Signs It Is Time To Replace Your Water Heater

Hot water is a commodity that we use and enjoy every single day. So, naturally, making sure your hot water cylinder is in good shape is something you should pay attention to.

But how do you know when it’s time to replace your water heater? In this article we’ll tell you all you need to know!
hot water cylinder size

What Does A Water Heater Do?

A water heater takes in cold water, heats it using electricity, and then provides it to the rest of your house. Because hot water is something that’s so normalised, people often forget that something can go wrong and deprive you of this everyday comfort. This is why taking care of your water heater is so important. After all, you don’t want to wake up one day to find out your hot water isn’t working! Keep an eye out for these five signs to make sure you’re not stuck out in the cold.

1. Your Water Heater Is Getting Old

Like most fixtures, your hot water cylinder’s efficiency will decline with age. Water heaters typically last around eight to twelve years. If your heater is over twelve years old, you should look into getting it replaced. Even if your system seems to be working fine, it could soon break down due to existing wear and tear. If your water heater is old and you are worried that it’s outdated, you can replace it with a newer model. Since this new heater is what will be responsible for keeping your showers pleasantly warm for the next decade, it’s important that you consider all of your options. If you’re having trouble, Hot Water Solutions has heaps of information available to help you make your decision: How Do I Decide?

2. Signs of Rust Or Corrosion

If you notice that your water comes out with a reddish tint, this is a clear sign of a problem. The red colour may be caused by your pipes and the inside of your water heater rusting. This can be a health hazard, as drinking too much rusty water can lead to illness from iron overexposure. Rust or corrosion on your water heater can soon lead to leaks. Unfortunately, rusting in hot water cylinders is inevitable. When you notice a reddish colour in your tap water or rust accumulating around your water heater, you should consider replacing your water heater soon.

3. Your Heater Makes Strange Noises

Does it ever sound like there’s a rumbling storm inside your water heater’s tank? Not only can this be off-putting, but it is also a sign that you should get a new heater. As your water heater ages, minerals inside of it will collect and harden into sediment that gathers onto the bottom of the tank. This collection of sediment banging around isn’t just annoying due to the noise. The constant movement can quickly degrade your water tank, causing leaks and further damage.

4. Your Heater Is Leaking

A more subtle sign that your water heater may need to be replaced soon is if you start noticing puddles of water collecting around the fixture. This warning sign of leakage often accompanies some of the other signs we’ve mentioned above, such as rusty corrosion around the heater and strange noises. Leaking can cause more trouble than just needing a new water heater. Over time, you could find your room or foundations suffering from water damage. If the leaking gets even worse, it could result in your water tank bursting and causing considerable harm to your furnishings or property.

5. Your Water Isn’t Heating

One of the biggest signs that you need to replace your water heater is that it has stopped doing its job – your water is no longer being heated! When this happens, you may notice that your water takes longer to heat and that it only gets warm instead of hot, even when you have your faucet on full blast. Like any fixture, when it stops doing its job properly, you should replace it. Even if you’re okay with using lukewarm water over hot water, that extra time waiting for your water to heat up can cost you money as well. The longer your water heater takes to warm up your water, the more you will have to pay for your heating bill. Hot water accounts for a good chunk of your energy bill, so getting it under control is very important if you want to stay cost-effective.

Ready To Replace Your Water Heater?

Do any of those signs sound familiar? If so, it’s time to get a new water heater. Here at Hot Water Solutions, we offer many different kinds of hot water cylinders for your New Zealand Home. Check out our selection for your perfect water heater on our Products page or contact us at 0800 497658 to learn more! Don’t wait until your water heater has already broken down, be prepared and stay warm through those cold winter months!

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