There’s no way to survive without warm water, right? Well, in the UK, this means that you need a proper electric or gas water heater.
No matter what type you will choose, decent maintenance through the years will prolong its lifespan. Yet, nothing is eternal. Even the most modern high-tech devices eventually break down and need replacement.
But how to know whether to call the plumber to try to repair the old water heater or install a new one? By all means, the following signs are obvious enough alarms to do so. Take a look at them below.
The water heater is 10+ years old
As we’ve told you, nothing lasts forever. So do the water heaters. Moreover, like most home devices, their producers have set concrete lifespans you need to remember.
In this guarantee, though, there’s a serious catch. Once again, your efforts in keeping the water heater intact represent the main factor that ensures a longer top condition.
So just because your manufacturer claims that your gas heater will work for at least 20 years, don’t expect it to last for such a prolonged period. The plumbers claim that 10 years is the most typical duration of one proper water heater’s lifespan.
Rust and corrosion are present
Don’t count the years you’ve been using your gas heater if you see some rust or corrosion.
These signs have nothing to do with time, and they literally mean it’s time to buy a new device so you can have a warm rather than cold shower every day. Have a look at the water heater and carefully inspect it for signs of scale and rust.
Unfortunately, regions with hard water have homes where water heaters are replaced with new ones, not per 10, but per fewer years.
Thermostat problems
Do you love taking how baths after a hard day’s work?
Well, if you have thermostat problems, you will pretty quickly notice that your water heater has become out of order. Every time you want hot water, but instead, you receive lukewarm water should be a reason for you to think about a replacement.
And if you plan on fixing the thermostat, don’t bother. These devices are notoriously hard to repair. On top of that, if you want to replace it, it will cost almost as much as a brand-new water heater. So, as you can see, it’s simply not worth it.
The heater is making strange noises
If you hear such kinds of sounds, you must immediately leave your office and go straight home. There might be a huge problem with your domestic water heating system.
And it’s neither a joke nor a reason to worry about the extra expenses you will make. Actually, the strange noise might be a sign of a really dangerous problem that can cause you severe damage at home.
In such cases, it’s always prudent to contact licensed plumbing professionals to investigate the nature of the problem and possible fixes.
There are leaks and puddles around it
Any leak in the bathroom or every premise at home is a sign of something being wrong with the plumbing system.
As a part of it, the water heater usually floods in specific zones. If you notice water puddles, go to the store to buy a new water heater.
Explain to the consultant what problem you are experiencing, and you might be recommended to make some part replacement of your current water heater. If the process sounds too complicated to deal with, don’t take the risk and instead invest in a new one.
Strange smells are not a good sign
Usually, the aroma isn’t specifically foul, but it has a metallic note to it. However, that shouldn’t calm you down at all. Such a smell coming from the water heater or anywhere around it means it’s out of order.
There’s a way for a licensed plumbing company to fix the problem. Yet, if the technicians find severe damage, you should better consider a replacement.
Here’s when you should take benefit of their visit and ask them to recommend you a good enough water heater type. Explain your needs, and they will recommend some of the best options.
You can even book an upcoming visit with them for the installation process after your purchase.
There is sediment or sand build-up
It’s one of the most common signs that give a clear indication that your water heater is out of order.
If you notice that the hot water in your home appears discoloured or contains particles, sediment has probably accumulated at the bottom of your water heater tank.
While you can attempt to clean out the sediment on your own or seek the assistance of a plumber, if the issue persists or additional problems like leaks and rust occur, it might be necessary to contemplate replacing your water heater.
The heater requires frequent repairs
Let’s go back to the kind and helpful plumbers. Indeed, they do wonders with the entire plumbing system at home.
However, no matter how awesome and friendly their visits are, they cost some money, right? Aren’t you sick and tired of using plumbing services to repair this old water heater?
Yes, you might think it’s well worth it, but since you invest so much money to fix it regularly, it’s time for a new one.
Conclusion
Water heaters are not game changers in home comfort, but we cannot literally survive without them. Supporting their intactness and proper functioning is essential to prolong their lifespan.
You can get informed easily if you don’t know how to perform decent maintenance on these devices. By all means, the manufacturer’s manual has a whole list of instructions and tips to follow.
In addition, you can always visit the store from where you’ve bought the water heater and ask for a consultation.
Last but not least, the local plumbers are helpful enough to give you some amazing and cost-free tricks for prolonging the device’s life. Try all of these options and save money on a new water heater.
But when it’s time to replace the device, you must simply do it and replace it with a new and modern substitute.
