Is your water heater acting up? Learn more about common issues, and their solutions, to make sure you always have a steady supply of hot water.
Identifying Common Water Heater Problems
Water heaters are essential appliances, but common problems like lack of hot water, inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, and leaks can occur over time, limiting your hot water supply. These issues can stem from causes like sediment build-up, faulty thermostats, or worn-out heating elements. Identifying the root cause of these problems is the first step towards finding a solution.
Regular inspections can help catch these issues early and prevent more significant problems down the line––which means more money saved on big, expensive repairs or replacements. For instance, if you notice a lack of hot water, it could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat or a broken heating element. On the other hand, strange noises might indicate sediment build-up in the tank, which can lead to inefficiency and potential damage. The best course of action is to give Tuckers a call if you’re experiencing any abnormalities.
When Is It Time to Repair Your Water Heater?
Deciding whether to repair your water heater depends on the severity of the problem and the unit’s age. Minor issues, such as a faulty thermostat or heating element, can often be repaired at a relatively low cost. If your water heater is less than ten years old, repairing your unit to maintain its longevity could be the most cost-effective route.
It’s also important to consider the overall condition of the water heater over time. If you’re experiencing frequent breakdowns and declining efficiency, those may be signs that repairs may not be the most budget-conscious solution in the long run.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
While repairs can extend the life of your water heater, eventually replacement may be the better option. Signs that it’s time to replace your water heater include age (typically over 10-15 years old), persistent leaks, and a noticeable decrease in efficiency. Additionally, if your energy bills are rising despite regular maintenance, it may indicate that your water heater is no longer operating efficiently.
Maintenance Tips for Water Heater Longevity
Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the life of your water heater and ensuring it operates efficiently. Here are some steps you can take as a homeowner to stay on top of the health of your water heater:
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment build-up
- Inspect the anode rod every 2-3 years
- Test the pressure relief valve
- Consider setting the thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and reduce energy consumption.
- Schedule annual professional inspections to help identify potential problems early
Choosing the Right Water Heater for Your Home
Factors like household size, usage habits, energy efficiency goals, budget, and space and installation parameters can all help determine the best hot water heater. For example, tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand and are more energy-efficient, making them an excellent choice for households looking to save on energy bills.
Electric
Electric water heaters have a more affordable installation cost than their gas-powered counterparts, and generally require less maintenance over time.
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Gas
Using less energy than electric options, gas water heater installations need a trained professional–and Tuckers has that covered!
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Tankless
Often chosen for its efficiency and on-demand hot water availability, tankless heaters also don’t suffer from ‘standby energy loss’ like a traditional tank does.
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It’s important to evaluate the pros and cons of each type. Give us a call, and our team of expert plumbers can help determine the best option for your home!