Does Your Gas Water Heater Need Replacing? Tell-Tale Signs To Look Out For
Posted on: 17 April 2023
Gas water heaters have many perks. First, they are often cheaper to operate than alternatives like electric heaters. And most gas water heaters have rapid recovery rates and run seamlessly even during a power outage. But, like other machines, these devices don't last forever and will demand replacement at some point. The signs below help determine if your gas water heater needs replacing.
Your Water Heater is Past Its Service Life
A typical residential water heater should last approximately 10 years. However, depending on your product and its recommended shelf life, your gas water heater may fail to hit or exceed this mark. Other factors that may affect its lifespan include the type of water running through your home, how well you maintain it, and frequency of use. If your water heater has reached or exceeded the recommended lifespan, consider replacing it. By doing so, you'll avoid many issues, including cloudy or rusty water. Remember, over the years, numerous components in your water heating system have rusted, including the heat exchanger and tank, leading to discolored water that may stain your clothes or taste strange.
You Never Have Enough Heated Water Despite Spiking Energy Bills
For several reasons, a water heater can fail to produce enough hot water but still consume high energy levels. That could be due to minor issues like accumulated sediment. When sediment gathers at the bottom of your tank, it creates an insulation layer that may undermine the heating element's ability to heat water. But numerous other significant issues may also encourage a lack of adequate hot water. These include a damaged heating element or a faulty thermostat. If you have a combination of these issues and notice them regularly, replacing your gas water heater is advisable. Otherwise, you will likely encounter recurring issues and incur heavy losses.
Your Water Heater Makes Strange, Loud Noises
A water heater in critical condition may produce numerous noises, including banging and sizzling. On the other hand, leaking water dripping on your heating system's burner can cause sizzling sounds. Your appliance may also make loud humming noises when it has loose components. If your water heater makes loud strange noises, call in an expert to check it. That is a smart move because heating systems with extensive issues like damaged parts often produce unusual knocks, rumbles, pops, etc. And if the problem causing the noises is aggravated enough, replacing the entire heater becomes unavoidable.
Replace Your Water Heater Today
Do you have a water system that has served you well for over a decade and is now working erratically? Maybe your appliance is old but breaks down frequently, doesn't heat enough water, or has become noisy. In either case, consider getting a replacement.
Share