9 Signs You Need Water Heater Repair Or Replacement

Because you use showers and sinks daily to bathe and clean, you’ll need to get your hot water heater use under control.

As a homeowner, you’ll always need to know when it’s time to repair or replace your hot water heater. When you understand your system inside and out, you are then able to get the hot water heater repair that is affordable and effective.

But how can you know when it’s time to get a repair or replacement?

This article’s got you covered on all fronts. Read on to understand nine signs that your hot water heater is failing and in need of some work.

Sign #1: You Need Water Heater Repair When Water Isn’t Getting Warm

Getting an icy chill after turning the hot dial on your shower can be a rough way to start any morning.

Not only is this a rude awakening, it’s also the top sign that your heater is in need of care from a water heater repair expert.

Since hot water heaters have so many moving parts, you’ll need to get an inspection from an HVAC pro. It’s important that you research the most trusted contractors, so you can follow their diagnosis.

It’s best to find out exactly what went wrong to avoid expensive and unnecessary work. When water won’t get warm, you could need a brand new water heater, or it could be a simple case of the pilot light going out.

Sign #2: Your Bills Are Incredibly High

Take a look at your energy bills every month, to make sure your hot water heater is working properly.

You might pay approximately $800 annually on hot water heater energy costs.

If the bills are coming in and beginning to add up, it may be because your heater is overworking. An overworked hot water heater leads to expensive repairs, which can get messy and damaging.

Sign #3: It’s Past The Lifespan Of Your Hot Water Heater

Keep tabs on your hot water heater purchase and warranty paperwork.

More specifically, look at the dates to know when it’s time to get a new heater. Every hot water heater has a different lifespan, so look at your owner’s manual to know for sure.

Aside from your manufacturer’s recommendation, you can expect gas water heaters to last about a decade, while electric heaters may last upwards of 15 years.

If more than 10 or 15 years have gone by, you might do well to get out ahead of the calamity and buy a new heater.

Sign #4: Your Water Is Dirty Or Discolored

Make note of your water any time it comes out of your faucets.

One of the most common issues that people run into with their water heater repair needs is that the water becomes brown or rusty. This is a surefire sign that you’re dealing with water heater issues.

In many cases, this discoloration points toward pipe corrosion inside of your hot water heater system. You can fix this by bringing in a water heater repair professional to change out the pipes.

Another way to deal with this issue is to purchase a water softener system. You can find price quotes on a softener by speaking to different plumbing professionals.

A water softener can cost you between $400 and $3,000, so make sure that you find one that’s a great deal for you.

Sign #5: Your Family Is Growing And You’re Using More Water Than Before

When your system is taking a beating, poor water heater service is a natural byproduct.

If you’ve taken on new roommates, installed new fixtures or otherwise had recent changes to your plumbing system, you’re draining your system of its life every single day.

Any time you’re encountering these sorts of changes, it pays to bring in a plumber that can shore up the issues. Meanwhile, remain mindful of your water consumption and be gentle with your use of utilities.

Sign #6: The System Is Getting Noisy

A noisy water heater is a big sign that something has gone wrong.

There are a lot of reasons that your water heater might be noisy. For one, you may have some loose components that are coming detached during use. You’ll need to call in a water heater repair contractor that can help you tighten your connections, if this is the case.

The noise factor might also point to mineral buildup inside of your heater system.

Sign #7: You’re Dealing With Water Leaks

Water leaks are common hot water heater problems.

It’s important to deal with your leaks quickly, because a leak can lead to mold and even foundation problems.

When you have a hot water heater leak, be sure to inspect the issue fix it as soon as possible. Aside from only fixing the leak itself, you’ll need to fix the root issue of the leaks as well.

For instance, a leak might be caused by excess pressure or a bad valve. Fixing these issues on the front end will ensure that your leaks are a thing of the past and that your system runs properly.

Sign #8: The Water Is Tasting Funny

Yet another sign that your water heater is acting up is water that doesn’t taste quite right.

Most notably, you have some water heater issues if your water has a metallic aftertaste. Make note of any odors when you’re in the shower and call up a repair contractor as soon as something seems off.

Sign #9: You’re Constantly Getting Repairs

Let’s face it — we homeowners sometimes just don’t know when to call it quits with our appliances.

If your hot water heater is racking up more repair bills than it’s worth, you’ll need to cut your losses and get a replacement. Be sure that you find a replacement that is brand new and loaded with energy efficiency features.

Recognize when your hot water heater is a lost cause, so you don’t end up spending a ton of money in repairs trying to bring it back from the dead.

Now that you’re aware of these nine warning signs, pick up the phone and contact a repair pro to help you out.