You probably don’t think about your water heater at all until it gives up heating. And you’re faced with frigid showers. It works hard to provide your Calgary household with hot water 24 hours a day, and, as expected, it will give out at some point.
Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some clues that yours is nearing the end of its life. Ultimately, how long your water heater will keep running depends on what kind you have and how much it’s running.
Tank Water Heater
Many homes have a tank water heater that retains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continually makes water warm, so it’s always at the correct setting when you desire it. Tank water heaters are bestsellers due to their lower purchase price, but they don’t usually last as long as other types.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to last:
Tank water heaters can stop working due to many troubles, but an oxidized tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special part referred to as an anode rod that clears corrosive fragments from the water. At some point, the rod will rust, and particles will increase at the base of your water heater, corroding the lining in the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much bigger life span than its tank-style equivalents. These water heaters can last as many as 20 years.
Along with working for a greater amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are extremely energy efficient. Rather than storing huge amounts of water that’s heated all the time, a tankless model warms water when you want it. This does away with standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly energy costs.
You might not know this, but heating water accounts for a large chunk of your utility expenses. In fact, it’s the second highest source of energy use in an average residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are pricier than tank water heaters, but they have lifelong energy savings. They are usually 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that holds on to water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Indications Your Water Heater is Wearing Out
Your hot water heater will start to show clues that it’s wearing out. Here’s what to be on the lookout for and when to contact a plumbing professional like A1 Chesney Service Experts.
1. Not Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most frequently encountered symptoms that your water heater is wearing out. You could see hot water running out more quickly, or that it’s taking more time for water to warm up.
2. Leaks
You should call a plumber if you’re noticing water leaks or water pooling near the bottom of your water heater. In some instances you might just need to have connections checked or a part replaced, but it may also be a indication the tank is damaged.
3. Water Isn’t Clear
If you live in a region with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely accustomed to having cloudy water. But if your water suddenly switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metallic, we advise having your water heater examined by a plumber to prevent damaging leaks. Immediate changes in your water clarity means sediment is possibly accumulating in the tank and corroding it.
4. Strange Noises
It’s expected for your water heater to create some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling isn’t normal and is a hint you should get professional support. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and might need additional energy in the process.
A1 Chesney Service Experts Makes Water Heater Replacement Simple
Waiting too long for water heater replacement could lead to that can damage your residence. Also, there’s the inconvenience of lacking warm water. If your water heater is past its prime or showing signs it needs to be replaced, contact our Experts at 587-315-5271 to get a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the ideal decision for your house.