IS YOUR WATER HEATER KEEPING UP?

HOW TO KNOW WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR PHILADELPHIA HOT WATER HEATER.

Is the hot water in your shower running out faster than it used to? Is it slow to heat up, or are you hearing funny noises like knocking and rumbling in your Philadelphia home? These changes can happen slowly over time, so you may not notice them right away, but they mean your hot water heater needs attention.

Just like any household appliance, hot water heaters eventually wear out, but since they are out of sight, out-of-mind, they often don’t get the attention they deserve. Ignoring maintenance or warning signs could lead to an unexpected hot water outage or even a flooded basement.

Call your neighborhood plumbing experts at Stallion Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning to avoid any of these unpleasant surprises. We can give your hot water heater a tune-up, make repairs or even suggest a replacement if that’s necessary. Here are some signs that it’s time to get your hot water heater checked by a professional:

1. Slow or no hot water. This could be a simple problem like a blown heating element or faulty thermostat, but it’s a sure sign your hot water heater isn’t doing its job.
2. Moisture around the heater. Speaking of leaks, moisture or standing water around your hot water heater is another sign to look for. To make sure there isn’t another issue in your basement causing the moisture, clean it up and check the next day. If it’s there again, your hot water heater is the likely suspect, and you should get it checked.
3. Rusty water. If the water coming out of your faucets is discolored, this could indicate corrosion inside your hot water heater or plumbing. If the water is a milky, murky color, the dip tube is likely worn out and the water heater will probably need to be replaced. You should call a professional to check it out.
4. If your water heater is nearing 10 years old. Most hot water heaters have a lifespan of 10 years. If your hot water heater is getting up in years, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Also, don’t rely on the looks of the outside of the water heater to determine the shape of the inner tank. A shiny, clean exterior can mask a corroded, worn out tank inside that needs to be replaced.

Whether your hot water heater needs a little TLC or a full replacement, taking care of this appliance will give you better efficiency, lower utility bills, and plenty of hot water when you need it. Contact Stallion today for an inspection and a fair estimate on repairs or replacement.