The water heater is probably one of the most underappreciated appliances in your home. Hardly anyone ever stops to think about how much of their daily routine depends on a properly functioning water heater. Taking a warm bath, a steamy shower, running your dishwasher and washing machine are just a few of the simple home comforts that depend on hot water.

Appropriate maintenance is crucial in extending the life of your heater by reducing the occurrence of leaks and damages to your tank, and sidestepping the undesirable calls for emergency repairs.

Here are a few typical signs that there may be an issue with your water heater:

 

Rusty Water

If the hot water that comes through your tap appears discoloured, it is more than likely that your water heater is rusting on the inside. This can lead to leaks and contaminated water.

 

Noises Coming from the Water Heater

If there are unusual sounds coming from your water heater, that can be a sign that residue has accumulated on the foundation of your system. This makes water heating system less efficient and causes it to utilize more energy to heat your water, which means more expensive heating bills. Moreover, the increased exertion necessary to heat your water could lead to more damage to your system.

 

A Noticeable Leak

The most common cause of failure in water heaters is leakages from the tank. If you notice water around your tank, you may have a leak. The potential for catastrophic damage rises if your water heater is installed in your attic or above the first floor. The moment you water leaking from your heater, call your local professionals immediately. A minor leak can grow quickly and cause extensive damages to your home.

Not Enough Hot Water Available 

If you are little to no hot water out of your tap, the issue may be the pilot light on your water heater unit. Call in the experts if you are not familiar with investigating the pilot light.

 

Water is Too Hot or Too Cold 

If you ever find that the water is either too hot or too cold, there is a chance that you do not have the appropriate size water heater to accommodate your living space. If a gas water heater is too small, the system will degrade in a shorter period.

 

Age of Your Water Heater

The typical life expectancy of water heaters that are properly maintained, is between ten and fifteen years. Even if there are no apparent signs of an issue, older water heaters are at greater risk of creating a leak and causing damage to your home. If you do not know the age of your water heater, inspect the identification sticker on your unit. That is where the manufactured date should be listed with the serial number.

If you are looking for an experienced and affordable heating and cooling contractor in Ottawa to handle all your Ottawa HVAC needs, then give us a call to get professional help with your central air conditioner, furnace or fireplace for a complete home comfort experience. We have decades of experience in home heating and cooling and Capital City Heating & Cooling provides all HVAC services