Three Signs That You Need a New Water Heater in Your Home

A failing water heater can be a source of freezing showers in the home, not to mention the thousands of dollars that may be incurred in repairs or purchasing a new unit. Sadly, in most households, little attention is paid to the water heater as it's usually installed out of sight. Regular inspection of this unit can help identify defects before your heater breaks down. This way you can budget for a new unit and prevent inconveniences and unnecessary repair costs. Here you will learn some top signs that indicate you should include a new water heater in your next budget.

Leaking water heater

Leaks in an old or slightly used water heater are a major concern that should be addressed promptly. The water can cause costly structural damage to your plumbing fixtures and other parts of the home such as the ceiling and insulation. While it may be hard to notice a minor leak until it has caused severe damage, you can look out for signs such as mold around the base of the water heater. Also, look out for corroded metal plumbing fixtures and moisture around areas that should otherwise be dry.

A leaking water heater should be replaced immediately and not repaired. Although it may be cost-effective to fix the unit, it may suffer subsequent leaks and cost you even more than the price of a new unit.

Metallic smell or taste

If you notice a metallic smell or taste in the water that is dispensed from the heater, it may be a sign that you need a new unit. A metallic smell or taste is usually an indication that the internal components of the units are undergoing corrosion. The rust causes the water to have a metallic smell, and in other cases, the water may be reddish-brown in color. The water may be undesirable for use and may even stain clothes in the washer. Once the unit begins to corrode, you cannot remedy or reverse the reaction. The most viable option is to acquire a new water heater.

Fluctuating temperatures

If the water in your unit is no longer as hot as it was before or varies in temperature, this could indicate a problem with the heater. In most cases, these issues are as a result of a failing heating element due to the accumulation of sediment and mineral deposits in the unit. These contaminants prevent the unit from heating water as efficiently as it did before. They can also cause an increase in your heating bills as the unit uses more energy to heat the same volume of water. It is possible to replace the heating elements; however, if your unit is old, it is better to replace it.

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