Should I Replace My Water Heater Before It Fails?

Hot water is a modern luxury many people cannot live without. However, if you have had the same hot water tank and heater for many years, it might be time to start considering a replacement.

Because of the expense and work required to replace these devices, many homeowners ask, “Should I replace my water heater before it fails?” Although it may seem superfluous to replace a heater before the end of its life expectancy, there are many advantages to proactive water heater replacements.

When you’re ready for a new tank, call Peoria's water heater repair experts to perform the replacement. Our installation and maintenance professionals have the experience and tools necessary to complete the replacement successfully.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement

If you’re asking, “Should I replace my water heater before it fails?” consider these warning signs and call professionals accordingly.

No Hot Water

An obvious sign that your water heater needs replacing is that your faucets, shower heads, and bath nozzles emit cold water even on the hottest setting. While cold water can signify simple maintenance issues, it also might indicate an expired heater. Professionals may need to inspect your water heater.

Strange Noises

Strange noises while operating any of your home systems usually signify a problem. If you hear clanking, hissing, spurting, or banging while trying to get hot water, your heater might need a replacement.

Discolored or Brown Water

Red or brown water is not only disgusting but problematic. If water fixtures within your home produce discolored water, various problems could be occurring. 

Water discolorations typically indicate septic system issues or irreparable damage to your water heater tank. Rusting or other physical damage that destroys your tank’s functionality can cause red or brown water.

Leaking Tank

Leaking tanks are a dangerous symptom of broken water tanks. Not only do these leaks potentially signify physical damage, but they can also cause extensive water damage where you store your tank. Calling professionals when you notice a leaking tank can help avoid more expensive repairs.

Corrosion or Visible Wear and Tear on Tank Exterior

Physical damage can occur to your water tank for many reasons. Heating system water features might eventually cause corrosion and rusting, and significant contaminants and damage to your tank can obstruct heating elements and stop water heating altogether.

5 Reasons to Replace Your Water Heater Before It Fails

Below are five reasons why you should replace your water heater before it fails.

1. Provides Ample Time to Research New Options

Although you might still be questioning the right time to select a new water heater, remember that pushing your replacement limits time to research new options. Home system technology is constantly advancing, which catalyzes new products that improve functioning at lower costs.

If you decide to replace your tank early, you’ll have ample time to sift through these options. Professionals can help you evaluate the differences between tankless water heaters, gas systems, and oil heaters, enabling you to make the best choice for your home.

2. Mitigates Inconvenience

When professionals install a new hot water heater, an emergency replacement could keep your system down for a few days. Throughout that time, daily tasks that require hot water will be much more difficult.

Planning installation ahead of time streamlines the process and avoids downtime. Since your current water heater still functions properly, you won’t even notice the time it takes for shipping and delivery. Additionally, you can plan the installation at a time when you don’t require hot water.

3. Avoids an Emergency Replacement

Emergency replacements are inconvenient, frustrating, and more expensive. If you require immediate professional installation for a new water heater, technicians will likely charge more for services. Planning ahead of time limits downtime and costs.

4. Protects Against Costly Water Damage

Broken water tanks could leak or release large amounts of water. Exposing your home to water can cause water damage that becomes far more costly and inconvenient to resolve than a proactive water heater replacement. Avoid this damage by purchasing and installing a new system before major breakdowns.

5. Increases Efficiency and Lowers Utility Expense

Old water heaters require more power to achieve the same results as newer units. As a result, these systems are less efficient and more costly to operate. Replacing your water tank can significantly lower your monthly utility expense.

Schedule Professional Water Heater Replacement with Desert Water Plumbing and Rooter

For more answers to the question “Should I replace my water heater before it fails?” or to learn more about other water heater problems, call (602) 699-4401 and schedule service with Desert Water Plumbing and Rooter today!