The water heater is a crucial house appliance often in an out of sight, out of mind situation. It’s usually located in a laundry room, basement, or other parts of the house where homeowners don’t pay much attention until faced with the sudden sting of an icy shower.
At that moment, preventive maintenance may no longer help. If you notice developing water heater issues in your house, it’s wise to reach out to a qualified water heater repair contractor. Companies like Burton Plumbing in Melbourne, FL, are prepared to diagnose the root causes of defects and fix them to keep your house water heater running smoothly.
Reasons For House Water Heater Repair and Replacement
Over time, house water heaters suffer from sediment accumulation inside the tank, which can cause damage. The recommended solution is to drain and flush the tank to remove sediment. While this can be done as a DIY task, it’s safer and more effective to have professionals perform these repairs to avoid worsening problems in your house’s water heater.
If you notice rust or metal particles in your house’s hot water, immediately contact a professional in Melbourne. This could signal the need to replace the anode rod, a component designed to attract corrosive materials and protect the tank liner. A corroded liner can lead to leaks, risking water damage in your house.
Consider these signs that indicate your house’s water heater needs inspection or replacement:
It’s reaching its lifespan:
A gas-powered water heater’s average lifespan in a house is about ten years, while electric models last around 15 years. As your house water heater nears the end of its cycle, it loses efficiency, leading to higher utility bills and less reliable hot water—clear signs to call a water heater professional.
Though many house water heaters last longer with good maintenance, older units generally become less efficient than newer, energy-efficient models, costing you more. A tankless water heater is a top alternative for better energy savings and continual hot water comfort. Find detailed guidance at Here’s How You Know When To Replace a Water Heater – Bob Vila.Discolored or rusty hot water in your house:
Rust in the water from your house’s heater suggests mineral build-up inside the tank. Regular flushing can reduce this build-up, but over many years, deposits increase. Visible rust, dirt, or metallic tastes in hot water indicate a problem with the heating unit.
Your water heater contractor can assess whether your house’s heater tank or plumbing is causing the issue. Though flushing and anode rod replacement can temporarily improve water quality, heavy mineral accumulation or rust often means it’s time to upgrade.
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Not working, noisy, or leaking in the house:
A properly functioning house water heater operates quietly and without leaks. If you notice strange sounds like popping or rumbling, water around the heater’s base, or inconsistent hot water, your house unit might need repair or replacement.
Mineral build-up or failing burners can cause these noises, reducing efficiency and causing corrosion. Leaks can indicate a cracked tank or internal damage. While minor leaks might be repairable, serious problems often require a full replacement.
If your house water heater stops heating even after thermostat adjustments, a malfunctioning heating element might be the cause, necessitating professional inspection.
Corrosion in House Water Heaters
Corrosion is one of the clearest signs your house water heater has reached the end of its useful life. Over time, especially in older or poorly maintained units, the tank rusts internally. This compromises the tank’s structure, causing leaks and possible failure.
If you see corrosion on the exterior or experience rust in your house’s hot water supply, contact a professional about replacement options promptly. Once corrosion starts, reversing it is nearly impossible. Replacing parts might slow corrosion, but it won’t stop it fully. It’s better to address corrosion early to prevent leaks and water damage to your home.
Learn more at Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Heater According to an Expert.
