Household appliances aren't meant to last forever, and your water heater is no exception. Your device may begin to exhibit several signs of degradation over time, indicating that it may be time for a water heater replacement. Keep your home's water temperature appropriate by remaining vigilant for the following symptoms.

1. Chilly Water

No matter how high you crank up the heat or how long you wait for it to warm up, your faucets just continue to pump out lukewarm water. This lack of hot water is perhaps the most obvious sign that it's time to replace your old water heater.

2. Puddles Surrounding the Device

Check the area around your water heater's tank for pooling or puddles. These can indicate that the tank itself has a leak. This happens because the metal in the device expands as the water heats up. Eventually, this can cause the metal tank to crack and leak.

3. Corrosion and Rust

You're most likely to discover these signs of degradation around the temperature and pressure relief valves, as well as surrounding the inlet and outlet connections. It's natural for rust to build up over time, but you still need to take steps to resolve the damage.

4. Discolored Water

If your tank is expelling rusty water, then you're probably dealing with rust inside the tank itself. This type of damage usually cannot be resolved, meaning a water heater replacement is the only viable solution.

5. Strange Sounds

Questionable noises are almost always bad news, no matter which type of appliance you're dealing with. As your water heater ages, sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank. As the water heats up the debris, it begins to harden and clang against the insides of the tank, resulting in what may sound like a herd of animals stampeding in your basement.

If your device is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, you most likely need to consider a water heater replacement. The professionals at The Air Squad can assist you with this process, as well as provide any additional information you may need.