Different signs it’s time to replace your hot water heater
|Your hot water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, and it’s also one of the most expensive. That’s why it’s important to know when it’s time to replace your hot water heater before it fails and leaves you without hot water.
Here are 10 different signs that it might be time to replace your hot water heater:
1. Your Water Heater is Leaking
One of the most obvious signs that you need a new hot water heater is if it starts leaking. A small drip might not be a cause for alarm, but if there is a large amount of water coming from your hot water heater, then it’s time to replace it. A leaking hot water heater can not only lead to a higher water bill, but it can also cause serious damage to your home.
2. There’s No Hot Water
If your hot water heater isn’t providing any hot water, then it’s time for a new one. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a broken heating element or a faulty thermostat. Regardless of the reason, if your hot water heater isn’t working, it needs to be replaced.
3. Your Water Heater is More than 10 Years Old
The average lifespan of a hot water heater is between 10 and 15 years. If your hot water heater is on the older end of that spectrum, then it’s probably time to start thinking about replacing it. Even if your hot water heater is still working, it’s more likely to fail in the near future.
4. Your Water Heater is making Strange Noises
If your hot water heater starts making strange noises, such as banging, popping, or creaking, then it could be a sign that it’s starting to fail. These noises are usually caused by sediments that have built up over time and are now causing the tank to overheat. If you hear these noises, it’s best to replace your hot water heater before it fails completely.
5. Your Hot Water isn’t as hot as it used to be
If you’ve noticed that your hot water isn’t as hot as it used to be, then it could be a sign that your hot water heater is on its last legs. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as sediment build-up or a failing heating element. Regardless of the reason, if your hot water isn’t as hot as it used to be, you should replace your hot water heater.
6. Your Hot Water Runs Out Quickly
If you find yourself running out of hot water quickly, it could be a sign that your hot water heater is too small for your household. It could also be a sign that it’s time to replace your old hot water heater with a new one.
7. There’s Water around Your Hot Water Heater
If you notice water around your hot water heater, it could be a sign of a serious problem. This water could be coming from a leak in the tank or from a broken pipe. Either way, if you see water around your hot water heater, you should call a plumber to take a look at it.
8. Your Electric Bills Have Gone Up
If you’ve noticed that your electric bills have gone up recently, it could be due to your hot water heater. An old and inefficient hot water heater can use a lot of energy, which will lead to higher bills. If you’re electric bills have gone up and you can’t figure out why it’s time to replace your hot water heater.
9. Your Gas Bills Have Gone Up
Similarly, if your gas bills have gone up and you can’t figure out why, it might be due to your hot water heater. An old and inefficient hot water heater can use a lot of gas, which will lead to higher bills. If your gas bills have gone up, it’s time to replace your hot water heater.
10. There’s Water on the Floor
If you notice water on the floor around your hot water heater, it’s a cause for concern. This could be due to a leak in the tank or a broken pipe. Either way, if there is water on the floor, you should call a plumber to take a look at it.
Conclusion:
If your hot water heater is more than 10 years old, making strange noises, or not working properly, it’s time to replace it. A new hot water heater can save you money on your energy bills and prevent serious damage to your home.