Who doesn’t enjoy a warm shower at the end of a long day? Water heaters are an indispensable part of your home, as it is responsible for providing a steady supply of hot water for showers, as well as washing dishes and laundry. However, like any appliance, it has a limited lifespan and will experience wear and tear over time, leading to malfunctions. Knowing when it is time for a new water heater installation can help you avoid inconvenient breakdowns and ensure your home runs smoothly.
In this article, we will discuss three common water heater replacement signs that indicate it is time to consider upgrading your system.
1. Age of Water Heater
One of the clearest ways to determine when to replace your water heater is its age. Most water heaters have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years, depending on the type, maintenance, and water quality. If your heater is approaching or has exceeded this age range, it is time to start considering a replacement, even if it seems to be functioning adequately.
An older water heater is more likely to experience issues such as inefficiency, increased energy consumption, or sudden malfunctions. Over time, the internal components of a water heater, such as the heating elements or the tank lining, begin to degrade, leading to inconsistent water temperatures or the inability to heat water efficiently.
If your water heater is over a decade old and you have noticed a drop in performance, this is a strong sign of water heater deterioration. Instead of waiting for a total failure, it would be wise to plan ahead for a replacement. Replacing an ageing water heater can prevent the need for expensive repairs whilst also reducing your energy bills.
If your water heater is over a decade old and you have noticed a drop in performance, this is a strong sign of water heater deterioration. Instead of waiting for a total failure, it would be wise to plan ahead for a replacement. Replacing an ageing water heater can prevent the need for expensive repairs whilst also reducing your energy bills.
If you are unsure about the age or condition of your unit, consulting an HDB-approved plumber or plumbing service provider can help ascertain if it is indeed time to replace your heater.
2. Persistent Leaks
Another major water heater malfunction indicator is the presence of persistent leaks. While small leaks may seem like a minor inconvenience, they can quickly snowball into bigger problems, such as water damage to your home’s walls, floors, or foundation. If you notice water pooling around the base of your water heater or dripping from the tank, this could indicate a crack in the tank or faulty connections.
Leaks are one of the most telltale signs of water heater deterioration. It is often caused by corrosion or pressure build-up. Over time, these leaks can worsen, leading to significant water loss and potential damage to your property. If your attempted repairs are not stopping the leaks, this is a clear sign to replace your water heater.
In some cases, leaks may be caused by issues with valves or pipes, which could be resolved with repairs. However, if the leak is originating from the tank itself, it is usually a sign that the water heater is beyond repair. At this point, the most cost-effective and safest solution is to invest in a new unit. Either way, enlisting the help of a professional plumbing company that offers water leak detection services could help you decide what steps to take.
3. Rust or Corrosion
Rust and corrosion are arguably the most obvious signs when identifying water heater issues and they should never be ignored. The interior of most water heater tanks is lined with a material designed to prevent corrosion, but over time, this lining can wear down, allowing rust to form on the metal surfaces. Once rust appears, it can spread quickly and compromise the integrity of the tank.
The good news is that it is fairly easy to tell if there is rust in your water heater—just check the colour of your water. If you notice that the hot water coming from your taps has a reddish-brown tint, this is a strong indication that rust has begun to form inside the tank. Rust not only affects the taste and quality of your water but can also lead to leakages.
Additionally, rust around the tank’s valves or on the heater itself is a sign that the system is breaking down. Corrosion weakens the metal, making it more susceptible to cracks and leaks. If rust is present, it is usually a sign to replace your heater.
Ignoring rust in the heater can be dangerous, as it may cause a rupture in the tank, which results in significant water damage to your home. It is important to act quickly and get a new water heater installation as soon as rust is detected.
While identifying the signs is well and good, it is just as important to engage in a reliable plumbing services company to carry out the diagnosis and replacement effectively. Here at QB Plumbing, our HDB-approved plumbers are experienced in dealing with various water heater issues and can provide you with sound advice on the best way to address different scenarios. This level of experience and expertise can be a difference-maker in terms of saving you unnecessary headaches and expenditures.
For more information about the services we offer, please contact us today.
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