You probably don’t think about your water heater much until it stops heating. And you’re faced with chilly showers. It works hard to provide your Edmonton home with hot water 24 hours a day, and, unsurprisingly, it will eventually wear out.
Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some warning signs that yours is nearing the end of its life. Ultimately, how long your water heater will keep working depends on what model you use and how much it’s on.
Tank Water Heater
The majority of households have a tank water heater that holds 40 to 50 gallons of water. This kind continually makes water warm, so it’s always at the proper temperature when you desire it. Tank water heaters are very common because of their lower price tag, but they don’t often last as long as other models.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to run:
Tank water heaters can fail as the result of many troubles, but a rusted tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special piece known as an anode rod that removes corrosive fragments from the water. At some point, the rod will corrode, and fragments will accumulate at the foundation of your water heater, corroding the lining inside the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much longer life expectancy than its tank-style equivalents. These water heaters may last as long as 20 years.
In addition to working for a greater amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are very energy efficient. Instead of storing large amounts of water that’s heated all the time, a tankless model warms up water on demand. This eliminates standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly gas and electrical bills.
You might not know this, but heating up water takes up a sizeable piece of your energy expenses. In actuality, it’s the second biggest source of energy use in an average home, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are higher priced than tank water heaters, but they have long-term energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that retains water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Indications Your Water Heater is Going Bad
Your hot water heater will start showing clues that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to watch and when to get in touch with a plumbing specialist like Rob's Albertan Service Experts.
1. Not Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most typical signs that your water heater needs to be replaced. You could notice hot water getting used up more quickly, or that it’s taking extra time to have hot water.
2. Leaks
We recommed calling a plumber if you’re experiencing water leaks or water accumulating by the bottom of your water heater. In some instances you may just need to have connections secured or a part replaced, but it may also be a indication the tank is damaged.
3. Water Isn’t Clear
If you are in an area with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re typically used to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly changes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling like metal, we advise having your water heater inspected by a professional to stop damaging leaks. Immediate changes in your water clarity means sediment is probably building up in the tank and rusting it.
4. Strange Noises
It’s expected for your water heater to make some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling is not normal and is a symptom you should call for pro help. As sediment builds up in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and may consume additional energy in the process.
Rob's Albertan Service Experts Makes Water Heater Replacement Easy
Procrastinating water heater replacement puts you at risk of leaks that can damage your residence. Also, there’s the irritation of being without hot water. If your water heater is old or showing signs it needs to be replaced, reach our Experts at 780-800-9047 to request a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the best decision for your house.