Sunday, August 25, 2013

Signs You Need A Replacement Water Heater

By Brian Winters


A thorough inspection is needed to be able to come up with a decision if your unit needs to be replaced. It is better to draft your plan ahead of time right before your unit stops generating enough hot water. Do you need to use hot water at all times? Do your research to list down the options for your next water heater replacement.

Have you been using your water heater for a long time? Every water heater has different lifespans, depending on what kind you currently use. An electric water heater usually last about 10 to 15 years while a gas-fired unit can last for 8 to 12 year. However, you can extend the life of your water heater through proper care and maintenance. On the other hand, a tankless water heater is expected to last longer than traditional tank units.

Expect your heater to malfunction anytime soon if you fail to maintain it regularly. Some water heaters manage to operate smoothly for 15 to 17 years if they are inspected from time to time. If you don't want to encounter water heater problems in the long run, do not buy a new unit that will not meet your hot water usage.

Check the quality of your water to know if you need an immediate water heater replacement. Excessive sediments can cause the internal tank to corrode, resulting to rusty-colored water with a foul odor. When this happens, your water heater might be on its last legs. If draining the tank won't solve the problem, replace the entire unit instead. Take note that ingesting germ-filled water can cause serious health complications to you and your family.

Check your thermostat settings if you keep on getting varying water temperature. You can change it between 115 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and wait for a while before testing the water. If you think the temperature is already stable, there is no need to adjust the thermostat settings. If the problem persists, replace the thermostat immediately.

Wipe water puddles near the base of your unit to avoid accidents. This moisture may have accumulated if your water heater has been leaking over a period of time. Find the cause of the leak to know how to stop water from dripping. If the leaks are coming from the loose valves and pipes, tighten them with a wrench and use a Teflon tape to wrap around the threading. Unfortunately, leaks coming from the internal tank are beyond any repairs. You are left with no choice but to replace the heating system instead.

Working on your water heater alone gives you an idea how it operates. However, doing it on your own can put your life at risk since a water heater can overheat and blow up if not handled properly. Look for early signs of damage and make sure to install the new water heater correctly to avoid costly repairs.

When unsure, call a water heater specialist for professional help. Ask advice on different units that will best meet your hot water demands. To avoid making a rash decision, start looking for new heaters in the market right before your old one breaks down. Doing this gives you more time to look and shop for the best water heater for your household.




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