A hot shower can make all the difference when you’ve had a stressful day. And that’s when you realize the value of your water heater. It’s constantly working, from dishes and laundry to your nightly bubble baths. But most of the time we don’t think about our water heaters until something goes wrong.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 signs that you need a new water heater and how to get a replacement before your showers turn cold.
Our experts at Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating are ready to help homeowners all over Central and Northern California with their water heater needs. Contact us today for your water heater consultation and advice on upgrading your hot water system.
Signs Your Water Heater is Struggling
Sometimes it’s hard to know when the appliances in your home need to be replaced. But when it comes to your water heater, the evidence is pretty hard to miss! Here are some signs that your water heater might be near the end of the road.
Strange Taste & Smell
One of the telltale signs that your water heater needs to be replaced is a strange taste or smell coming from your taps. Over time, sediment rises from the bottom of the tank and mixes with your water, causing a metallic taste and smell.
Along with a strong taste or odor, your water may also be discolored or brown. This could be an indicator that your tank is beginning to rust. Rusting tanks lead to leaks and eventually holes in your water heater if the problem isn’t addressed.
However, in Central California, brown water can also be the product of galvanized pipes. Either way, we have you covered with repiping service or a new hot water tank. When your water runs brown, call Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating right away to schedule a service with a hot water expert.
Your Tank is Leaking
A leak is another sign that your water heater needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Often, leaks are caused by a pressure build-up in your tank. Build-ups happen when the temperature and water pressure are too high, or when the unit’s relief valve is not working properly. You can easily spot a leak by moisture or puddles along the bottom of your tank, or water corrosion along the sides.
It’s important not to neglect a leaking tank, as it could damage flooring and drywall. In extreme cases, high pressure can even lead to a tank explosion, which is extremely dangerous and costly.
Your safety is our top priority. Call Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating today and one of our plumbing certified experts will find you the perfect unit to fit your needs, and to keep your family safe.
Inconsistent Water Temperature
Inconsistent water temperature is usually caused by a malfunctioning heating element in your tank and is one of the major signs that your unit may need to be replaced. A technician can evaluate the heating components in your water heater and let you know if a replacement is the best decision.
If your tap water is always coming out cold, but your hot water tank pilot light is on, you’re losing money. Efficient water heaters use the gas supply to keep water hot when you need it. Consistent and efficient heating is one way that a new water heater can save you money in the long run.
Frequent Water Heater Repairs
Are you constantly searching the internet for quick fixes for your water heater? Or are you calling a repairman more than once a year? Then it’s time to look into a replacement water heater for your home.
Water heaters are designed to supply you with peace of mind and hot water for years. Constant repairs are costly and will not make up for a faulty unit. Depending on the age and the cost of your repair, it might make sense to purchase a new water heater instead.
At Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating, our plumbing specialists will always give you upfront pricing on all of the repair and replacement options available. But it’s wise to weigh your choices before paying for yet another repair.
How Old is Your Water Heater?
With proper maintenance, your water heater should last up to 12 years. But even well cared for units will start to fail eventually. As your water tank ages, sediment builds up in the system and this can cause knocking and damage. Fresno is known for its hard water, which doesn’t help.
Knocking occurs when your water heater is in use. A whirlpool effect is created, spinning larger chunks of sediment around your tank, knocking it against the walls, causing erosion on the tank itself. Eventually, this impacts the integrity of your water heater.
You can check the age of your heater by the manufacturer’s label on the side of the tank. If the label is missing, you can use the serial number to decode the age of your unit. Not sure what to look for? Our plumbers are familiar with the various brands, types, and sizes of heaters, and can easily spot whether or not it’s time for a replacement.
So, It’s Time for a New Water Heater
You’ve decided that it’s time to replace your water heater, but how do you know what type of water heater is best for your home? It depends on your family’s needs and how much water you normally use.
Going Tankless
At Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating we install both traditional tank water heaters, and tankless water heater systems. Picking the best water heater for your home is all about matching your system to your lifestyle.
Tankless water heaters are a great choice for households that use a lot of hot water. Because water is heated instantly as the hot water tap is turned on, you never run out of a warm water supply. Tankless systems are usually more expensive but last longer and are typically more efficient.
If an upgrade to a tankless water heater is something you’re considering, let a plumbing pro at Lee’s help you weigh the pros (and cons).
Installation & Cost
The cost of a new water heater depends on the size and model of the unit. Our professional plumbers will walk you through the different options available and make recommendations based on the size of your home and the number of people living there.
Installing the most energy-efficient unit means finding the perfect fit for your family’s demands. It’s also important to know that financing options are available to make sure you’ve got hot water when you need it the most.
Warranties
Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating guarantees 100% satisfaction on all of our installation work, but it’s important to be familiar with the manufacturer’s warranties when considering a new water heater. Longer guarantees protect you against future water heater repairs.
Hot Water & Continuous Comfort
Your family’s comfort is our top priority. Recognizing the signs that your water heater is near the end of its lifetime is one way to prevent a total tank tragedy. Know the age of your tank and think about a replacement when repairs are frequent. And leaks, discoloration, or foul-smelling water are always reasons to call a professional.
Sign up for Lee’s Air, Plumbing, & Heating’s Club Advantage Membership today and you’ll receive all discounts, benefits, and annual maintenance reminders on your tank or tankless water heater. You’ll get peace of mind knowing that priority service is only a phone call away.
Is it time to upgrade your water heater? Call us today to schedule your installation, and to enjoy the convenience and comfort of hot water for years to come.
