Your hot water system is one of the most important appliances in your home, so it’s essential to know when it’s time to replace it. Most hot water systems last between eight and 12 years, but there are ways to tell if your system needs to be replaced sooner.
Knowing how old your water heater is will help you estimate when it needs to be replaced. If it’s more than 10 years old, don’t wait until it’s completely broken before replacing it. This is a good time to replace it. The number of times a water heater system is used can also affect its lifespan. So if a water heater in your holiday home is used less frequently, the 10-year rule may not apply. It’s essential to have the hot water heater system serviced every couple of years to keep it in good condition and last longer. Ironclad Plumbing is an expert in hot water system repairs in the Blue Mountains. They’ve put together a list of 5 signs that it may be time to replace your hot water system:
Table of Contents
The tank has a leak
What you’ll notice: Water running down the wall or pooling.
If your water heater leaks, this is a problem that you need to fix. If you notice a water heater leak or standing water around the unit, take action. Depending on the age and condition of the unit, a leaking tank may require a complete replacement. A small leak in a newer system is less of a concern than a large leak in an older hot water unit. You can often repair the small leak, but the older system with a larger leak may need complete replacement.
There is a problem with the thermostat
What you’ll notice: You are not getting enough hot water when you need it.
If the water temperature of your heater fluctuates, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the unit. In this case, you should first try adjusting the thermostat. If it does not change, you may need to call a plumber. Another factor to consider is whether your unit can provide hot water to more than one source at a time. This is often an issue for families where multiple people use hot water simultaneously (for example, when showering). If you are having trouble with this, it might be worth replacing your current unit with one with a larger capacity.
The tank is corroded
What you’ll notice: discolouration of the water
This is a clear sign it is rusting and nearing the end of its life. To confirm a rusty water tank, you can either examine the water supplied by the heater or manually inspect the tank itself. If you see rust on the tank’s walls, it’s time to replace the unit. However, before you conclude that the rust is coming from the tank, you should check to see if it may be coming from the piping system. Your plumber can check this when servicing the equipment, which is why regular maintenance appointments are necessary.
There are deposits in the tank
What you’ll notice: It’s getting noisy!
If you hear a thumping or rumbling noise coming from your water heater, it may be time to call a plumber. This noise is usually caused by sediment that has built up in the tank and is heating up. Over time, this buildup can cause the heating unit to corrode and affect the proper functioning of the unit. In some cases, you can’t repair the damage.
The drain valve is defective
What you’ll notice: No hot water!
When the hot water valve does not work, it can be a real inconvenience. This is because you will not be able to get any hot water when you need it. This can lead to a lot of frustrating moments, especially when you are trying to get ready for work in the morning.
Fortunately, there are some steps that you can take to try and fix the issue. The first thing that you should do is check to see if the valve is turned on all the way. This is a common issue, and it can be easily fixed by turning the knob a bit further.
If that does not work, then you may want to try cleaning the valve. The buildup of sediment and silt in a hot water system can lead to severe problems. Debris entering the tank can block the drain valve and prevent water from draining. This can lead to leaks and significant damage. To avoid these problems, it is vital to flush out the water regularly and keep the drain valve clear. In some cases, replacing an old hot water system with a new one may be the most cost-effective solution in the long run.
Keep this in mind if you constantly have to call in your local plumber to repair your hot water system. If something is continuously breaking, causing problems, or otherwise giving you trouble, it’s a sign that more problems will arise. In this case, it may be best to replace the part before it causes significant damage or problems.
To be environmentally friendly, you may want to consider a solar or heat pump option when replacing your water heater. These hybrid systems are especially useful in warmer regions, as they can heat water cost-effectively and even run your household appliances if needed. Because water heaters have such a big impact on energy bills, any forward-thinking homeowner will consider this type of home improvement.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing problems with your hot water system, it is important to get them fixed as soon as possible. A broken hot water system can lead to a number of problems, including low water pressure and even water damage. If you are having problems with your hot water system, be sure to call a professional plumber to help you fix it. A professional can help you identify the problem and fix it quickly and efficiently.