Get the 411 on Preventative Steps for your Water Heater

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

We use our water heaters tirelessly. Whether it comes to cleaning dishes, taking showers, or washing hands, we rely on them to fulfill our hot water needs. If not properly maintained, these devices can not only be unable to heat water, but can break and fill your home with water. However, with the right preventative steps, you can avoid this altogether. 

Lifespan

Your average hot water heater has a lifespan of about 10 years. If not replaced in this time, it can start to slow down and not heat water as fast, or shoot water around your home due to leaks and breaks. It is a good idea to have your water heater replaced about every 10 years. 

Parts

Hot water heaters aren’t perfect and can often have problems other than being too old. Sometimes, heavily-used parts of the machine, like gaskets, can rust or wear down, causing leaks. Frequently check your water heater for any signs of damage or rust to any parts.

Signs (Not the Movie)

There are a few ways that you can tell if your hot water heater has deteriorating components:

1. Strange color of hot water
2. Strange odor of hot water
3. Leaks 
4. Strange noises coming from the machine

If you stay vigilant when it comes to your hot water heater, you can enjoy years without hot water heater incidents or water damage. We at SERVPRO want homeowners and business owners to know the risks and preventative measures when dealing with hot water heaters so you don’t run into disaster. 

If you do have water damage due to a hot water heater malfunction, call your local SERVPRO of Monroe, Randolph & Washington Counties 24/7 at (618) 464-0300.