The typical hot water system may survive between 8 and 12 years. Its life expectancy will last depending on various variables, including the quality of the water utilised and the environment that surrounds it. No one likes to be without hot water, so knowing the symptoms that your hot water system is malfunctioning may help you avoid losing it or putting your house and family in danger.
Here are some key signs to help you recognise if your hot water system is beginning to fail:Â
Your Pipes Pour Out Rust-Coloured Water
Your hot water system’s water should be crystal clear. If your water is ever cloudy, muddy, or even rust-colored, it is an indication that your water heater is on its last legs. Metal rusts when it is kept moist, and your water tank is composed of metal. Inside hot water storage tanks, you can find sacrificial anodes. These particular metals that will rust preferentially over your storage tank, maintaining the tank’s structural integrity.Â
These anodes must be changed every five years or so, and if neglected, your tank will begin to rust. If you don’t do this and your tank rusts, the sediment will contaminate your water. While rusty water does not always represent an immediate health concern, no one should drink or wash in it. If you wait too long, your tank may break and spill water everywhere! If you see rusty-looking water, you may be facing a water heater failure shortly if it is not addressed quickly.
The Water Temperature Is Inconsistent
If your hot water system isn’t heating water as consistently as it used to, this is another indication that it’s deteriorating. Alternatively, if you find yourself often changing the thermostat, this may be another indication of failure. Inconsistent water temperatures may be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat, heating element, or one of many other components. If you ignore these flaws for too long, it may become uneconomical to fix them, and you may be forced to purchase a new water heater.Â
There Are Unusual Noises
While your hot water system may not be tranquil, it should not produce any banging or rattling sounds. This kind of noise may be caused by a storage tank buildup or a malfunctioning heating element. These issues may be prevented in large part by arranging regular hot water system maintenance. These services aid in the detection of problems before they become a significant issue and impact other components. If these defects are allowed to accumulate over an extended period, they may become severe enough to replace the whole system.
There Is Water Leaking From the System
If you find water escaping from your hot water system, it is more than simply a warning that it is failing—it has already failed! Small leaks may indicate early water heater failure, but they can typically be fixed if you have it serviced quickly. Water damage to your house may occur depending on where the water leak is collecting! However, if your pressure relief valve is leaking, it is usually an indication that it cannot withstand the heat and pressure from the storage tank. Water leaks may potentially cause electrical shocks if you have an electric hot water system. Address these leaks as soon as possible so that no one is at risk due to this hazardous environment.
You Smell Rotten Eggs
The stench of rotten eggs is a significant indicator of hot water system failure in gas hot water systems. That smells like a gas leak. Gas leaks are combustible and may cause fires and explosions in your house. In addition, your gas bill will rise as a result of the leak.Â
Conclusion
Having your water heater professionally inspected and maintained may help it last longer and work more efficiently. Cleaning your tank every few months may help prevent scale and sediment accumulation that causes hot water issues. Ensure the pressure relief valve and abode rod are working correctly by inspecting them often as well. Insulating the unit and hot water pipes also prevent energy loss and overworking of the system.
Muscardin Plumbing offers plumbing services for hot water systems in Newcastle. Trust us to fix your water heater properly, any time of the day! Contact us today for an obligation-free quote.