An unexpectedly cold shower will wake a person up, but it may not be the right way to start the day. The average water heater tank lasts approximately 15 years; after about 10, its efficiency may drop, making failure more likely. Rather than waiting for that to happen, homeowners should recognize the symptoms of and call for water heater repair in San Marcos CA.
Advanced Age
Knowing how old the water heater is can help a customer decide whether to repair it or replace it. To determine its age, look at its serial number. The serial number will begin with a letter from A-L; this represents the month of manufacture. The next two digits indicate the year of manufacture. For example, if the serial number begins with D11, that means the unit was made in April 2011. If it’s more than a decade old, replacement may be a good idea.
Odd Noises
Over the years, sediment gathers in the tank. As it heats and reheats, it hardens, making the unit less efficient and noisier. The longer sediment sits in the tank, the more wear it will cause. If the tank rumbles or makes other noises, inspect it for leaks.
Rusty Water
If hot water is rusty or discolored, it may mean there’s corrosion inside the unit. However, galvanized pipes may cause similar issues. To determine where the problem lies, drain a few gallons of water into some buckets. If the water still appears rusty after a few buckets have been filled, it’s time to call for a unit replacement or water heater repair in San Marcos CA.
Leaks
As the internal tank heats, it will expand. Over time, the expansion may cause small cracks. If there’s water on the floor, check to see if it’s coming from the tank’s fittings, connections, or pressure overflow pipes. If these parts are dry, consider replacing the unit soon.
Regular maintenance and frequent tank flushes will help extend an appliance’s lifespan. However, if the unit is past its prime, there are a range of tankless and traditional models to meet the family’s hot water requirements. Browse our website or schedule a consultation to learn more.
