Signs Your Water Heater Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

01/30/2023

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There are few things more frustrating than coming home after a long day at work and drawing a hot bath only to find that the water is freezing cold and the water heater has stopped working. Catastrophic water heater failures will do more than just ruin bath time, too. They’ll prevent families from properly washing laundry, dishes, and themselves until the problem gets resolved.

Don’t wait until there’s ice-cold water coming from the hot water tap to call for help. There are almost always early warning signs that a water heater needs to be repaired or replaced. Pay attention to them and call a plumber if any of the following issues arise.

Small Leaks

Small leaks can occur in any type of water heater, although they’re most common in older, tanked models. Homeowners should make a point of checking the area around their water heaters frequently. If there’s ever standing water, signs of water damage, or mold growth occurring in the surrounding area, the chances are good that the tank, a pipe, or a fixture is leaking. Call a plumber for help before the small leak turns into major water damage.

Discolored Water

The water produced by hot water heaters should always be just as clear as what’s coming out of the cold water tap. If it has a brown or red tinge, that’s usually a sign of corrosion. When discolored water is coming from just one faucet, the problem is usually pipe corrosion.

If it’s coming from all of the hot water taps, there’s a good chance it’s the home’s water heater that’s to blame. It may be time to consider upgrading to a tankless water heater that’s less likely to develop problems with corrosion.

Hot Water Runs Out Quickly

Most people know what to expect when they jump in the shower. Some water heaters are more effective and efficient than others, but all models should produce enough hot water to get cleaned up and have some time to relax. If the hot water is cutting out and turning ice-cold within just a few minutes, that’s a definite sign of trouble. Call a plumber to diagnose the underlying problem and help with deciding whether a water heater replacement will be necessary.

Unusual Noises

Traditional water heaters with storage tanks almost always start accumulating sediment eventually. Over time, the sediment hardens and starts causing clanging or rumbling sounds. The best course of action is to schedule a professional inspection. If this problem is caught early, the solution might be as simple as flushing the tank. If it goes on for too long, though, it can cause irreparable damage.

Trust LaVergne’s Plumbing

LaVergne's Plumbing and Heating has been providing services to the residents of Skagit and Whatcom Counties for well over a century, and in that time, we’ve seen it all. Our technicians are just as committed to learning about new technologies as they are assisting homeowners with fixing their older, tanked water heaters. Whether you need repairs, a replacement, or just some basic maintenance, we’re here to help. Call (360) 685-8019 to schedule an appointment.

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