Your water heater is an important appliance in your home. It is responsible for providing the hot water you need to shower, wash your dishes and clean your laundry. Unfortunately though, this important appliance does not last forever. There are many factors that affect just how long your water heater will last, including its size, brand, how often it is used and how well maintained it is. If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan, it will give you signs that it may need to be replaced. Here are a few of the most common signs that it may be time to replace your hot water heater. 

 

Your Tank is Rusted or Leaking

One of the signs that your hot water tank needs to be replaced is a tank that is rusted and/or leaking. If your tank is rusted, the rust can eat through the tank and lead to a leak. Once a leak is present, there is no way to repair it on a hot water tank. You may notice a puddle of water under the tank if it is leaking. This is a tell-tale sign that your unit needs to be replaced right away. 

 

Your Unit is Making a Banging Sound

Another sign that your hot water tank may be nearing the end of its life is a unit that is making a banging or clanking sound. Many people compare the sound the hot water tank may make to the sound of shoes or rocks running around in a dryer. If you hear this sound, there is something wrong with your unit. In some cases, these sounds may be made by a dirty tank filled with sediment. Cleaning the tank may solve the problem. In other cases, it may signal that a rod is loose, and the unit needs to be replaced. 

 

Your Appliance is Not Producing Enough Hot Water

The final sign that your hot water heater may need to be replaced is that the unit is suddenly not producing enough hot water for your home. If this is occurring, cleaning out the tank or replacing the anode rod may solve the problem. In other cases, the unit may simply not be able to sustain the level of production it once did due to age, and as such, should be replaced. 

 

Is your water heater telling you that it may need to be replaced? If so, you should call in a professional to diagnose your water heater and replace it, if needed. Here at Steves Plumbing and Heating, we can help you with your water heater needs in the greater Wisconsin Rapids, Wi, Steven's Point, WI, Marshfield, WI  and Wausau, WI areas. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.