How often should I have my water heater checked out?
Water heaters are often a neglected piece of equipment that keeps a household running. As with all household equipment, there are signs for the possible need of repair. Examples are noise, increased heating bills, pooling water around the unit, rust colored water from faucets and water temperature not consistent with prior usage.
Noise is often an indicator of repair for a water heater. All equipment makes noise; it is the unusual noises that are a sign for repair. Some of these noises may be banging inside the water heater or possible knocking sounds. This is an indicator valves are shutting off at improper times and repair is imminent. Heating bill increases show more electricity is needed to maintain the set point temperature of the water heater. Not realizing heating bills are increasing will add to the ultimate repair cost of the water heater. Pooling around the water heater is a sign of a leak. If a leak is not repaired the water heater may continue to function. However the end result of pooling may be a slight puddle around the water heater or a large scale discharge leading to water damage. Rust colored water coming out of a faucet is also an indicator a water heater is in need of repair. Rust coloring is caused by heavy sediments settling in the water heater. If a faucet has not been used for an extended period of time, rust colored water is typical when the faucet is initially turned on. However if the coloring persists or the faucet has been in continuous use, this is a sign the water heater is in need of repair.
It may be tempting to ignore the signs of water heater repair. Noises may be dismissed, heating bills may be attributed to environmental factors, a leak may seem insignificant and hot water not lasting as long may shorten showers. If signs of water heater repair are ignored, the water heater will fail and need to be replaced. Generally it is cheaper to repair than replace. This idea also holds true for water heaters.
Is the water heater in your Berkeley home in need of maintenance? Call Albert Nahman Plumbing at (510) 876-9725 and get started today!
