You probably don’t think about your water heater at all until it quits working. And you’re faced with chilly showers. It works hard to offer your Nashville home with warm water 24/7, and, as expected, it will eventually wear out.
Here’s how long your water heater will likely last and some warning signs that yours is wearing out. Ultimately, how long your water heater will keep running depends on what model you have and how much it’s working.
Tank Water Heater
Many households have a tank water heater that retains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continually makes water warm, so it’s always at the proper setting when you need it. Tank water heaters are very common because of their cheaper purchase price, but they don’t typically work as long as other kinds.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to run:
Tank water heaters can stop working due to many issues, but an oxidized tank is one of the most common. Your water heater has a special piece known as an anode rod that draws corrosive fragments from the water. Eventually, the rod will corrode, and grit will increase at the base of your water heater, rusting out the lining in the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much longer life span than its tank-style equivalents. These water heaters may last up to 20 years.
Besides running for a greater amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are very energy efficient. As opposed to storing large amounts of water that’s heated constantly, a tankless model warms up water on demand. This gets rid of standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly utility costs.
You might not realize it, but heating water takes up a large portion of your heating and cooling expenses. In fact, it’s the second highest source of energy consumption in a standard house, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they provide lifelong energy savings. They can be 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that holds on to water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Indications Your Water Heater is Dying
Your hot water heater will start showing clues that it’s dying. Here’s what to look for and when to call a plumbing specialist like Donelson Air Service Experts.
1. Inadequate Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most typical symptoms that your water heater is wearing out. You could have warm water getting used up more quickly, or that it requires additional time to have hot water.
2. Leaks
We recommed calling a plumber if you’re seeing water leaks or water accumulating near the bottom of your water heater. In some cases you might just need to have connections secured or a component replaced, but it could also be a symptom the tank is damaged.
3. Water Isn’t Clear
If you live in a region with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re typically familiar with having cloudy water. But if your water suddenly changes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, we advise having your water heater inspected by a professional to prevent damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is probably building up in the tank and oxidizing it.
4. Weird Noises
It’s typical for your water heater to make some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling isn’t normal and is a symptom you should get pro support. As sediment builds up in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and may consume added energy in the process.
Donelson Air Service Experts Makes Water Heater Replacement Easy
Procrastinating water heater replacement puts you at risk of leaks that can damage your home. Not to mention, the annoyance of not having heated water. If your water heater is old or showing hints it needs to be replaced, give our Experts a call at 615-953-9885 to request a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll discuss all the options so you can make the best decision for your residence.