Water heaters are an essential aspect of any modern home. They heat and store water for all your daily needs, from shower to laundry and washing dishes. However, when they start acting up, it can be hard to tell just how serious the issue is. Keep reading for seven telltale signs that your water heater might be about to fail, and how working with Fry can help prevent these issues from becoming problems.
Inconsistent Hot Water
Fluctuations in water temperature or a quick runout of hot water can be clear indicators that your hot water tank is not functioning at full capacity. As sediment builds up in the tank, there is less room for water to be stored. Practically, this means your shower will get colder much faster than before. There are a few other things that could also be affecting your water temperature. These include a faulty thermostat or heating elements that cannot meet the demand.
Rust-Colored Water
Nothing is more off-putting than trying to wash your dishes, clothes or hair with water that looks unclean. Hot water with a slight reddish-brown, rust-coloured tinge can indicate that something is off inside your water heater. This discoloration of the water is often the result of either corrosion in the tank or a deteriorating anode rod. Sometimes this can be resolved with a replacement anode rod or basic maintenance, but it can also indicate that the tank is nearing the end of its service life.
Strange Noises Coming from the Tank
In most residential water heater tanks, mineral deposits settle on the bottom. As these deposits build up over time, the water heater elements are forced to work harder to heat the water. A buildup of this sediment can sometimes result in a variety of strange banging, popping or deep rumbling noises. These strange noises can be an indicator that bigger problems are on their way. As sediment builds up, strain increases, efficiency decreases, and the tank is at risk of overheating or failure.
Rising Utility Bills
Typically, a water heater will account for about 15-20% of your home’s total energy use. This means that when a water heater is drawing more energy than previously, you might easily notice it on your next utility bill. As water heaters begin to fail, they can become less efficient and require more energy to maintain the same hot water temperature. If your utility bill is rising while other household energy consumption has remained stable, your water heater may be the culprit.
Water Around the Base of the Unit
It may seem obvious, but the water should remain in the tank. Any signs of water around the base of your unit can be a major cause of concern. Some small leaks may come from issues like failing valves or loose fittings, or even just some condensation. But a significant amount of water around the base of a water heater could indicate a leak from the tank body. Over time, corrosion inside the tank can eat away at the metal, essentially eating the tank from the inside out. As water heaters work under pressure, even a tiny leak can become catastrophic if ignored.
Reduced Water Pressure
If you have noticed a reduction in water pressure across multiple faucets or showerheads, then the root cause might be the water heater tank. As sediment and scale build up in the tank, it can reduce water pressure by restricting flow. This is one of the earliest signs that more trouble is on the way, but it is also easy to miss.
Frequent Repairs
Like everything else, there is a limited number of times a water heater can or should be repaired. If you have had to make emergency repair appointments multiple times in recent years or months, it may indicate that your water heater is on its last legs. One or two repairs can help as a temporary fix, but more frequent visits mean you should start preparing for something more major.
Repair or Replace?
Regular maintenance is the best way to prolong the life of your water heater, but even with the best repairs, water heaters have a limited lifespan. If your water heater is nearing the 10-year mark, it is best to plan for a replacement, especially if you have been experiencing any of the warning signs listed above. The experienced team at Fry Heating, Cooling and Plumbing can provide a professional opinion and recommend next steps for any water heater exhibiting these signs of impending failure.
