03/16/2023
10 Noticeable Signs Your Water Heater is Going Bad
1. Your Water Heater Makes Strange Noises
A water heater making strange noises could be a sign that the unit is beginning to fail. These sounds may include popping, banging, or even rumbling. Hot water heater noises are usually caused by sediment build-up on the bottom of the tank. When this happens, it can cause the unit to overheat and eventually fail.
2. Decreased or Varying Water Temperature
If you notice that the water temperature from your hot water heater is not as consistent as it used to be, or if the water temperature is noticeably lower than it used to be, this could be a sign that the unit is beginning to fail.
3. Low Water Pressure
Good water pressure from your cold water faucets, but low water pressure from your hot water faucets could be a sign that there is sediment build-up in your hot water heater. Over time, sediment will build up in the bottom of the tank and can cause a number of problems.
4. Discolored or Rusty Water
If you start to notice that your hot water is yellow, discolored or rusty, this is a sign that the anode rod in your water heater tank is beginning to fail. The anode rod is responsible for protecting the interior of the tank from corrosion, so if it is failing, it is only a matter of time before the tank itself starts to rust.
5. Hot Water Shortage
Finding yourself running out of hot water more quickly than usual is often a sign that your water heater is on its last legs. When water heaters start to go bad, they often lose their ability to heat water properly, which can result in shorter showers and less hot water overall.
6. Water Heater Leaks
If you notice your water heater leaking, it is definitely time for a replacement. Water heaters are designed to be airtight, so any leaking is a sign that something has gone wrong. Leaking water heaters can cause a significant amount of damage to your home so it is important to check the heater and valves regularly for leaks. If your hot water heater is leaking, turn it off immediately and get a professional to look at it.
7. Frequent Repairs
Frequent water heater repairs are a good sign that it may be time to replace it. With each repair, there is the potential for new problems to develop or for old problems to become worse. If you find yourself making frequent hot water heater repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace your water heater.
8. Age of Hot Water Heater
The average lifespan of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. If your water heater is approaching or exceeding this age, it may be time for a replacement. If there is any sediment build-up in the tank, it will eventually solidify at the bottom. This causes a number of problems, including decreased efficiency and eventual water heater failure.
9. Higher Energy Bills
Sediment buildup in your water heater will reduce energy efficiency as it ages. Sediment in a hot water heater comes from minerals in the water. Over time, these minerals will settle to the bottom of the tank and build up, making it difficult for heat to transfer evenly throughout the tank. This can lead to your water heater not working as efficiently as it once did. If you notice higher energy bills, this may be a sign that your water heater is not as efficient as it once was.
10. Water Smells Odd
If your water smells strange, it is usually caused by bacteria growing in the tank. Bacteria love the warm, moist environment of the water heater especially if you keep your temperature below 120 degrees. Corrosion and rust can also cause bacteria. You can usually get rid of bacteria by draining and treating your water, however if the problem persists, you may need to replace your water heater.
Your water heater is an important part of your home. It provides you with hot water for bathing, washing dishes, and laundry. Needless to say, water heaters are pretty critical to our everyday life. Contact us for a new water heater today!
