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When Should You Replace Your Water Heater? 5 Warning Signs

Your water heater plays a crucial role in your daily routine, providing hot water for showers, cooking, and cleaning. But like any appliance, it won’t last forever. Ignoring the signs of a failing water heater can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and even water damage.

If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a water heater replacement in RepentignyPlombier Repentigny offers expert installation and repair services to ensure your home always has reliable hot water. Here are five warning signs that indicate it’s time to replace your water heater.


1. Your Water Heater Is More Than 10-15 Years Old

Most traditional tank water heaters last 10-15 years, while tankless models can last 20+ years. If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacing it before it fails can save you from costly emergencies.

✔ How to Check the Age of Your Water Heater:

  • Look for the manufacture date on the serial number sticker (usually on the tank).
  • If it’s over 10 years old, consider upgrading before problems arise.

🚨 Call a Pro If: Your unit is over 10 years old and showing signs of wear (rust, leaks, or inefficiency).


2. Rusty or Discolored Water

If rusty, brown, or murky water comes from your hot water tap, it may be a sign of internal tank corrosion.

✔ How to Test It:

  • Fill a bucket with cold water—if it’s clear, but your hot water is rusty, the issue is likely inside your water heater.
  • If rust is coming from both hot and cold taps, your home’s pipes may be corroding instead.

🚨 Call a Pro If: Your water heater is rusting inside, as leaks and complete failure may be near.


3. Strange Noises Coming from the Tank

Loud rumbling, popping, or banging sounds from your water heater are a sign of sediment buildup. Over time, minerals from hard water accumulate at the bottom of the tank, making it harder for the heater to work efficiently.

✔ How to Fix It:

  • Flush the tank to remove sediment (this should be done annually).
  • If the noise persists, the tank may be too damaged and need replacement.

🚨 Call a Pro If: The noise continues after flushing or the tank shows signs of overheating.


4. Your Water Heater Is Leaking

leaking water heater is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Even a small leak can lead to flooding, water damage, and mold growth.

✔ How to Check for Leaks:

  • Look for water pooling at the base of your water heater.
  • Check for moisture, rust, or corrosion around the connections.

🚨 Call a Pro If: There’s any sign of a leak—a cracked tank cannot be repaired and must be replaced immediately.


5. Inconsistent or Insufficient Hot Water

Are you running out of hot water faster than usual? If your water heater struggles to keep up with your household’s needs, it may be failing.

✔ Possible Causes:

  • failing heating element in electric models.
  • Sediment buildup reducing heating efficiency.
  • The water heater is too small for your household’s demand.

🚨 Call a Pro If: You experience frequent hot water shortages, as it may be time to upgrade to a larger or tankless unit.


Need a Water Heater Replacement? Call Plombier Repentigny!

If your water heater is old, leaking, or not performing well, don’t wait for a complete breakdown. Plomberie Rive Nord provides professional water heater replacement and installation in Repentigny, ensuring you always have reliable hot water.

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