Warm water is a necessity for most American households; its availability is key to bathing comfortably, cleaning dishes and clothing effectively, and even washing your hands safely. The appliance responsible for it all easily stays out of sight, out of mind. Until, that is, your water heater fails, leaving you with cold, unsanitized dishes and even colder showers.
At Mr. Rooter Beaumont, we recommend annual maintenance to help keep your water heater in top shape and extend its life. Even with the best of care, however, most water heaters have a lifespan of about 10 years, depending on quality and design. If your water heater is approaching the 10-year mark, watch for these three signs of impending failure:
Odd Noises
Throughout its lifespan, your hot water heater will develop sediment on the base of its tank; over time, sediment builds to the point where it can cause rumbling and popping sounds as the water heats and reheats. Since sediment makes your water heater less efficient—requiring more energy to heat water each time—you may benefit from installing a new, more efficient model. Sediment also causes the metal tank to become more brittle, making it susceptible to cracks and leaks.
Tinted Water
If you notice brown-tinted water coming only from the hot side of your tap, it’s a good indication your water heater may be building up sediment and rust on the interior tank. You can confirm by withdrawing water directly from the tank. A rusty tank will soon become a leaky tank, and you will want to replace it before you have a disastrous leak.
Pooled Water
If you see consistent moisture beneath your water heater, your tank likely has one or more small cracks. However, it’s a good idea to check your other valves and fittings to ensure water is not leaking from other components of your water heater. If they’re dry and you continue to see water beneath the tank, it’s time to replace before the leaks worsen.
If you notice one or more of these signs your water heater is on the brink of failure, contact Mr. Rooter Beaumont as soon as possible to schedule inspection or replacement. We can suggest an efficient tankless or traditional water heater and get your household back up and running in no time.