Is your morning shower suddenly turning cold? Does your water heater make strange noises that weren’t there before? You’re not alone. Hot water heaters give us clear signals when they’re failing, and these signs pop up more often than you think.
Trust us, there will be warnings before you’re stuck with ice-cold water mid-shower. This is how you’ll know when to replace your water heater.
Your Hot Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old
Age catches up with every appliance, including your water heater. Most tank-style water heaters last 8-12 years with proper maintenance. If yours has hit the decade mark, it’s living on borrowed time.
Check the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker. The first letter or first two digits typically indicate the manufacturing year. If you can’t find this info, call us with your model number, and we’ll help track down its age.
Even if an older unit still works, its heating element weakens over time. This means higher energy bills as your aging heater works harder to heat your shower water. New models use less electricity or natural gas while delivering better performance.
Rusty or Discolored Water Coming From Your Taps
Have you noticed rusty or brown water only when using hot water? This signals serious internal corrosion in your water heater tank. When rust forms inside the tank, it eventually breaks off and mixes with your water supply.
This is a warning. Rusty water means your tank is corroding from the inside out. Once this process starts, it can’t be reversed. The corrosion will ultimately lead to leaks or tank failure.
If you’re seeing rusty water in both hot and cold water lines, the issue might be your pipes rather than the water heater. Either way, this needs quick attention before sediment blocks your pipe system or damages other kitchen and bathroom fixtures.
Strange Noises Coming From Your Water Heater
Does your water heater rumble, pop, crack, or bang? These noises tell you something’s wrong. As water heaters age, sediment builds up at the bottom of the tank. When this sediment gets heated repeatedly, it hardens and creates that noise when the heating element activates.
This sediment buildup forces your water heater to work harder, causing two problems. First, it uses more energy to heat your water, driving up your bills. Second, the extra strain damages the tank over time, shortening its life.
While some maintenance might temporarily reduce these noises, once they’ve become constant, replacement is your best move. Modern water heaters run much quieter while using a fraction of the electricity.
Water Leaking Around the Base of Your Heater
Water pooling around your water heater means trouble. Small leaks often signal the tank’s inner lining has cracked, allowing water to slowly escape. These leaks typically start small but grow quickly as pressure builds inside the tank.
Check all connections and the pressure relief valve first — sometimes, the fix is as simple as tightening a connection or replacing a valve. But if the tank itself is leaking, there’s no repair option. It’s time for a replacement before that small leak becomes a flood in your home.
Water damage can destroy flooring, walls, and anything stored nearby. Don’t wait until your leaking tank turns into an indoor flood, especially if your water heater sits near valuable items or on an upper floor.
Not Enough Hot Water or Water That Won’t Get Hot
Do you run out of hot water faster than you used to? Or maybe your water never gets as hot as you want? These are clear signs your water heater is failing. A properly working unit should provide consistent hot water for your typical household needs.
Several things cause this problem. The heating element might be covered in sediment. The thermostat could be failing. Or your household might have grown, and you’re simply using more hot water than before.
If your usage hasn’t changed but your hot water supply has, your heater is telling you it can’t keep up anymore. New water heating systems offer better capacity and faster recovery times, so everyone gets a hot shower, even when the dishwasher’s running.
Higher Energy Bills Without Increased Usage
Have your energy bills jumped even though your habits haven’t changed? Your water heater might be the culprit. As these units age, they grow less efficient, using more gas or electricity to heat the same amount of water. An inefficient unit can push that percentage much higher.
Compare your recent bills to those from a year ago, as a steady climb often points to a failing water heater.
We’ll Help You Get Hot Water Flowing Again
At Davis Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, we help you stay ahead of water heater problems with expert guidance and prompt hot water heater service. Whether your system needs repair or full replacement, we offer options for optimal efficiency. That includes traditional gas and electric water heaters, as well as tankless water heaters that deliver endless hot water while lowering your energy costs.
Our team ensures your new water heater is sized and installed properly for your home, helping you avoid cold showers and high utility bills. Contact us today to explore the best solution for your hot water needs — and enjoy comfort that lasts.
