A Milford, NH homeowner recently called us in a panic. His home’s water heater had completely gone kaput. It was an older model and he had been warned that replacement was on the horizon. The cold temperatures of December proved to be too much for it.
At Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc., we do our best to keep our customers in heat and hot water, minimizing downtime and inconvenience. In this case, the homeowner was looking at a three-day wait before the new water heater could arrive and be installed by a technician.
Signs To Watch For If A Water Heater Nears The End Of Life
One of the most common signs that your water heater is on the way out is a leak, identified by a pool of water near or around the heater. A leaking water heater is difficult to fix and often means that a replacement is very short. Another common problem in water heaters is corroded valves. The valves on the water heater are often one of the first things to wear out, affecting the performance of the entire unit.
Unusual noises coming from the water heater is another red flag that there is a problem. This can include creaking, knocking, or whining, which can all be an indicator of sediment having built up in the bottom of the tank.
One of the most obvious signs of your water heater nearing replacement is in its performance. Unfortunately, the homeowner in Milford, NH ignored the clearest sign, which was a difference in the water temperature. Being mindful and on the lookout for these types of signs can go a long way to addressing problems with the water heater before you are left in the cold.
