Some water heater problems are easy to figure out and don’t require the expertise of a plumber. But if you notice the problems recurring frequently, you may be in need of a new water heater. The expert team of plumbers at Disponette Service Co. in Lexington, KY, understands a water heater is a very expensive component of a home’s plumbing system, and it’s not easy to replace.

Here, they offer a few things to consider in order to determine whether you can still fix the water heater or if it’s time to replace it:

• Age Of The Unit: Most water heaters have a five to 10-year warranty, so they should theoretically last that long as well. If you live in an old house with a similarly aged water heater, that alone could be a sign it’s time to replace it. Old water heaters will not be able to produce hot water efficiently and consistently, which, in addition to resulting in cold showers, will cost you more in energy bills.

• Water Quality: If you notice the hot water coming out of the shower is rusty, this is a sign that your water heater or pipes are rusting on the inside and may soon leak. Test the water heater to figure out which part is rusty, and then call a professional plumber to see if it’s still repairable.

• Noise: When you hear rumbling or banging sounds coming out of your water heater when you turn it on, it’s a sign that it’s nearing the end of its life. The sound can be caused by sediments that have built up on the bottom of the tank and hardened because of the heating and reheating process. This residue causes the water heater to become less efficient.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s probably time to get a new water heater. Disponette Service Co. offers reliable HVAC and water heater repair, backflow testing, and other plumbing services. Call them at (859) 255-7157 or visit the local plumbers online for more information. You can also find the team on Facebook and Twitter.