Water Heater Failure Signs
Top 3 Signs of Water Heater Failure to Always Pay Attention To
A chilly blast of shower water is how most people discover their water heater has failed. But you can take action even before you’re left shivering in your shower, caught unaware. There are a few signs that your water heater is on its last legs that you should take seriously.
The experts at Barbosa Plumbing & Air Conditioning have seen it all when it comes to water heaters, and we are here with our professional plumbers to share our top three signs of imminent water heater failure.
1. Rusted & Busted Water Heater
A rusty traditional (tank) water heater will flake and continue to rust until it springs a leak. It might be hard to determine what is going on inside of it, but the hot water flowing out of your faucets will give you a sign if rust is a problem.
If orange/brown water is coming from your tap, it could have been caused by many different things. It can be caused by the pipes underneath your home rusting or construction nearby, to name a couple. But you will know for sure that it’s caused by your water heater if you run a hot and cold water tap from different sinks, and the rusty water only flows out of the hot water tap.
2. Dripping or Pooling Water
Some visible water around your water heater or in your bathroom is normal. It’s important to differentiate. Water that beads up outside your heater and drips down is just condensation. If a small amount of water is also dripping from the pipe on the side of the unit and into the floor drain, that is also normal.
What you should pay attention to is water pooling up at the base of the heater. Obvious puddles are signs of imminent failure.
3. Pop! Pop! Popping Sounds
If you are hearing a lot of pops or bangs coming from your water heater, you should be concerned. It is more of a problem if you have hard water. Minerals from your water source accumulate slowly in your water heater, creating a sludge that interferes with the water boiling, creating noise.
Solutions For Your Water Heater
If you are noticing any of these signs, acting now will not only save you from a nasty surprise but could also help you save money. If it’s time for a water heater replacement, you have the opportunity to plan ahead.
For any questions regarding the above tips or water heater replacements, call Barbosa at (214) 351-7030.