Water heaters don’t work indefinitely. Even one that’s regularly serviced will only run around 8–12 years, on average. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to know the clues that it’s dying. If not, you might not be able to use hot water for several days while you wait to install a new one.

Here are six common hints that your water heater is dying.

1. Your Water Heater is Older than 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is dated doesn’t necessarily mean it’s failing, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to replace it shortly. As the years go by, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it more complicated for it to heat water. In the end, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating components to stop working. Corrosion can also lead to water leaks, which could damage your Heflin home.

By replacing your water heater, you’ll have access to the most energy-efficient options. If you choose an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you might be eligible for extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t end there, as an ENERGY STAR water heater could save you up to $3,500 on water heating over its lifetime.

Changing from a regular tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For families hat consume less than 41 gallons of water each day a tankless water heater is often 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters usually last for around 20 years, which is about two times the life span of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaking

Sometimes leaks are just the result of loose connections, wrong pressure or a broken valve. But they can also be a symptom that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need professional help from Bain Heating & Air Conditioning to determine the problem.

3. Water is Discolored

If your typically clear water suddenly appears cloudy or rusty, your water heater might be the problem. Cloudy water is a symptom sediment has built up in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either situation, Bain Heating & Air Conditioning suggests having your water heater checked out by a pro

4. There’s Inadequate Hot Water

As sediment builds up in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater needs more energy to produce warm water. As a result, it will need longer for it to warm water, and hot water will run out much more quickly. Both are a sign that your water heater is failing.

To stop sediment from collectingin your tank, Bain Heating & Air Conditioning recommends having one of our specialists flush it yearly.

5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises

Similar to cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a hint that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, resulting in the strange sounds. As time passes, the stress on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Always Needing Water Heater Repair

Over its life, your water heater may have to have small repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re constantly contacting Bain Heating & Air Conditioning for support or a major part has stopped working, you need water heater installation.

It’s stressful when your water heater is just about to stop working or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you get in touch with Bain Heating & Air Conditioning at 256-270-1196 for water heater installation in Heflin. From selecting the right option for your home and budget to expertly installing it, we make the complete process uncomplicated. Contact us to schedule your appointment now!