Sleepily stepping into a shower early in the morning only to get a face full of ice-cold water isn’t fun. Homeowners who’ve experienced this know it’s time to replace the hot water heater immediately. But, there are other, more subtle signs the water heater is starting to wear out that can help a family avoid this scenario.
The tank is getting old
Many manufacturers and plumbing companies recommend that an Electric Hot Water Heater in Sparks be replaced once it’s 10 to 15 years old. With regular maintenance, an electric or gas hot water heater can last as long as twice that long. Most don’t, however, because they aren’t maintained properly.
Leaks and corrosion appear
A hot water tank that shows signs of corrosion, including rust in the water, is one that has reached the end of its useful life. The tank that is beginning to rust or corrode can’t be repaired but, instead, must be replaced. Likewise, a leaking tank is a problem that usually can’t be fixed. It instead must be replaced.
Water isn’t getting hot
Water heaters don’t always suddenly stop working. Instead, they start having trouble heating water to the desired temperature or providing enough hot water for a family’s needs. When this happens, the problem might be traced to faulty heating elements or thermostat problems. These issues might be solved with a repair rather than replacement but, if the heater is older, replacement is likely a better option.
The problem, however, might simply be that the hot water heater isn’t large enough for the demands put on it. A larger family that has moved into a home recently owned by a retired couple, for example, may find that the water heater works well for two people but can’t handle the demands of a family of five or six. In this case, a replacement hot water heater is a necessity.
Families are also looking for more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly home appliances. An Electric Hot Water Heater in Sparks that saves energy offers cost savings as well. Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling in the Reno area can help homeowners determine whether their water heaters should be repaired or replaced.