6 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Service
Your water heater works around the clock — all that stress and wear eventually catches up. Learn to recognize the warning signs early so you can avoid an ice-cold surprise.
Don't Wait for an Ice-Cold Shower
A slowly failing or deteriorating water heater may not seem like too big of a deal. However, once someone has to deal with an ice-cold shower, their opinion may change. A home's water heater is working around the clock to ensure those in the home have hot water on demand. This results in a lot of stress and wear and tear on the unit.
When nothing but cold water is coming out of a person's showers and taps, it makes it crystal clear that a water heater is an essential appliance in any home. To ensure the situation doesn't get this bad, get to know some of the signs that water heater service is needed from a local plumber.
Irregular Water Temperatures
Hot One Minute, Lukewarm or Cold the NextIs hot water present sometimes and then, at other times, the water feels lukewarm or even cold? When fluctuating water temperatures are present, it is a clear sign there is something wrong with the unit.
It is smart to call the professionals and have them find what the underlying issue may be. It is also smart to figure out the age of the unit, which is a tell-tale indication repairs may be needed. The older a unit, the more likely problems will arise.
💡 The Most Common Cause
The most common reason a unit loses heat is that mineral deposits accumulate inside the water heater. Over time, deposits build up and cover the heating elements, preventing them from working properly. If only the heating elements are to blame, they can be replaced or repaired rather than buying a new unit.
Water Discoloration
Brown, Rusty, or Particles in the WaterWhen turning on the tap, only clear, colorless water should appear. While it may seem somewhat hazy because of high water pressure, it should turn colorless once the pressure is evened out.
If the water coming out of the tap appears brown in color, looks rusty, or if there are particles in the water, the water heater is the culprit.
- Sediment inside the tank is causing the water to turn brown or change colors
- Discolored water may cause health problems — it should be addressed immediately
- The unit may be cleanable or repairable — have a professional inspect it first
- If cleaning doesn't work, the tank may be rusting and require full replacement
Running Out of Hot Water
Heating Elements May Not Be Working ProperlyThe water heater in a home is designed to keep hot water ready to be used throughout the day. There are two heating elements in a typical unit — one at the top and one at the bottom. At any given time, the tank will have gallons of hot water stored inside.
If someone runs out of hot water while washing dishes or taking a shower, it could mean the heating elements are not working properly.
Top Element
Heats the upper portion of the tank first for quick initial hot water delivery.
Bottom Element
Heats the bulk of the water in the tank to maintain a full supply of hot water.
Strange Sounds from the Tank
Buzzing → Rumbling → Cracking & PoppingAs the water heater gets older, it may begin to make a slight buzzing sound. As time passes, it may turn into full-on rumbling sounds. Some homeowners think this is a sign the unit will burst. However, this isn't the case.
While it is normal for any water heater to make some sounds, if the mineral deposits grow, cracking, popping, and banging sounds may occur. This is a good reason to be concerned.
- Mineral deposits on the interior or heating elements — the most common cause
- A broken dip tube that causes the hot and cold water to mix
- Excessive noise can weaken the structure of the unit and cause it to leak
What Can Be Done
Flush or Replace — Depending on SeverityFlush & Clean
If the unit hasn't started leaking, a technician can flush out the water and clean interior parts to stop the sounds.
Replace the Unit
If too much noise has weakened the structure and caused a leak, the best option is a new unit.
Signs of Corrosion
Rust on Exterior or Discolored WaterSometimes, corrosion in the water heater means it is time to have a new unit installed. A person can tell that the water heater is corroded if there is rust on the exterior or if the water is brown or otherwise discolored.
There are some who make it work by having the rusty parts, such as the heat exchanger, replaced. While this is fine, it is also a temporary solution — it provides enough time for the homeowner to get the funds needed to buy a new unit.
💡 Average Water Heater Lifespan
On average, water heaters will last for 8 to 12 years. If someone wants to extend the unit's life past this point, it is a good idea to have it cleaned and maintained regularly. Regular maintenance prevents mineral buildup, reduces corrosion, and keeps the unit running efficiently.
Water Leak at the Base
Dangerous, Corrosive & Needs Immediate AttentionBesides strange sounds, there are other issues that may weaken the structure of a water heater and cause it to leak. This can result in water pooling near the base of the tank.
Along with this being dangerous — particularly for homes with small kids, pets, or electrical devices nearby — it may also cause corrosion that could impact the exterior parts and even cause problems inside the unit.
⚠️ Fix Leaks Before They Cascade
If there is a leak, make sure to have it fixed before it causes even more issues. Water pooling near electrical connections is a safety hazard. Ongoing leaks accelerate corrosion on the exterior and interior, potentially turning a repairable problem into a full replacement.
6 Warning Signs — At a Glance
See a Warning Sign? Call Us Today.
LaVergne's Plumbing & Heating can inspect, repair, or replace your water heater — before an ice-cold shower makes the decision for you. Our experienced plumbers will find the underlying problem and recommend the most cost-effective solution.