Your hot water heater silently serves you year after year; however, they don’t last forever. Knowing when to replace it can save you time, money and potential damage to your home. Here are some tips of what to look for.
The first sign that you need to replace your water heater is its inability to heat the water effectively if at all. If the water is slow to heat or does not get as hot, you may need a new water heater. If outside temperatures are colder, the cooler water may just be the result of the heater having to work harder to heat the water. First try to adjust the heat settings on the heater. If this does not improve the situation, you may need a new heater.
A leaking tank is another sign that you need a new water heater. If the leak is a small drip and it could be fixed with a patch, attempt to fix it yourself but keep an eye on the leak. The patch may come off and the leak could start again. If the leak is large and in need of a welded repair, consult a professional to do the job. The DIY weld could result in further damage.
Corrosion can result from a leak that has been dripping for a long time. This will reduce the efficiency and productivity of a water heater. Corrosion can also make it more difficult to disassemble your water heater to replace one part in hopes of not having to replace the whole unit.
If the age of your water heater is over 10-15 years old, consider replacing the system before it goes bad. The functionality and efficiency of water heaters decline as years of use go by and the poor heating quality could be due to an aged machine. If you are going to replace an old system, replace the pipes that come from the heater as well. This will ensure a high quality heat as the entire system has been replaced.
Newer models are higher efficiency and last longer than older models. Look for the Energy Star label on the appliance’s sticker. Before purchasing a new unit, you need to obtain some information. What type of fuel is needed? Natural gas, electric or propane? Find out what gallon size you will need. Do not buy a water heater that is too big for the space you have and make sure the new unit can fit through the door through which you carry it in the home..
Source: DiscoveryArticles.com
