Most water heaters are designed to last from 10 to 15 years. If your water heater is around this age, you should start watching for signs that it’s going bad. If your water heater is 8 years old or less, then you may want to have it repaired by John Stevenson Plumbing. Don’t just assume your hot water heater needs to be replaced, the problem maybe repairable. It could be a blown out pilot light, built up sediment or clog.

1. Check the color of the hot water coming out of your facets. If it looks rusty or brown, your water heater maybe on it’s last legs. The cold water will still be clear.
2. If you’re not getting enough hot water and you need to turn up the thermostat on the water heater, your hot water heater could be malfunctioning.
3. Is there any water around the unit? You may have a leak, which with time, will only get worse. Check the underside of the unit, which is where most leaks occur. You may not see water, just some rust spots where the water has been sitting. Once you have a leak the only thing you can do is replace the water heater.
4. Examine the water heater burner. The burner may have become clogged and rusty. Remove the front cover of the hot water heater to inspect these parts.
5. Check the outside of the water heater tank for corrosion. Water heaters are made of steel and the metal may have rusted through. If you see any rust, you need to replace your hot water heater.

No one wants to run out of hot water. Don’t wait until a hot water heater bursts to get a replacement. Check your water heater on a regular basis to keep it in tip top shape. A malfunctioning hot water heater can cause serious water damage to your home if it bursts. Most homeowners insurance won’t pay for water damage. So prevention is key.

If you notice some of the issues mentioned in this article please call John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning at (760) 452-0702. They’re your go to plumber in Carlsbad, Rancho Santa Fe and Encinitas. Right now John Stevenson Plumbing is offering $100 off a replacement water heater installation until February 28, 2011. Use discount code: BLOG