You probably don’t think about your water heater much until it stops heating. And you’re facing frigid showers. It works hard to provide your Jacksonville household with warm water 24/7, and, as expected, it will stop working eventually.
Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some hints that yours is nearing the end of its life. Ultimately, how long your water heater will last depends on what model you use and how often it’s running.
Tank Water Heater
Most people have a tank water heater that holds 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type continuously makes water warm, so it’s always at the correct temperature when you want it. Tank water heaters are very common because of their lower purchase price, but they don’t often run as long as other models.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to work:
Tank water heaters can stop working due to a lot of troubles, but a corroded tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special piece known as an anode rod that removes corrosive fragments from the water. Down the road, the rod will corrode, and particles will increase at the bottom of your water heater, rusting out the lining within the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much greater life span than its tank-style counterparts. These water heaters could work up to 20 years.
In addition to working for a greater amount of time, tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient. Instead of storing huge amounts of water that’s reheated continuously, a tankless model warms up water when you need it. This does away with standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly gas and electrical expenses.
You might not realize it, but warming water is a sizeable portion of your energy expenses. In reality, it’s the second highest source of energy consumption in an average residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they provide lasting energy savings. They are typically 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that retains water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Indications Your Water Heater is Dying
Your hot water heater will begin to show clues that it needs to be replaced. Here’s what to look for and when to call a plumbing pro like Air Engineers Service Experts.
1. Not Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most frequently encountered clues that your water heater is wearing out. You could have hot water running out more quickly, or that it requires additional time for water to heat up.
2. Leaks
We recommed calling a plumber if you’re seeing water leaks or water pooling near the bottom of your water heater. In some instances you could just need to have connections checked or a part replaced, but it could also be a sign the tank is damaged.
3. Water Looks White
If you are in a location with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re probably accustomed to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly switches from clear to cloudy or starts smelling metal-like, we advise having your water heater examined by a specialist to avoid damaging leaks. Quick changes in your water clarity means sediment is probably accumulating in the tank and rusting it.
4. Odd Noises
It’s common for your water heater to produce some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling is not normal and is a symptom you should get pro help. As sediment accumulates in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and may consume more energy in the process.
Air Engineers Service Experts Makes Water Heater Replacement Simple
Waiting too long for water heater replacement could result in that can damage your residence. There’s also the irritation of being without heated water. If your water heater is old or showing clues it needs to be replaced, give our Experts a call at 904-450-5672 to request 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.