How to Get the Most out of Your Current Water Heater
The life of a storage tank water heater is about 8 to 12 years. That number can grow depending on usage, maintenance, and water conditions. Regular maintenance can go a long way, but very few homeowners maintain their water heaters. There are two basic steps in maintaining a water heater. The tank should be drained of any sediment at least once a year, but twice is preferred if you have hard water.
When water heats up inside the tank, minerals within the water naturally separate from the water molecules and start to settle at the bottom of the tank. This residual buildup of minerals, over longer periods, forms a sedimentary layer. This layer acts as an insulator between the water and the heating element, reducing efficiency. While some professionals suggest replacing your water heater every ten years, Proper maintenance can add 3 to 5 years to your heater.
Replace or Inspect Your Anode Rod Every 3 to 5 Years
The frequency of the anode rod replacement would depend on several factors, such as the quality of the water, the frequency of usage of the water heater, and even the type of anode rod fitted. In general, we suggest inspecting it and replacing it every 3 to 5 years or when necessary. The anode rod is a rod that goes inside the interior of the water heater. The rod protects the inside steel walls of the tank by attracting minerals and sediment. The anode rods used for protection are made from either magnesium or aluminum. Magnesium is especially good at giving up electrons much easier than aluminum anodes.
Should I Replace My Water Heater Because It’s Over 12 Years Old? It’s Still in Good Shape!
Of course not! If your water heater is more than 12 years old and in good working condition, hold on to it. In fact, many water heaters can operate well over their estimated lifetime with reasonable maintenance. Older units, on the other side, are definitely way more susceptible to sudden problems related to leaks or efficiency. Consider replacing it if you find increasing energy bills, inconsistent water temperatures, or if there is any rust anywhere on the tank. If it is well taken care of and provides adequate hot water, get the most out of it.
Is it Best to Replace a Heater if It’s Rusty and Leaks?
If a water heater is showing signs of rust or leaking, it’s often best to consider replacing it. Rust inside the tank indicates corrosion, which weakens the structure and can lead to more frequent leaks or even tank failure. Leaks themselves are usually a sign that the inner tank has deteriorated, and patching these leaks often provides only a temporary solution. A replacement ensures you have a safe, efficient unit that won’t risk water damage to your home. Also, a new heater offers more reliable hot water and potential energy savings.
Do I Have to Buy a New Heater Because it No Longer Has Hot Water, or Can I Have It Repaired?
If your water heater has stopped serving you with hot water, you might not need to replace it. Depending on the cause, repairs can be a very good option. Sometimes, a malfunctioned thermostat, a burned-out heating element, or even an accumulation of sediments is what is stopping the unit from heating properly, and these parts can often be repaired or replaced at lower costs. In the case of an older heater or one that would involve extensive and costly repairs, a new unit would be more practical in terms of long-term reliability and efficiency. A professional can help determine whether repair or replacement is best based on the problem at hand.
I Have Rust-Colored Water Coming From My Heater. Do I Need to Replace it?
Rust-colored water coming out of your water heater may mean corrosion inside the tank itself. Most older, poorly maintained water heaters are susceptible to internal corrosion. While some rusty water can be delivered from pipes, usually consistent rust-colored water from the heater indicates the tank itself is deteriorating. Once the process of corrosion sets in, it’s usually self-accelerating, further increasing risks of leaks and tank failure. Most of the time, we advise replacing the old water heater in order to have safe and clean water without the risk of unexpected breakdown.
Noise is Coming From my Water Heater. What Could Be Wrong?
Noises such as popping, rumbling, or banging coming from a water heater are commonly caused by the accumulation of sediment at the bottom of the tank. What happens is that minerals in the water settle down over time and create a layer of sediment at the bottom of the tank. When the heater heats up, some water is caught between the sediment and the bottom of the tank. Eventually, it turns into steam and creates the noises you hear coming from your heater. The solution to such noises is simply flushing the sediment out of the tank. However, if the noises continue, it may indicate that such buildup has hardened or that the tank is getting old. In this case, replacement might be a better option.
What is Causing Low Water Pressure in My Heater?
Low water pressure from your water heater can result from a few common issues. Sediment buildup is a primary cause, as minerals settle at the bottom of the tank over time, restricting water flow. Corroded or clogged pipes can also narrow the flow of hot water, especially if the pipes are older or have mineral deposits. A partially closed or faulty shut-off valve on the water heater can reduce pressure as well. In some cases, a broken dip tube, which is responsible for directing cold water to the bottom of the tank, can mix cold and hot water, lowering pressure. Regular maintenance, like flushing the tank and checking the shut-off valve, can often improve water pressure.
Fixing it Can be The Smart Choice
The age of your heater, how bad the problems are, and how much the repairs cost could be the basis if you need to replace or repair your water heater. If your water heater is less than ten years old and the repairs are minor, then fixing it can be the smart choice to extend its life and save some bucks. Balancing the possible benefits of a new, more efficient unit against these does, however, make sense. If in doubt, get a second opinion from a professional that you trust. A qualified plumber can provide insight into your heater’s condition and will assist in making a well-rounded decision that balances short-term savings against long-term reliability and efficiency.
MVP Plumbers is located in the Inland Empire and covers Temecula, Menifee, French Valley, Lake Elsinore, and other surrounding cities. If you have questions or comments about this article, send us an email at [email protected].
