Your water heater consumes more energy than all household appliances combined, accounting for 17% of the energy use in your home. Not sure when to upgrade? Here are signs it is time to upgrade the water heater in your home. 

The Water Heater Is Old

Though water heaters are certainly built to last, they do not last forever. Generally, water heaters last 20-30 years. However, if your water heater is over 15 years old, it is worth looking into purchasing a new one. Water heaters lose efficiency over time, and newer more efficient systems are always entering the market. If you cannot remember when your water heater was purchased, look for a sticker near the top. This manufacturer sticker will have numbers – the first two usually indicate the year. 

It is important to note that a new water heater is well worth the investment. Your water heater is a significant contributor to your energy bill. While old hot water heaters run continuously, newer models use minimal electricity to provide hot water whenever you need it.

Your Water Is Not Hot Enough

As a rule of thumb, hot water should start to flow within a minute of turning on the tap. If this is not the case and you are stepping into a cold shower, the heating element may be worn out. Even in the cold Saskatchewan winters, your water heater should be performing promptly. If it is not, it is time to have a professional take a closer look.

Your Water Heater Is Making Loud Noises

A noise coming from your water heater is indicative that there is an issue with the mechanical system. In older hot water heaters, rumbling sounds are common. This rumbling sound is the result of sediment build up on the tank floor that accrues and hardens over time. When sediment buildup occurs, your water heater is less efficient, damage-prone, and runs the risk of breaking down completely.

You Notice Rust On The Water Heater Or In Your Water

Signs of rust on the water heater or in the water itself are signs to look out for. It is possible for rust to occur even in newer hot water heaters. Be sure to check the water inlet or pressure relief valve on the water heater unit. These are two places where rust is noticeable and indicate that rust is likely present within the tank as well. 

If the water flowing from your taps is rusty, there is an issue with your water heater system. Be sure to call in a professional before a bigger problem arises such as a leak. 

You Notice Leaks 

As water heater units age, leaks are more common. A leaky water heater is a tell-tale sign that it is time to upgrade. Sometimes, loose fittings or issues with the pressure overflow pipe are the cause of leaks. Usually, however, leaks are caused by metal in the tank expanding after years of heating cycles. Whenever a leak is involved, it is more than likely your water heater requires an upgrade. 

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to upgrade the water heater in your home. If you are ready for an upgrade, do not hesitate to contact our team at JOB Heating & Air Conditioning. We will help you explore water heater options and answer all your questions.

JOB Heating & Air Conditioning is a Trusted Saskatoon plumbing company. We show up on time, deliver on budget and we leave the work area cleaner than when we arrived! At JOB we take pride in our plumbing services in this city and surrounding area, so nothing means more to us than testimonials from our clients as their preferred plumber in Saskatoon.

The harsh elements are hard on anything left outside throughout the winter. Although air conditioner units are built to withstand winter conditions, they need help to remain protected. Especially in freezing temperatures, here are some reasons to keep your HVAC system’s outdoor unit protected this winter:

Built-Up Ice Damages The Outdoor Unit

Ice build-up can damage the outside and inside of your outdoor HVAC unit. As snow melts and re-freezes, cold temperatures cause ice blocks to form in roofs, gutters, and other surfaces. Falling ice can also damage the exterior of your unit and the lines connected to your system. 

Ice build-up also causes internal damage to your unit. If snow and ice are not removed and build up on your outdoor HVAC unit, it causes system components to freeze. Extreme enough temperatures can cause motors to freeze, making your compressor unusable. The worst part is that you may not notice there is damage until you go to turn on your unit when the warmer months hit.

Rust Is Destructive

When snow and water are present, rust is an issue. Water expedites the oxidation process, particularly when combined with exposure to oxygen in the air. Although materials such as copper are resistant to corrosion, they are not rust-proof. Eventually, rust leads to a coil losing the capacity to operate and transfer heat properly under pressure. 

Rust will affect the internal parts of your HVAC unit and damage your system's external or structural parts. Although these components are painted or sealed, this is not enough to combat the power of rust. Typically, however, issues commence in unsealed locations such as bolts, screws, and the holes that keep your system together.

Snow And Ice Limit Air Flow 

Heat pumps are popular heating systems for many homeowners. Modern heat pumps quickly heat a home efficiently, even in temperatures below freezing. However, to function, they must have access to enough heat, which can only be drawn from the air around them. Therefore, airflow is crucial for these systems. If snow and ice accumulate and block airflow, the system cannot do its job effectively. 

HVAC systems that fill up with snow will result in a similar situation. Heat transfer is impossible if snow enters the cage surrounding your interior components. As a result, your heat pump freezes, and your home will not have the heat supply it needs to be kept warm.

Ways To Protect Your Outdoor HVAC Unit

Protecting your outdoor HVAC unit from snow and ice is important to keep it in good working condition. Here are ways to protect your outdoor HVAC unit: 

• During snow storms, always cover your HVAC system. Covering the system always gives critters a place to build a home and find shelter, which causes damage.
• After a heavy snowfall, brush or sweep snow off your unit. Snow and ice build-up can damage it. 
• Clear the snow around the outdoor unit (at least a one-foot radius). With a heat pump system, the radius should be three to four feet. 
• Never use hot water to defrost a frozen air conditioner. Hot water mixed with snow causes temperature shock, shattering even rigid metal. 
• Always have your air conditioner inspected before use in the warmer months to ensure there is no lasting damage from the winter elements.