As the new year begins, many of us are thinking about ways to improve our homes and lives. For homeowners in Spartanburg, Greenville, and Greer, SC, one often-overlooked aspect of home maintenance is the water heater. While it’s easy to take this essential appliance for granted, a faulty water heater can lead to a range of problems, from inconvenient cold showers to costly water damage.
At JB Plumbing Services, we’ve seen our fair share of water heater issues, and we’re here to help you identify the signs that it’s time to upgrade. Age is just one factor to consider when determining whether your water heater needs to be replaced. Other signs of trouble include:
- Water pooling around the base: If you notice standing water around your water heater, it could be a sign of a leak. Don’t assume it’s just condensation – call a professional to investigate and avoid potential water damage.
- Strange noises: Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds coming from your water heater can indicate sediment buildup or other issues that may cause the unit to fail.
- Metallic smell and taste: If your tap water has a metallic smell or taste, it could be a sign that your water heater tank is corroding. This is often a problem with older units, but certain chemicals or sediment in your water can cause premature wear and tear.
- Low water pressure: If you notice low water pressure from your hot water faucets, but good pressure from your cold water faucets, it could be a sign of sediment buildup in your water heater.
- Discolored or rusty water: If your hot water appears yellow, brown, or rusty, it may be a sign that the interior of your water heater tank is corroding. This corrosion can be caused by a failing anode rod, which is designed to protect the tank from rust. When the anode rod fails, the tank itself can begin to rust, leading to discolored water and potentially even leaks.
- Increased energy consumption: A water heater that’s losing efficiency can cause your energy bills to rise. This is often due to sediment buildup inside the tank, which can reduce the unit’s ability to heat water effectively. As a result, the water heater has to work harder to produce hot water, leading to higher energy consumption and increased costs. If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy bills and can’t identify the cause, it may be worth investigating your water heater to see if it’s the culprit.
These signs can be caused by a range of factors, including sediment buildup, rust and corrosion, loose fittings, and high pressure. Additionally, the magnesium-style anode rods in your water heater are designed to prevent rust and corrosion, but they can eventually fail, allowing rust to corrode the tank and cause leaks.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it may be time to consider upgrading your water heater. At JB Plumbing Services, our experienced technicians can help you diagnose and repair or replace your water heater, ensuring that you have a reliable and efficient supply of hot water all year round.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today to schedule a water heater inspection and take the first step towards a warmer, more comfortable home in the new year. Whether you’re in Spartanburg, Greenville, or Greer, SC, we’re here to help you with all your plumbing needs.
