Is your older water heater on its last legs? It’s not always obvious when this critical appliance is about to give out.

As the go-to crew in Sussex County, we at Top Flight Heating & Air have helped many people replace water heater units without any fuss. Keep reading as we break down the nitty-gritty details!

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Most modern water heaters last up to a decade before their performance starts to decline. You might even push it to 15 years with regular tune-ups.

Don’t treat this general lifespan as set in stone, though. Various factors can influence how long your system truly lasts, including:

• The quality of water in your area
• Consistency of maintenance checks
• The manufacturer and model of the water heater
• Your household’s hot water usage

Watch Out for the Red Flags

Why wait for your appliance to break down and leave you in a lurch?

We usually replace water heater units when they exhibit one or more of these symptoms:

• Poor performance: Did your showers turn cold faster than you’d like? A low or inconsistent temperature is the most obvious indicator of a struggling system.
• Pooling water: A leaking water heater can cause serious water damage and even mold growth when left untreated. Check around the base of your water heater for moisture.
• Noisy operation: Banging, rumbling, and other strange noises could mean sediment buildup or other internal complications that need addressing.
• Rusty water: When you turn on your taps, does the water look cloudy or have a brownish tint? You might have a corroded tank.
• Rising costs: Always compare trends in your utility bills. If your power or energy usage has risen despite no change in your routine, don’t ignore it.
• Visible wear: Do you see rust spots, cracks, or other forms of deterioration? Schedule a professional inspection.

When To Seek a Water Heater Replacement

We understand the hesitancy of replacing a major appliance. It’s expensive and can disrupt your day-to-day activities, but it’s sometimes the best option. Repairs, while helpful, can only do so much; they become just a band-aid on a bigger problem at a certain point.

When you face many hot water issues and the unit needed servicing multiple times in the past year, it’s probably time to retire it. You should also account for its age. Obsolete designs often become costlier to run and pose potential hazards that newer models would mitigate effectively.

Choosing Your New Water Heater

Instead of playing guessing games, why not seek expert assistance? Top Flight Heating & Air always has you covered. We will assess your system and recommend the most cost-efficient long-term solution.

Our crew can also help you replace water heater units with the latest technology. We help narrow down your options by accounting for:

• Your budget
• Your household’s hot water needs
• Energy efficiency ratings
• Available space for installation
• Preferred fuel type (electric, gas, propane, etc.)

Avoid a lack of hot water or increased bills. Dial 302-329-8003 today — consistent hot water awaits!