Hot water systems are built to be durable. Continuous-flow gas hot water systems have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years with proper care. Electric hot water systems can last 8 to 12 years, depending on whether they are tank systems or tankless. It also depends on how you handle and maintain your hot water systems. Your hot water system warranty tells you how long they will last.
But like everything else, nothing lasts forever. Normal wear and tear, old age, underlying issues and how you take care of your hot water systems play a part in your tank’s life span.
The crucial key player is you. A preventive maintenance service for your car can double the lifespan of your hot water system. Please don’t wait for an emergency plumbing situation; have it serviced and maintained periodically. Like other plumbing problems, don’t ignore issues as they happen, no matter how trivial you think they are.
Have a highly professional local plumber perform a maintenance flush regularly for sediments, especially if you are in an area with hard water. This will prevent damage from corrosion and won’t make your system work harder, lowering its lifespan.
Be consistent with your schedule to avoid replacing your system for much longer. Your tender, loving care will be worth the investment.
What are the signs your hot water heater is going out?
1. The age of your current tank
If you know your unit is well over 15 years old, expect it to show signs you need to start looking into upgrading a new hot water system.
A professional and licensed plumber can thoroughly inspect your current hot water tank and find a suitable replacement for you and your home or business.
2. Weak or low temperature
If you are in the middle of a shower and your water suddenly goes cold or takes a while to heat up, you may have an issue with the heating element or a faulty thermostat.
Your system’s energy source, the size of the tank, and its current condition can affect the efficiency of the heating mechanism.
The average gas unit takes about 30-40 minutes to heat up. An electrical heater takes roughly twice as long. The same goes for a solar system, usually connected to an electrical heater. A cloudy day can affect the heating time, as it needs sunrays.
Contact your local plumber for advice on buying a continuous flow tank, storage water heater, or gas or electric hot water unit. They will have the knowledge and experience to help you decide on your new system. They can also make necessary repairs and regular maintenance on your current model.
3. Noisy tank
Banging or hissing sounds could indicate trouble with the heating element or a sediment build-up in the tank’s water.
A build-up of minerals may start to grow and act like rocks floating inside your unit. When they hit the pipework, you will hear banging or other sounds.
Heating elements may become loose over time, or valves may fail and not open and close as they should.
4. Rusty tank or discoloured water
Leaks in and around your hot water system could come from fittings, such as pipework or valves. Rust and discoloured water are effects of corrosion from a leaking unit.
Annual maintenance is recommended for water heaters under five years old. This includes flushing and sediment removal inside the tank.
Ask your trusted plumbing company about regular maintenance of your hot water unit.
5. Low Water Pressure
It’s common for hot water units to lose pressure over time. Reasons can vary. Blockages, bent water supply lines, leaks, and cracked or broken pipes may exist. Sediment and limescale may have also built up. Or, if your household has increased, you could need a new tank to keep up with your water usage.
The easiest way to identify low hot water is to turn on a tap or shower and only run it hot. Suppose the water coming out is significantly less than your cold water or than it once was; it’s time to have a plumber look at your water pressure.
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What should you consider when replacing your hot water system?
If repairs and hot water system maintenance aren’t enough, you may need to replace your hot water system. You can try new models (e.g. from electric to solar hot water systems or heat pumps) or stick to your old and tested brand.
You need to consider your budget. A hot water system is a significant investment, but you could save on your bill rather than maintain a faulty one or buy a low-quality one.
You must also consider how much hot water you need, whether to have a water tank or go tankless or continuous flow, your water usage, property and household size, and how energy efficient you want to be. Each type and model has advantages and disadvantages.
Talk to professionals about what they think would be best. Ask for recommendations. Your local hot water experts will know the latest trends in the market.
At Fixed Today, we offer various plumbing services, including hot water. Our hot water services will enable you to enjoy the topmost water quality for hot and cold water supply. Our fantastic service also provides water heater repairs and replacement. So call us now. Our operating hours include a 24/7 hotline for hot water systems emergency like burst hot water systems.
