5 Signs That You Need a New Water Heater

Is your hot water heater nearing the end of its lifespan? Ignoring these common signs of trouble could leave you dealing with thousands of dollars in water damage caused by a tank burst. Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to upgrade.

1. The water heater is old

Most tank water heaters last between 10 and 15 years, and tankless models often last about 20 years. If your water heater hasn’t been replaced in more than a decade, it may be time to look for a replacement. Check the age of your water heater by checking the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker near the top or checking the manufacturer’s website for more information.

2. The hot water comes out rusty

If your hot water comes out brown, it could mean the inside of your water heater is rusting. If the water picks up the corrosion in the tank, it can appear rusty and taste metallic. Another potential culprit is the anode rod in the heater, which is designed to attract the corrosive elements in water. These rods corrode easily and need to be replaced occasionally. Have a professional inspect the unit to determine if the rust is coming from the rod or the tank itself.

3. Puddles often form around the heater

Leaks are a bad sign, and slight fractures could be caused by a few things. Corrosion inside the tank could eat away at the metal, causing a leak. The fracture could also be a result of the metal tank expanding and contracting with heat over time. Small leaks may not seem like an urgent issue, but even the tiniest fractures put you at risk of a serious tank burst that could cause damage to your home.

4. You don’t have enough hot water

Do you often suffer through half-cold showers? Whether someone in your house uses all the hot water or any hot water is scarce, it’s time to get a water heater that can keep up with your needs. Water heaters get less efficient at heating water over time, and sediment buildup can decrease the tank’s capacity. Sediment also separates the water from the heat sources necessary to warm it.

5. The heater makes rumbling noises

The sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank eventually hardens as it’s heated and reheated over and over again. This could cause the rumbling or banging noises you’re hearing. A professional could potentially remove a new buildup before it causes more damage, but it’s better to replace the whole unit if it’s been there for a few years.

Ready to replace your outdated hot water heater? Get an ENERGY STAR®-certified natural gas storage or tankless water heater. ENERGY STAR models are independently tested to use less energy than standard units while still providing the performance you expect.

Pensacola Energy offers up to $1,200 in rebates when you add a new natural gas water heater to your home. For details, call 850-436-5050 of visit pensacolaenergy.com.