Water from your hot water system should be crystal clear. If at any time your water is coming out cloudy, murky or even looks a rusty-colour, then this is a sign your water heater is dying. When metal is left wet, it eventually rusts, and your water tank is made of metal.
Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more. Traditional water heaters with standing water tanks can last around 10 to 15 years before you notice signs of age.
If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it's probably reaching the end of its lifespan. Most conventional electric hot water tanks will last 10-15 years maximum. Gas-powered hot water tanks usually breakdown after 8-10 years, while tankless water heaters can last over 15 years with regular maintenance.
How Often Should I get My Water Heater Flushed? It is recommended that you flush your water heater at least once per year. Doing so will help to prevent the potential problems that sediment can bring over time.
Short of a plumbing emergency, this is a big reason to replace your water heater, as not only can it lead to the issue worsening over time, but can cause your energy bill to skyrocket to keep up with the overwhelming needs to keep your water hot.
Water heaters can stop working partially or completely due to a loss in water pressure. This is caused by several issues. The TPR valve will open if the water temperature or pressure gets too high.
A water heater cannot work properly if the burner is dirty or non-functional, hence causing the water to not heat up. The solution is to replace the damaged gas control or burner assembly – also known as a thermocouple.
Water is warm, but not hot enough – If your water isn't getting hot enough, the cause could be an undersized water heater, crossed hot and cold connections, or a faulty heating element or thermostat.
Water doesn't get as hot as it used to. The water coming from your faucet has rust in it. Your hot water has a metallic taste. The water heater makes cracking and popping sound.
To flush your hot water tank, simply turn on the cold water spigot leading into your hot water tank. Let it run for a few minutes until the water exiting your hose runs clear. This may take a bit. While the water might be running clear and isn't brown, you may still have some sediment.
How much it's going to cost is often the deciding factor when you're choosing to repair vs replace your hot water heater. The general rule of thumb is that if the repair is going to cost 50% or more of the replacement, it isn't worth it.
The best way to protect your investment is to have your water heater serviced annually by a licensed plumber. A good plumber will conduct a full inspection for rust, leaks and other problems, test the thermostat and valves, replace the anode rod to prevent corrosion and flush the tank.
What does it cost to flush a water heater? The cost of flushing a water heater can vary quite a lot depending on the area, the quality of the plumber, and the type of water heater. Generally, for most standard water heaters, a flush will cost between $80 and $100.
Water leaks are perhaps the most common type of water heater issue you'll face. Any water heater will start to leak eventually, as by nature water will eventually corrode your tank and create microscopic cracks or fractures.
Use a solution of hot water and detergent, and scrub all interior surfaces. Sediment, algae, rust, and biofilm can be gone with a pole-mounted brush or a power washer. All hoses, pumps, and pipes used to fill and empty the tank should be cleaned and rinsed.
Water Heater Maintenance
You should have your water heater serviced at least once per year. The most important part of water heater maintenance is flushing the tank. If you don't flush it, sediment will build up inside your water heater's tank.
A properly functioning water heater is nearly silent. Sometimes you will hear a gurgle, but these sounds spell trouble: cracks or pops. clanging.
You should be aware that the cylinder installed in your property is a pressurised container and will require regular maintenance just like a gas boiler. An annual check is vital to ensure your safety and must be carried out by a qualified engineer.
The debris that accumulates in an uncleaned tank can get lodged into your pipes and cause leakages and corrosion. Regular cleaning protects your tank and prolongs its durability. It will also save you maintenance costs from corroded plumbing systems.