How to Tell if Your Hot Water Heater is Going Bad

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Is your Hot Water Heater on its way out?

Hot water heaters will typically last you between 10-15 years. When internal components become corroded and mineral build up occurs, your heater can begin to leak. Without correction, this small leak can turn into something more serious – and you may find yourself with a basement full of water. Below are some telltale signs that your hot water heater is on its way out, and some simple maintenance you can do to prevent disaster.

1. Check

Check for power if there is no hot water. While no hot water can be a sure sign that the water heater has failed, it could also mean the pilot light is out or the circuit breaker tripped.

2. Examine

Examine the water that comes out of the hot faucet. If it appears rusty, this signals an upcoming failure of your water heater. Look for signs of muddy water or increased sediment in the water tank. Attach a hose to the drainage bib on the water heater, turn the unit off and drain it to examine its contents. Muddy water or increased sediment signals a potential failure of your water heater. When flushing the water heater, remember that the water that comes out of the hose bib at the front of the water heater is going to be extremely hot, as it will not be mixed with cold water. Use caution when flushing the water heater to avoid getting burned. Smell or taste the water. If the hot water has a metallic taste to it, this indicates that the water heater is close to breaking down.

3. Listen

Pay attention to the noises your water heater makes. While there will be normal sounds as the water heats, loud cracks and pops indicate an interaction between the heating elements inside the heater and the scale and mineral deposits built up on them.

4. Address

Take immediate action if you see leaking water around the water heater where none has leaked before. Disconnect the electricity or turn off the gas to the unit and let the water cool down before attempting to remove and replace the water heater. Leaking water indicates an internal failure in the water heater.

*Information courtesy of SF Gate - Home Guides