Not sure if it’s time for a water heater replacement? Here are several signs for homeowners to know if they should call in a plumber and replace their water heater.

Your Water Heater is Old

Nothing lasts forever, least of all water heaters. If your water heater is up there in age, or you don’t know when your water heater was last replaced, you may want to be thinking about getting a water heater replacement.

The average gas-powered water heater is expected to last approximately eight to 12 years, while electric water heaters tend to last about 10 to 15 years. You can check the age of your unit by checking the serial number. It’s most likely on a sticker on top of the unit. Plug that number into the manufacturer’s website for more information. If you find your water heater is approaching the end of its age range, it likely isn’t working as efficiently as it once did. And with advancements in technology, design, and production standards, it’s a better investment to get a new one installed.

You’ve Noticed it Leaking

As your water heater nears the end of its life, you may find water pooling around the bottom of it. That usually means one thing: leaks.

Water leaks in your water heater are usually the result of expansions to the metal in the tank. Expansions occur over time as the inner tank is exposed to thousands of heating cycles. This is when small cracks form, allowing water to escape. Even if the cracks start small, things can escalate quickly. Sometimes, the leak may be minor enough to fix, but this only delays the inevitable replacement. If you notice water pooling around your water heater, it’s time to call in the Phillips Plumbing Solutions team.

You’re Getting Rusty Water Out of the Tap

Another sign you need a water heater replacement is discolored water coming out of your faucets. As your water heater gets older, rusting is more likely to occur. Your plumber may be able to improve the quality of your hot water by flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod, but these measures are often temporary. Especially since rust can eventually lead to corrosion and failure of the tank. If you notice rusty-colored hot water or if your hot water has a metallic taste to it, it’s definitely time to contact a plumber.

You’ve Gotten Multiple Repairs This Year

Your water heater may need repairs every now and again, but it shouldn’t need them frequently. If you find yourself calling in a plumber on multiple occasions for hot water repair, it may be worth it to replace it altogether. Not only will replacing your water heater mean you can stop wasting money on repairs, but it also means your new water heater will last longer and even provide some efficiency for energy bills.

You’re Hearing Strange Noises

Water heaters typically produce little noise when working properly. So if you’re hearing loud noises such as rumbling or banging, that’s an indication there’s a problem inside your appliance. Loud noises are most frequently due to failing burners or mineral buildup inside the tank. This can lead to a drop in water heating efficiency and corrosion. Mineral buildup can be flushed out, but if the noises continue after the sediment has been flushed, there is probably a more serious problem. At this point, you should replace your water heater as soon as possible.

You’re Not Getting Enough Hot Water

One of the most obvious reasons to get a new water heater is there’s a lack of hot water in your home. Whether your water isn’t as hot, the periods of hot water don’t last as long, or there’s no hot water altogether, these are causes for concern. If adjusting the thermostat on your water heater doesn’t solve the problem, then there could be an issue with the heating element. Sometimes, the heating element can be repaired. However, for older water heaters, the components might not be readily available. In that case, it’s better to replace the system overall.

Need a Water Heater Replacement? Phillips Plumbing Solutions is Here to Help

Hot water is a necessity for everyday life, and you don’t want to go without it. If you notice one of these signs in your hot water heater, then it’s time to get a replacement. We can provide one of our warrantied water heaters, or we can install one for you that you’ve already bought. We can also provide preventative maintenance to help your water heater stay in tip-top shape!

With over 25 years of plumbing experience, Phillips Plumbing Solutions offer a wide range of residential plumbing services to meet your home’s needs. We are located in Queen Creek, Arizona, and serve our neighbors across the East Valley. Let us provide the quality plumbing services you deserve.