Don’t Take Your Hot Water for Granted
Make Sure You Know the Age of Your Heater
There’s nothing like stepping into a hot shower or a warm bath first thing in the morning or after a stressful day. Hot water also forms the basis for clean dishes and clothes. But don’t take those comforts for granted. Your water heater is working hard to provide what you need, and some day it will stop being able to do it. And if you’re not careful it could make a mess of your basement or crawl space when it does fail. That’s why it is important to keep an eye on your hot water heater.
When Should I Be Aware?
All hot water heaters have a lifespan. And when they do fail, there is a chance they could fail spectacularly, spilling water all over the floor of your basement or crawlspace. That is why it is important to start keeping an eye on your heater after 8 years of use (if it’s electric) or 6 years (if it’s gas powered). The good news is that our experienced plumbers can solve the problem quickly and help you replace your heater with a minimum of fuss – before you run into serious trouble.
What Are the Signs of a Failing Water Heater?
If you notice any of these around your water heater, call us immediately:
Rust
This will develop on the tank itself or show up in the hot water coming out of your faucet.
Noise
Failing heaters often make rumbling noises.
Leaks
Any water on the floor around the tank is a sign of a small leak that could quickly turn bigger.
Also be aware if you are suddenly struggling to achieve/maintain hot water. This does not necessarily mean you need to replace the heater nut that it requires an adjustment. It could also mean that your hot water heater is too small for your household needs.
How Hot Do I Need to Keep My Water?
Make sure your water heater temperature stays between 120-140 degrees for optimum usage.
How Can I Tell How Old My Heater Is?
Each water heater features a code that reveals the date it was manufactured. Located on the manufacturer’s sticker, the serial number starts with a letter. That stands for the month of the year in which it was manufactured. The two numbers that follow the letter denote the year in which it was manufactured. For instance, the serial number A221069367 reveals that the water heater in question was produced in January 2022 (B is code for February, C for March, and so on). If your heater was manufactured 8-10 years ago or you have problems with it, please call us and let us inspect it ASAP.
Don’t Wait, Call Now
