Your water heater is the reason why you have hot water in your home. It’s one of the most important appliances you have, and while you might take it for granted, it won’t last forever. As with everything else in your home, you need to be on the lookout for signs that your water heater is in trouble.
1. Old Age
Most tank water heaters last between 8 and 12 years, although they can last for close to 20 years with proper maintenance. Older water heaters will be more likely to develop problems, so be extra vigilant if you’ve had your water heater for close to a decade. If you’re not sure how old your water heater is, check for a label saying when it was installed. Many companies include that so you’ll know when it’s time for a replacement.
2. Water Leaking From the Tank
A leaky water heater tank is a clear sign that something is wrong. The leak could be from fittings or valves that simply need to be tightened or replaced, or it could be from corrosion in the tank itself. In any case, you should at least have your water heater inspected to see if you need a replacement.
3. Running Out of Hot Water
If you find yourself running out of hot water quickly, you could have sediment buildup in your water heater tank. This sediment lowers the overall volume of the tank, leaving you with less hot water every day. You can flush most sediment from the tank, but there may come a time when the buildup is too much even for that. Your best option at that time is to get a new water heater.
4. Discolored Water
Your water heater has a special coating inside the tank that resists corrosion, but it won’t last forever. If you see brown or yellowish water coming from your faucets, the inside of your tank may be corroded and may need to be replaced.
5. Inconsistent Water Temperature
Even if you don’t run out of hot water quickly, the water temperature during your morning shower may be inconsistent. This could be a sign of a faulty thermostat on your water heater, which is an easy fix. On the other hand, you could also have a faulty heating element, which is a more serious problem. Either way, you’ll need to call an expert for repairs.
If you’ve experienced any of these issues or otherwise suspect that something is wrong with your water heater in Charleston, SC, call C&C Myers today for water heater service. We’ll be happy to take a look at your ailing water heater and help you find a solution to your problems.