Let’s face it—your water heater isn’t something you think about every day. But when the hot water suddenly runs cold, or you notice something strange going on, it becomes pretty hard to ignore. Whether you have a traditional tank-style heater or a tankless water heater, there comes a time when every water heater reaches the end of its road.
So how do you know when it’s time for a water heater replacement? Let’s walk through the signs and what you can do about them.
1. It’s Getting Old
Most water heaters aren’t built to last forever. A traditional tank heater usually has a lifespan of 8–12 years, while tankless models can last a bit longer—around 15–20 years. If yours is creeping up on these numbers, it might be time to call the water heater experts for a replacement before it stops working altogether. You can usually find the manufacture date on a sticker on the unit.
2. The Water Isn’t Staying Hot
If your hot water is running out faster than usual or just isn’t getting as hot as it used to, that’s a red flag. Over time, sediment can build up inside the tank, especially in hard water areas. This buildup reduces the heater’s efficiency and makes it work harder to keep the water warm. In tankless models, mineral scaling can also be a problem.
3. You’re Hearing Weird Noises
If your water heater is suddenly making banging, popping, or rumbling sounds, that’s usually not a good sign. In tank models, these sounds often come from sediment heating and causing mini explosions at the bottom of the tank. It might sound dramatic, but it can cause real damage over time.
4. Leaks or Rust Around the Tank
This one’s hard to miss. If you notice water pooling around the base of your heater or see rust-colored water coming out of your tap, you’ve probably got a leak or corrosion happening inside the tank. And unfortunately, once a tank starts leaking, there’s not much you can do to fix it. Replacement is usually the only real solution.
5. Your Energy Bills Are Creeping Up
If you haven’t changed your water usage habits but your energy bills are going up, your water heater could be to blame. Older or struggling units need more energy to heat the same amount of water, and that inefficiency hits your wallet every month. A new, energy-efficient unit might cost you upfront but save you more in the long run.
What to Consider for a Replacement
If you’ve decided it’s time for a water heater replacement, you’ve got a couple of options. Traditional tank models are great for families and bigger households, while tankless systems are compact and energy-efficient—perfect for smaller homes or people who want hot water on demand.
Nobody likes dealing with surprise home repairs, but your water heater gives off warning signs long before it quits. If you’ve noticed any of the red flags above, it might be time to start thinking seriously about a water heater replacement.
If your water heater’s acting up, don’t wait for a full breakdown. Whether you need help choosing a tankless water heater or just want honest advice, the water heater experts at Lords of Plumbing are here for you. Call us now to talk to a trusted water heater plumber in Los Angeles!