Do you think your water heater might need to be replaced? Replacing it early is best, since failed water heaters can cause a lot of damage to your home and your possessions. But how do you know when your water heater needs replacing? Here are five questions to ask that will help you arrive at an answer.
How old is my water heater?
The first thing to think about is how old your water heater is. Gas water heaters only last about six to eight years, whereas electric water heaters can last about ten. Anything longer is borrowed time, and it could come to collect at any point. If your water heater is nearing the end of its life, it might be time to start thinking about replacing it.
How much use does my water heater get?
The demands placed on your water heater are just as important as how old it is. If you’re constantly using up all the hot water for showers, baths, laundry, and dishes, water heater replacement may be needed a little earlier than it would in a less demanding household.
Has my water heater been well maintained?
How well your water heater has been maintained also makes a difference. Has it been checked regularly for signs of problems? Has any work been done to it over the years, to keep it in good working condition? The better the care, the longer it will last.
Do I have hard or soft water at my house?
In general, the harder your water, the harder it is on appliances. Hard water leaves behind a buildup that can shorten a water heater’s life. Unless you have a water softener positioned where the water comes into the house, though, you might not have much control over this.
Is it time to upgrade?
Even if your water heater isn’t very old and is still going strong, you may find that you want or need to upgrade. Your family might have outgrown your water heater if you find yourself using up all the hot water on a regular basis. You might also want one that is more energy friendly, such as an Energy Star conventional water heater, or a tankless or demand system.
Your water heater may not give you much warning before it fails, so don’t wait until it does something suspicious before you start thinking about replacing it. That “something suspicious” could mean dumping its contents all over your floors! Instead, call a Phoenix plumbing professional about water heater installation. At Day & Night Air, we can help you determine whether it’s time to replace your water heater and avoid the hassle of having to clean up after a failed one.