You probably don’t think about your water heater a lot until it quits running. And you’re dealing with frigid showers. It works hard to offer your Roanoke home with heated water around the clock, and, as expected, it will stop working eventually.
Here’s how long your water heater will probably last and some warning signs that yours is wearing out. In the end, how long your water heater will last depends on what model you use and how frequently it’s running.
Tank Water Heater
Most people have a tank water heater that contains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This style constantly makes water warm, so it’s always at the correct setting when you want it. Tank water heaters are popular due to their cheaper price tag, but they don’t usually run as long as other kinds.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to run:
Tank water heaters can quit working as the result of a lot of issues, but a corroded tank is one of the most common. Your water heater has a special component known as an anode rod that clears corrosive particles from the water. At some point, the rod will corrode, and fragments will increase at the bottom of your water heater, corroding the lining within the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much greater life span than its tank-style cousins. These water heaters could last up to 20 years.
In addition to running for a greater amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are very energy efficient. Instead of retaining huge amounts of water that’s heated continuously, a tankless model heats water when you need it. This gets rid of standby heating and the mark it makes on your monthly utility bills.
You might not be aware, but heating up water takes up a big chunk of your energy costs. In fact, it’s the second highest source of energy consumption in a standard residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they provide lifelong energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that holds on to water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Hints Your Water Heater is Wearing Out
Your hot water heater will begin showing hints that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to look for and when to get in touch with a plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
1. Not Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most common signs that your water heater is nearing the end of its life. You might notice heated water getting used up faster, or that it requires extra time to have hot water.
2. Leaks
It’s time to call a plumber if you’re noticing water leaks or water accumulating around the foundation of your water heater. In some instances you could just need to have connections checked or a component replaced, but it may also be a sign the tank is compromised.
3. Water is Cloudy
If you reside in a region with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re probably used to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, you should have your water heater checked by a specialist to stop damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is possibly building up in the tank and corroding it.
4. Odd Noises
It’s normal for your water heater to create some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling isn’t normal and is a hint you need pro support. As sediment builds up in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and may consume additional energy in the process.
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Makes Water Heater Replacement Fast
Waiting too long for water heater replacement could result in that can damage your residence. Not to mention, the annoyance of lacking heated water. If your water heater is old or showing hints it needs to be replaced, reach our Experts at 540-302-8645 to schedule a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the ideal decision for your residence.