Signs Your Water Heater is on Its Last Legs

Have you ever woken up to take a warm shower just to find someone had already used the hot water? If your water heater breaks down, that experience could last a while. It also hampers your ability to cook, wash dishes, do your laundry, and complete other daily activities.

It’s essential to know the warning signs that your water heater may be breaking down. Along with leaks and puddles near your water heater, use the following tips to determine if it’s time to have your water heater serviced or repaired:

• Age. Most water heaters have a life expectancy of 6-12 years; if it’s been a decade since its installation, it may be time to retire the machine before it does so itself.
• Temperature and Pressure. While minor temperature and water pressure changes may be caused by something else, it’s usually a sign that the water heater is nearing the end of its days or needs servicing.
• Discoloration. Water discoloration is usually caused by one of two things: a faulty anode rod or the interior of the tank corroding due to age. Both problems cause sediment to be stirred in the tank, leading to discolored water.
• Exterior. If you’re noticing rust or corrosion on the body of your water heater, chances are the same thing is happening on the inside, or it’s nearing that point.
• Energy Bill. Like other appliances around the house, as your water heater ages, it takes more energy to keep it running efficiently. Sudden spikes in your energy consumption, especially during typical months, can be a telltale sign of your heater being on the fritz.

If you have questions about the status of your water heater or think it might need replacing, call Atlas Butler Plumbing at 1-800-FURNACE. Yes. Even for Plumbing.

One of our licensed plumbers will come to your home, inspect your water heater, and then you can go from there. You can also schedule an appointment online and choose the date and time that works best for you. We offer hot water repair and if the cost to fix your existing appliance is inefficient, we offer water heater installation for homes in Central Ohio.