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5 Warning Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater

Water Heater Leak | Water Heater Repair | Water Heater Replacement | Best Plumbing Company | West Chester, PA
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Last Revised: 1/24/2024 

 

Have you ever experienced the frustration of your relaxing hot shower turning cold? Or the financial stress of rising energy bills without an explanation? These are some of the telltale signs that your water heater may be on its last leg.  

Taking a proactive approach to your water heater replacement is more crucial than with most other major appliances, as a failing unit can potentially lead to devastating flooding damage. However, replacing your existing water heater too soon could be throwing away years of operational life. 

For over 75 years, our master plumbers at Mattioni have been helping homeowners identify and address water heater issues before they escalate into costly problems. 

In this article, we’ll explore the lifespans of different water heater types, the top 5 warning signs of imminent failure, and what to do next to protect your home and budget. First, let’s look at how long each different type of water heater can be expected to last. 

 

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Expected Lifespan of Each Type of Water Heater

The first step to assessing whether your water heater needs to be replaced is to understand how long it’s supposed to last. While each unit will experience different patterns of wear and tear, knowing the expected lifespan of your type can give you a good baseline for what to expect. 

 

The Lifespan of Steel Tank Water Heaters (10-12 Years)

Steel tank water heaters are the most common type found in homes. They’re reliable, but the steel tank is prone to rust and corrosion over time. If yours is approaching, or surpassing, the 10-12 year mark, it’s time to consider a replacement as steel tanks can begin to leak or break open, leading to flooding damage. 

 

The Lifespan of Plastic Tank Water Heaters (20 Years)

Plastic tank models are built to last longer than their steel counterparts, with an expected lifespan of 20 years. However, don’t let the longer lifespan fool you – regular maintenance is essential to hitting that 20-year milestone. 

 

The Lifespan of Tankless Water Heaters (15-18 Years)

Tankless water heaters have grown in popularity due to their on-demand hot water supply. This design extends their lifespan to about 15-18 years, however components like heating elements can wear out over time. Tankless water heaters are susceptible to damage stemming from hard water, so testing your water quality is key if you utilize this type of system. 

 

The Lifespan of Heat Pump Water Heaters (12-15 Years)

Renowned for their energy efficiency, heat pump water heaters can last over a decade with proper care. While they’re technologically superior to other options, their design is most similar to traditional tank type water heaters. Their performance can decline as components age, so prioritizing maintenance is paramount to sustaining their top-of-class efficiency. 

 

You can get a general idea how much longer your water heater should last by identifying its age and comparing it to its expected lifespan. Once you have this information, you should keep a keen eye on the warning signs that yours is close to breaking down. 

  Water Heater Leak | Water Heater Repair | Water Heater Replacement | Best Plumbing Company | West Chester, PA

5 Warning Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement 

The lifespan of your water heater will vary based on your hot water usage and the maintenance it receives over the years. Even if yours hasn’t hit its expected lifespan, there are clear warning signs that it may be time to call a plumber to evaluate it for replacement. Recognizing the early warning signs of a failing water heater can save you from costly household damage. Keep an eye out for these common issues: 

 

1. Inconsistent Water Temperatures

If the temperature of your hot water fluctuates unpredictably at showers, it’s likely caused by sediment buildup or another issue with a heating element. Sediment in your water could be anything from sand and rust to hard minerals like calcium and magnesium. As water is repeatedly heated, sediment sinks to the bottom of the tank and accumulates (in tankless systems it builds up on heating elements).  

This sediment acts as a barrier between the heating element and water, making it harder for the system to maintain a steady temperature. Persistent temperature fluctuations likely mean it’s time to replace your water heater. 

 

2. Unexplained High Energy Bills

Sediment buildup in your water heater will also cause your energy bills to rise, often confusing homeowners who haven’t changed their daily habits. As sediment builds up, the system will require more energy to heat the same amount of water. Besides sediment, heating elements also become worn out and tank insulation loses its effectiveness. 

For all these reasons, your water heater will become less efficient as it ages. If you spot a significant increase in your energy bills without a change in usage, consider scheduling a plumbing inspection to investigate the state of your water heater. 

 

3. Water Leaks Around Your Water Heater

Water pooling around your unit is an immediate red flag that there is an issue that may require the system to be replaced. Internal corrosion of the tank can lead to small cracks that create a leak, or it could cause the tank to break through entirely, leading to catastrophic flooding. If a leak goes unaddressed, it’s almost certain to lead to flooding. 

Small leaks are actually a blessing in disguise, as they alert you to take action before something worse happens. A slow, steady leak lets you know that it’s time to find a replacement system. 

 

4. Strange Noises Coming from the Unit

Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds coming from your water heater aren’t normal and should be considered a sign to call a plumber. When water is heated in the tank, trapped sediment moves around and creates all sorts of noises. Don’t ignore any unusual noise coming from your water heater, as it’s likely a sign of excessive sediment buildup. 

If you hear strange noises coming from your water heater, book a professional inspection to investigate the source of the issue. 

 

5. Off-putting Smells or Tints in Your Water 

Rust-colored or cloudy water can also indicate corrosion inside your tank; as the tank’s material breaks down it seeps into your hot water supply. The same goes for bad smells in your water. Most tank-type water heaters are equipped with an anode rod, which is designed to break down prior to the tank itself and prevent corrosion. Routinely replacing the anode rod is a good way to maximize your water heater’s lifespan, however persistent discoloration or odors in your water is a sign that you should consider a replacement. 

 

Understanding the Warning Signs of a Failing Water Heater 

Now that you can spot the symptoms of a water heater that’s about to fail, you’re in a good position to address them early on. The best strategy to avoid rising energy bills, poor hot water performance, and total system failure is to schedule routine maintenance appointments throughout the life of your water heater. Taking this step will help get the most out of your existing system. 

At Mattioni, our VIP memberships are designed to keep not only your plumbing equipment in tip-top shape, but your heating and cooling systems as well. With a VIP membership, you’ll receive free inspections, discounts on service, and priority service. 

 

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Water Heater Replacement: What Should You Do Next? 

Recognizing the signs of a failing water heater can save you from costly repairs and disruptions. If your water heater is showing any of these symptoms, or if it’s nearing the end of its expected lifespan, don’t wait to take action. Delaying a professional inspection can lead to costly and catastrophic flooding if your water heater fails unexpectedly. Not to mention, you could be out of hot water until you install a new one. 

If you’re not sure of the state of your water heater and how long it has left, reach out to a plumber to get it checked out. A comprehensive inspection is always recommended, and proactively replacing your system is the surest strategy for ensuring your home maintains a reliable source of hot water. With Mattioni’s VIP membership, you can ensure your system remains in top condition while enjoying priority service and discounts.  

Unfortunately, when you’ve been in business as long as we have, you see the worst-case scenario play out. Flooding in your home is a real, but avoidable, risk. Our advice is to contact a professional plumber as soon as you suspect an issue. Reach out to our friendly staff at (610) 400-8510 to schedule an appointment with one of our master plumbers. You can also book an appointment directly online to get started. 

 

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