Should I Replace My Propane Water Heater?

One of the best ways to ensure you’ll always have a plentiful supply of hot water at the ready is by using a propane water heater. But a propane hot water heater won’t last forever, unfortunately. It is bound to eventually wear out, unfortunately, like any type of mechanical equipment that is likely in constant use.

Another safe bet is that the last thing you want to do is to wait until you have a leaking water heating unit. Once your unit has already failed, you will have fewer options, not to mention a terrible inconvenience and a big mess. It will also be even more costly to resolve the problem than it would have been if you simply replaced the hot water heater before it failed, worst of all.

Be aware of these clear indications that your water heater is wearing out:

Water Heaters’ Life Expectancy

An average tank water heater’s life expectancy can range, but in general, it should last up to 13 years. If you live in North Carolina and have a propane water heater, it could last significantly longer. If your tank water heater is 10 years old or more, our advice is to not wait until it breaks! Start researching your replacement options now.

For help you in making the right choice, take this interactive quiz. This tool will help you to understand your options and figure out which is the perfect propane water heater for you and your family.

Rising Energy Bills

If your energy bills keep growing without any changes in your household size, your unit is most likely being pushed beyond its capacity to perform. Higher energy bills can be a result of this inefficiency.

Rusty Or Brown Hot Water?

It is usually an indicator that the inner layer of your tank is starting to corrode if your cold water tap flow runs clear but looks rusty or brown when it comes out of the hot water tap. It is time for a new unit right away if you see rust forming on the outside of the tank. This is a clear indicator that there is no time to spare!

Dishes, Utensils Or Clothing With Hard Water Stains?

Stains on your cutlery or dishes are typical signs of water that contains excess minerals. You may also notice that your sheets may pick up rusty stains in the washer or that your skin is dryer. These problems could be caused by hard water or could be the result of excess lime in your tank water heater. Either way, these issues will reduce the efficiency of and significantly reduce the life of your water heater.

Noticing “Unusual” Noises Coming From Your Tank?

Sediment in the storage tank can cause unusual noises often described as growling to come from your storage tank. If not dealt with in a timely manner, this issue almost always leads to repairs or even a replacement.

If any of these warning signs are present and you’d like to think about replacing your water heater, contact your local propane company for advice.