Piedmont Water Heater Failure Signs to Spot

Water heater failure signs are sometimes obvious. Other times, more subtle. Really, it depends on age, use, and overall condition. A failing water heater presents people with a real dilemma. It’s not exactly an inexpensive major appliance to replace and it usually requires an experienced plumber to install it. But, those aren’t the only problems. A bad water heater is problematic to dispose of, to say the least. Here's why.

Piedmont Water Heater Disposal

An old water heater doesn't contain a large amount of parts. But, it is a major household appliance. Meaning, the local trash collection agency won't pick it up. That also means you can't roll it out to the curb and it will get picked up and hauled away.

Hot water on tap is one of great conveniences of modern society. In the 1800’s if you wanted a hot bath you had to warm water on a wood burning stove or over a fireplace, make multiple trips to the tub and then hope it doesn’t cool too much before you jump in. Today we just turn on the faucet and enjoy. But if your water heater is failing that bath you planned may not go so well. --Home Depot.com

All this to say, when a water heater does go bad, it's your responsibility to dispose of it in a proper, legal manner. Now, this will take more time and effort but it comes with a trade-off of sorts. Meaning, you'll get a new one to replace the old unit.

Water Heater Failure Signs to Spot

The average lifespan of a water heater ranges between 10 and 15 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors

• Age. Start by finding the alphanumeric serial number on the unit. The first letter represents the month. Meanwhile, the two numbers after it represent the year. So, if there's "D" to begin the serial number, followed by "06," that means it was manufactured in December of 2006.
• Bad water. Discolored water or water with an odd taste and/or smell are other signs of a failing water heater. Now, this doesn’t always mean the water heater it the culprit. But, if the discoloration, odor, or taste does not appear in the cold water, it’s a strong indication.
• Leaking water. Here's something that's not very subtle at all. Leaking water means trouble, at the very least. Puddling water is never a good sign when it comes to a water heater.
• Strange noises. If you hear a rumbling or a banging noise, that usually means there’s something wrong with the appliance. Over time, sediment builds up in the bottom of the tank and eventually causes noises. You’ll need to contact a plumber to know for sure.

Of course, one of the most obvious signs is little to no hot water. If it’s time for a water heater removal, just phone 800-737-5923 or visit Pro Junk Dispatch.