6 Signs Your Water Heater Needs to be Replaced

Water heaters don’t work forever. Even a well-maintained one will only last around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s essential to know the symptoms that it’s wearing out. If not, you might not have heated water for a few days while you wait to install a new one.

Here are six common clues that your water heater is wearing out.

1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is aging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s needing to be replaced right now, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to install a new one momentarily. As the years go by, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to add warmth to water. In the end, the sediment will corrode the tank and cause the heating components to fail. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which might damage your Des Moines house.

By installing a new water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient options. If you install an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you may receive extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t quit there, as an ENERGY STAR style could save you up to $3,500 on energy over its lifetime.

Switching from a standard tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even bigger amount. For residences hat need less than 41 gallons of water per day a tankless water heater is often 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters usually run for around 20 years, which is about two times the life expectancy of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaky

Sometimes leaks are just the result of loose connections, inaccurate pressure or a faulty valve. But they can also be a hint that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need professional support from Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling to determine the trouble.

3. Water is Cloudy or Rusty

If your usually clear water abruptly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater may be the problem. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has grown in the tank, while rusty water is a clue there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either instance, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling suggests having your water heater examined by a pro

4. There’s a Lack of Hot Water

As sediment builds up in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater works harder to make heated water. As a result, it will require longer for it to warm water, and warm water won’t last as long. Both are a clue that your water heater is failing.

To prevent sediment from accumulatingin your tank, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling suggests having one of our professionals flush it yearly.

5. Water Heater is Making Unusual Noises

Just like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a sign that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more strenuous for the water heater to heat water, causing the strange sounds. As time passes, the stress on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Constantly Having to Have Water Heater Repair

Over its life, your water heater might need little repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re constantly calling Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling for assistance or a critical part has stopped working, you should schedule water heater installation.

It’s draining when your water heater is just about to stop working or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you contact Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling at 515-278-2900 for water heater installation in Des Moines. From choosing the right option for your home and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the entire process simple. Call us to schedule your appointment right away!