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Your water heater provides hot water to your entire home. When it is not working properly, it can make it uncomfortable to take a shower and more difficult to wash dishes. While a plumber can repair some issues, a replacement might be more cost-effective under the following circumstances.

When Do You Need a New Water Heater?

1. Older System

The age of your water heater can often be found on a sticker on its tank. If a clear installation date is not listed, examine the first four numbers of its serial number. These usually refer to the manufacturer date, though the method of decoding them depends on the carrier.

Although most machines last between ten and fifteen years, if your heater has been malfunctioning and it is a decade or older, it is not worth repairing it only to have to replace it in a few years. Instead, invest that money in a new unit. 

2. Discolored Water

Water HeaterIf you turn on your hot water and it comes out rust-colored, your water heater is likely corroded. Not only is this a health concern, but a rusted tank will only degrade further, eventually resulting in leaks, high water bills, and water damage. To prevent this from happening, arrange for regular inspections of your unit. By replacing your heater's anode rod regularly, corrosion may be delayed. Additionally, ask your plumber about replacing certain metal pipe nipples with plastic ones, since rust often occurs due to direct interaction between two metals. If your tank is already dangerously corroded, get a new water heater before it fails completely.

3. Rumbling or Popping Noises

New and functional water heaters should operate reasonably quietly. However, hard water contains minerals and sediment that will eventually accumulate at the bottom of your tank. This buildup can block valves and lead to uneven heating, which produces either a rumbling or popping noise. As a result of this, your heater will work even harder to provide hot water, decreasing efficiency and potentially causing the tank to overheat. Eventually, the metal will crack, resulting in extensive leaking. 

 

If you are considering replacing your water heater, contact Wild West Plumbing, Heating & Drain Service. This licensed contractor provides professional plumbing and drain cleaning services to the residents of Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigfork, and Lakeside, MT. Their team also offers emergency assistance. For more information about their offerings, visit them online. To schedule an appointment with a plumber, call (406) 752-1244 today. 

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