Telltale Signs of a Failing Water Heater

Homeowners rarely notice when their tankless or traditional water heater nears the end of its service life. But when the seasons change and the temperatures drop, you’ll be glad you paid attention to the signs. Brian Wear Plumbing highlights some symptoms that your water heater is on its last legs.

1. Gurgling

If you hear gurgling or chugging sounds coming from your water heater, it’s probably in the beginning stages of failure. This is because the water heater is working harder to keep the water hot. If you hear this, it’s time to arrange a water heater repair in Columbia, MO.

2. No Hot Water

Have you experienced a time or two when the hot water is out? You get in the shower, turn the knob, and find that the water is lukewarm at best. While it’s annoying, it happens frequently. Although even the most well-maintained water heater can fail, regular maintenance can extend its lifespan. If lacking hot water in your home becomes the norm, it might be time to consider a water heater replacement.

3. Rusty, Muddy, or Smelly Water

Sediment buildup causes muddy water, while corrosion causes a metallic taste in the water. Meanwhile, a rotten egg smell indicates that you should replace the anode rod in the storage tank. Depending on the extent of these problems, your reliable plumber in Columbia, MO may still be able to restore your water heater with a few fixes and cleanups. If your unit is old, however, it may be more practical to install a new one.

4. Leaks

A leaking water heater may be caused by a faulty temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve. This valve is responsible for regulating pressure in the unit when the temperature or pressure gets too high. The problem can be fixed by replacing the TPR valve as soon as possible to prevent a possible explosion.

Another cause of leaks is corrosion within the tank, as it can cause cracks and fractures in the long run. This is a clear sign that a replacement is in order. Consider choosing a tankless water heater for better long-term benefits like energy savings and a longer lifespan.

Often, you can prevent your water heater from failing before it’s too late. Instead of waiting for it to show failure symptoms, you can be proactive and plan regular maintenance checks.

Brian Wear Plumbing can help with all your plumbing needs, including water heater installation. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.

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