Your hot water heater ensures your showers are comfortable, your dishes are sanitized, and your clothes are thoroughly cleaned. When this vital appliance malfunctions, though, it will disrupt your routine. Here are a few signs that the appliance is about to fail, which can be avoided with water heater repairs.

How to Tell You’ll Need Water Heater Repairs Soon

1. Age

Water heaters have a life span of about 10 years. Check the appliance’s serial number; the first two numbers indicate the year it was made. If that number is 08 or smaller, it’s about time for a new unit to be installed.

2. You’re Not Getting Enough Hot Water

Faucets that won’t run hot or warm water are clear indicators it’s time for water heater repairs. Even when your heater is producing hot water and you’re rushing through your shower before it turns cold, it might be time to call in the professionals.

3. Pooling Water

Heat and cold make metal expand and compress. Over time, these temperature fluctuations can cause your water heater to develop cracks and leaks, leading to pooling water around your appliance. Water heater repairs can seal these leaks and keep them from happening.

4. Strange Noises

Over time, tiny particles in the water can build up in the tank and form larger pieces of sediment. These pieces can rattle around inside and create unusual rumbling sounds. Left unchecked, the buildup can cause the appliance to overheat and deteriorate, making it susceptible to leaks. Have a plumber perform water heater repairs on a regular basis to avoid this issue. 

5. Discolored Water

A tank that’s rusting inside will deposit particles from the interior of the tank into the water. This results in murky H2O, which may be red, brown, or black. Drink from a water bottle or another clean source until this problem is rectified.

Keeping that water heater in business is particularly important in time for Minnesota winters. To assure it is working, call Paul Bunyan Plumbing, who are the Twin Cities’ plumbing pros. With their skill and experience, they will properly maintain your unit so that hot water can keep you and your pipes warm and comfortable during those cold months. Call (612) 977-3053 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about the business.