Leaking Water Heater

6 Signs Your Water Heater Needs to be Repaired or Replaced

The water heater provides a constant supply of hot water when you need it. Without a proper water heater, you would be forced to heat water manually, resulting in a lot of time, effort, and energy wasted. That is why you must look after your water heater unit to ensure it is always functional and in good structural condition. One way of achieving this is by scheduling repair and replacement services whenever they are due. 

But first, you will have to identify the issues affecting your unit. The following are common signs your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced.

1. Old Age

Old age is a common sign you need gas water heater repair or replacement. As years go by, water heating systems experience wear and tear, which gradually decreases their efficiency and results in more repair issues. Alternatively, it would help to replace your unit if it has surpassed its designated lifespan. Generally, the average lifetime of a water heater is 10 years, so you should have your system replaced if it has been running for more than a decade.

2. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is another sign your water heater needs repair or replacement. A partially opened valve always causes low water pressure. The issue can also result from narrowing pipes, a major blockage, or a significant leak. Professionals may recommend a quick gas water heater repair if the issue causing the low pressure is minor. Moreover, replacement may be the best option if the cause is widespread.

3. Hot Water Leaks

Hot water leakage is a serious issue that can result in many adverse outcomes if not fixed quickly. Water leaks can damage property and result in increased utility bills due to energy and water wastage. Therefore, you need to have your tankless water heater patched up or replaced whenever you notice a leak. Scheduling regular inspection and maintenance for your heater is even better if you want to prevent leaks.

4. Strange Noises

A water heater is designed to operate with a low-pitched sound. That said, a system producing strange noises clearly indicates that it is faulty and needs repair or replacement. Banging noises in your water heater are often caused when water is forced to stop or change direction abruptly, causing a pressure surge in the system. This issue can burst the pipe and make your heater deformed.

Other common disturbing sounds that your water heater may produce include:

  • Screeching noises because of restricted water flow
  • Ticking sounds as a result of loose straps
  • Crackling noises caused by sediment build-up

5. Rusty Hot Water

Does your hot water come out of the facets with a reddish-brown color? Is the hot water also smelly? If the water is discolored and stinking, your heating system is probably corroded and needs urgent repair or replacement services. While water heater tanks have a lining to prevent corrosion, wear, and tear over the years can deteriorate the layer, leaking rusty sediments into your water. The decision to repair or replace your heater will come down to the extent of the corrosion. Water heater replacement is the best option if the corrosion is extensive.

6. Gas Leaks

Gas leakage from your water heater is another sign the unit needs repair or replacement. In fact, gas leaks are dangerous because they can cause explosions, leading to property damage and injuries. Symptoms of a gas leak from the water heater include the smell of rotten eggs or sulfur and hissing sounds near the unit. Another sign is visible damage to the gas line. Whatever the sign, contacting plumbers to diagnose and fix the issue is the best way to avoid costly gas accidents.

Contact Water Heater Professionals

Having your water heater repaired, replaced, and maintained is critical to ensuring it stays in good condition and supplies hot water whenever needed. At Rockwater Plumbing, we specialize in a wide range of water heater services to ensure you always have a constant hot water supply. Our highly trained plumbers guarantee superior-quality work to meet all your repair and replacement needs. We also offer service warranties to stand behind our work.

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