Homeowners often don’t consider water heater replacement unless there’s a major problem. But replacing a unit before it fails avoids being without hot water and paying for costly emergency plumbing services. The upfront investment can skip the stress and protect your household budget.

Is your water heater past its prime? We’ll look at five signs it should be replaced and provide advice on how to prevent a system from failing.

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Age is one factor in considering water heater replacement. A tank water heater typically lasts from eight to 12 years. Its lifespan can vary depending on brand, model, and parts quality. Tankless water heaters can last about 20 years since they don’t run as frequently and are less prone to wear and tear.

When to Replace a Water Heater

Aside from your water heater’s age, there are other reasons to consider replacing it. The following signs mean you should consult with one of our plumbers:

1. Water Doesn’t Stay Hot

Inconsistent hot water is one of the most common signs of a failing water

heater. Unless the thermostat is reset, the water temperature should stay the same. One

or more failing components can cause a disruption. Mounting issues can cause

symptoms such as:

• Hot water runs out when showering, cleaning, or cooking.
• The temperature fluctuates as you’re using hot water.
• The water is only lukewarm, regardless of the temperature setting.

2. Poor Water Quality

Sediment, rust, and deteriorating metal in the tank can contaminate your water supply. The water coming out of the faucet may appear cloudy or a rusty brown. Rusty water can be harmful to your health. It may also mean your water heater is damaged. Suspended sediment and particles are indicative of a problem as well.

Earlier in your water heater’s life, flushing the tank or replacing the anode rod can resolve sediment issues. However, later on, a change in water quality is a reason to consider water heater replacement, especially when only hot water is affected.

3. Leaking Water Heater

Water heater tanks are permanently sealed. Therefore, a leak is an ominous sign that the unit is near the end of its life. Pooling water around the base means the tank is in danger of bursting or has already failed. Even moisture around the base or a drip on the tank’s surface is a serious concern.

Repairs may be possible if the leak is due to a loose or faulty valve, which can be tightened or replaced. Pipes and connectors can also leak; fortunately, they are repairable. Call a plumber to check your water heater. If possible, they’ll repair the leak; otherwise, they’ll replace the appliance.

4. Too Much Noise

Excessive noise is another common sign of a failing water heater. It’s often caused by accumulated sediment in the tank. If enough material builds up, it can cause the heating element to overheat and fail. Unusual sounds can also originate from various other damaged or worn-out components.

Contact Chud Cooling & Heating if you hear any of these noises:

• Banging
• Popping
• Rumbling
• Knocking
• Screeching
• Ticking
• Humming
• Crackling
• Sizzling
• Hissing

5. Your Energy Bills Are Too High

Do you keep track of your energy bills? Knowing the health of your water heater is one reason to. If your monthly utility bill increases over time or suddenly, consider having your water heater checked out. An aging system can develop issues that cause it to work harder and longer to maintain the set water temperature. Therefore, it uses more energy.

At this point, only a water heater replacement can offset the increase in energy consumption. A newer, more energy-efficient model can lower your long-term energy costs. Thus, you may save on operating expenses instead of paying more for energy and frequent repairs.

Repair vs. Replacement: When to Make the Call

Like many homeowners we work with, you may prefer water heater repair over replacement. A repair is worthwhile if the issue is relatively minor and the unit isn’t failing. Oftentimes, you can decide which path to take.

For most people, this decision comes down to what’s most affordable. Repairs usually cost much less than replacing a water heater. However, if your system is over 10 years old, doesn’t provide sufficient hot water, and needs frequent repairs, water heater replacement is the best option.

Weighing the cost-benefit of replacement can help you decide what to do. If the cost to repair a unit is over 50% of the cost to replace a water heater, we generally recommend purchasing a new one.

How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

People usually see value in how long things last. However, paying for one repair after another is not ideal financially. But what if you could extend the life of your water heater and avoid major repairs?

Both are possible by following these water heater maintenance tips:

• Flush the Tank: Over time, minerals and particulates in your water supply build up in the water heater tank. Flushing the water heater once or twice a year reduces this buildup and can prevent damage, improve efficiency, and increase the unit’s lifespan.

• Turn Down the Thermostat: Lowering the thermostat to around 120℉ can reduce wear and tear on your water heater. It also reduces the risk of anyone in your household getting scalded by hot water.

• Test the Pressure-Relief Valve: This simple test entails lifting the valve handle and letting the water flow. Have the valve replaced if it doesn’t open, no water comes out, or it leaks after being closed.

• Replace the Anode Rod: The anode rod attracts minerals and sediment to slow down corrosion in the tank. In the process, it breaks down over time, leaving your water heater vulnerable to damage and premature failure.
• Schedule Annual Maintenance: Professional maintenance ensures your water heater’s mechanical parts are working smoothly. It can help your water heater last longer and may be required by the warranty.

Schedule a Water Heater Replacement Consultation Today

Are you still deciding whether to repair or replace your aging water heater? The experts at Chud Cooling & Heating can evaluate your existing unit, answer your questions, and help you make an informed decision. We offer various solutions to meet your hot water needs and budget, including gas, electric, and tankless water heaters.

Contact us to schedule a consultation or learn more about our water heater and HVAC services.

It’s easy to take a water heater for granted until it fails and you’re forced to take a cold shower. When searching for a new water heater, Abington residents come to Chud Cooling & Heating. Here are some factors to consider so you can choose one that is right for your family.

Tank vs. Tankless

A conventional storage water heater holds hot water in a reservoir so it’s available when needed. A tankless water heater heats up water on demand, rather than heating it ahead of time and storing it. Tankless water heaters cost more up front than models with tanks, but tankless water heaters typically use less energy, have lower operating costs, and last longer.

Size

You should choose a water heater that is an appropriate size for your family’s needs. Think about how much hot water you use on a daily basis to wash clothes and dishes and to take showers. If your family uses a lot of water, you may need a large water heater, or you may decide to install more than one.

Fuel Type

The type of fuel a water heater uses can affect its efficiency, size, and operating costs. Water heaters can use several types of fuel, including:

• Oil
• Propane
• Natural gas
• Electricity
• Solar
• Geothermal energy

Operating Costs

Compare operating costs for water heaters that use different sources of fuel. Think about the types of fuel that are readily available in your area and their costs so you can narrow down your options. One type of water heater might require less fuel than another, but the one that needs less fuel might cost more to operate if the fuel it uses is more expensive.

Get Help Choosing a New Water Heater Yardley

The professionals at Chud Cooling & Heating can help you choose a water heater perfect for your home. We are here to listen and to answer any questions you may have so you can choose a system that will meet your family’s needs and budget. Once you have selected a model, we can install it in your home. We can also help with maintenance and repairs in the future. Contact us at 215-659-4343 to learn more.

Last Modified On 8/26/24

Are You Tired of Waiting for Hot Water? 

Are you frustrated with the slow response of your current hot water system? At Chud Cooling & Heating, we understand the importance of efficiency and comfort in your home. Let’s explore how tankless water heaters, whether gas or electric, provide immediate hot water and operate without a bulky storage tank.

Learn How To Turn On Your Tankless Water Heater In 5 Steps

Step 1: Starting the Heating Process Simply turn your hot water tap on. The journey to instant hot water begins here, whether your system uses gas or electricity. Cold water flows through the heater, activating it immediately—this is your first step towards a steady stream of hot water.

Step 2: Detecting Water Flow As soon as cold water enters the heater, it passes through sensors that immediately detect its flow, alerting the internal computer. This crucial step ensures that energy is used efficiently, heating water only when necessary.

Step 3: Activating the Heat The internal computer quickly calculates the required heat amount. For gas models, a burner ignites to heat the water. Electric models heat the water using elements. This precision ensures the perfect balance between temperature and water flow.

Step 4: Exchanging the Heat Water moves around a heat exchanger, reaching the desired temperature swiftly. Systems with a recirculation pump excel here, maintaining a constant flow of hot water without delays, perfect for immediate and continuous use.

Step 5: Delivery and Energy Savings The heated water then travels through your pipes to its intended destination—be it your shower or kitchen sink. Once there’s no more demand for hot water, the system shuts down, cutting down energy waste. This efficiency is what makes tankless heaters both effective and eco-friendly.

The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters: Cost Savings and More

Investing in a tankless water heater can lead to significant energy savings, reducing your utility bills while offering you constant hot water on demand. These systems are not only energy-efficient but also environmentally friendly, contributing to lower carbon emissions. Though the initial setup cost may be higher, the long-term savings and extended lifespan make it a worthwhile investment. Ready to cut your energy costs and enjoy reliable hot water? Call us today to discuss how a tankless water heater can enhance the comfort and efficiency of your home, or request a consultation online!

Exploring Top Brands and Further Recommendations

When it’s time to choose a tankless water heater, brands like Rheem, Noritz, and Rinnai are renowned for their robust performance and efficient heating solutions. A licensed HVAC professional can help guide you to the model that best fits the energy needs and size of your home, ensuring you enjoy enhanced comfort and efficiency. Get more advice and home tips by following our blog.

As the brisk air of winter continues to blanket Abington, PA, our community finds warmth in the simple pleasures: a hot cup of coffee from the local café, a brisk walk through Briar Bush Nature Center, or the cozy evenings at home. But beneath the comfort of your heated home lies an unsung hero: the water heater. 

This is an important appliance that lets you cherish the hot shower you take every day and the warm meal you eat every night. Yet, its upkeep is often overlooked, which can lead to some serious failures when you don’t want them. Call us today and let us know about the problems you are experiencing with your water heater.

Understanding the Importance of Water Heater Services 

Water heater services shouldn’t just be another item on the maintenance list for your home. They are what stands between you and the cold shock of the winter that you would be faced with if it fails. These water heater services involve a suite of actions that are designed to make sure that your water heater is thriving throughout the cool winter. 

The Pillars of Water Heater Health 

Before you run into issues from the cold, here are some of the essential heating services that will help keep your water heater in top condition. It will make sure that you never have to face the cold unprepared. 

• Inspection and Maintenance
• Tank Flushing
• Insulation Checks
• Emergency Repair Preparedness

Tune-Ups

As winter tightens its grip, your demand for a hot shower or a warm house doesn’t take a break. The silent yet steadfast water heater is probably working double time to meet all of your needs. However, without a watchful eye, it can falter when it’s needed most. Regular water heater services will give you peace of mind.

• Detect and Protect: Catching sediment buildup and corrosion early can keep your water heater from becoming an energy hog or a breakdown statistic.
• Efficiency Is Key: Consistent water heater services ensure each component sings in harmony, offering you hot water without a hitch.
• Crisis Aversion: Professional eyes decipher the small clues that prevent the big problems, safeguarding your winter comfort.

In the heart of winter, knowing your water heater has been meticulously inspected and maintained can be the difference between a season of warmth and a cold surprise. Regular water heater services are your best defense against the unseen, ensuring reliability when the mercury dips.

Tank Flushing

Winter’s chill can be a trial for your water heater, but it’s nothing a good tank flush can’t fix for you. Over time, the unseen sediment that travels through the water will end up settling at the bottom, just like uninvited guests. It will result in compromising the warmth of your water. Flushing these away is like setting your water heater free to serve you better.

• Clear the Clutter: Sediment may be out of sight at the bottom of your tank, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Removing it means your water heats up efficiently.
• Pre-Winter Prep: A little bit of prevention before winter sets in can ensure your water heater doesn’t falter when you’re reaching for that hot tap.
• Long-Term Love: Regular tank flushing is the unsung hero that extends the life of your water heater, ensuring many more winters of faithful service.

With the tank cleared and the water flowing freely, your water heater is primed to face the coldest days. Tank flushing is a simple step in water heater services that reaps big rewards, keeping you cozy all season long. 

Insulation Checks

When the outside world turns into a winter wonderland, the last thing you want is the cold sneaking into your home through the nooks and crannies of your water heating system. Proper insulation is like a warm blanket for your pipes and water heater, keeping the heat where it belongs.

• Wrap It Up: Inspect and snugly insulate pipes to keep the water temperature consistent from the heater to tap.
• Gap Check: Look for leaks in the insulation—it’s like finding a window cracked open in a blizzard.
• Pre-Winter Tune-Up: Address insulation issues before the cold sets in to lock in the heat and lock out the frost.

Closing out these checks before the winter sets in not only keeps your showers hot but also keeps your heating bills from rising. A well-insulated water heater is a fortress against the cold, ensuring you stay warm inside when it’s chilly outside.

Emergency Repair Preparedness

Winter’s chill is relentless, and even some of the best water heaters out there can fall to the pressure that winter puts on them. Being prepared for the unexpected means you will never have to face the cold shoulder of a broken water heater when you need it most.

• Quick Fix: Ensure you have a plan set in place for a rapid response to leaks and breaks so you can prevent ongoing issues if your system fails.
• Element Check: Regularly test the heating elements and your thermostats to avoid the icy surprise of a cold shower.
• Seasonal Readiness: A winter-ready water heater is one that’s been checked for all common cold-weather issues.

With a strategy for emergency repairs in place, you’re ready to face the winter head-on. Quick and effective fixes mean your home remains a haven of warmth, no matter what winter throws your way. Read our reviews to have confidence about choosing us to help fix common HVAC problems! 

Embrace Winter’s Warmth with Confidence

As the winter winds whistle through Abington, you can help make sure you stay comfortable and warm by making sure your water heater is prepped for the season with water heater services. With each moment of maintenance that you take the time to invest in now, you’re building a barrier that will keep your comfort for those cold days. 

Proactive care for your water heater means you’re never left in the cold. Instead, you know you will have serenity and efficiency. For the peace of mind that only readiness can bring, reach out to Chud Cooling & Heating today. Let’s fortify your winter warmth together—because a cozy home is the best defense against the chill.

When your showers feel lukewarm or downright chilly despite maxing out the heat, your water heater may need a closer inspection. In Furlong Township, hard water and other conditions can strain your water heater, causing inconsistent temperatures, leaks, and cloudy water. Understand these common water heater issues to know when to call Chud Cooling and Heating for expert water heater repair in Furlong Township.

How Water Heaters Work (and Why Problems Occur)

Water heaters provide hot water to fixtures and appliances connected to your home’s plumbing system, such as showers, laundry machines, and sink faucets. Water heaters come in two main types:

• Tank water heaters: Utilize electric heating elements or a gas burner to heat water in a tank ranging from 30 to 80 gallons. Water remains in the tank until a fixture needs hot water.
• Tankless water heaters: Also called on-demand systems, tankless water heaters heat water as it flows through the unit using either gas or electricity.

These water heater types often have similar components in addition to parts specific to their operation. Depending on the type of heater, several sources may be responsible for common water heater problems:

• Worn-out components or an aging system
• Sediment buildup
• Corrosion
• Pressure or temperature fluctuations
• High hot water demand
• Poor tank insulation
• Clogged pipes

Top 5 Common Water Heater Problems

Water heater problems may start small and subtly, but ignoring these issues allows them to escalate, potentially causing water damage, wasted energy, safety hazards, and other concerns. Discover the most common water heater issues that homeowners typically encounter.

No Hot Water

When your hot water isn’t working and your showers run cold, it’s often the first and most obvious signal that something is wrong with your water heater. In electric models, faulty heating elements, thermostats, and other components may prevent the unit from heating properly. They can also trip the circuit breaker, cutting off power to the water heater altogether. In gas water heaters, malfunctioning ignition systems and gas supply components, such as thermocouples or pilot control valves, may also prevent the pilot light from lighting or staying on.

Leaking Tank or Connections

Water pooling around your unit or dripping from connections and valves may indicate a leaking water heater. Leaks around connections are often fixable, but water pooling beneath the heater typically indicates a deteriorating tank with corrosion or cracks. These leaks may begin slowly but can cause mold, water damage, and safety hazards if unaddressed.

Rust-colored Water

Rust-tinted water from your faucets indicates corrosion in your plumbing system, including within the water heater. Traditional water heaters have an anode rod that protects the tank lining from corrosion, but corrosion within the tank may cause rust to contaminate and discolor your water when the anode inevitably deteriorates.

Unusual Noises

Rumbling, popping, or other strange noises from water heaters are signs of mineral sediment buildup on the tank bottom or around the heating elements. When the heater cycles on, the sediment disrupts normal heating and pressure. Steam bubbles force their way through this layer, causing mini-explosions, which can stress and damage the tank, lower efficiency, and shorten the heater’s operating life.

Inconsistent Water Temperature

If your water fluctuates between hot and cold without warning, the problem may be caused by a faulty thermostat or scale and sediment buildup, resulting in uneven heating. Damaged pressure regulators may also disrupt normal water pressure and flow. If multiple household members use hot water simultaneously, the tank may be unable to meet the demand and require an extended period to replenish its hot water supply. In tankless models, flow sensor malfunctions or installation issues can also cause temperature swings.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Attention

Water heater problems aren’t always obvious, but paying attention to minor or gradual shifts in your unit’s performance can help you know when it needs professional attention. Call a licensed plumber for assistance and prevent larger problems by watching for these signs your water heater needs repair:

• Hot water runs out quickly or takes longer to replenish
• Puddles or moisture at the base of the unit
• Drop in hot water pressure
• Frequent breaker trips
• Gas odors
• High energy bills
• Error codes or indicator lights

When to Repair vs. Replace Your Water Heater

Choosing between repair and replacement depends on the age, condition, and type of problem with your unit. A timely repair can extend your heater’s life, but replacement may offer better efficiency and long-term value.

Repair makes sense when the issue is isolated to an easily fixed or replaced component, such as a thermostat or connection leak. When combined with proper maintenance, small repairs can restore your system’s performance and keep it running efficiently.

More significant concerns may call for replacement, such as:

• A leaking or rusted tank
• Repeated or increasingly costly repairs that cost about half the price of a replacement
• Your hot water demand has outgrown your current unit’s capacity
• You’re interested in upgrading to a more efficient water heater
• The system is 10 to 12 years old or older

How to Prevent Water Heater Problems with Routine Maintenance

Routine water heater maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and maximize the system’s lifespan. Both homeowners and professionals have a role to play in maintaining system performance. Try these upkeep tips between professional services:

• Set the temperature to about 120 degrees
• Inspect the anode rod periodically and replace it when it’s nearly worn out
• Check for corrosion, leaks, or other damage around the tank and connections
• Space hot water usage throughout the day

Schedule a professional inspection annually to ensure overall system performance. A technician can identify wear, flush the tank, inspect gas supply components, and complete other expert tasks to optimize energy efficiency and safety.

Contact Chud for Expert Water Heater Services Near You

Serving homeowners in Furlong Township and other surrounding neighborhoods, our local water heater services safeguard your system against leaks, corrosion, and other issues. Prevent water heater problems before they escalate. Contact us at Chud Cooling and Heating today for professional water heater repair near you.

A water heater typically lasts for several years, but it can become worn out over time due to lack of maintenance or wear and tear. Before your water heater fails completely, it will most likely give some signs that there is a problem. If you know what to look out for, you will know when it’s time to contact a heating Northampton contractor and get a new water heater.

You Don’t Have Enough Hot Water

Sediment in the water heater tank can keep water away from the heat source. If your shower starts out hot and then turns cold before you’re finished, or if you and other members of your family have to wait a while between showers so that each person has enough hot water, you may have to buy a new water heater.

You See Rust in the Water

A water heater tank can rust on the inside, and that rust can get into the water. If water that comes out of a faucet or showerhead has a rusty color, that is a telltale sign that it’s time for a new water heater. If you don’t replace it soon, you may have an even bigger problem on your hands.

The Water Heater Leaks

Rust can eventually cause a water heater tank to leak. That can cause water to flood your basement or utility room. Water can cause major damage to your home’s structure, including mold. It may also damage or destroy your furniture, flooring, electronics, and other belongings.

You Hear Unusual Sounds

Strange noises can be a sign that sediment has accumulated in the water heater tank. The tank may also have cracks or holes, which means that it may leak if you don’t have the water heater replaced soon.

Contact Chud to Replace Your Water Heater

If you have noticed one or more of these signs, you may have to get a new water heater. At Chud Air Conditioning, Heating, and Duct Cleaning, we have experience installing gas and electric water heaters, including models with and without a tank. Our heating Northampton team can work with you to help you choose the right water heater for your home and for you family’s needs. Call (215)659-4343 to learn more.