It’s really important to keep an eye on your water heater and check for any indication that it might not be running as it should. Importantly, if you know the signs you are in a better position to repair or replace parts before the heater breaks down completely. We’ve listed some common indicators below:
1. Lack of Hot Water
Over time, deposits can build up and create a barrier between the burner and the water. This means that less heat reaches the water which is why you may notice a lack of hot water after a while. The longer this is left, the higher your water bill will be and the more likely you will need to fully replace the heater – so this is one you definitely shouldn’t ignore!
2. Discolored Water
If you notice that your water heater is producing discoloured or rusty water, this can be a sign that your water heater is close to failure. Rusty water, in particular, is a sign that the insides of your water heater could be rusting. Cloudy water can also be an indicator of potential problems, such as mineral sediment gathering in the bottom of your tank. You should also pay attention to the scent and taste of the water. A metallic taste or unusual smell are both also signs of mineral sediment gathering at the bottom of your tank, potentially leading to a failing water heater.
3. Noise
Do you ever hear a rumbling, popping or banging noise from your water heater as it heats up? This is another indicator of deposits collecting at the bottom of your tank. It occurs most commonly when your heaters are repeatedly heated and cooled (which also reduces the efficiency of your appliance!). Like the others, this is another indicator that your heater is not running properly, and you should look to call a plumber to replace the damaged parts.
4. Age of Water Heater
Knowing how old your water heater is can be really helpful when it comes to predicting how close your water heater is to failing. You can get this information by taking a look at the serial number on your water heater. A typical serial number begins with a letter that signifies the month in which the appliance was manufactured. A is January, B is February and so on. The two numbers that follow are the year that the heater was made. For example, D13 would mean the heater was manufactured in April 2013. If your water heater is more than 6 years old, it may be more prone to failure, so it could be time to consider purchasing a new one!
If you have any questions or queries about any of the above points or would like to speak with us, please feel free to contact us!
