If you’re like most homeowners, you pay little attention to your home’s water heater—until it breaks, that is. Since most systems are designed to give you years of reliable use with minimal maintenance, it can come as quite a surprise when the unit stops working. The team at Extreme Heating & Air in Eagle River, AK, wants to help. Below, they share a few signs of a failing heater, so you’ll know when it’s time to call an expert.

3 Sure-Fire Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater

1. Rusty Water in the Tap

If you run the hot water and see rust-colored liquid flowing from the tap, your heater may be failing. Most heaters have metal tanks and, as they age, the metal oxidizes leaving rust deposits in the water. While not harmful to your health, it can indicate a compromised tank that could spring a leak at any moment. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this problem is to install a new heater.

2. The Heater Is More Than Ten Years Old

Most heaters are designed to last for ten years before wearing out. After all, they see almost daily use and are constantly exposed to moisture. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your heater or know that your unit is more than ten years old, it may be time to schedule a replacement. Your plumbing expert will assess the health of your unit and determine if you need a replacement now or in the future.

3. Strange Noises While Running

Ordinarily, your water heater should run almost silently. However, as the system ages, it’s not uncommon for it to start making noises. If you hear anything out of the ordinary or there’s a loud grinding noise anytime the unit turns on, it’s likely time to replace the system. Leaving it as-is often results in a broken heater and nothing but cold water coming from your taps.

Whether you’re looking for an experienced HVAC professional to fix your furnace or are concerned about the state of your home’s water heater, the team at Extreme Heating & Air can help. Their experts believe that no homeowner should have to suffer through a cold winter. Learn more about their upcoming specials on their website and call (907) 726-1805 to schedule an appointment today.