5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater

When thinking of household appliances, the hot water heater probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind – so it can be hard to keep up with routine maintenance. Don’t wait until you’re standing in a cold shower first thing in the morning to realize that your water heater isn’t working up to par. If you recognize these signs early on, you may be able to avoid a costly flood or unnecessary repair.

Rusty Water

If you turn the water on and see brown or yellow tinted water, it could mean the inside of your water tank has started to rust. Not only is it unsightly, but contaminated water can be dangerous to drink.

Rumbling or Gurgling

Over time, hard sediment can build up in your hot water heater and travel through the pipes. If you hear loud noises coming from the tank, it probably means that sediment has finally come loose. Sediment build up can overwork your heater, cause leaks and damage the lining of your system.

Cold Water

Is the hot water all gone after the first person showers? If you’re running out of hot water quickly or it takes a long time for the water to get hot, it’ll come as no surprise that the first thing you should have looked at is the water heater.

Mold and Mildew

Check the area your heater is stored in every few months. Make a point to look for signs of water damage on the floor or mold in the walls. If you do find mold or mildew, odds are your tank is leaking or overworked.

Age

When deciding on whether to replace your water heater, first consider how old it is. If your heater is older than 15 years and is breaking down regularly, you should think about replacing it altogether. If you’re not sure how old your heater is, most professionals can figure it out based on the make, model and condition.

At Leslie Heating & Cooling, we’re dedicated to keeping you comfortable and helping you save on water heating costs. We are a family-owned and operated business based in Woodridge, Illinois and are here for all of your HVAC emergency needs, heating installation, and maintenance. To learn more, give us a call at (630) 576-9235!