Having no hot water is a major inconvenience. Having no hot water in the winter is just devastating. Having a cold shower during the winter or washing dishes in ice cold water is just unbearable. To avoid losing hot water during the winter, it helps to identify the signs that your water heater is failing. You may be able to repair or replace the hot water heater before it fails. Absolute P&M Services will share some of the warning signs that your water heater is about to fail so you can seek plumbing services in a timely manner.
Age of Water Heater
Nothing will last forever, and that is true when it comes to water heaters. A decent and even well maintained water heater on average will last about ten years. Water heaters that are exposed to hard water don’t even last that long. Hard water can reduce the life of a water heater by half. The only way to prevent erosion due to hard water is to use water softeners. If you have hard water, expect a water heater to last between 5 to 8 years. If you use a water softener and maintain your water heater, an old water heater will last about ten years. If you have an old water heater, you will want to have it inspected and serviced. Often the tank is drained out, and the tank is treated for minerals. Additionally, other components are checked and replaced such as the heating element. During an inspection, the plumber will be able to determine the longevity of the water heater. If the water heater is at the end of its life, you can begin making the needed steps to have the water heater replaced.
Leaking Water Heater
When a water heater develops a leak, even a small one, this is definitely a reason for concern. Leaks, even a slow drip, can cause major water damage. However, a leak is also a sign of a worn connection, corrosion, and high pressure. When the water heater develops a leak, it’s important to have it inspected. If the leak is repaired quickly enough, it can prevent a more severe scenario. When a plumber or the technician comes out, they will check the connection or the site of the leak. They will also check the water pressure. If the leak is coming from the tank, often it’s time to replace the water heater.
Rusty or Cloudy Water Color
When using the hot water and you notice that the water is a rusty or a cloudy color, this could be a problem either from the water heater or from the pipe. Rust can develop inside the pipe or within the water heater. When rust develops, you may even see tiny rust particles or the water may have a metallic odor. When you can smell a metallic odor of have discolored hot water, you will need to investigate the problem. You will want to drain the hot water tank and see if the water is discolored. If the tank’s water is clean, then the pipe has begun to rust and corrode. When the pipes rust they will develop leaks. Have the pipe replaced to ensure you do not go without hot water.
Plumbing Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
With proper maintenance you can extend the life of your hot water heater. When your hot water heater begin to show signs of failure and needs repair or replacement, Absolute P&M Services can help. We provide plumbing, heating and cooling services. To schedule our services contact Absolute P&M Services today.
