Your water heater is an essential part of your plumbing system, as it allows you to take hot showers, do dishes, and wash laundry. As a result, you must keep up with maintenance to avoid a breakdown that could leave you without hot water for days. Learn more about how your heater functions below, so you can determine if yours is past repair and it's time for a water heater replacement.

How Does a Water Heater Work?

In a conventional storage water heater, water is warmed to a temperature chosen by the homeowner and then stored in the tank until a faucet is turned on. These heaters come in gas and electric varieties, but they work in essentially the same way.

First, cold water is brought into the tank where it's heated with either a gas burner in a gas unit or an electric heating element in an electric unit. Since warm water rises, it's possible to pump hot water through your house even if the tank isn't thoroughly heated. When hot water is released through your pipes, cold water is brought in to start the process over again.

When Do You Need a Replacement?

The first issue you might notice is that you don't have enough hot water, as it'll run out during showers or other household tasks. This problem is caused by sediment building up on the sides of the tank, separating the water from the heat. Sediment can also lead to loud noises in your heater.

Additionally, look out for rusty water, as this is a sign that your heater is rusting from the inside. Have a plumber determine where the rust is coming from, and schedule a water heater replacement if this appliance is the culprit.

If you think you might need a water heater replacement, contact the professionals at John Lockwood Plumbing in Ontario, NY. This family-owned business has been serving the community for over 40 years. They can handle your replacement, and they even offer tankless water heaters to make your home more eco-friendly and energy efficient. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (585) 265-0736 to request an estimate.