First, the important news: in many homes, water heater replacement is one of the most common—and costly—major plumbing repairs. While the average water heater has a service life of about 12 years, some units may fail sooner, especially in areas with hard water.
Now for the good news: proper maintenance performed by a licensed journeyman plumber can significantly extend the life of your water heater, making replacement a far less frequent expense. Professional preventive maintenance helps ensure maximum performance, improves efficiency, and can even reduce monthly water heating costs.
Below are three signs your water heater may be due for a professional check-up:
1. High Operating Costs
Minerals dissolved in your local water supply can settle at the bottom of the water heater tank, forming a layer of sediment. This buildup forces the heater to work harder and longer to heat water, increasing energy bills.
Over time, this sediment can harden into scale, which is a leading cause of premature water heater failure. When caught early, loose sediment can be easily flushed from the tank during routine maintenance—a simple procedure for a qualified journeyman plumber. However, once sediment hardens, replacement of the entire unit may be necessary. Annual tank flushing is recommended to prevent sediment buildup.
2. Unpleasant Odors from Hot Water
The anode rod inside your water heater protects the tank from corrosion. As it gradually breaks down, it can react with elements in the water and produce a noticeable “rotten egg” odor.
Anode rods should be inspected approximately every three years by a professional plumber. If deterioration is found, the rod can be replaced without the need to replace the entire water heater.
3. Dripping Temperature & Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve
The Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve is a critical safety component designed to release excess pressure caused by high water temperatures. It is typically located on the top or side of the tank.
A TPR valve that continuously drips often indicates mineral buildup preventing proper sealing. This can lead to wasted water and cause the heater to cycle more frequently. A journeyman plumber can inspect the valve to ensure proper operation and replace it if necessary.
If you’re experiencing any plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to give us a call. St Charles Plumbing Company and our friendly, experienced team will be more than happy to help and provide reliable solutions you can trust.
