When your water heater needs repairs or is nearing the end of its life, it will give you some clear signs. On average, water heaters last about 10-15 years. So if your water heater has been in use for 15 years or longer, it might be best to get it replaced with a more efficient heater in Germantown. Doing so will help save on energy costs and heat up your water more efficiently.
If your water heater hasn’t been in use for very long, it might not need replacement, even if it is acting up frequently. Many issues with water heaters can be fixed by addressing issues with the specific part that is causing problems. In such situations, delaying repairs can lead to more costly repairs and permanent damage down the line.
So, how do you know when you need to call in the experts?
Let’s examine some signs indicating your water heater is in need of repairs.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair
Inconsistent Water Temperature
Ever stepped in for a warm shower only to realize the water is freezing cold, or fluctuates in temperature without explanation? Inconsistent water temperature is a sign that part of your water heater is acting up.
Possible explanations:
- Faulty thermostat: A thermostat is a regulating device that senses the temperature of a physical system (such as the air in an air conditioner or the water in a water heater) and switches the heating/cooling system on, off, low, or high to maintain the desired temperature. It essentially controls the water temperature in the tank.
If your thermostat is malfunctioning or is set too high, it could make your water cold, lukewarm or even boiling hot, since it will be unable to detect the water’s real temperature once it has reached the desired point and continue heating.
A professional plumber can test the thermostat and replace it if necessary. Remember to go for a licensed and qualified plumber, since installing a thermostat requires expertise and precision.
- Sediment Buildup: Sediment buildup is a common problem in water heaters. Minerals and other debris typically build up over time at the bottom of the tank. This is because the high temperatures within the water heater tank can also cause the water to evaporate, which leads to a high concentration of minerals. Sediment buildup can cause the bottom of the tank to overheat and the water to boil, leaving you with potentially burning-hot water in your faucets and shower.
Sediment buildup can be addressed by first emptying the tank and then thoroughly removing all debris. Flushing your tank twice a year can prevent sediment buildup, as can adding a water softener to prevent minerals from accumulating.
This can be a potentially risky task to perform on your own, so it is best to call a trusted professional.
Banging or Rumbling Sounds
Sediment buildup can also lead to strange noises coming from your water heater tank. With the sediment overheating at the bottom, the water can start boiling, creating rumbling sounds.
If you notice these sounds, call a plumber asap.
Rusty or Yellow Water
Rusty or yellow water can indicate that there is an issue with your water heater. However, to eliminate the possibility of rust faucets and a rusty mainline, compare the water in both cold and hot taps.
Possible explanations:
- Anode Rod Corrosion: The anode rod is a metal rod that attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the tank from rust. Over time, the rod itself can corrode, leading to rusty, yellow, brown, or red-stained water. Ignoring a rusty anode rod can lead to further damage to your water heater.
- Rusty Water Tank: While this is self-explanatory, a rusty tank cannot be repaired. It can lead to leaks and is a serious health hazard. It is an indicator that your water heater’s time is up, and that you need to opt for a replacement.
Rusty water in your faucets and shower is a serious health concern that should not be taken lightly. If you notice yellow or rusty water, call a plumber in Germantown asap to inspect what is causing it.
Caption: If your water heater requires regular repairs, it might be time to go for a replacement instead
Regular issues, rust, leaks and old age in your water heater are signs that you need to go for a water heater replacement rather than repairs. With newer technology, you can opt for more energy-efficient options such as tankless or solar water heaters. Tankless water heaters require less frequent upkeep and are free from problems such as sediment buildup. They store water on demand, providing you with endless hot water.
For Water Heater Repairs and Replacement in Germantown, Reach Out to Your 1 Plumber Now
At Your 1 Plumbers, we provide you with the most reliable plumbing services in Germantown. With a highly trained staff and top-notch equipment, we provide services from water line repairs to new faucet installations and toilet replacements. For all your plumbing needs, reach out to us today!