Signs That Your AZ Water Heater May Be Dying

Your water heater may seem like a permanent fixture that has been around since your grandma, but these systems are not indestructible. You may be encountering some issues that indicate a water heater that’s about to stop working, and you may not even be aware of it. What are the signs that your AZ water heater may be dying? The Plumber Guy has shared a comprehensive guide to help you out. Keep reading to learn more about these indicators and what to do next.

How Long Do Water Heaters Usually Last?

According to Lowes, an average water heater lasts anywhere from 8 to 12 years. Of course, there are plenty of factors that affect the system’s lifespan. Water heaters that face unfavorable conditions like hard water and lack of maintenance will typically last for a shorter time — around six years. Some units, especially ones that get consistent care and quality repairs, may last up to 15 years or more.

The type of water heater you have also has an impact on its lifespan. Tankless water heaters, in particular, can last up to two decades or more. On average, more traditional heaters with tanks usually last up to a decade.

Common Issues That Could Cause Water Heaters to Fail

There are a few problems that could result in water heater failure. Here are the three common ones Arizona homeowners may encounter.

• Hard Water – Hard water is water with lots of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals cause sediment buildup in the pipes and tank, lowering the lifespan of the system. Unfortunately, Arizona is known for its hard water. The state usually has hardness levels of 210 to 350 PPM, with areas like Chandler and Phoenix being particularly high. Water softeners are often a prerequisite to improving your water heater and plumbing system’s lifespan.
• Lack of Maintenance – Many homeowners neglect to perform regular repairs or maintenance work on their water heaters. However, you need to drain the tank completely every year. Checking the gas pilot and heating element is also crucial to ensure that there are no issues that could eventually shorten your system’s life.
• Usage – If your house has more occupants than average, this could mean more frequent water heater use. More use results in more hard water entering the system, leading to a shorter lifespan for your water heater.

Types of Water Heaters and Their Lifespans

There are two classifications for water heater systems: tanks and tankless water heaters. Here are the primary differences between the two.

Tank Water Heaters

The more traditional water heaters have a water tank. This extra component is what shortens that water heater’s lifespan by as much as six years. That’s because the extra components, such as the storage tank itself, are prone to sediment buildup, corrosion, and wear over time. The constant heating and cooling of the stored water can lead to the degradation of the tank material, especially if owners neglect regular maintenance.

Gas and electric tank water heaters also have varying lifespans. The latter has elements similar to the anode rod, designed to prevent rust. However, the electrical components are more prone to corrosion and require replacement to prevent the tank from corroding.

Tankless Water Heaters

As we mentioned above, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan — up to 20 years. Since these systems can produce hot water on demand, there’s no need for a tank and its additional components. Plus, tankless water heaters are also generally more energy-efficient. They only operate when hot water is needed, reducing the overall strain on the system.

Signs That Your Hot Water Heater May Be Dying

Watch out for the following indicators of a failing water heater system.

Inconsistent Temperatures

A damaged or dying water heater will produce water with fluctuating temperatures. You’ll notice hot or warm variations while showering or washing the dishes. Such an issue stems from sediment buildup in the heating elements of the aging system.

Discolored Water

Rusty water is another sign that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifecycle. This issue means that the tank’s interior is already corroding, with the exposed parts rusting and giving your water a yellowish or reddish tinge. Left unaddressed, the corrosion can lead to a leak and total failure.

Noisy Water Heater

Strange noises are another sign that your water heater is about to stop working. Rumbling, popping, or banging noises from within your unit are typically a sign of sediment buildup. As the sediment heats up and burns, it can cause these strange sounds.

Get Help From an Arizona Plumber

Water heaters in Arizona face distinct problems, like the high content of minerals that result in sediment buildup. To prolong your system’s lifespan, you’ll want to work with plumbers familiar with these issues, like us at The Plumber Guy. We serve several locations across the state, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the area to deliver quality services for your system.

Call the Plumber Guy for Expert Help in the Phoenix Metro Area

One of our main areas of practice is the Phoenix Metro Area. We come to your house to diagnose issues with your water heater system and provide the services you need. Count on us to repair or tune up your water system to prolong its lifespan.

Request a Visit or Quote

If you encounter issues with your water heater, don’t hesitate to contact The Plumber Guy today. You can ask for a repair service price quote or schedule a repair visit from one of our specialists. They can come to your property and conduct an assessment to find any issues.