The average person uses the hot water produced from the water heater in their home around 20 times every day. Water heaters are made to withstand this type of usage and wear and tear for around a decade, but they do not last forever. However, there are ways that you can determine if your water heater is ready to be replaced other than just considering its age.
1. Water and Inlet Valve That Are Rust Colored
When the pressure relief valve or water inlet on your water heater appears to have rust on it, the rust has likely already spread to the inside of your tank. If your hot water starts to stain your sink and bathtub fixtures with a yellow, orange, or red residue or film after several uses, you likely have rust present on the inside of your water heater. Old galvanized pipes can also cause rusty water, so draining several buckets of water directly from your water heater can help you determine where the rust is originating. Once rust has spread inside of the water heater tank, it will need to be replaced.
2. Noise Being Made by The Water Heater
A new water heater tends to make minimal noise that should be unnoticeable as it heats your water. After it has been used for several years, the water heater can incur a buildup of sediment at the bottom of its tank. This sediment becomes harder and thicker as the water heater reheats water over and over again. When enough sediment has accumulated, it causes the tank to make a noticeable creaking or rumbling sound if it is located inside of your home. Noise coming from your water heater means that it is a ticking time bomb for cracks and or leaks in the immediate future, requiring replacement.
3. Leak on The Water Heater
As your water heater ages, you may notice the pooling of water on the floor or in the tray that sits underneath your tank. Water heater tanks are produced with metal that can become weak after hundreds of thousands of water heating cycles. Weakened walls in the water heater tank can cause a general expansion of the metal, allowing for small fractures to form. Small fractures in the tank can hold water without leaking when the water heater is idle. However, the fracture will leak small amounts of water when the metal walls of the tank expand during the peak of each heating cycle. A leaky water heater indicates that it is time to be replaced.
Replacing Your Water Heater
Water heater removal and replacement not only involves handling an expensive appliance but also involves working with two of the most critical systems in your home. It is important to seek professional help when you need a water heater replacement because any mishaps involving your plumbing and or electrical systems can be dangerous and catastrophic to your home.
At Beis Plumbing, our experienced and skilled technicians can efficiently and safely provide you with a water heater replacement in St. Louis, MO.
Reach out to Business Name if you are in need of a water heater replacement in St. Louis, MO, by visiting website url.