A hot water heater can last anywhere from 8-12 years in your home. It will last as long as possible if you pay attention to small signs that there is a problem and get these issues fixed. If your water isn't getting hot enough, or your hot water always seems to run out fast, a number of issues could be causing this to happen. While you can wait until your hot water heater stops working completely, that is only going to leave you with a water emergency at some point in the near future. Getting your tank flushed annually and inspecting your tank for leaks can go a long way in preserving your hot water tank and protecting your home.
When Sediment Builds Up
If you have hard water in your home, sediment can build up pretty fast. If you hear a clanging noise coming from your hot water heater as it tries to heat up the water, this is usually from the sediment hitting the sides of the tank. When there is too much sediment inside, the heating element has to work extra hard to heat up the water. If you get your tank flushed out every year, the sediment will be removed.
Your Hot Water Is Only Warm
When your hot water doesn't get hot enough, or you never have enough to take a shower, something is going wrong with your heating element. Your tank may not be filling up at the right time, or the temperature setting could be off. If you have seen an increase in hot water usage, you may need a new water heater installation to handle the additional usage. If your water is only hot for a few minutes, you will need to have a water heater specialist come and figure out what is wrong.
Water Leaks Around the Tank
If there is corrosion on your hot water heater tank and it has started to leak, it's only a matter of time before the hot water heater needs to be replaced. You may be able to get the heater patched up temporarily, but eventually you will need to have a new water heater installed.
When you hear strange noises, see cloudy or rust colored water, or you don't have the hot water you need, it's time to call for help. You may need to have a new water heater installed so that you don't run into problems without any hot water in the home. Look for a professional, like those at https://www.rbincorporated.com/, for advice.
