Signs You May Need a New Water Heater
Hot water is a necessity you shouldn’t have to do without. While water heaters can last for 10-20 years or more, all water heaters will eventually require replacement. Spotting the signs that you may soon need a new water heater in Omaha can help you take action before your current water heater fails, allowing you the time to select the best new water heater for your needs and preventing a complete breakdown that leaves your home without hot water.
Dirty Hot Water
If you notice dirt or rust in the water coming from your hot water tap, it’s a sign that your water heater needs some kind of attention. Over time, mineral deposits inside the tank of your water heater can cause corrosion, leading to leaks that will require you to replace your water heater. If your water heater is less than ten years old, it’s important to talk to your plumber about maintenance to prevent mineral buildup inside the tank, such as regular flushing and replacement of the anode rod inside the tank. However, dirty or rusty water produced in an older water heater may be a sign of widespread deterioration that regular maintenance can no longer address.
Banging or Rumbling
Rusty or dirty water isn’t the only indication of excessive buildup inside your water heater. Banging and rumbling noises coming from your water heater as it works are another sign of mineral buildup inside the tank. Even if your hot water appears clear, your water heater’s tank may still have developed a significant layer of mineral deposits that can make it harder for your water heater to work and leave the metal of the tank brittle and prone to cracks or leaks. While banging and rumbling can sometimes be improved with water heater maintenance, the presence of these sounds in the first place indicates that your water heater is aging past its prime.
Limited or No Hot Water
The very purpose of your water heater is to provide hot water for all your home’s needs. Thus, if you are having trouble getting enough—or any—hot water from your water heater, it may be a sign that replacement is needed. Only a professional plumber can assess the condition of your water heater and determine whether repairs or replacement is needed. Even if your water heater can be repaired, it’s also important to consider your water heater’s age. The money it would cost to repair a water heater that is well over a decade old may be better spent by purchasing a new appliance with a completely clean slate and higher energy efficiency, offering plentiful hot water at lower operational cost and with none of the wear and tear your current water heater possesses.
Do you think it’s time for a new water heater in Omaha? You can reach an experienced plumber to discuss your water heating needs when you visit our website to contact us online and schedule service at your convenience. Our blog also offers more helpful information about plumbing maintenance and the signs that you could use the expertise of a professional plumber.