Does your water heater seem to be extra cranky lately? Are your energy bills getting higher? You may be wondering if you need a new water heater but you don’t want to replace it sooner than you need to.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the eight signs you need a new water heater and help you decide whether it’s time for an upgrade, saving you from unexpected cold showers, higher energy bills, frequent repairs, and more.
1. Your Water Heater is Old
The average gas-powered water heater lasts about ten years, while electric water heaters typically last around 15 years. If your water heater is approaching this age range, it may not be as efficient as it once was, leading to higher energy bills and less reliable hot water. This is one of the key signs you need a new water heater.
Many water heaters can exceed their expected lifetimes with good maintenance and care. However, due to advances in technology and design, older units become less efficient compared to newer models, costing you more on your energy bills.
Knowing if you need a new water heater is simple if you’re noticing a decline in performance or are concerned about rising energy costs. Upgrading to a modern unit—such as a tankless water heater—is a wise investment in your comfort and your home’s energy efficiency.
2. Your Hot Water is Rusty / Water Discoloration
Rust is another common sign of water heater troubles. As your storage tank water heater ages, mineral deposits build up inside the tank. While regular flushing can remove most of the buildup, the longer your water heater remains in service, the more buildup it will experience.
If your hot water comes from the tap with visible dirt or rust, or if your hot water has an unpleasant, metallic taste, it’s a clear indicator of trouble and could be a sign you need a new water heater.
When rust appears around your water heater tank or shows up in your tap water, it’s time to contact an experienced plumber. Rust may indicate that water is creeping into places it shouldn't, namely inside your water heater. Over time, rust can lead to corrosion, causing the tank to fail. Our plumbers can determine whether the rust comes from the pipes or the water heater tank.
While flushing the tank and replacing the sacrificial anode rod might temporarily improve the quality of your hot water, these fixes often won’t last if the tank has significant mineral buildup. If rust is involved, it’s a good idea to upgrade now.
3. Your Water Heater is Loud, Leaking, or Not Working
When your water heater is functioning properly, it should operate with minimal noise and no signs of leaks or performance issues. If you start noticing any unusual sounds, water around the unit’s base, or a lack of hot water, these could be signs you need a new water heater.
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Loud: If your water heater starts making loud noises like rumbling, popping, or clanking, something is wrong. These sounds often result from failing burners or mineral buildup inside the tank, which can reduce efficiency and lead to corrosion. When left unchecked, this could cause leaks in the tank. If your unit is noisy, it’s a sign that it may be nearing the end of its life.
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Leaking: Spotting water around your water heater? That’s a red flag. Leaks can indicate cracks in the tank or serious internal issues. While some leaks can be repaired, significant ones mean it’s time for a replacement. Call a plumber to see if repair is possible.
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Not Working: when your water heater isn’t doing its job, you might be stuck with cold water when you’re getting ready in the morning. If adjusting the thermostat doesn’t fix the issue, the heating element could be malfunctioning. While the heating element can sometimes be reignited, persistent issues signal the need for a professional inspection and possible replacement.
Whether to repair or replace your water heater depends on the problem, but replacement may be the best long-term solution if issues continue. Learn more about our water heater services or schedule a service with ARS/Rescue Rooter today.
4. Temperature Fluctuations
If you notice inconsistent water temperatures—such as water that suddenly turns cold or scalding hot—it could be a sign of trouble with your water heater. These temperature fluctuations often point to a failing heating element, malfunctioning thermostat, or sediment buildup inside the tank, which can reduce your water heater’s efficiency.
Fluctuating water temperatures are inconvenient and can signal that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. This is one of the clear signs you need a new water heater, as these issues typically worsen over time. Ignoring the problem can lead to further damage and higher energy bills. If your hot water is unreliable, it’s time to consult with a plumber to determine whether a repair or replacement is the best solution.
5. Frequent Repairs
If you find yourself repeatedly calling a plumber to fix your water heater, it may be time to consider replacing the unit altogether. While occasional repairs are expected, constant issues such as leaks, faulty heating elements, or poor water pressure are clear signs you need a new water heater.
The cost of frequent repairs can quickly add up, and in many cases, investing in a new, more efficient water heater is a smarter financial decision. Newer models offer improved reliability and energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run.
6. High Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed a significant increase in your energy bills, your water heater may be to blame. As water heaters age, they often lose efficiency due to wear and tear, mineral buildup, and outdated technology.
This means your water heater must work harder and use more energy to provide the same amount of hot water. Over time, this increased energy usage leads to rising utility costs. If your bills have been climbing despite consistent water usage, it’s a strong sign you need a new water heater.
Upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model can result in noticeable savings on your energy bills and ensure your home’s hot water supply remains reliable. With technological advancements, today’s water heaters are designed to heat water more efficiently, reducing strain and energy consumption.
7. Corrosion
Corrosion is one of the clearest indicators that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. Over time, the inside of your water tank can start to rust, particularly if it’s an older model or hasn’t been regularly maintained.
Corrosion weakens the tank's structure, leading to leaks and, eventually, failure. Visible rust on the exterior of your water heater or in your hot water supply is a major sign that it’s time to contact an expert plumber about replacement options.
Once corrosion begins, it’s nearly impossible to reverse. Replacing certain components can temporarily slow down the process, but it’s usually a matter of time before the corrosion leads to more serious issues. It’s best to act now to prevent future leaks and potential water damage to your home.
8. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is more than just a frustrating issue; it can signal a problem, like mineral deposit buildup inside the tank. These deposits accumulate inside the tank and pipes, restricting water flow and reducing pressure. The buildup also decreases the unit’s overall efficiency.
If flushing the tank doesn’t resolve the issue, replacing your water heater with a new, more efficient model is often the best solution to restore water pressure and improve your home’s water supply.
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait. Call us as soon as you experience a problem with your hot water to determine the best solution for your needs. At ARS/Rescue Rooter, we specialize in plumbing, including emergency plumbing, and water heater services, including repairs, replacements, and installations, ensuring your home stays comfortable and efficient.
Now, the only question is whether it's better to repair or replace your hot water heater. You can read more about repairing vs. replacing your hot water heater on our blog.
Experience the Benefits of a New Water Heater with ARS/Rescue Rooter
Would you like to learn more about how we can make your water heater service an easy and stress-free experience?
Call our experts at ARS/Rescue Rooter at 866-399-2885 to learn more about your water heater service options, which is best for your situation, and get a quote.
