Does Your Water Heater Need Replacing?

It's all too easy to forget just how essential hot water is to everyday life, at least until it's not there when you need it. Bathing, cleaning, and cooking are all dependent on your water supply, and when your water heater goes, it will likely be at the most inconvenient time. One of the best ways to avoid such a crisis is to recognize the signs that go along with a failing water heater. A simple but important part of your home's maintenance is making sure your water heater is functioning correctly and knowing when it's time for a replacement. Here are the signs for spotting potential problems.

• Leaks
  Home improvement experts know that one sure sign of a faulty water heater is visible leakage. If you notice water in the floor around the base of your water heater, it could be leaking. More than one reason will cause leaks; however,  the bottom line is that the appliance may need replacing.
  
  
• Your Hot Water Isn't Exactly Hot
  If you notice the water coming from your hot water faucet is colder than usual, the issue may be with your water heater. The burner or element could be damaged from sediment or mineral deposits that build up over time inside the appliance.
  
  
• Overheating
  A water heater that overheats your water or throws the breaker could mean trouble. Get a professional to inspect your water heater to determine if it needs to be replaced. Putting in a new water heater before your current one fails is not only smart, but it could save you frustration and further problems down the road. Having a new water heater installed is a relatively simple home improvement project, and many newer appliances offer energy-saving features previously unavailable.
  
  
• Visible Rust
  If you can see rust on the outside of your water heater, the chances are that it won't be long until it begins leaking if it hasn't already. Appliances may stand the test of time for a while, but none of them last forever. Once you detect rust on your water heater, it's just a matter of time until you'll need a replacement, and investing in a new water heater may prevent more significant problems and inconveniences for you and your family.

Whether you are a do-it-yourself type when it comes to home improvement projects or you prefer to leave it to the pros, it's smart to check the condition and performance of your water heater on a regular basis. Preventing a hot water crisis in your home is a simple matter of being proactive.

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