A professional diagnosis can detect any water leaks and subsequent damages. The results will determine whether or not you need to make any changes, or replace your tank altogether.
Water Heater Inspections
There should be a panel located on the side of your water heater tank. Located the serial number on this panel. Within it lies a date of purchase. It can be difficult to see sometimes, but remember that it is in the serial number on the side panel of your water heater. If you cannot determine the date, a licensed plumber can easily make out the numbers for you. This serial number will tell the plumber whether or not the unit is still covered under warranty. From here, take a peek at the seams located on the outside of the tank.
Check for signs of leaking or liquid seepage, focusing more at the bottom of the tank. Look for mold, mildew, or water damages. If any of these signs appear, or if your tank is showing evidence of leakage, it is time to have your tank replaced or repaired. Again, a trained master plumbing contractor can facilitate these tasks for you. They retain the professional equipment, proper training, and industry resources to carry out any and all plumbing and water heater repairs.
If the warranty is not valid any longer, it is most lucrative to purchase a brand new unit with a new parts and labor warranty. Be sure to choose a reputable brand water heater, like Rheem or Bradford White. Ask your local Indianapolis master plumber for advice on the markets most reliable hot water heaters. If the warranty is still good, ask your plumber to validate it for you. Simply provide your plumber with the serial number, date, make and model, and size of the tank, and they will locate the parts, put you on schedule, and do the repairs so you are not without hot water for long.