Is your morning shower getting colder with each new day? Water heaters often fail quietly as sediment buildup or aging parts begin to cause problems. Catching hot water heater problems early helps you save money, avoid water damage and stay more comfortable.
Watching for these 11 warning signs of a need for hot water heater repairs or a replacement helps you stay on top of new and developing problems.
Realizing It’s Older Than Eight to 12 Years
A traditional tank water heater will last up to 12 years, provided that you give it proper care. Tankless versions might last longer, with a life span reaching up to 20 years. With both types, it might help to find the manufacturing date to determine the age.
Pro Tip: Look for the serial number on the label to find your water heater’s age
Seeing Rusty or Discolored Water
Rusty water could indicate that the tank is deteriorating, especially if you notice leaking near the unit. Pipe corrosion can also cause this issue, and this is more likely to be associated with low water pressure.
Quick test: Drain a few gallons- still rusty? That indicates it’s the tank.
Hearing Strange Noises: Popping, Rumbling, Banging
Sediment causes hot water heater to overheat, which damages the tank. Ignoring these noises puts excess strain on the hot water heater’s components and allows sediment to continue building up.
Fix or Replace Tip: Flush the tank annually to avoid premature replacements.
Finding Water Around the Heater (Leaks or Moisture)
Early leak detection saves thousands of dollars in potential property damage. The most common sources of leaks are expansion, loose valves and corrosion. A leak means immediate replacement when a plumber can’t stop it by tightening or replacing parts.
Dealing With Inconsistent or No Hot Water
Fluctuations in the water temperature indicate failing heating elements or a problem with the thermostat. This is one of the top warning signs of total heating failure on the horizon.
Experiencing Low Water Pressure On the Hot Side
Once sediment clogs the pipes, you’ll notice a reduction in hot water pressure. Turning the water up to increase pressure impacts the appliance’s performance and can lead to higher water bills.
Smelling Foul Odors From the Hot Water
That rotten egg smell in your shower might not be from the drain. This upsetting symptom of water heater problems is often due to bacterial growth. If this is the only problem you’ve noticed, then flushing the water heater with vinegar could help.
However, this isn’t safe to do in areas with poor ventilation. A hot water heater replacement may be necessary if you notice other signs of failure, such as rusty water.
Noticing Cloudy or Sandy Water
Sediment can get stirred up and impact the water heater’s efficiency and lifespan. At this point, our punctual plumber can assess the unit to determine if a flush or system replacement is best.
Receiving Soaring Energy Bills
An inefficient water heater requires more power to run, which can drive up gas or electricity costs. You may also waste water trying to get it to a comfortable temperature.
The energy factor (EF) rating on hot water heaters is based on how much power the system uses. Paying attention to this number can help you choose an efficient hot water heater that lowers utility costs.
Needing to Schedule Frequent Water Heater Repairs
Our technicians will look at the repair history for your hot water heater to find clues that could predict a total failure. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend replacing hot water heaters when the repairs are expected to cost 50% or more of the price of a new unit.
Failing to Meet Your Household’s Hot Water Needs
A growing household may also mean that your older hot water heater can’t keep up. Modern units are more efficient, and upgrading to one could help you save water and energy while providing hot showers for everyone.
Bonus: Repair or Replace? Use This Homeowner’s Checklist
When you’re trying to figure out if our technician might recommend repairs or a full replacement, it helps to find the answers to this checklist.
•Age-Older units may make more sense to replace.
•Repair history- Frequent repair needs indicate a failing water heater.
•Visible damage- Noticing leaks, rust or other signs of damage indicates a new unit is necessary.
•Efficiency rating- Upgrading to a higher efficiency model could save you money in the long run.
•Hot water needs- Newer models can supply your home with more hot water.
FAQs
Are you looking for quick answers to your hot water questions? Check out these FAQs to learn more.
How long do water heaters typically last?
A quality water heater should last up to 10 to 12 years. But, it will likely need maintenance before it reaches the end of its life span.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
It’s hard to answer this question without an inspection. Our plumbers will make their best recommendation based on the issue, the age of the water heater and the cost of repairs vs. a replacement.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater?
The final price for a water heater replacement depends on the make and model of the unit, along with the difficulty of the installation.
How can I extend my water heater’s life?
Flushing the tank regularly is one way to extend your water heater’s life. You’ll also want to plan for regular inspections to identify small repair and maintenance needs over time.
Find Expert Water Heater Services in Orlando, FL
Unfortunately, water heaters don’t last forever. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of a failing water heater, so you can contact one of our plumbing experts to help sort out developing issues right away.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, then book an inspection today to avoid surprisingly cold showers and expensive repairs.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers both water heater repair and replacements depending on your situation, and we serve Orlando, Florida and the surrounding communities. When time is of the essence, our punctual plumbers can restore your home’s hot water fast.