It can be easy to forget that the hot water that flows from every faucet in your Niceville, FL home must first pass through a water heater. Water heaters tend to be hidden in basements and systems closets in modern homes. Therefore, it’s no wonder that we don’t give them a lot of thought. However, it is important to check them from time to time. Sometimes, a new water heater installation maybe your best option.
Visible Corrosion
If your water heater has any corrosion or rust on the flow-control valves, pipe joints, or the tank itself, it might be time to consider replacing it. Corrosion can lead to leaks in an aging water heater. In a worst-case scenario, it can cause connections or the tank itself to fail completely and flood your home.
Lifespan
Average water heaters are made to last 10 to 15 years. Continuing to use one beyond its rated lifespan can be a recipe for disaster. Look for stickers or written information that provides your water heater’s installation date. If you can’t find that information, you can determine the date of manufacture by using the serial number. Serial numbers begin with a letter that corresponds to month. That letter is followed by a two-digit numeral for the year. A serial number beginning with "A09" indicates a manufacture date of January 2009. A number beginning with "B09" would be February 2009, and so on.
Energy Efficiency
Another common reason for investing in a new water heater is improved energy efficiency. Water heating accounts for as much as 18% of your home’s utility bills, making it the second-largest expense in your home. Modern water heaters offer significantly improved energy efficiency over older models. A new water heater installation can save you money every month on utilities while also restoring capacity.
For more information on water heater replacement, check out Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Niceville online or call us at (850) 331-7956.