10 Signs Your Water Heater is Failing
10 Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing
Provided by Quality Plumbing Services Inc.
Water Heater Repair & Replacement in the Chicago Area
Hot water is a modern necessity—whether it’s for morning showers, washing dishes, or doing laundry. But like any appliance, water heaters don’t last forever. If your unit is beginning to fail, waiting too long to address the issue can lead to a complete breakdown, water damage, or costly emergency service.
If you notice any of the signs below, it may be time to repair or replace your water heater. When in doubt, call the experts at Quality Plumbing Services Inc. to assess your system and recommend the right solution.
1. You Can’t Remember the Last Time It Was Replaced
If your water heater is 10 to 15 years old—or you simply don’t know when it was last replaced—it may be nearing the end of its service life. Older units are more prone to inefficiency, corrosion, and sudden failure. If yours is aging, it’s a good idea to start planning for replacement now.
2. Rust-Colored Water
Discolored water from your hot tap is often a sign that the inside of the tank is corroding. Over time, rust will weaken the tank, eventually leading to leaks. To check, drain a few gallons into a bucket and inspect the color. If it’s brown or reddish, the tank is likely deteriorating from the inside.
3. No Hot Water at All
If you turn on the faucet and get only cold water, something is clearly wrong. Common causes include a failed pilot light (for gas units), a tripped breaker (for electric models), or internal damage. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it may be time for a new unit.
4. Sediment in Your Water
If your water looks muddy, cloudy, or contains small particles, sediment buildup may be to blame. Over time, minerals settle at the bottom of the tank and reduce efficiency. In severe cases, sediment can harden and damage the tank lining. If flushing doesn’t help, replacement may be necessary.
5. Lukewarm Water
If your water never gets truly hot, you may have a failing heating element or thermostat. Check the thermostat settings—it should typically be between 120 and 140 degrees. If it’s set correctly and still doesn’t heat up, internal repairs or replacement might be required.
6. You’re Constantly Running Out of Hot Water
A small water heater may not be able to meet the demands of a larger household. If you frequently run out of hot water—especially during back-to-back showers or laundry cycles—it may be time to upgrade to a higher-capacity or tankless model.
7. Strange Noises Coming from the Tank
Popping, rumbling, or banging noises from your tank often indicate sediment buildup. As sediment hardens, it creates air pockets and increases wear on the tank. Noisy tanks are less efficient and more likely to fail, especially as they age.
8. Frequent Repairs
If you’re calling a plumber every few months, your water heater is likely on its last leg. At a certain point, repeated repairs cost more than simply replacing the unit. A new model will run more efficiently and come with a fresh warranty.
9. Metallic Smell or Taste
If your hot water has a metallic taste or odor, it could mean that the inside of your tank is corroding and contaminating your water supply. This is both a quality and safety concern—and a sign that the tank should be replaced.
10. Leaks Around the Unit
Water pooling near the base of your heater is never normal. Leaks can result from expansion, corrosion, or loose fittings, and they often worsen over time. Any visible leak is a reason to call a plumber immediately.
Don’t Wait for Your Water Heater to Fail
Replacing your water heater before it completely breaks down is the best way to avoid:
- Unexpected cold showers
- Flooding or water damage
- Costly emergency plumbing calls
- Energy waste and high utility bills
At Quality Plumbing Services Inc., we provide expert water heater diagnosis, repair, and replacement for homes across the Chicago area. Whether you need a quick fix or a full system upgrade, we’re ready to help.
Call Quality Plumbing Services Inc. today to schedule your water heater inspection.
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