Most of the time, water heaters operate quietly in the background, providing you with hot water and keeping your home running. However, water heaters don’t last forever. Whether it be due to age or unexpected damage, your water heater will need to be replaced eventually. In this post, our water heater replacement experts at Courtesy Plumbing in Arcadia will go over five key signs that mean it might be time to replace your water heater. 
Inconsistent Water Temperatures
If your water is hot one morning, cold the next, or fluctuating from moment to moment, it’s a pretty clear sign that something is wrong with your water heater. Repairs can sometimes fix problems related to inconsistent temperatures. However, more often than not, this means that your water heater is wearing out, and it is time for a water heater replacement.
Lack of Hot Water
The amount of hot water and exactly how hot that water gets varies somewhat based on the house and water heater. In general, however, you should have a consistent supply of plenty of hot water with a working water heater. If your water heater is no longer able to provide enough water for your family’s needs, it may be time to consider a replacement. This may be true even if your water heater is in good working order, but you just need a more powerful water heater to accommodate more people in your home.
Strange Noises Coming from the Tank
Water heaters should run quietly. If you hear rumbling, banging, or popping noises, sediment buildup inside the tank is usually to blame. While flushing may help in the short term, frequent noises often signal that the tank is nearing the end of its life. Often, the reason for these noises is hardened, built-up sediment at the bottom of the tank. This releases particles that rattle around the tank but also decreases the effectiveness of your water heater.
Age of the Unit
Generally speaking, water heaters last 8-12 years with proper care. If your water heater is approaching or past this age, then it’s time to start preparing to purchase a new one. It’s much better (and less expensive) to purchase a new water heater while your old one is still working rather than waiting for it to fail and then being rushed to install a new one.
Rusty or Discolored Water
If your faucets are producing rusty or discolored water, it could mean that your water heater tank is corroding from the inside. This is typically a clear sign that the unit should be replaced before leaks or total failure occur.
Water Heater Replacement in Arcadia
When the time comes to replace your water heater, it’s best to be on top of it with water heater replacement and not wait until it fails before taking action. By diligently looking for the warning signs listed above, you should be able to keep your water heater in good working order and address any problems before they become too serious. Call us at Courtesy Plumbing in Arcadia today to set up an appointment to inspect, repair, or replace your water heater.