Is Your Water Heater in Good Shape?

Watch for these signs of water heater trouble

Most people don’t spend a lot of time thinking about their water heater, especially when it’s working well. But if something goes wrong with your water heater, it will be all you can think about, especially if it ends up costing you thousands of dollars in water damage. As winter approaches the Hudson Valley and you prepare your home for the cold days ahead, now is a good time to think about your water heater’s health and stay on the lookout for signs that something isn’t right.

Is your water heater healthy?

Before a water heater fails, there are usually warning signs. If you notice any of the following, chances are your water heater may need to be repaired or replaced:

• An increase in your energy bills. Water heaters lose efficiency as they age. Keep an eye on your energy bills. If there’s an increase that can’t be explained by higher fuel prices, your water heater may be to blame.
• A leak and/or rusty water. Routinely check under your tank for puddles. Leaks are a serious warning sign. Never ignore one. You should also be concerned if your tank is producing rusty water. That’s a sign of corrosion.
• Evidence of hard water. When there’s a buildup of lime in your tank, you may start getting hard water. Hard water can cause white marks on the silverware and glassware you put in the dishwasher. A lime buildup is a problem that needs to be addressed, because it can negatively affect your water heater’s efficiency and longevity.
• Growling or gurgling sounds. When sediment builds up, it can cause your storage tank to make weird noises. This needs quick attention. If left unaddressed, a sediment buildup can lead to expensive repairs or require the replacement of your unit.

In addition to keeping an eye out for the warning signs listed above, you should also keep your water heater’s age in mind. Once it gets to be 10 years old, replacement might make more sense than additional repairs.

At Bottini Fuel, we can take care of all your water heater needs. We provide expert maintenance and service plans that can help you avoid expensive water heater repairs. And when it’s time to replace your water heater, our experts can guide you to the right one for your family’s needs. Bottini Fuel offers an extensive selection of versatile, efficient, and reliable water heaters from brands you can trust. Let us put our 70 years of experience to work for you. Click here to see which of our many locations serves your neighborhood.

Contact us today to learn more or sign up for a water heater service plan. With locations serving New York’s Hudson Valley as well as parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, we’re here for you.