A water heater is one of those household appliances we don’t think about—until it stops working. If you’ve been running out of hot water, noticing odd noises, or seeing puddles near your heater, your unit might be on its last legs.

In this guide, we’ll cover five major warning signs that it’s time to replace your water heater, what each issue means, and when to call in a licensed plumber to help. Don’t wait for a total breakdown—knowing the signs now can save you from costly emergency repairs later.

Water Heater

Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old

Age is the number one factor when it comes to water heater failure. Most standard tank-style water heaters last 8 to 12 years. After the 10-year mark, even a well-maintained unit can start having problems like rust, poor heating, and leaks.

How to check the age:
Look for the serial number printed on your water heater’s label. Most manufacturers include the manufacturing date in the code. If you’re unsure, visit the manufacturer’s website or call a plumber to help interpret it.

Tip: If your heater is over 10 years old and you’re having any of the other issues on this list, it’s likely time to replace it rather than repair it.

You Hear Strange Noises from the Tank

Have you started hearing rumbling, banging, or popping sounds from your water heater? That’s a red flag.

Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom of your tank. When the water heats up, the sediment hardens, causing loud noises as it rattles inside the tank. These sounds mean the heater is working harder than it should and could overheat or fail.

What this means:
Too much sediment leads to lower efficiency and more wear and tear. This issue also shortens the lifespan of your water heater.

Rusty or Discolored Water Comes from Faucets

If you’re getting brown, reddish, or rusty water from your hot water taps, your water heater could be rusting from the inside.

This happens when the sacrificial anode rod, which prevents corrosion, wears out. Once it’s gone, the inside of the tank begins to rust, which shows up in your water.

Warning sign:
Rust in hot water is a clear sign that your tank is deteriorating. If left alone, it may start leaking or even burst.

Early-stage fix:
If your water heater is still fairly new (under 5 years), a plumber may be able to replace the anode rod. But if the unit is older, it’s safer and more cost-effective to replace the whole system.

Your Hot Water Runs Out Too Quickly

If your hot water doesn’t last like it used to, or it runs cold within minutes, your water heater might not be working efficiently anymore.

Why does this happen?
Sediment buildup takes up space inside the tank, so it holds less hot water. Older units also lose heating ability over time.

What to consider:
If you’re constantly running out of hot water, and especially if you have a larger family, it might be time to upgrade to a larger tank or switch to a tankless water heater for on-demand hot water.

You See Water Leaking Around the Tank

Water on the floor near your water heater should never be ignored. Puddles or damp spots are usually signs of a cracked tank or faulty internal parts.

Urgency level: High
Leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and even complete tank failure. If you see water around the base, turn off your heater immediately and call a plumber right away.

Why leaks happen:
Over time, the constant heating and cooling of the metal tank causes it to expand and contract, eventually leading to small fractures.

Bonus: Should You Choose a Tankless Water Heater?

If it’s time to replace your water heater, you may want to consider going tankless.

Benefits of tankless water heaters:

  • Endless hot water on demand

  • More energy efficient (you only heat water when needed)

  • Longer lifespan (15-20 years)

  • Saves space—no bulky tank needed

While the upfront cost is higher, tankless systems can pay off long-term through energy savings and fewer breakdowns.

Call New Flow Plumbing for Fast Water Heater Help

If your water heater is showing any of these signs—whether it’s leaking, noisy, or just too old—don’t wait for it to fail. New Flow Plumbing is here to help with:

Call us today to schedule an appointment or get a free quote. Our licensed and experienced plumbers are ready to make sure your family stays comfortable with hot water that lasts. And it is time to call in the professionals.

For a new water heater, contact New Flow Plumbing!

New Flow Plumbing is the company to call if you’re having problems with your water heater. Our licensed and experienced plumbers can handle any plumbing problem. We also repair and replace water heaters. Please contact us right away!

FAQs

The most common signs are age (over 10 years old), strange noises, rusty or discolored water, leaks, and hot water that runs out too quickly. Once your heater reaches its lifespan, parts like the heating element, thermostat, or tank lining begin to fail. Rust and sediment buildup also reduce efficiency. If your water heater has needed frequent repairs or can’t keep up with demand, replacement is often more cost-effective than another repair. New Flow Plumbing can inspect your unit, explain your options, and help you choose a model that fits your home’s needs.

When your hot water supply suddenly shortens, sediment is usually the culprit. Minerals from your water settle at the bottom of the tank, creating a thick layer that limits water storage and slows heating. Over time, your heater has to work harder to maintain temperature, which wears out the heating elements. If you’ve already flushed the tank but still run out of hot water, the problem could be a failing thermostat, a worn heating element, or an undersized tank. Upgrading to a tankless water heater can solve this problem permanently by providing endless hot water on demand.

Rusty or reddish water signals internal corrosion inside your heater’s tank. The anode rod – a metal rod that prevents rust – eventually wears down and stops protecting the steel tank. Once that happens, the tank itself begins to corrode, releasing rust into your hot water lines. If your water heater is new, replacing the anode rod may fix it. But if it’s more than 8–10 years old, the corrosion likely runs deep. At that point, replacing the entire unit is safer and prevents leaks or tank bursts. New Flow Plumbing can check whether a repair or full replacement is best.

Some noise is expected when heating cycles begin, but loud rumbling, banging, or popping means something’s wrong. These sounds often come from hardened sediment at the bottom of the tank. As water heats, it bubbles through this buildup, creating pressure and vibration. The longer it continues, the more damage it causes to the tank and heating element. In gas models, it can also reduce burner efficiency and raise energy costs. If you hear loud or frequent noises, flushing might help temporarily – but if the heater is older, it’s a sign that replacement is near.

If you see puddles or dampness around the base, act fast. First, turn off the power (or gas) and close the water supply valve to prevent flooding. Then contact a plumber immediately. Leaks can come from loose fittings, a failing pressure relief valve, or — most seriously — a cracked tank. Once the tank itself leaks, it cannot be repaired safely. Water damage can spread quickly, leading to mold, rot, or structural issues. New Flow Plumbing offers emergency service to diagnose leaks and replace failing heaters the same day to protect your home.

Tankless water heaters are more efficient and longer-lasting than traditional tanks. Instead of storing hot water, they heat it instantly as it flows through the unit, saving both space and energy. They can last up to 20 years, provide endless hot water, and lower utility bills by up to 30%. However, installation costs are higher and may require electrical or gas line upgrades. For households with high hot water usage, the long-term savings make tankless systems an excellent investment. New Flow Plumbing installs both tank and tankless systems and can recommend the best type for your home.

The average tank-style water heater lasts 8–12 years, while tankless models can run 15–20 years with proper maintenance. Hard water, frequent use, and skipped maintenance shorten lifespan. Annual flushing to remove sediment and replacing the anode rod every few years can help extend its life. Once your heater reaches a decade old, it’s wise to start planning for replacement even if it still works – it’s better to replace it on your schedule than deal with an unexpected breakdown or water damage.

In some cases, yes, if the heater is relatively new and the issue is minor. A plumber can replace worn parts like the anode rod, thermostat, or heating elements. But if rust or sediment buildup is widespread, repairs may only delay the inevitable. Corrosion weakens the tank, and leaks often follow soon after. Replacing a failing unit not only prevents future problems but also improves efficiency and lowers your utility bills. New Flow Plumbing can inspect the unit and recommend whether repair or replacement offers the best long-term value.

No, it’s unsafe. Even a small leak can quickly worsen, leading to flooding, mold growth, and water damage. In gas water heaters, leaks can also cause electrical short circuits or create fire risks. Pressure inside the tank can build up dangerously if the leak interferes with temperature control. Always turn off power and water to the unit and call a licensed plumber immediately. Prompt replacement is the safest option to prevent costly damage or injury.

Replacing an old or inefficient water heater improves safety, reliability, and energy savings. Modern units heat faster, maintain consistent temperatures, and use less power. You’ll also reduce the risk of leaks, rust, and unexpected breakdowns. Other key benefits include: 1) lower energy bills, 2) improved water quality, 3) higher resale value, and 4) peace of mind. New Flow Plumbing installs high-efficiency models that can save homeowners hundreds annually in energy costs.

Yes. Routine maintenance is essential for longevity. Key tasks include: 1) draining and flushing the tank annually to remove sediment, 2) inspecting the anode rod every 2–3 years, 3) checking the pressure relief valve, and 4) ensuring temperature settings stay around 120°F for efficiency. Regular upkeep helps detect small issues before they become serious and extends your system’s lifespan by several years. Many homeowners schedule yearly maintenance with New Flow Plumbing for reliable performance.

That depends on your home’s size, water usage, and budget. Tankless units provide unlimited hot water and last longer, but they cost more upfront. If you have a large household or frequently run out of hot water, a tankless system could be worth the investment. For smaller households or limited budgets, a modern energy-efficient tank model may be a better fit. Consulting with New Flow Plumbing helps you weigh cost, efficiency, and convenience before deciding.

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