How Do I Know When To Replace My Water Heater?

Hot water is a home’s lifeblood — especially in the cold winter months! We use hot water for washing dishes, cleaning and disinfecting, bathing, cooking, and so much more. With the constant demand for hot water, your water heater sees a lot of use. But how do you know when it’s time to retire your old appliance?

3 Common Signs of a Failing Water Heater

Every appliance has a lifespan it will one day reach. Your water heater is no different. Keep an eye out for these signs it may be time to replace your system:

1. Leaking water. A small leak may not seem like a problem, but small leaks can quickly turn larger and cause water damage over time. If your tank is leaking, this is a sure sign you need to contact a professional for repairs right away.
2. Losing hot water. If your home is running out of hot water more quickly than it used to, you may have a problem with your water heater. Sometimes the problems can be a simple fix of adjusting the thermostat, but other times, your heating element may be corroded or covered in mineral deposits, thus blocking the heat from warming your water.
3. Water discoloration. Brown or rusty water can be a sign of corrosion inside the tank, either on the anode rod or the interior of the tank itself. Interior corrosion can be especially dangerous as this can eventually lead your water heater tank to leak, crack, or burst.

Early detection is the best way to prevent major problems with your water heater. Make sure you know how old your appliance is as well as when you’ll likely need to replace it. Drain your tank at least once a year (more if you have especially hard water in your area) and contact a professional plumber if you see any major issues.