7 Signs It May Be Time to Replace Your Hot Water Tank
Your hot water tank is one of those appliances you probably do not think about very often—until you turn on the shower and there is no hot water.
Like every mechanical appliance in your home, a water heater can eventually develop problems.
Sometimes a repair is all that is required. Other times, replacement may make more sense.
Here are seven signs Calgary homeowners should watch for.
1. You Are Running Out of Hot Water Much Faster Than Before
If your household routines have not changed but your hot water suddenly does not last as long, something may be affecting the performance of the water heater.
A plumber can inspect the system and determine whether the issue can be repaired or whether the tank is approaching the end of its useful service life.
2. The Water Is Not Getting as Hot as It Used To
If you find yourself turning the hot-water tap further and further just to get a comfortable shower, the water heater may not be operating properly.
Do not immediately assume the entire tank needs replacement.
A professional diagnosis can determine what is causing the temperature problem.
3. You Hear Unusual Noises From the Tank
Water heaters are not completely silent, but new popping, banging, rumbling or other unusual noises should not be ignored.
If the sound is becoming louder or more frequent, have the equipment inspected.
4. There Is Water Around the Bottom of the Tank
This is one of the most important signs to take seriously.
If you notice water underneath or around your hot water tank, determine where it is coming from.
Some leaks may originate from valves or connections. Others may indicate a problem with the tank itself.
Either way, water around a water heater deserves prompt attention before it creates additional property damage.
5. You Are Seeing Rust or Corrosion
Visible corrosion around fittings, valves, piping or the tank itself can indicate deterioration.
If you notice rust developing around the water heater, do not wait for a leak before having it inspected.
6. Repairs Are Becoming More Frequent
One repair does not necessarily mean you should replace a water heater.
But if you are repeatedly spending money keeping an older unit operating, it may be time to compare the cost of continued repairs with replacement.
A good plumber should help you understand both options rather than automatically recommending new equipment.
7. You Do Not Know How Old the Tank Is
If you purchased an existing home and have no idea when the water heater was installed, take a look at the equipment and service history.
Knowing the age and condition of your major mechanical systems makes it much easier to plan ahead.
That is particularly important if the water heater is located in a finished basement where a major leak could cause significant damage.
Repair or Replace?
There is no universal answer.
The right decision depends on factors including:
- Age of the equipment
- Condition of the tank
- Nature of the problem
- Repair history
- Household hot-water requirements
- Cost of repair versus replacement
The best first step is simply finding out what is wrong.
Hansen Plumbing provides residential hot water tank repair and replacement services throughout Calgary.
If your hot water is becoming unreliable or you notice signs of leakage around your water heater, call 403-248-2996 to have the system inspected.
Serving Calgary homeowners since 1979.
Honest. Fair. Reliable.
