Most water heaters last 8 to 12 years. In Central Texas, hard water can cut that time short. The good news is that a water heater rarely fails without warning. If you know what to look for, you can plan a repair or replacement before you are stuck with a cold shower or a flooded garage.
Here are seven signs your water heater needs attention.
1. Your hot water runs out faster
If your showers are getting shorter, sediment may be the cause. Minerals in hard water settle at the bottom of the tank. Over time, this layer takes up space and blocks heat from reaching the water. A flush can often help. If the tank is older, it may be time to think about a new one.
2. You hear rumbling or popping
Those noises come from water trapped under the sediment layer. As the burner heats it, the water boils and pops through. The sound is a sign that your heater is working harder than it should. That extra strain wears out parts and raises your energy bill.
3. The water looks rusty or cloudy
Rusty hot water can mean the inside of the tank is corroding. Cloudy water often points to mineral buildup. To tell the difference, run cold water only. If the cold water is clear, the problem is likely in the water heater.
4. There is water around the base
Even a small puddle is worth checking. Sometimes the leak is from a loose fitting or the safety valve, which are simple fixes. If the tank itself is leaking, it cannot be repaired and should be replaced soon. A leaking tank can fail all at once.
5. The water temperature keeps changing
If the water swings from hot to warm, the thermostat or heating element may be failing. On gas heaters, the burner or thermocouple could be the problem. These parts are usually affordable to replace.
6. The heater is more than 10 years old
Check the label on the side of your tank. The serial number often includes the year it was made. If your heater is over 10 years old and showing any of the signs above, replacement is often the better value.
7. Your energy bills are climbing
An older, sediment-filled heater has to burn more fuel to do the same job. If your gas or electric bill keeps creeping up and nothing else has changed, your water heater could be the reason.
Repair or replace?
Here is a simple rule of thumb. If the repair costs less than half the price of a new unit, and the heater is under 10 years old, repair usually makes sense. If the tank is leaking or the heater is near the end of its life, replacement will save you money over time.
You may also want to think about a tankless model. Tankless heaters last longer and only heat water when you need it. They cost more up front, so they are not the right fit for every home.
How to make your water heater last longer
- Flush the tank once a year. This clears out sediment before it builds up.
- Check the anode rod every two to three years. This rod draws corrosion away from the tank.
- Test the safety valve. Lift the lever briefly to make sure it opens and closes.
- Set the temperature to 120 degrees. This saves energy and lowers the risk of burns.
We can help
If you notice any of these signs, our team can take a look. We offer water heater service for gas, electric, and tankless units. If you find water on the floor, our leak repair team can track down the source. And if it is the middle of the night, our emergency plumbing line is always open.
We serve homeowners in Round Rock, Georgetown, and towns across Central Texas. Contact us to book a visit, or call (512) 555-0147.