When is it Time to Replace Your Hot Water System?
A hot water system replacement is the last thing we need or plan for. So, a working hot water system is something we tend to take for granted, until the day you step into the shower and it’s all freezing in there. We all love a warm bath—especially in the morning—some hot water for cooking, cleaning, and for parents, a warm bath for the kids before bed.
Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t realise how much they depend on their hot water systems and fail to recognize the early warning signs of an impending crisis.
So, how can you tell that it’s time for your hot water system replacement? What indicators should you look for? That’s what we’re going to explore in this post. Read on!
Lifespan of Hot Water Systems
The lifespan of hot water systems varies depending on the type and can range from 8 to 20 years. However, they can have an endless useful life if they receive proper care.
That said, the lifespans of the various kinds of hot water systems vary as follows:
- Electric hot water system: 10 to 15 years
- Gas hot water system: 8 to 12 years
- Flow water heaters: 15 to 20 years
- Heat pumps water heater system: 15 years
- Solar hot water system: 10 years
It goes without saying that these figures are just averages. The exact longevity of your hot water system will depend on quality, the water pressure, and how well you maintain it.
Common Hot Water Issues
Like any other appliance, hot water heaters may disappoint and break down occasionally. Yes, they may last a long time with proper maintenance and care, but there are some common issues that could require fixing along the way.
Some notable examples include:
- A faulty thermostat, which could lead to uneven water temperature.
- Sediment buildup, which occurs when minerals accumulate on the inside of the tank, causing corrosion and altering the heater’s overall performance. The end result? High energy bills and a reduced lifespan.
- Equally important are leaks, which if not fixed right away could cause serious water damage.
When to Replace Your Hot Water System
It is advisable to replace your water heater if you believe it to be older than ten years, rather than having to make a last-minute decision. You need to know your water heater’s name and serial number to determine its age.
On the same tank label as the serial number, the manufacture date may sometimes be printed. If not, you will need to look up how to interpret the serial number to decode the manufacturing date. To do so, you may want to consult a water heater expert or an online industry resource.
5 Signs Your Hot Water System Needs to be Replaced
Water heaters may appear to be operating fine before suddenly failing. Often, though, there are typically red flags before your water heater needs repair. Some of these common warning signs include, but are not limited to:
Recurrent Hot Water System Issues
If you keep having issues with your water heating system or notice it’s not functioning quite as well as before, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Sometimes, repairs are not the answer to your water problems, and they can even end up costing more than a replacement.
Visible corrosion on Your Hot Water System Tank
Notice some corrosion on your water heater? This can only mean that your water heating appliance is breaking down and may occur on the unit itself or the surrounding water lines. In other words, corrosion indicates deterioration and can damage the system, ultimately leading to failure of the water heater.
Water leakage
Any leaks from your water heater’s seams, joints, or seals are typically a sign of trouble (which may have been spurred by corrosion, as previously discussed). Since water heaters are meant to be “closed” systems, any moisture found outside of them is a hint that a component is malfunctioning. Leaks can worsen and endanger not just the water heater but also the surrounding environment and objects.
Rust In Your Water
Rust in your water is a sign that your water heating system’s life is coming to an end, mainly due to corroded internal components. You may want to replace it as soon as possible or you’ll end up damaging other home appliances.
Rumbling noises from your Hot Water System
Water heating systems are made to operate steadily and silently. So, if your water heater is making strange vibrations, rumblings, or noises, chances are it’s not functioning properly. Rumbling is often the result of silt accumulation, which could indicate more serious issues.
Key Takeaway
Regularly checking your hot water system is a good idea because, let’s face it, nobody likes to be without hot water, especially in the winter.
Remember that prevention is always the better option. If you’ve previously observed any of these symptoms, you may want to do something about it. Consult a professional plumber near you so they can inspect your hot water system and help you in case you need a hot water system replacement.
Russell is a qualified Master Plumber, having been in the industry since 2004. He started his own company in 2013, and today, is a reputable company operating in metropolitan Adelaide. We are truly your local plumber!
We specialise in all aspects of plumbing services including 24 hour emergency response, blocked drains, drain camera inspections, pipe relining, gas fitting, hot water service & replacement, rain water tanks and all other home maintenance plumbing services. We aim to exceed your expectations in everyway and deliver the level of service that has made our business what it is today.
