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You depend on your home’s water heater almost every day. But you can’t depend on the water heater to last every day for an eternity. With all the work a water heater does, it will eventually wear down to the point where it’s too expensive to keep repairing it and the better choice is to have a new water heater installed. If your water heater isn’t providing enough hot water, learn about why your hot water isn’t getting hot enough to see if it’s a sign of decline.
We’ll help you understand when your water heater is on its way out with these seven warning signs. If you see them, call us for water heater service in Tampa, FL.
#1. Age
The best barometer to use to measure when your water heater is getting near to replacement is its age. Check the manufacturer’s date on the exterior of the unit. If you have a standard gas-powered tank water heater, you can expect a service life between 10 to 12 years. Electric water heaters can sometimes last to 20, and tankless water heaters to 25. If your water heater is at or over its service life estimate, now is a good time to consider getting a new one.
#2. Rusty discoloration in the hot water
You turn on a hot water tap and see the water has a rusty discoloration. If the discoloration doesn’t quickly go away (indicating dirt in the pipes), it probably means that the water heater’s tank has rusted through. There’s no coming back from that—the water heater needs to be replaced.
Sediment buildup from hard water can contribute to rust and leaks in your water heater’s tank. To reduce these risks, consider installing a whole-house water filtration system, which can help protect your plumbing and extend the life of your appliances.
#3. Noisy operation
Your water heater shouldn’t make much noise as it runs. You’ve had it for long enough to know how loud it’s supposed to be. When the water heater begins making a racket (rattling, banging, rumbling) as it runs, it needs professional attention right away. If it’s old enough, it’s probably best to replace it.
#4. High energy bills
Consider this: the water heater uses more energy than almost any indoor appliance in your house. When it starts to decline in energy efficiency because of age, it will cause a noticeable rise in your energy bills. Keep a watch on those bills when the water heater is getting up there in age, and plan a replacement when the bills start getting expensive.
Frequent repairs are another indicator that replacement is a better option. If you find yourself calling for water heater repairs multiple times within a short period, the cumulative cost of repairs may surpass the expense of a new unit. A modern water heater will also save you money in the long run by operating more efficiently than an older, deteriorating one. If your current unit’s hot water output is inconsistent, explore why your water heater might not be getting hot enough as an early sign it’s time to upgrade.
#5. Visible leaking
The only place where you should see water dripping from your water heater is its pressure relief valve. If you notice water leaking down the sides of the tank or pooling around the base, call for professionals right away. If the leaks are extensive enough because of corrosion and aging, replace the water heater.
#6. Loss of hot water volume
Are people in your home stampeding to the showers early in the morning because the hot water keeps running out? If this hasn’t been an issue before, it’s a major warning that the water heater is losing its heating capacity because of advanced age.
#7. Visible corrosion
When corrosion starts to appear on a water heater, it usually means it’s finished. Corrosion in some places, like the heat exchanger, can be corrected by replacing the corroded component. In most cases, however, corrosion means it’s time to send the old water heater to the recycling yard. For additional insight into common plumbing challenges, check out our guide on sewer backups and solutions.
Inconsistent water temperature is a subtle but critical sign your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. If your water frequently shifts between hot and cold during use, it could mean that essential components like the thermostat or heating elements are failing. When such issues occur alongside other signs of aging, it’s wise to replace the unit rather than attempt repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the top signs that my water heater needs to be replaced?
Answer: If your water heater is older than its expected lifespan (10 to 12 years for traditional units, up to 20 years for electric, and even 25 for tankless), shows rust or discoloration in the hot water, makes unusual noises like banging or rumbling, causes increases in energy bills, leaks visibly, runs out of hot water quickly, or has visible corrosion, it’s likely time to replace the unit.
Question: How do I interpret inconsistent or insufficient hot water?
Answer: Inconsistent hot water temperature could mean the thermostat or heating elements are failing. If your home is running out of hot water much faster than before, it’s a key warning that your water heater’s heating capacity is declining and replacement may be necessary.
Question: Could high energy bills signal a failing water heater?
Answer: Yes. As water heaters age or accumulate sediment, they lose efficiency and use more energy. A noticeable rise in your utility bills, especially if paired with other signs like age or inconsistent water heating, often means it’s more cost-effective to replace the unit.
Question: Is visible leaking always a sign to replace the unit?
Answer: Not every leak means total failure, but if the leak is coming from anywhere other than the pressure relief valve, or if water is pooling around the base of the tank due to corrosion or aging, the tank itself may be compromised and require replacement.
Question: What does visible corrosion indicate?
Answer: Corrosion on the tank is usually a serious sign. While some corroded parts can be replaced, most of the time visible corrosion means the unit has reached the end of its life and should be replaced for safety and reliability.
Call The Clean Plumbers when you need a new water heater: The one with the bubbles on the trucks.