A water heater is essential to the everyday tasks that go on in your home. Without it, taking a shower or a bath would be very unpleasant, and any hot water you might need in the kitchen would be impossible to obtain. However, like many things in a home, a water heater ages over the years and will at some point become completely inoperable simply thanks to wear and tear through repeated use. As this is the case, it’s good to know when to replace your water heater so you don’t have to go without warm water in your home for too long if at all during the replacement process. Below are signs it’s time to replace your water heater.
Your Water Heater Is Old
As with many appliances and systems in your home, your water heater has an estimated lifespan. In regards to the systems, most people have installed in their homes, you can expect a water heater to survive for 15 to 20 years at most. If you are past the 20-year mark, it’s probably a good idea to start saving for a replacement. It won’t last much longer.
Your Heating Bills Are Going Up
Another sign that it’s time to replace your water heater is if you notice the amount you spend on heating each month is steadily rising. You should be aware of the fact that most of your monthly heating bill is tied up in your water heater. It takes a lot of energy to heat that water. However, when your water heater is failing, it can take even more energy. If you notice something off with your heating bill, it’s probably a safe bet to have a plumber, someone like First Class Plumbing of Florida, Inc., look at your water heater.
Your Water Doesn’t Stay Hot for Long
If you feel you are losing hot water volume, this could also be a sign that your water heater is failing and requires replacement. The water may feel warm for a moment, however, this can be fleeting. You may suddenly discover that your hot showers are more lukewarm than hot. You may not be able to produce hot water from your kitchen tap either. Overall, if your hot water heater can’t keep water hot for long, it is no longer serving its purpose.
Your Water Heater Requires Constant Repairs
If you have had to repair your water heater more than once, it’s probably time to replace it. A water heater, in this sense, is like a car. At some point, the cost of repairs adds up to the point that keeping it no longer makes sense. Such repairs won’t come cheap. It may be cheaper, in the long run, to just buy a new water heater.
Overall, water heaters don’t last forever. If yours is nearing the end of its life, it’s time to replace it. If you don’t, you may end up without hot water or with greatly inflated heating bills. It’s not worth it. That’s why it’s important to listen and watch for signs it’s time to replace your water heater.
