Does Your Water Heater Need to be Replaced?

The average water heater lasts about 10 to 15 years. To extend the life and efficiency of your hot water heater, regularly flushing the hot water heater tank can go a long way.  In time, parts can start to corrode or a buildup of minerals can begin to form.  The buildup of minerals causes the unit’s efficiency to decline.  Here are a few warning signs that could indicate that your water heater needs to be replaced.

1. Check the hot water coming out of the faucet.  If it appears to look rusty, that’s a signal your water heater is on the decline.
2. Attach a hose to the water heater drain, turn off the water heater and drain it so you can examine its contents.  Muddy water or evidence of sediment is another sign that it’s going bad.
3. If you notice that the hot water has a metallic taste or smell, this is another warning sign.
4. Listen for any noises that your water heater is making.  There are normal sounds of the water heater, but if you hear loud cracks and/or pops, that’s an indicator once again that it’s time for a replacement water heater.
5. If you see any leaking or puddles of water around the water heater tank that you’ve never seen before, this indicates internal failure of the water heater.  Turn off the gas or electricity and let the water cool down before replacing the water heater.

Please contact John Rodarte directly at (503) 501-5514 if you would like any additional information, questions answered or a free home appraisal.