When a New Water Heater Should Be on Your Holiday Wishlist

Is It Time To Add a New Water Heater To the Holiday Wishlist?

This time of year is so full of joy- a bell from Santa’s sleigh, a Red Ryder BB gun, or a magical nutcracker. But these classic holiday gifts can’t compare with jets of warm water on a cold winter morning. No one deserves to step into the shower only to become the joke of the household as ice-cold water sends them shrieking back to the covers. 

Not only is hot water a modern pleasure, but it is also responsible for, on average, 20% of the energy costs in the home. An inefficient water heater is taking money from the Holiday gift fund like Scrooge docking Bob Cratchit’s pay. 

In addition to noticing more goosebumps than steam in the shower, there are several key factors to knowing just when to replace the water heater: age, the integrity of the storage tank, and rust-colored water. 

An Old Water Heater Is a Thief

water heater

Water heaters are like athletes: in their prime, they are paragons of efficiency and power. But wear and tear catch up with them over the years. The average career of a water heater is between 8 and 12 years. 

Check the date of the installation. If the water heater is approaching the 10-year mark, it’s an excellent time to have it checked to determine if it’s still at its peak performance.

It’s also important to check heating bills. If energy costs climb every month, then the water heater is a likely culprit. That’s money that could be better spent elsewhere, say on this year’s must-have toy or a National Lampoon level holiday lighting display. Stay ahead of the curve with a little preventive attention. 

Cracked Storage Tank

Wear and tear can age a water heater before its time, and a replacement may be necessary due to a cracked tank. Even minuscule cracks can make a big difference in efficiency. Cracks can be caused by: 

  • Sediment buildup: Over time, natural minerals in the water build-up in pipes, narrowing the opening. As the pressure increases, so does the likelihood of cracks. 
  • Damaged Internal Components:  With many different working pieces under constant pressure, it’s not a surprise that, over time, little damage to small elements leads to larger problems. 

If any of these problems crop up, it may be time to ask Santa to add a new water heater to the list. 

Rust-Colored Water

While a rust-colored coat may look quite nice on a figure of holiday joy, it is less appetizing coming out of the faucet. It is a key indicator that it’s time to buy a new water heater. Wear and tear of the internal ceramic coating may allow for rust to enter the water, but it is not the only factor. 

colored water

Iron producing bacteria from wells or other water distribution systems can also create rust-colored water. If disinfecting the tank is not sufficient, it’s a good time to look for newer options. 

But there is good news! A new water heater can be a good long term investment. More energy-efficient systems produce more heat with less energy. If luxuriating in warmth and wealth sound like just the thing for the holiday spirit, consider a new water heater this season. 

About Reeves Family Plumbing, Inc.

Dallas based Reeves Family Plumbing incorporated has served the community since 1960. With 24/7 call responses and a reputation for dependable, quality work, it’s no surprise that most of their business comes from word of mouth referrals. The team at Reeves Family Plumbing, Inc. is there for their customers with dependable water heater services in Dallas.

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