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Your water heater uses gas or electricity to increase the temperature of the water that comes out of your faucets and showerheads. This system is integral to your ability to bathe comfortably, wash the dishes, and do laundry. It’s important to assess your water heater every year and keep an eye out for any signs that it needs maintenance. 

How Can You Tell Your Water Heater Is Failing?

1. Corrosion

If you take a look at the joints where the pipes run into the tank, there shouldn’t be any corrosion. With rust buildup, a slight leak could quickly spread, and there is no easy way to fix the problem. If your tank is around 12 to 15 years old, corrosion probably means it needs to be replaced.

2. No Blue Flame

Your water heater should have a blue flame indicating the pilot light is lit and heater is working. You might think any color will do, but a blue flame signifies it’s the right amount of heat. A yellow or orange flame is a sign the burner isn’t running optimally and requires inspection, as it could have a gas issue.

3. Leaking

Water leaks are one of the most common signs of water heater failure. Check the temperature and pressure valve on your tank. If you notice a puddle at the bottom of the tank, reach out to a heater professional right away. They’ll service the system to see if it’s just a leaky valve or the entire tank needs to be replaced. The valve is under immense amounts of pressure, so don’t attempt to fix it yourself or you could be seriously injured. 

  1.  Noise from the Water Heater

If you hear sizzeling and poping sounds from your water heater, you may want to start planning for a new water heater in the near future.  It may not be an immediate problem, but it is time to start planning the best time for you to have it replaced.

  1.  If you have a tankless water heater, just know that it requires annual descaling.

By scheduling regular water heater inspections and looking for the signs above, you can keep your system running smoothly year-round. To set up an appointment with Colburns Heating & Air Conditioning, call (716) 569-3695. Visit their website to learn about their skilled design, engineering, and installation services for HVAC and water heater systems. Servicing southwestern New York and northwestern Pennsylvania, the company swears by their upfront pricing, experienced craftspeople, and top-notch guarantees.

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