Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater?
The decision to replace household systems is straightforward for the most part. With a furnace, once you’ve determined that you need a new one, all you have to do is call your local HVAC company to find out the cost of a new furnace and it’s smooth sailing from that point forward. With water heaters, however, things aren’t usually as clear cut. Water heater tanks can hide a lot of problems, and once these problems surface it’s often too late for repairs.
Like most home appliances, water heaters typically have a set number of service years before they ultimately succumb to normal wear and tear. It’s always a good idea to call a professional plumber for routine inspections to prevent sudden problems, but there are some signs you should watch out for on your own as well. Here are a few of them from our experts at Countryside Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
Hot Water Levels Falling
Have you noticed that you’ve been running out of hot water faster than usual? This issue is typically caused by a broken dip tube inside the tank. In a pinch, this can be repaired w9th a call to an emergency plumber; however, be aware that this is a sure sign that your water heater is nearing the end of its life span.
Decreased Heating Capacities
Hot water tanks will typically have two thermostats: one near the top of the unit and one near the bottom. The top thermostat should always be around 120 degrees. Check the thermostat regularly and make note of any dips in the performance of your water heater.
Odd Noises From Inside the Tank
Over time, sediment and minerals can build up inside the tank walls. This can slowly warp the tank material and cause settling noises ranging from small popping sounds to loud banging noises. If your water heater is making more noise than usual, call your plumber for a quick inspection, but be prepared for a possible replacement soon.
We Can Help You Find a Water Heater That’s Perfect for Your Needs
You can either replace your water heater with an identical unit or take the opportunity to upgrade. Either way, our skilled plumbers at Countryside Plumbing & Heating will be more than happy to help you choose and install one. We’re your number one provider of long-lasting water heaters as well as high-efficiency furnace systems. Give us a call at (715) 246-2660 or fill out our contact form to schedule a service visit and request a free estimate today.
