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Time To Break Up with That Old Water Heater

WHEN IS IT TIME TO REPLACE THE WATER HEATER?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most water heaters last from 10 to 25 years. However, even the best, state-of-the-art water heater won’t last forever. There comes a time to say goodbye.

When a water heater consistently delivers cold (or lukewarm) water or leaks, this could signify that a water heater has reached the end of its life. Homeowners might even consider water heater replacement if they’ve owned their unit for too long.

If one notices these three signs, it might be time to consider a new water heater installation:

THE WATER HEATER IS MORE THAN 15 YEARS OLD

Even though water heaters can last 25 years, that’s not standard. It generally requires thousands of dollars in maintenance fees and countless frustrations to make it to that point. It might feel extravagant getting a new water heater––especially if the old one works fine.

Reasons to consider water heater replacement after years of service include:

  • Safety concerns: Over time, pipes rust, nuts corrode, and other components become obsolete. This can pose many safety risks, from fires to gas leaks.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Old water heaters usually waste more money because they’re not made with cost-effectiveness in mind. Today, that’s changed. Some water heaters even run on solar power, limiting how much homeowners pay in utility fees each month.
  • Improved design: A great water heater 15 years ago might be an “okay” one today. Engineers have created water heaters that don’t use storage tanks, conserving space, time, and money. Tankless water heaters heat water in pipes, not in a tank. Not only are these units cost-effective, but they even last longer than traditional units.

THE WATER HEATER IS CHRONICALLY LEAKING

leaking water heaterOnce a water heater starts leaking, cold showers are the least of a homeowner’s concerns. The bigger concern is flooding, water damage, and mold. Old water heaters typically leak more because they’ve seen more usage. However, it’s not unheard of for newer water heaters to have this problem.

Some common causes of water heater leaks include:

  • An old water tank: An older water tank can rust from the inside, compromising how well it can hold liquid.
  • Too much pressure: If there’s too much pressure inside the water heater, the steam has nowhere to go, which could cause pipes to burst or leak. Signs of too much pressure in a water heater include unusual sounds, like ticking sounds.
  • A loose nut: If a loose nut or pipe connector isn’t secured in place, this could cause water to escape the unit.

There are countless other reasons for leaks than those listed here. A water heater service professional can explain other possible causes.

THE WATER HEATER STRAIGHT UP DOESN’T WORK

technician working on a water heaterFlorida law notes that water heaters cannot get hotter than 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above those parameters is illegal and poses a safety concern. But what about when the water heater just won’t get hot?

In that situation, issues could include the thermostat, water storage tank, and internal water pressure. While cold water temperature is subjective, water less than 70 degrees is considered too cold, as it can cause hypothermia and other conditions.

ABOUT SERVICE PLUMBING, INC.

If looking for a new water heater or need to replace an old one, look no further than Service Plumbing, Inc. These professionals can do it all! Call today for water heater installation in Ocala, FL.

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