1. Age of the Unit
- Water heaters last 8–12 years on average.
2. Rusty or Discolored Water
If hot water comes out brown, reddish, or with a metallic taste, the inside of the tank may be corroding — a sign failure is coming soon.
3. Leaks Around the Tank
Water pooling around the base usually means the tank has cracked. Once a tank leaks, it must be replaced (repairs aren’t reliable).
4. Unusual Noises
Banging, popping, or rumbling sounds often mean sediment has built up inside the tank. Flushing may help, but older units making noise usually need replacing.
5. Inconsistent or No Hot Water
- Water not heating properly.
- Running out of hot water faster than before.
- Fluctuating water temperatures.
These are classic signs the heating element or tank is failing.
6. Frequent Repairs
If you’re calling a plumber more than once a year, replacement is often cheaper in the long run.
7. Rising Energy Bills
Older water heaters lose efficiency. If bills are climbing without a change in usage, your heater may be working overtime.
✅ Pro Tip
- Check the serial number on your water heater to find its manufacture date. (Most brands code the year/month into the serial number.)
- Plan ahead — don’t wait for a full failure, since emergency replacements cost more.
⚖️ Rule of Thumb:
If your water heater is 10+ years old and showing problems, replacement is usually smarter than repair.
