As the weather starts to cool down, we've noticed an increase in calls for water heater replacements in Calgary. At ERM Plumbing & Heating, we understand how essential it is to have reliable hot water during the colder months. There's nothing more frustrating than dealing with cold showers or no hot water at all when temperatures plummet.
If your water heater is acting up, it's not just an inconvenience—it can also be a sign that your unit is nearing the end of its life. The good news is that many water heater problems give off clear signs before a complete failure happens, allowing you to replace your heater before you’re left in the cold. In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 10 signs that your water heater might need immediate replacement. If you notice any of these red flags, don't hesitate to call in a professional plumber to assess the situation.
The age of your water heater is one of the most important factors in determining whether it needs replacing. On average, traditional tank-style water heaters last between 8 to 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your water heater is approaching this age range and you’ve started experiencing issues, it’s time to consider replacing it.
Over time, the internal components of your water heater begin to wear down, making it less efficient and more prone to failure. Even if your heater is still technically working, an older model will often be much less energy-efficient, leading to higher utility bills.
If you're unsure about the age of your water heater, you can usually find this information on the manufacturer's label, which is often located on the side of the tank. It will include the date of manufacture or the serial number, which can help you determine its age.
One of the most frustrating problems with a water heater is inconsistent water temperature. If your water heater is frequently delivering water that is either too hot or not hot enough, this is a clear indicator that something is wrong with the unit.
What Are the Potential Causes of Water Temperature Fluctuations?
If you’ve already tried adjusting the thermostat or flushing the tank and the problem persists, it might be time to replace the heater altogether, especially if it's near the end of its lifespan.
Rust-coloured or cloudy water coming from your taps can be a significant indication that your water heater is corroding internally. Over time, water heaters can develop rust on the inside, which leads to discoloration in the water. If this happens, it's a sign that your tank has started to deteriorate, and the metal walls of the heater are beginning to break down.
What Should You Do If Your Water Heater Is Giving Rusty or Cloudy Water?
If the water only appears rusty when hot water is running, it's likely coming from the heater. On the other hand, if you notice rusty water even when running cold water, the issue might be with your plumbing pipes. However, if the rust is isolated to the hot water, it’s almost certainly a sign that the tank’s interior is rusting and may need replacement.
In some cases, replacing the anode rod inside the water heater can slow down corrosion, but if your tank is significantly rusted or has holes, it’s better to replace the entire unit.
Strange sounds, like popping, cracking, or rumbling, coming from your water heater are often a sign that there’s sediment buildup inside the tank. Over time, minerals in the water (especially in areas with hard water like Calgary) accumulate at the bottom of the tank. When the heater tries to heat the water, the sediment creates bubbles, causing these disturbing noises.
What Does It Mean When Your Water Heater Makes Strange Noises?
Sediment buildup reduces the efficiency of your water heater and can even cause the tank to overheat or crack. While flushing the tank may temporarily stop the noises, repeated noises usually indicate that your water heater is no longer functioning optimally. If you hear these sounds regularly, it might be a sign that it's time for a replacement.
Water pooling around the base of your water heater is a significant concern. Leaks often indicate internal damage to the tank, which can lead to larger problems like water damage in your home. A leaking water heater can also lead to a complete failure if the internal pressure becomes too high.
Is Your Water Heater at Risk of Catastrophic Failure?
If you spot a leak, turn off the water supply to the unit immediately and contact a plumber. Leaks can be caused by rust, corrosion, or a faulty valve, and the extent of the damage will determine whether repair is feasible or if a replacement is necessary. For older units, a leak is often a sign that the tank is beyond repair and should be replaced.
An inconsistent supply of hot water—whether it runs out too quickly or takes longer than usual to heat up—is a common sign that your water heater is struggling. If your water heater is constantly running out of hot water or taking too long to heat up, it might be a sign of a failing heating element or thermostat.
Why Is Your Water Heater Struggling to Keep Up?
If your energy bills have been increasing without any clear explanation, your water heater might be the culprit. As water heaters age, they lose their energy efficiency, meaning they use more energy to heat water than a newer model would. A failing water heater often works harder and longer to produce hot water, which translates to higher utility costs.
If your energy bills have been increasing without any clear explanation, your water heater might be the culprit. As water heaters age, they lose their energy efficiency, meaning they use more energy to heat water than a newer model would. A failing water heater often works harder and longer to produce hot water, which translates to higher utility costs.
Replacing an old water heater with an energy-efficient model, like a modern gas or electric water heater, or even a tankless water heater, can save you money in the long run. Energy-efficient water heaters are designed to minimize energy consumption while still providing the hot water you need.
If your water heater is regularly needing repairs, it's likely nearing the end of its useful life. While some repairs may be quick fixes, constantly calling a plumber to repair your water heater can add up quickly. Common issues like thermostat failure, heating element problems, or leaks may be signs of a more significant underlying issue that will continue to get worse over time.
If you find yourself calling for repairs more than once or twice in a year, it’s time to evaluate whether the cost of repairing the unit is worth it or if a new, more reliable water heater would be a better investment.
Foul-smelling water, especially water that smells like rotten eggs, is usually caused by a buildup of sulfur bacteria inside your water heater. These bacteria feed on the magnesium and aluminum in the water heater, producing hydrogen sulfide gas, which creates the unpleasant odor.
While you may be able to temporarily eliminate the smell by flushing the tank, this is a recurring issue for many homeowners with older units. If your water heater is emitting foul odors regularly, it may be time to replace the tank with a newer, more efficient model.
If you see any visible signs of corrosion on the outside of your water heater, it could indicate a more significant issue on the inside. Corrosion on the exterior of the tank or around the fittings could mean that the internal parts of the tank have been compromised. This can lead to leaks or even catastrophic failure in some cases.
Visible rust on the exterior is typically a warning sign that internal corrosion has reached a critical level. It’s time to replace the water heater before the situation worsens.
A water heater is an essential part of your home, and when it begins to fail, it can be both frustrating and costly. If you’ve noticed any of these 10 signs, it’s important to assess whether it’s time for a replacement. While some issues can be repaired, many of the symptoms mentioned above indicate that your water heater may no longer be functioning efficiently or safely.
At ERM Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in water heater repairs, replacement and maintenance for Calgary residents. If you're experiencing any of these issues or just want to ensure that your water heater is functioning properly before winter arrives, give us a call. Our team of top-rated plumbers will help you make the best decision for your home and ensure that your hot water needs are met all year round.
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