Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair or Replacement: A Guide for East Valley Arizona Homeowners
Your water heater is one of the most essential appliances in your home, providing hot water for showers, dish washing, laundry, and more. Like any other household appliance, it can wear down over time, and when it does, the last thing you want is an unexpected cold shower or an expensive emergency replacement. Understanding the signs that your water heater needs repair or replacement can save you from costly damage and inconvenience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key signs that your water heater is on its way out, how to determine whether it needs repair or replacement, and why contacting Everhart Plumbing, the East Valley’s trusted plumbing expert, is your best option for keeping your home running smoothly.
1. Your Water Heater Is Making Strange Noises
One of the first signs that your water heater might need repair or replacement is unusual noises coming from the unit. If you hear popping, banging, or rumbling sounds, it’s a good indication that sediment has built up at the bottom of the tank. This sediment hardens over time, making it more difficult for the water heater to function efficiently.
What’s happening?
- Sediment reduces the water heater’s efficiency, forcing it to work harder and use more energy.
- Over time, the sediment can damage the tank, leading to leaks or even complete failure.
What to do?
If your water heater is making strange noises, it’s time to call a professional. Everhart Plumbing can flush your water heater, removing sediment and restoring it to optimal performance. If the damage is too severe, they can help you decide whether it’s time to replace the unit.
2. The Water Temperature Is Inconsistent
Do you find yourself adjusting the faucet, waiting for the water to get hot, or does the water turn cold too quickly? Inconsistent water temperatures are another sign that your water heater may need repair or replacement.
Possible causes:
- A failing thermostat
- A heating element that’s wearing out
- Sediment buildup inside the tank
What to do?
A water heater technician from Everhart Plumbing can inspect the thermostat and heating elements to determine if they can be repaired. If the water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan (more on that below), it might be more cost-effective to replace it.
3. Water Discoloration
Discolored water is never a good sign. If the water coming out of your taps looks rusty or cloudy, it could indicate that your water heater’s tank is corroding on the inside. Over time, the protective lining inside the tank can wear away, leading to rust contamination in your water.
Signs to look for:
- Rusty or brown water from hot water taps
- Metallic taste in the water
- Visible sediment or cloudiness in the water
What to do?
Contact Everhart Plumbing immediately if you notice discolored water. In some cases, the problem may be with your plumbing pipes, but if it’s isolated to the hot water supply, your water heater is likely the culprit. You’ll want to have a professional inspect the tank and determine if repairs are possible or if a replacement is needed.
4. Leaks Around the Water Heater
A puddle of water around your water heater is a clear sign that something is wrong. Leaks can occur for several reasons, including loose connections, damaged pipes, or cracks in the tank itself. Even small leaks can lead to significant damage if left untreated, including mold growth and damage to flooring and walls.
Signs of a leaking water heater:
- Visible water pooling around the base of the unit
- Damp walls or flooring near the water heater
- Corrosion on the tank or valves
What to do?
If you spot a leak, turn off the water supply to the heater and contact Everhart Plumbing immediately. In some cases, the leak may be repairable, but if the tank is damaged, it’s time to consider a replacement.
5. The Age of Your Water Heater
Water heaters have a limited lifespan, typically lasting between 8 to 12 years for a traditional tank water heater and up to 20 years for a tankless water heater. If your water heater is approaching or surpassing this age range, it’s likely time to consider a replacement.
How to check the age of your water heater:
- Look for the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker, usually located near the top of the unit.
- The serial number will contain a code that tells you the month and year of manufacture. You can usually decode it by looking at the first two digits for the month and the second two for the year.
What to do?
If your water heater is over a decade old and showing signs of wear, it may be more cost-effective to replace it before a complete failure occurs. Everhart Plumbing can help you choose a new energy-efficient model that fits your home’s needs and budget.
6. Your Hot Water Runs Out Too Quickly
Does your hot water run out faster than it used to? This can be a sign that your water heater isn’t heating the water as efficiently as it once did. Sediment buildup inside the tank can reduce the amount of hot water available, and worn-out heating elements may struggle to keep up with demand.
Signs to look for:
- Hot water lasts only a few minutes
- Water temperature drops quickly after use
- Tank not filling to its full capacity
What to do?
If your hot water runs out too quickly, contact Everhart Plumbing to inspect the unit. Sometimes, flushing the tank or replacing a heating element can restore full capacity, but if your water heater is old or inefficient, replacement may be the best option.
7. Higher Energy Bills
Have you noticed a spike in your energy bills without any changes in your usage? An inefficient water heater can be the culprit. As water heaters age or develop issues, they have to work harder to heat the water, which leads to higher energy consumption.
Signs of an inefficient water heater:
- Sudden increase in energy bills
- The water heater runs constantly or longer than usual
- The unit feels hot to the touch even when not in use
What to do?
If your energy bills are rising, it’s time to evaluate your water heater’s performance. A technician from Everhart Plumbing can assess whether a repair will restore efficiency or if a newer, more energy-efficient model is needed.
8. Poor Water Pressure
If your water pressure has suddenly decreased, the issue might be related to your water heater. Sediment buildup can clog the pipes leading from the tank, restricting water flow and reducing pressure.
What to do?
Low water pressure is a sign that your water heater needs attention. A technician from Everhart Plumbing can flush the tank and pipes to remove blockages or recommend a replacement if the problem persists.
9. The Pilot Light or Burner Won’t Stay Lit
If you have a gas water heater, the pilot light or burner may go out from time to time. However, if you find that it’s happening frequently or won’t stay lit, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. This could indicate an issue with the gas valve, thermocouple, or another part of the system.
Signs to look for:
- The pilot light frequently going out or won’t ignite
- The burner fails to stay lit after ignition
- Intermittent hot water supply
What to do?
If you’re having trouble with the pilot light or burner, it’s best to let a professional diagnose and fix the issue. Everhart Plumbing can repair or replace faulty components to ensure your water heater is working safely and efficiently.
10. The Water Heater Produces a Sulfur-Like Smell
A sulfur or rotten egg smell coming from your hot water is a serious indicator that bacteria may be growing in the water heater. This is especially common in homes with well water or water that has been stagnant for an extended period. While the bacteria itself isn’t harmful, the smell can be unpleasant, and it’s a sign that your water heater needs attention.
Signs to look for:
- A strong sulfur or rotten egg smell from hot water taps
- Smell only noticeable when using hot water
- Bacteria buildup inside the tank
What to do?
A professional plumber from Everhart Plumbing can flush and clean the tank to eliminate bacteria, and in some cases, replace the anode rod to prevent future occurrences.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?
Knowing whether to repair or replace your water heater can be tricky, but here are a few general guidelines to help you decide:
- Repair: If your water heater is relatively new (less than 8 years old) and the issue is minor, such as a faulty heating element or thermostat, repairs may be the most cost-effective option.
- Replace: If your water heater is older (more than 10 years) or if the tank is leaking or corroded, replacement is often the best solution. Newer models are more energy-efficient and can save you money in the long run.
Still unsure? Contact Everhart Plumbing or call us at (480) 291-4641, and we’ll help you make the right choice.
Benefits of Replacing Your Water Heater
If it’s time for a replacement, here are some benefits you can look forward to:
- Energy Efficiency: Newer water heaters are designed to use less energy, which can lead to lower utility bills.
- Improved Performance: Say goodbye to inconsistent water temperatures and enjoy hot water when you need it.
- Longer Lifespan: A new water heater will provide reliable service for many years to come.
- Better Warranty: Most new water heaters come with extended warranties, offering peace of mind for homeowners.
Why Choose Everhart Plumbing?
When it comes to water heater repair and replacement in Arizona’s East Valley, Everhart Plumbing is the name you can trust. With years of experience and a commitment to quality service, we provide expert guidance to ensure your home’s water heater is in top condition.
- Licensed and Experienced Technicians: Our team has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and resolve water heater issues quickly and efficiently.
- Fast, Reliable Service: We understand that water heater problems can’t wait. That’s why we offer prompt service to get your home back to normal.
- Quality Workmanship: Whether you need a repair or a replacement, you can count on Everhart Plumbing to deliver high-quality results.
Contact Everhart Plumbing Today!
Don’t wait until your water heater fails completely! If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to contact Everhart Plumbing. Our team is ready to handle all your water heater needs, from repairs to full replacements.
Call us today at (480) 291-4641 or visit EverhartPlumbing.com to schedule your service and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable year-round.
