May 26, 2023
Wondering if you need to replace your water heater? If your water looks, feels or smells different, it could be time for a replacement. Water heaters typically last around 10 years, but warning signs often appear sooner. Although there are so many potential causes of water issues, you may need a water heater replacement if you notice any of the following issues:
10 Signs You Need a New Water Heater
With so many potential causes of water issues, it can be hard to tell when to get a new water heater. You can feel pretty confident you’re looking at needing a water heater replacement if you notice any of the following issues.
1. Age of the Water Heater
The age of your water heater is a significant indicator that it’s time for a replacement. Water heaters tend to last around a decade — sometimes shorter or longer — before needing to be replaced. The lifespan of your water heater can vary, depending on the type of water heater you have, how often you use it, the quality of your water and the frequency of maintenance. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your water heater, that’s a clue you probably need a new one.
You can also check your water heater’s serial number to determine its age. Typically, the serial number is on the upper part of the water heater.
The serial number often uses a capital letter to indicate the manufacturing month — using “A” through “L” to represent January through December — and two digits to indicate the year. So, if your serial number begins with “C12,” your water heater was manufactured in March 2012. This method of determining your water heater’s age works for most water heaters, but you can always verify it on the manufacturer’s website.
2. Leaks or Visible Damage
Leaks or visible damage can be a huge headache. Corroded water heaters will begin to leak, and water will start to pool around your water tank. Even without corrosion, your water tank can fracture and leak. As your metal tank consistently contracts and expands due to the heat, the tank may fracture or even burst. Without prompt replacement, this leaking can even lead to water damage in your home.
If you notice moisture, corrosion or any pooling water around your heater — even if it seems minor — this is a warning sign that your unit could fail soon. Along with wasting water and increasing your bills, leaks can also cause significant damage to your floors, property and other important components, making prompt repair or replacement necessary.
3. Discolored, Rusty or Smelly Water
Discolored, rusty or smelly water is one of the most noticeable indicators that you need a replacement. When water is discolored, it can indicate rusting in your water heater. This can happen in traditional-style water heaters when the anode rod becomes corroded.
The anode rod helps protect the tank from corrosion by attracting corrosive elements that would otherwise wear down the tank lining. Once the rod can no longer do its job, the tank becomes more vulnerable to rust and mineral buildup, which may eventually affect your hot water’s color, smell or taste.
When your water smells or tastes different than normal, it may be a sign that your water heater is breaking down, and sediment is making its way through your water supply. Many people describe this odd smell or taste as metallic, and it usually becomes noticeable when you attempt to use your hot water.
4. Unusual Noises Like Rumbling or Popping
Unusual noises often indicate sediment buildup. When your water heater is in good condition, you should not hear any banging, rumbling, cracking, popping or other loud noises. As sediment builds up on the bottom of the water heater tank, it will begin to harden, which can cause loud noises when your heater tries to work.
Over time, minerals and particles in your water can settle at the bottom of your hot water tank. This buildup can reduce your unit’s efficiency, contribute to corrosion and lead to more noticeable issues with your water quality. If you begin to notice dirty or sandy-textured water, this can be a sign your water heater needs professional attention.
5. Lack of Hot Water or Inconsistent Heating
A lack of hot water or inconsistent heating often means your heater is nearing the end of its life. As your water heater ages, it will take longer to heat your water, or your hot water may not last as long as it used to. Your declining hot water supply may start out small, but it will continue to worsen over time.
Eventually, your short bursts of hot water will run out, and you’ll be left with no hot water at all. Sometimes, no hot water can mean there is an issue with your circuit breaker, but often, it’s an indicator that your water heater has reached the end of its service life. You’ll want to reach out to a local hot water tank provider for a replacement.
6. Frequent Repairs, Breakdowns and Higher Bills
Frequent repairs or breakdowns can be costly and often indicate it’s time for a full replacement. Even if your heater has not reached its expected lifetime, it may be time for a replacement. Hard water, constant use and infrequent or insufficient maintenance can all lead to a shorter operational lifespan. If you’re constantly calling technicians for repairs, it will also be more cost-effective to replace your water heater than to keep paying repair fees.
Not to mention, a failing unit uses more gas or power to reach the same temperature. Mineral buildup and worn parts force your heater to work longer and harder, drawing excessive power. This means you’ll likely see a spike in your energy bill even if you’re not increasing your water usage.
7. Your Water Heater Makes Strange Noises
When your water heater is in good standing, you should not hear any banging, rumbling, cracking, popping or other loud noises. As sediment builds or collects on your water heater floor, it will begin to harden, which can cause these loud noises when your heater is trying to work. Any unusual noise coming from your water heater is worth investigating.
8. Your Water Heater Needs Frequent Repairs
If your water heater is in need of constant repairs, it’s probably time you look for a full replacement. Even if your heater has not reached its expected lifetime, it may be time for a replacement. Hard water, constant use, and infrequent or insufficient maintenance can all lead to a shorter water heater’s operational life span. If you’re constantly calling technicians for repairs, it will also be more cost-effective to replace your water heater rather than continuously pay repair fees.
9. Your Water Heater Is Leaking
Corroded water heaters will begin to leak, and water will start to pool around your water tank. Even without corrosion, your water tank can fracture and leak. As your metal tank consistently contracts and expands due to the heat, the tank may fracture or even burst. Without prompt replacement, this leaking can even lead to water damage in your home.
10. You Use Your Water Heater Frequently
For homes with larger families, your water heater is likely to handle more daily use, which can lead to needing an early replacement. So, before you dismiss the possibility of needing a replacement, consider how often your household uses warm or hot water.
When to Call a Plumber
Knowing when to call a plumber can be the difference between making a cost-effective replacement and facing serious water-related issues. Call a professional plumber if you notice:
- Persistent leaks or pooling water near your water heater.
- Rusty, discolored or foul-smelling water.
- Strange noises coming from your tank.
- A complete lack of hot water or water that heats inconsistently.
- Frequent need for repairs or sudden spikes in your energy bills.
- Your water heater is over 10 years old and is showing any of the previous symptoms.
Water Heater Replacement Near You
A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt your daily routine, from showering and cooking to washing dishes and doing laundry. When you first notice the signs of a broken or old water heater, call the trusted professionals at Enduric Plumbing.
We have extensive experience servicing the greater Winston-Salem, North Carolina, area and offer various plumbing services, including water heater replacements, repairs, relocations and installation. Reach out to us today for a professional water heater replacement from our full-service plumbing contractors.