With winter and spring temperatures getting a little bit uncomfortable, the importance of a reliable water heater in Toronto becomes more and more apparent. You will need a constant supply of hot water for shower, washing dishes and laundry amongst other things. But if your appliance is getting on in years, how do you tell it is time now to have it replaced? Well, the appliance will give various signs when its useful line is nearing. Check out for these signs that could indicate your hot water heater needs a replacement:

1. Rumbling Noise

In an ideal situation, the hot water appliance should operate silently. However, if you start hearing loud rumbling or banging noises from the appliance, then you need to think of making a replacement. In most cases, the noise is caused by sediment build up from the natural minerals in the water. If the hot water heater is not replaced immediately, it is likely to start developing leaks which can be dangerous. However, it is recommended that you contact your plumber to advise on the noisy appliance and the way forward.

2. Leaks

Depending on the location of the appliance, leaks can be dangerous not only to the hot water heater but to its surrounding. Leans can damage walls and other appliance around them. A leaking appliance is an outright sign that you need to upgrade. However, there are leaks that can be fixed and thus you need to call a professional plumber to advise on what could be the problem. If they confirm that the system cannot be salvaged, then you need to have appliance replaced immediately. It is also recommended that you virtually inspect the appliance to help identify leaks early.

3. Low Hot Water Pressure

Hot water from the water heater should be supplied at a certain pressure. But if you notice a drastic or gradual reduction in pressure and you have not adjusted the pressure valve, then it could be a sign that your appliance’s useful life is coming to an end. Low pressure is mostly a result of mineral deposits building up in the pipes thus causing a blockage. If the problem persists, then you have no option but to bring in a new appliance.

4. Lukewarm or cold water

The hot water heater is designed to provide hot water as per the setting of the thermostat. If the appliance is supplying lukewarm or cold and you have not adjusted your thermostat, consider replacing it immediately. Warm water means that the heating element is burning out and the system can no longer supply hot water. However, you need a professional plumber to diagnose the problem first.

5. Age of the Appliance

Do you remember the date you bought the appliance? Well, to keep such records for future reference. If the hot water heater is being used in areas with good water (soft water), they can last for 10 years or more. So if your water heater is approaching 10 years or is already past that, then you should start thinking of an upgrade.

6. Frequent Repairs

How many times have you called a plumber to fix your water heater this year? Well, this can tell you if your appliance is lifespan is coming to an end or not. If your water heating system is been breaking down frequently, then you need to consider an upgrade. Feel free to book an appointment with Caldwell Plumbing to help with all your hot water heater needs. We provide plumbing service to Oshawa, Courtice, Bomanville, Uxbridge, Pickering, Ajax, and the rest of Durham Region.