You likely don’t think about your water heater at all until it quits working. And you’re dealing with chilly showers. It works hard to give your the U.S. household with warm water 24 hours a day, and, unsurprisingly, it will give out at some point.
Here’s how long your water heater will likely last and some warning signs that yours is wearing out. In the end, how long your water heater will keep working depends on what type you have and how much it’s working.
Most people have a tank water heater that retains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type constantly warms water, so it’s always at the right temp when you desire it. Tank water heaters are popular due to their lower purchase price, but they don’t usually run as long as other kinds.
Here’s how long you can expect yours to work:
Tank water heaters can stop working because of a lot of problems, but a rusted tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special part referred to as an anode rod that draws corrosive fragments from the water. At some point, the rod will oxidize, and fragments will accumulate at the base of your water heater, rusting out the lining within the tank.
A tankless water heater has a much bigger life span than its tank-style equivalents. These water heaters may work as many as 20 years.
In addition to working longer, tankless hot water heaters are extremely energy efficient. As opposed to retaining huge amounts of water that’s reheated continuously, a tankless model warms up water on demand. This eliminates standby heating and the impact it has on your monthly energy costs.
You might not be aware, but heating up water is a big piece of your energy costs. In actuality, it’s the second largest source of energy utilization in an average house, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are pricier than tank water heaters, but they offer lasting energy savings. They can be 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that retains water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Your hot water heater will begin to show clues that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to watch and when to contact a plumbing professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
This is one of the most typical signs that your water heater needs to be replaced. You might see warm water getting used up more quickly, or that you need additional time to get warm water.
We recommed calling a plumber if you’re having water leaks or water gathering near the foundation of your water heater. Sometimes you could just need to have connections tightened or a component replaced, but it can also be a indication the tank is broken.
If you are in a location with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely accustomed to having cloudy water. But if your water all of a sudden changes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling like metal, you should have your water heater checked by a professional to prevent damaging leaks. Immediate changes in your water clarity means sediment is likely accumulating in the tank and corroding it.
It’s normal for your water heater to make some noise as it works. But popping and rumbling is not normal and is a symptom you should call for specialized assistance. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and could need extra energy in the process.
Waiting too long for water heater replacement puts you at risk of leaks that can damage your house. Not to mention, the annoyance of not having heated water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing signs it needs to be replaced, contact our Experts at 866-397-3787 to schedule a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the right decision for your residence.
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