7 Signs Your Water Heater’s About to Die – When to Replace your Water Heater

When you find yourself with no hot water and you go to your basement to find a puddle (or lake) spreading out across your new carpet, you know you need a new water heater.

But the truth is, you don’t have to wait until your water heater blows before you replace it. Here are seven simple things that may help you predict when you may need to replace your eater heater (and save a lot of mess and possible damage).

1. How old is your water heater? If your water heater is more than ten years old, you are running on borrowed time. Start budgeting for a replacement right away.
2. Are there any small leaks? Look for water stains and small puddles. Remember, small leaks turn into big leaks.
3. Does your water heater make funny sounds? Over time, minerals collect in your water heater. If you hear a rattling sound, like pouring out a glass full of pebbles, you better place your plumber on speed dial.
4. Are there any signs of corrosion? If you can see rust or corrosion anywhere on your tank of beneath it, you can bet the inside looks worse (could also indicate leakage).
5. Does your hot water look brown or rust colored? If your hot water turns brownish, but your cold water does not, you need a new water heater.
6. Do you have inconsistent water temperature? Inconsistent water temperature may be due to malfunctioning parts or broken internal components. In any case, your water heater is on its last legs.
7. Running out of hot water? Your tank is telling you it cannot keep up to the demand.