Water heaters don’t work forever. Even one that’s regularly serviced will only last around 8–12 years, on average. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to be knowledgeable about the signs that it’s wearing out. Or else, you might not have warm water for several days while you wait to replace it.

Here are six common signs that your water heater is wearing out.

1. Your Water Heater is Past 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is aging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s needing to be replaced right now, but it does mean you’ll possibly have to install a new one momentarily. As time passes, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it harder for it to warm water. In the end, the sediment will erode the tank and cause the heating parts to malfunction. Corrosion can also lead to water leaks, which may damage your Manassas house.

By getting a new water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient technology. If you select an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you could get additional rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t quit there, because an ENERGY STAR model could save you up to $3,500 on energy over its lifetime.

Switching from a standard tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For residences hat need less than 41 gallons of water daily a tankless water heater is often 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters frequently work for around 20 years, which is about double the life expectancy of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaky

Sometimes leaks are just the result of loose connections, inaccurate pressure or a faulty valve. But they can also be a hint that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. Regardless you’ll need professional help from Fire & Ice HVAC to determine the issue.

3. Water is the Wrong Color

If your typically clear water suddenly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater might be at fault. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has collected in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either case, Fire & Ice HVAC suggests having your water heater checked out by a specialist

4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water

As sediment accumulates in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater needs more energy to create hot water. Due to this, it will require longer for it to warm water, and hot water will run out much more quickly. Both are a hint that your water heater is going out.

To stop sediment from accumulatingin your tank, Fire & Ice HVAC recommends having one of our pros flush it yearly.

5. Water Heater is Making Odd Noises

Like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a sign that sediment has built up in your tank. Sediment makes it more strenuous for the water heater to heat water, leading to the strange sounds. As time goes on, the extra work on your water heater can result in cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Always Having to Have Water Heater Repair

Over its life span, your water heater may have to have little repairs, like valve replacement. But if you’re often contacting Fire & Ice HVAC for assistance or a big part has stopped working, you need water heater installation.

It’s exhausting when your water heater is on the brink of failing or has stopped working. But that’s not the case when you call Fire & Ice HVAC at 703-595-4157 for water heater installation in Manassas. From choosing the right solution for your home and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the entire process uncomplicated. Call us to request your appointment now!