It’s easy to take for granted how simple it is to turn on our sink or shower faucet and get hot water for cleaning or bathing. However, these units wear out with time. Rather than wait until it ceases to do its job at all, look out for the following signs you should call a plumber for repairs or a replacement.  

When Should You Get a New Water Heater?

1. Metallic Taste & Rusty Appearance

Beware of rusty or muddy water—or water with a metallic taste—especially if it comes from the hot side of your faucet. The water heater is likely corroding due to a damaged anode. However, a plumber can also check if the cause is your pipes, especially galvanized ones.

2. Loud Rumbling Noises

Some water heaters will emit sounds when in use, but there shouldn’t be loud rumbling or banging. Sediment may collect at the bottom of the tank and eventually harden into a layer. This causes the heater to run less efficiently, speeding up damage. Loud cracks and pops are also telltale signs that the heating element inside is close to failing.

3. Not Enough Hot Water

Do you run out of hot water in the middle of a shower? Chances are, you need a water heater with a higher capacity as your existing one can no longer keep up with your requirements. This might also be due to mineral build-up in the tank, leaving less room for the heated water. 

4. Leaks

Standing water around your heater isn't always a cause for alarm—metal expands as it heats, causing water to leak out of slight fractures and gaps. When it cools down, the inner tank doesn't leak. But if you observe a noticeable spike in puddles and drips, it’s wasting resources and could cause electrical or mold problems.

5. Old Age

The average life span of water heaters is 10 years, sometimes extending to 15. To know the age of yours, check your service records or look at the serial number. Most plumbers recommend replacing the heater once it surpasses the 10-year mark as a precaution against leaks and possible flooding.

If you notice that your water heater is about to fail, let a licensed plumber from Green's Furnace & Plumbing replace it. For almost 100 years, the trusted contractor has been providing a range of services, from water heater installation to HVAC maintenance and repairs, to homes and businesses in and around Lincoln, NE. Call (402) 467-4444 for an emergency plumber or request a free service estimate online today.