Keep the Hot Water Flowing Through the Winter Months
Losing a water heater during the winter is a frustrating experience. Hot water becomes essential for daily comfort when the temperature drops, from warm showers to washing dishes and clothes. Without it, simple tasks feel unbearable, especially when dealing with freezing cold water. Bathing or cleaning in icy temperatures can become a daily ordeal, and the chill seems to seep into every part of a homeowner’s routine. Avoid the hassle by noticing the signs that the water heater is failing.
Temperature issues, leaks, and old age are all signs that water heater replacement may be necessary. If these are noticeable this early in the season, it may be best to start thinking ahead.
Signs of Temperature Issues
A water heater’s only job is to heat water for use. When it fails to do this, it is a major sign that repairs or replacement will be necessary. Water heaters can manifest temperature issues in a variety of ways:
- Loss of Volume: The longer a water heater is in service, the more likely it will fail to provide the same amount of hot water as it has in the past. This is likely due to the tank’s heating element issues or mineral scale.
- Inadequate Temperature: The heating elements in the water heater can start to fail. The first sign of this is warm but not fully heated water. A professional can determine whether repairs or replacement is the best action.
- Water is Too Hot: Water heaters can make water dangerously hot. If the water temperature is too hot, stay away and call for professionals immediately before someone gets burned.
- No Hot Water: The easiest sign of temperature issues is a total lack of hot water, which a tripped breaker or safety device may cause. Plumbers can quickly determine the cause and recommend a course of action.
Leaks
Leaks are a serious problem in a water heater. When leaks occur, they cause the unit to waste water, which can raise water and utility bills. Leaks can form in the plumbing near the water heater or develop inside the water heater. In general, leaks indicate that a water heater replacement is needed because they represent a tank lining failure or anode rod failure. A plumber should be called to inspect the problem whenever leaks are spotted.
An Old Water Tank and Visible Corrosion
Most water heaters are designed to last for about a decade. Between the 7-10-year mark, they will likely develop serious issues that require hefty repair bills. If a problem is spotted in the water heater and the unit is around this age, water heater replacement may be the most sensible option.
Corrosion is a good indicator of the water heater’s age. If corrosion is present on the tank’s outer jacket or the water seems discolored, corrosion is attacking the tank. Once the tank’s defenses are depleted, it will quickly fail. Always be preemptive when dealing with leaks to prevent further complications.
About Total Comfort Solutions
Total Comfort Solutions is a family business that offers fast, on-time plumbing solutions. Their teams can accommodate various plumbing and HVAC needs with high customer satisfaction. Call today for a water heater replacement in Walla Walla, WA.
