaters that have clogged or partially blocked water output lines. If you are tired of random, sputtering cold, water spurts and you would like the water from your showerhead to stay at a consistent temperature, it is time to replace your water heater.
5. Leaks
If you see puddles of water around your water heater, there may be a leak in the tank that needs professional care ASAP. Slight fractures develop over time as the metal tank expands and contracts with heat, over and over again. However, when it fully fractures, you’re at serious risk of a tank burst! If you notice a leak, it’s time to replace your water heater.
Call The Experts
Being aware of these signs that you’ll need a water heater replacement soon helps you take action as quickly as possible. If you’re in need of a new water heater, our team of experts is ALWAYS WORKING to ensure our customers receive a water heater that checks off all of their boxes. Give our Wolfer’s team a call today at 503-220-1901 or request your appointment online »