When Will Your Water Heater Begin to Fail?

Your family may not often think about the water heater, but every family member depends on it daily. From having a hot shower every morning to keeping warm at night, the water heater is a crucial part of a functional home. So, when your water heater fails without notice, it is truly an emergency - and an expensive one. You must understand the signs that come before the failure of your water heater to prevent such a crisis

One of the keenest signs of a failing water heater is age. If you do not know the age of your water heater, look for the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker located on the upper part of your water heater. The first letter indicates the month, as in the numbered letter in the alphabet (B, for example, would be the second month, i.e., February). The next two digits indicate the year. If you find that your water heater is more than ten years old, it is time to get it inspected by a professional because, as it surpasses a decade old, it is more likely that it needs to be replaced. 

If you notice that you have rusty water, this is a sign that you need to replace your water heater sooner rather than later. When rust is in the water, your water heater is rusting from the inside. However, it may also be a sign that you need to check into your home’s piping system if you know that you have galvanized piping. Either way, it is crucial that you call a Burleson plumber when you notice rusty water.

When you notice a rumbling noise coming from your water heater, it is another sign that it is nearly ready to fail. As your water heater continues to age, sediment builds at the bottom of the tank. The sediment hardens and moves around the tank every time it reheats. When you have an increased amount of hardened sediment, you see a decrease in efficiency and an increase in damage to the water heater. You will need to replace your water heater quickly as this sign becomes apparent.

Replacing a water heater may be a pricy endeavor, but because it is an important appliance in your home, you must recognize the signs when it needs to be replaced. More than needing a hot shower after a long day, keep an eye on your home’s water heater so that your family has a warm and safe home. If you are concerned about your water heater, speak to a plumber today.