Any homeowner who has endured a cold shower due to a malfunctioning water heater knows the value of early detection when it comes to equipment failure. Read on as our experts at Linn Benton Plumbing explore unmistakable signs that your hot water heater may be on the brink and why recognizing these signals is crucial for smooth household operation.
LACK OF HOT WATER
The most obvious red flag is a sudden reduction in your hot water supply. This could manifest as a complete loss of hot water or instances where the water is only tepid, pointing to heating elements that are no longer performing optimally. If you’ve ascertained that the issue isn’t caused by a faulty thermostat, it’s time to call in the professionals to confirm whether a new water heater installation is in order.
UNUSUAL NOISES AND VIBRATIONS
Water heaters aren’t exactly known for being silent, but there’s a clear difference between the standard operation sounds and ones that spell trouble. Grumbling, popping, or banging noises often hint that sediment has hardened in the tank, potentially causing the overheating of the water. A broken hot water heater is not something you can procrastinate on, and ignoring issues can possibly result in flooding and damage to your home.
RUSTY WATER
If your hot water starts coming out with a reddish tinge, it could be a sign that your water heater is rusting from the inside. More often than not, this is an indication that the tank is deteriorating and will need to be replaced soon. Corrosion in water heater tanks is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including age and mineral deposits.
AGE OF THE WATER HEATER
While it’s not a definite indicator, the age of your water heater can also be a strong predictor of impending failure. On average, water heaters have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If your heater is nearing or past this range, it’s essential to keep a close eye on its performance and consider getting it inspected by professional water heater services.
Linn Benton Plumbing is the certified team you can count on, whether for exceptional water heater repair in Lebanon, OR or a complete replacement of your existing unit. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
