You usually don’t think about your water heater at all until it stops working. And you’re dealing with frigid showers. It works hard to provide your Calgary home with heated water 24/7, and, unsurprisingly, it will give out at some point.
Here’s how long you can expect your water heater to last and some hints that yours is needing to be replaced. In conclusion, how long your water heater will keep working depends on what type you rely on and how much it’s running.
Tank Water Heater
Many households have a tank water heater that contains 40 to 50 gallons of water. This type constantly heats water, so it’s always at the proper setting when you need it. Tank water heaters are bestsellers due to their cheaper price tag, but they don’t usually run as long as other models.
Here’s how much time you can expect yours to last:
Tank water heaters can stop working due to a lot of issues, but a rusted tank is one of the most frequent. Your water heater has a special component referred to as an anode rod that draws corrosive grit from the water. At some point, the rod will corrode, and particles will build up at the bottom of your water heater, corroding the lining inside the tank.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater has a much greater life expectancy than its tank-style counterparts. These water heaters may run as many as 20 years.
Along with lasting longer, tankless hot water heaters are extremely energy efficient. As opposed to storing huge amounts of water that’s heated all the time, a tankless model heats water when you want it. This eliminates standby heating and the effect it has on your monthly gas and electrical expenses.
You might not be aware, but warming up water is a sizeable piece of your heating and cooling expenses. In actuality, it’s the second largest source of energy consumption in an average residence, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank water heaters, but they offer lifelong energy savings. They can be 24% to 34% more efficient than a water heater that holds on to water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
4 Signs Your Water Heater is Going Bad
Your hot water heater will start to show clues that it’s dying. Here’s what to keep an eye out for and when to call a plumbing pro like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning.
1. Not Enough Hot Water
This is one of the most common clues that your water heater needs to be replaced. You might notice warm water running out more quickly, or that you need more time for water to heat up.
2. Leaks
It’s time to call a plumber if you’re noticing water leaks or water gathering by the foundation of your water heater. In some instances you may just need to have connections secured or a piece replaced, but it can also be a indication the tank is compromised.
3. Water Isn’t Clear
If you live in an area with hard water and don’t have a water softener, you’re likely used to having cloudy water. But if your water unexpectedly goes from clear to cloudy or starts smelling like metal, we advise having your water heater examined by a plumber to avoid damaging leaks. Sudden changes in your water clarity means sediment is possibly growing in the tank and corroding it.
4. Strange Noises
It’s common for your water heater to generate some noise as it operates. But popping and rumbling isn’t normal and is a sign you need specialized support. As sediment grows in the tank, your water heater has to work harder and could consume additional energy in the process.
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Makes Water Heater Replacement Easy
Waiting too long for water heater replacement puts you at risk of leaks that can damage your home. Not to mention, the annoyance of lacking warm water. If your water heater is outdated or showing signs it needs to be replaced, reach our Experts at 403-279-5760 to get a free home comfort assessment. From capacity to energy efficiency, we’ll review all the options so you can make the best decision for your house.