Did you know that your water heater takes up 18% of your home’s energy use? That’s right, keeping your showers cozy takes a lot of energy. However, this number can only go higher if you keep using a compromised unit. A water heater that needs repair wouldn’t function efficiently as it should. This means higher energy bills, on top of risking your family’s safety and comfort.
Stop challenging your unit and your wallet’s limits; take control by giving your water heater the care it deserves. Check out these signs telling you it’s time for a water heater repair or replacement.
Signs of Water Leaks
Have you noticed puddles near your water heater? This common sign of a water leak is one of the biggest red flags in plumbing. Leaks often come from loose connections where the water escapes. If this is the case, you’re still fortunate.
But it’s a different story when the leak comes from a cracked or corroded water tank. Unlike loose connections you can tighten, a compromised water tank isn’t recommended to be repaired. Weakened tank integrity means safety risks, even when you can patch it up. The only solution for this would be a tank replacement. To be sure, always rely on the expert diagnosis of a plumber. A plumber can tighten fittings or replace faulty valves. If the tank itself is leaking, they’ll likely recommend you buy a new one.
Fluctuating Water Temperature
Noticing odd changes in your water temperature? One second, the water is hot. Next, it’s freezing. What’s going on? This problem often ranges between a faulty thermostat or a compromised heating element. Even when you deem the fluctuation to be negligible, it’s still ideal to have a plumber come over and expect your unit. Once heating fluctuation starts, it can only get worse if the problem with a component is serious.
Just let a plumber test your unit’s parts and replace them if needed. Sediment buildup in the tank can also cause uneven heating. In that case, flushing the tank might solve the issue.
Odd Noises
Does your heater make banging or rumbling sounds? That’s not normal. It usually means sediment has settled at the bottom of the tank. As the water heats up, it pushes through the buildup, creating noise. Flushing the tank can clear out the debris. If the problem continues, the heater might be nearing the end of its life.
Cloudy Water
Is your hot water looking murky? That’s a sign of mineral deposits. Hard water leaves behind sediment that mixes with your water. Over time, this can clog pipes and damage the heater. The worst-case scenario would be for the sediment to cause rust. This will render your water a brownish color. A plumber can flush the system to remove buildup. Installing a water softener can also help prevent future issues.
Low Water Supply
Running out of hot water too fast? That’s a big annoyance. If your tank isn’t heating enough water, it could be due to a faulty heating element. In older units, sediment buildup reduces capacity, making the heater work harder. A plumber can replace damaged parts or recommend a larger unit if your household needs more hot water.
Unusual Smells
Does your hot water smell like rotten eggs? That’s likely due to bacteria inside the tank. The anode rod, which prevents rust, can wear out and allow bacteria to grow. A plumber can replace the rod and flush the tank with a special solution. If the smell is coming from both hot and cold water, the problem might be in your pipes.
Your Unit is Past Its Expected Service Life
As reliable as they come, tanked water heaters don’t last forever. Most tank models last 8–12 years. If your unit is old, a more frequent water heater repair might not be worth it. A plumber can help you pick an energy-efficient replacement that saves you money in the long run.
Fed Up With Your Faulty Water Heater Ruining Your Morning Showers? Get Expert Solutions from Proper Plumbing
A well-maintained water heater means no surprise cold showers, lower energy bills, and a longer-lasting unit. Ignoring warning signs can lead to bigger problems, from leaks to complete breakdowns. The sooner you address issues, the better you can avoid a costly water heater repair or sudden replacements.
At Proper Plumbing, we make sure your water heater works when you need it most. Our team provides fast water heater repairs, accurate diagnosis, and hassle-free replacements to restore your hot water ASAP. We handle everything—from fixing faulty heating elements to flushing out sediment buildup or installing a brand-new, energy-efficient unit. No matter the issue, we’ll find the best solution to fit your needs and budget.
Don’t wait for things to get worse—call us today and get expert solutions you can trust!
Over the years, Scott MacPhail mastered his craft, working with plumbing companies and general contractors. Through years in the field, working with plumbing companies and general contractors, Scott saw what "proper" plumbing should look like.
