10 Signs That Your Water Heater Needs to be Replaced

Updated: September 2022

How will I know when to buy a new water heater?

Your alarm goes off and you awake to another chilly Wisconsin morning. You lay there for a moment before getting up to face the day. You walk into the bathroom, turn on the shower, and step inside. After a few minutes, the water turns cold. Yikes. Not a great start to your day, is it? Your water heater is something you probably don’t think about much — until it doesn’t work. Thankfully, there are certain issues to watch for that can help you determine when you need to replace your water heater. Keep reading to see some of the top signs you need a new water heater. 

10 signs you need a new water heater

1. Too old

Most water heaters last between 8-10 years. When you start getting to that point, it’s time to think about replacing your water heater. If you’re unsure, you can find the age of your water heater via the serial number. (Keep in mind, this is a general average. Some water heaters last longer than that — especially if they’re well-maintained.)

2. Insufficient hot water

If you’re not getting enough hot water throughout your home, that’s a clear sign it may be time to replace your water heater or at least look into a repair. Water heaters can struggle to produce enough hot water as they age or if there are other maintenance-related issues going on. 

3. Leaks

If you notice moisture, water, and leaks around your water heater, be sure to contact a professional (like Watters Plumbing) right away. Chances are, you have a small fracture or leak in the water heater tank. 

4. Rusting

If there’s a rusty red-ish color, either around your tank or in the water itself, you could be dealing with rust and corrosion in your water heater. If it’s early on in the water heater’s lifespan (before the 8-10 year range noted above), there may be a chance for repair, but it is oftentimes easier and a better investment just to replace the entire water heater. 

5. Strange noises

If something doesn’t sound right, chances are it’s not right. If you hear rumbling noises coming from your water heater, it may be a sign of sediment buildup. Generally, that’s a sign that your water heater is wearing out and needs to be replaced. 

6. High utility costs

Many customers around the Fox Cities and Green Bay area have been lamenting higher water bills and overall utility costs. If that’s the case for your family, you may benefit from investing in a more eco-friendly and efficient water heater. For example, tankless water heaters from Navien have a Uniform Energy Factor of up to .97, which could save you a lot of money on your bills. 

7. Too many repairs

Whether due to age, lack of proper maintenance, or other issues, dealing with repair after repair after repair can be frustrating. There comes a limit to what you’re willing to deal with in regards to your water heater. If you’re struggling with ongoing maintenance issues and numerous repairs, it might be less stressful and a better financial decision just to replace your water heater and be done with it. 

8. Varying Water Temperature

If you’re taking a shower and notice that the water goes from too hot to too cold, your water heater is trying to tell you something. Adjusting the dial a lot while you’re in the shower can be a direct sign that your water heater can’t keep the temperature consistent, only allowing you to take cold showers if it’s not fixed soon. 

9. Sediment at the Bottom of Your Water Heater

Muddy or sandy water won’t help anyone in your home. If you see this, it means there is a sediment buildup in your water heater tank. Sometimes, you can drain the water in the tank and remove sediment at the bottom – bringing your water heater back to normal. If all other mentioned signs are associated, it’s time for you to contact a plumbing professional for assistance! 

10. Your Heating Bill Has Gone Up

If you’re not getting much or any hot water, but your heating bill has gone up, you have an issue with your water heater! You don’t want to pay for a heating bill if your water isn’t even warm! It’s time to upgrade your water heater to get consistent hot water for the price you’re paying.

Let Watters Plumbing help you find the right water heater!

If you have questions about your water heater or are looking for a quick, easy, and affordable replacement in Northeastern Wisconsin, our team of plumbing experts is here for you. We’ve been installing and repairing water heaters around the Fox Cities area for 60 years, so we’re ready to tackle whatever plumbing issue you’re facing. 

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