The 7 Signs of a Bad Hot Water Heater
A hot water heater is one of those things we take for granted. Most people never think about it until it fails. When it fails, though, it will really get your attention in one way or another. No hot water means no hot showers. And, if your heater has developed a significant leak, as do other appliances like refrigerators, there will be a lot of water to mop up. You can save yourself a big headache if you pay attention to your heater from time to time.
Here Are Some Indicators That You Might Have a Bad Water Heater
1Is your hot water heater over ten years old? The average lifespan for a heater is about ten years, so if it is older than that it may soon fail.
2Is your hot water rusty or cloudy? Neither is a good sign. Rust is a sign of corrosion. Cloudy water is a sign of accumulating deposits within the tank.
3If your heater is taking longer to replenish your supply of hot water, this can be a sign that it is nearing the end of its useful life.
4Taste your hot water.
If it tastes metallic, the heater may break down soon.
5The noises made by your heater can tell you a lot. There will always be some normal noise as the water heats, but if you are hearing cracks and pops, then the heating elements are interacting with a build up of mineral deposits.
6Corrosion on the outside of your tank likely means there is corrosion on the inside as well. Look for corrosion toward the bottom of the tank. Sometimes it hides.
7A leak under the tank is serious and requires immediate attention. If you find a leak, you’ll need to get service as soon as possible. Always be careful around water and electrical outlets.
All of these things can help you know if you have a bad hot water heater. Nobody enjoys having to pay for a new tank, but it is far better to plan ahead than to wait until it fails completely. You don’t want that kind of major inconvenience.
As always, we stand ready to help when your appliances start to fail. If your hot water heater shows signs of giving out on you, contact us and we will assess the situation for you and replace the heater if necessary before you experience a major headache. We are local and we are here to help.
