Don’t wait until disaster to replace your water heater
One of the milestones of adulthood is being on the wrong end of a water heater failure.
Everyone has at least one story about having to replace a water heater: a frigid shower before an unmissable work shift, a flooded apartment, a spontaneous burst of water rushing through the kitchen.
Is it possible to avoid these comically tragic stories? Is it possible to prevent your water heater from dying in dramatic fashion?
The simple answer is yes, most of the time.
We’ve put together a list of the warning signs of a failing water heater to help you avoid a disaster. (Not foolproof)
8 Warning Signs of Potential Water Heater Failure
A simple fix – Low risk water heater problems
- Water heater temperature dial is set to high.
This isn’t so much a sign of your water heater’s imminent demise. But it is expensive and inefficient.
Change the dial to medium. Your water heater will last longer, and your utility bill should decrease.
Better keep an eye on it – Mid-range water heater problems
- Water heater is making noises.
If you hear banging, squealing, cracking, or sizzling noise from your water heater, you either have a plumbing problem or a poltergeist. We can only help you with one of those. Ghostbusting is not in our wheelhouse.
If you can hear your water heater from another room, it’s time to investigate. It’s easier and cheaper to fix a problem in the early stages.
- Noticeably less hot water pressure.
If you’re taking a shower and the water pressure crosses your mind, you probably have a problem. We’re in the plumbing business, and unless there’s a problem we are NOT thinking about the shower’s water pressure.
Whether it’s a sudden drop in pressure, or you notice it over time, have your water heater inspected. It might be an easy fix, or there may be a major problem brewing. Get out in front of it and avoid a water heater disaster.
- Hot water isn’t clear.
Most likely you never think about the clarity of your water, unless it’s colored or murky. And even then, you may not realize that your hot and cold water are flowing through separate pipes.
Your cold water might be crystal clear. But if your water heater is in its last days, your hot water may look cloudy or rusted.
If you notice any abnormal tint in your hot water, check on your water heater. It’s likely telling you that it’s on its way out.
- Run out of hot water quickly.
We all know how miserable a cold shower is. So I doubt I need to tell you this is a bad sign and you need to inspect your water heater.
Running out of hot water during a ten-minute shower is your water heater’s way of telling you goodbye.
Time to start shopping for a new water heater – Major Problems
- Water heater is six-plus years old.
The average lifespan of a standard gas water heater is 10 years.
Check the manufacturer’s sticker on the side of the tank to find out how old it is. There’s no reason to wait for your water heater to fail before you replace it.
Call us to find out about pricing, available rebates, and installation times. Make a plan to replace your water heater before it quits working.
- Chalky buildup on pipes and/or fittings around your water heater.
Corrosion is a chalky green, white, or rust-colored buildup on your pipes or connectors. If you see it, have your water heater inspected as soon as possible.
- Water is actively leaking from your water heater.
Is there discoloration on the walls or ceiling near your water heater? Visible rings or discoloration of the ceiling or drywall could point to a water heater leak.
A leaky water heater is cause for concern and quick action. Even a small leak can cause significant, costly damage.
What should you do if you are concerned about the health of your water heater?
- Inspect your water heater yourself using our 8-item checklist.
Determine the health of your water heater yourself.
- Call us at (925) 315-8051 to schedule your free inspection and we’ll do it for you.
I’ll send one of my technicians out to take a look at your tank(s), answer your questions, and give their honest, professional opinion about whether you’re at risk. No pressure. No obligation. I will not sell you a water heater you don’t need or want.
It’s too easy to close this tab and tell yourself you will check on your water heater later.
Do not wait. Inspecting your water heater yourself or scheduling a free inspection with us will take less than 20 minutes and cost nothing.
Waiting could cost you thousands of dollars in damage, hours on the phone with insurance, and the inconvenience of repairs.
Find out how healthy your water heater is. Gain a little peace of mind by dealing with it now.
Don’t let your water heater fail before you replace it.
