Are you struggling with a damaged or dysfunctional water heater? It isn’t always easy to know whether your water heater’s issues can be solved with a simple repair, or if you’ll need to toss it out and replace it. At 1-800-Plumber of CT, we enjoy helping our residential and commercial customers find ways to make their plumbing system safe and efficient. Are you wondering if it’s time to say goodbye to your worn-out water heater unit? Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice.

It’s Been in Use for a Decade or Longer
Most water heater units can last for 8 to 10 years before they start breaking down. If you’ve been using your current water heater for a decade or more, that’s a good indication it’s time to replace it. Have you moved into a previously owned home, and aren’t sure how old the water heater is? Check the code found near the top of the tank, it should look something like this: D031074593. The manufacturing date is hidden in this code. The letter at the beginning represents a month, A=January, B=February, etc. The two numbers following the letter stands for the last two digits of the year. So, in this example, the date of manufacture will be April, 2003.

Signs of Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion is also an indicator that it’s time for a replacement. If the tank has begun to rust and deteriorate, you will often see warning signs over time, such as rust colored water. This could also be caused by rusted pipes, so if you’re experiencing this problem it’s best to call a professional plumber who can provide a quality inspection.

Frequent Water Leaks
If you notice wet spots near your water heater unit, you could have a loose hose or connector. However, if you check these items and everything seems fine, then you might have a hidden puncture or crack in your tank. If that’s the case, then you’ll need a full replacement.

Makes Loud Noises
Does your water heater rumble and shake every time someone takes a hot shower? Sometimes, the shaking and noises are caused by built up sediment in your tank, which can be fixed with a professional tank cleaning service. Yet, a noisy water heater can also be a red flag that your unit is struggling to work properly. Call a certified plumber to find out if the issue can be solved with a repair, or if you’ll need a new unit.

Do You Need a New Water Heater? Call 1-800-Plumber of CT Today
Have you decided it’s time to invest in a new water heater for your Connecticut home or business? Then call 1-800-Plumber of CT. Our licensed and insured plumbers offer a wide range of quality, reliable services including inspections, leak repairs, water heater repairs and new water heater installations. Contact our office to learn more or to schedule an appointment with a qualified plumber in Trumbull, Stratford, New Canaan, Greenwich, CT or another local community.