Water heater woes
A failed water heater can damage your home and property. Emergency replacement of a water heater—especially on evenings or weekends—can add unnecessary cost, not to mention inconvenience.
The typical lifespan of a storage water heater is 10 to 15 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If your water heater is older than that, plan to replace it soon. If you don’t have records of when it was installed, find the serial number on the water heater’s sticker or metal plate. Look up the number online or call the manufacturer to find its age.
Sediment or water on the floor or at the bottom of the water heater could mean its days are numbered. Sediment can indicate corrosion, which leads to a leak or failure.
Rusty or discolored water from your faucets can be a sign the tank is rusting inside. If water is not getting as hot as it used to, it could mean an electric element is failing or a gas burner is not functioning properly.
If you’re hearing unusual noises from your water heater, schedule a checkup with a plumber. Well-functioning water heaters typically don’t make much noise.
A professional plumber may be able to replace failing components. If you are having issues with the tank itself, it’s likely time for a new unit.
Buying a new unit
If you’re in the market for a new water heater, a heat pump water heater might be a good fit for your home. These systems are two to three times more energy efficient than conventional electric-powered tank water heaters, according to the DOE. A federal tax credit—30% of the project cost, up to a maximum of $2,000—is available until December 31. Find more at energystar.gov.
HOT TIP
Even if your water heater is in great shape, you can save at home by lowering your hot water use. Some easy ways: wash laundry in cold water and install high-performance aerators on faucets and showerheads to reduce the amount of hot water you use.
MIRANDA BOUTELLE writes on energy efficiency for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
