Nothing feels better than a warm shower at the end of a long day. However, you won’t get to enjoy a long, warm shower if your water heater is near the end of its life span. Instead of waiting until the spring or summer, make time this winter to invest in a new water heater. You’ll be able to enjoy the winter holidays better knowing that your new water heater will stand up to the extra use of visitors and family members taking showers and washing their hands more.
Signs of a Dying Water Heater
Your water heater won’t last forever, regardless of the model. Tankless water heaters will only last 20 years. However, tank water heaters have a life span of half that. If you have never replaced the water heater in your home, it could be time to purchase a new model.
Aside from age, your water heater will also show other signs that it is nearing the end of its usefulness. First, you may find that water does not seem to get as hot, regardless of the temperature that you set the water heater to. If you find that you must keep adjusting the water heater temperature up, the problem is likely a water heater that has calcium and other minerals built-up on its heating element, reducing its efficiency.
Next, you may hear unusual sounds from the water heater or notice leaks. These can also come from mineral deposits inside the water heater that can break off as the water heats.
Lastly, discolored hot water is a sure sign that something in your water heater tank has gone amiss and you should have the tank evaluated by a plumber or replaced.
What a New Water Heater Will Fix
When you get a new water heater, you will enjoy water that heats to the desired temperature. Plus, both tankless and tank models tend to be more energy-efficient today than those sold in decades past. However, if you choose a tankless water heater, you could save up to 50% on your energy costs for heating water.
What a New Water Heater Cannot Do
A new water heater will solve the problems of not getting hot water, but these appliances will not do everything. For instance, tankless water heaters give you warm water quickly. But they do not provide instant hot water at every tap. For instant hot water, you should consider a hot water dispenser that includes a small water heater that serves only that faucet. Hot water must still travel through the plumbing from the water heater to the fixture. So, even tankless water heaters will require a little time before your shower has hot water flowing.
Contact Plumbing Concepts for a New Water Heater or Service of Your Existing Model
If you have a water heater that is showing signs of aging, you may only need to have it repaired. However, in some cases, you will need a replacement. The best way to find out is to have one of our professionals come to your home and evaluate your appliance. If you need a replacement, you can choose a traditional or tankless model for your new water heater.
Contact us at Plumbing Concepts to schedule a visit. With a new water heater, you can enjoy hot water throughout the winter and into the new year.
