How Do I Know If My Water Heater Is Failing?
July 21, 2025
You use your air conditioner in the summer. You use your boiler or furnace in the winter. But you use your water heater all year long!
That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on the condition of your water heater to avoid malfunctions or breakdowns. The last thing you need is to run out of hot water in the shower or washing machine or while you’re doing the dishes!
The average lifespan of a water heater is 10 to 15 years, and if your water heater is already 10 years or older, it may be time to consider replacing it before it fails.
Here are 9 signs that your water heater has seen better days:
1. Hot Water Shortage
Finding yourself running out of hot water more quickly than usual is often a sign that your water heater is on its last legs.
2. Decreased or Varying Water Temperature
If the water temperature is not as consistent as, or is noticeably lower than, it used to be, your water heater may be on the fritz.
3. Low Water Pressure
Good water pressure from your cold water faucets but low water pressure from your hot water faucets could be a sign that there is sediment build-up in your hot water heater.
4. Water Heater Leaks
If you notice your water heater leaking, replacement is imminent. Water heaters are designed to be airtight, so any leaking is a sign that something has gone wrong.
5. Frequent Repairs
If you find yourself making frequent hot water heater repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace your water heater.
6. Higher Energy Bills
Sediment buildup in your water heater will reduce energy efficiency as it ages. Sediment in a hot water heater comes from minerals in the water. Over time, these minerals will settle to the bottom of the tank and build up, making it difficult for heat to transfer evenly throughout the tank. This can lead to your water heater not working as efficiently as it once did.
7. Strange Noises
A water heater making popping, banging or rumbling noises could be a sign that the unit is failing.
8. Discolored or Rusty Water
If your hot water is yellow, discolored or rusty, this is a sign that the anode rod in your water heater tank is beginning to fail. The anode rod is responsible for protecting the interior of the tank from corrosion.
9. Odd Smelling Water
Strange smelling water is usually caused by bacteria growing in the tank. Bacteria love the warm, moist environment of the water heater especially if you keep your temperature below 120 degrees. Corrosion and rust can also cause bacteria.
If you’ve experienced any of the above and your current water heater is over a decade old, we suggest a water heater upgrade.
A new indirect water heater will provide virtually endless hot water, and by using the heat generated by your boiler to heat your water it consumes less energy and saves you money.
New standard, tank-style heaters are more cost-efficient and provide more gallons per hour than older models.
We’re proud to offer our Lakes Region friends and neighbors long-lasting, environmentally friendly water heaters from Heat-flo, Bock and other leading brands.
Call Stafford Oil & Propane at 603-524-1480 or contact us online for your FREE, no-obligation, in-home water heater consultation and estimate.
