10 Subtle Signs That Show When to Replace Your Water Heater (Before It Floods Your Basement)

To be honest, most of us do not think much about our water heaters. Temperature control through thermostats is relatively simple: adjust the hot water for winter and lower intake on cold days or whenever necessary. They're the quiet workhorses that just keep on day in and day out, and you don't give them another thought. But when one stops, that can mean cold showers or a flooded basement - or even worse it slowly leaks inside damaging your home structure until it is unsafe to live there anymore.

 The fact is, when your water heater finally breaks down, the warning signs have likely been there for a long time already. The trick is to spot them early and know when to call in experts like MACA Plumbing to get to them before what were just small problems become big disasters. Here are 10 signs damaged 9 of which we will describe in detail below--otherwise, let's get too carried away or too upset with fear, let's learn something today that could and would change our future for the better!

1. Over 10 Years of Service

If your water heater had a birthday for every ten years of service, it would definitely be time to retire. Most tank models last from 8 to 12 years, and if yours is getting near the end - you're on borrowed time. Just like people getting older, parts run down and break; sediment stays inside corroding pipes; energy efficiency falls right off a cliff. Not sure how old it is? Find the serial number on the tank--if it has an age code; call a licensed plumber to check it out.

2. The Hot Water Has an Odd Color

If your hot water comes out rusty, cloudy, or just plain weird, it means your tank may be rusting inside. This is not due to problems with pipes but a sign that the tank could be starting to Rust on its interior surfaces. When this happens, you may find that water becomes murky or carries a metallic flavor. Flushing out the tank could temporarily alleviate this but if you see indications like these then odds are replacement is on the way.

3. Loud noises from the tank 

Clatter and hum of a few clicks are fine, but loud pops, bangs and rumbling sounds? If so, that is a warning signal. This creepy tune is usually caused by hardened sediment grinding around inside your heater. Not only do these sounds show that gunk buildup is a problem, possible relief is possible. But are possible. Relief is possible. relief - - they mean your heater has to fight harder work and could be on its last legs before long.

4. Water pooling at the bottom

 If you notice water pooling around the base of your heater, don't dismiss it as just some sort of spill. This could indicate a crack in the tank or leaky pressure relief valve. Either way—it's a problem you can't ignore. Leaks no matter how small they seem can lead to big damage down the line, mold growth and structural problems.

5. Hot water runs out too quickly 

If in the past, you had enough hot water for a full shower and now at halfway it turns cold, you need to investigate. This may mean that your heater's capacity is dropping due to damage in the heating elements or buildup of sediment inside the tank. In any case, it is a sign you need repairs or replacement soon.

6. Water temperature fluctuations are possible.

Is there anything quite as awakening as suddenly ice-cold water in the morning shower!? If your water goes from lukewarm to scalding, this is likely a thermostat or heating element that's going downhill. This can be Heartache Real wrench relief - a quick decision on whether replacement is needed is an option that only a pro from MACA Plumbing can make.

7. Rising Utility Bills with No Explanation 

Are bills that arrive every month for gas and electric more expensive than in the past? If all else is normal at home, your water heater may be the reason. The more sediment in your heater, the harder it has to work to produce only a fraction of hot water or electricity-used energy that results in higher bills! Finally, you should consider switching to a more efficient model. You'll save money in the long run.

8. Low Hot Water Pressure

If your cold water flows like a river but hot trickles out, you have a pressure problem. This is often due to sediment clogging up the internal plumbing of your heater. Not only does this affect your daily comfort, it also has negative implications for the plumbing throughout your house.

9. Visible Corrosion on the Tank Take a look at your tank

Is there any evidence of Rust, corrosion, or discoloration around the fittings or joints? This is more than cosmetic blemishing; it could signal a structural problem. Once corrosion begins, it spreads rapidly, bringing you closer and closer to a potential leak. It's better to take care of this now than wake up some morning in a sodden utility room.

10. Frequent Repair Calls

If something does not feel quite right, or if your home may be showing its age it is time to call in a professional plumber. Avoid neglecting your water heater--a mess-coated headache and a long shower full of ice water will be the result. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. By reaching out to MACA Plumbing, they will give sincere advice, pressure-free estimates, and a plan which suits both your pocketbook and life-style.

After all, there is no reason why peace of mind and warm water should be a luxury at all -- they should be taken for granted.