Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater 

Water heaters are essential to maintaining home comfort. One day, you may wake up and go take a shower, only to find that you have inconsistent hot water. Not only is this an inconvenient way to start your day, but it can also mean it may be time to replace your water heater.

Water heaters wear out over time, and catching warning signs early can prevent major water damage or an emergency breakdown. Dauenhauer is the trusted local expert for water heater replacement and installation in Kentucky. We’re going to share seven signs it’s time to replace your water heater.

How Long Should a Water Heater Last?

The average lifespan of a water heater will depend on the type of unit you have and a few other factors. Traditional tank water heaters last, on average, 8-12 years. Tankless water heaters last closer to 15-20 years.

Other factors that affect a water heater’s lifespan include maintenance habits, installation quality, and hard water presence. In Kentucky, hard water is very common and can cause increased wear and tear on water heaters.

If your water heater is within or past the average lifespan range, it’s time to watch for the following warning signs.

Sign #1 – Your Water Heater Is Leaking

If you notice water pooling around the base of your water heater, it’s a major red flag. Your water heater may be leaking due to internal tank corrosion, which unfortunately, cannot be repaired. You should replace your water heater as soon as you notice its leaking. Delaying replacement risks flooding of your home and mold damage.

Sign #2 – Inconsistent or Insufficient Hot Water

If your hot water turns cold quickly, especially during morning or night routines, you may need water heater replacement. Possible causes of inconsistent or insufficient hot water include a failing heating element, sediment buildup, or declining tank capacity. In these cases, it is often more cost-effective to replace your unit rather than repeatedly repair it.

Sign #3 – Rusty or Discolored Water

Rusty or discolored hot water can indicate internal rank corrosion, which ultimately means it’s time to replace your unit. If rust only appears in hot water, this means it is coming from the tank vs. your pipes. If your water is discolored when running hot and cold, it could be an issue with your pipes.

Sign #4 – Strange Noises from the Unit

Strange noises are always a cause for concern. Rumbling or popping noises can indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank. This buildup forces the burner or heating element to work overtime. The noises come from small steam pockets bursting through the layer of sediment. Long-term sediment damage often leads to full replacement.

Sign #5 – Rising Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed rising energy bills without increased water use, your model may be getting old and less efficient. It’s common for older water heaters to lose efficiency over time. This means that more energy is required to heat the same amount of water, reflected in higher utility bills. Replacing your water heater improves efficiency and lowers monthly energy costs.

Sign #6 – Your Water Heater Needs Frequent Repairs

If you’re frequently calling for repairs every few months, replacing your water heater can be more economical. Water heater repairs can be expensive if you need frequent service. Compare the cost of ongoing repairs vs. the cost of a new system to see when it’s time to replace your unit. Often, the cost of a new unit is less than ongoing repair costs for an aging water heater.

Sign #7 – Visible Corrosion on the Tank

Noticing exterior corrosion or rust is never a good sign for your water heater. Visible corrosion on the tank indicates structural deterioration and means a replacement unit is necessary. Once tank material breaks down, replacement is the only safe option. Avoid the risk of flooding and water damage to your property by addressing the issue promptly.

Benefits of Replacing Your Water Heater

There are many benefits of replacing your water heater, including:

• Better energy efficiency: Newer water heater models offer improved energy efficiency, helping you minimize your carbon footprint.
• Faster and more consistent hot water: If you’re tired of waiting for your water to heat up, replacing your water heater will solve this. A modern water heater will provide faster and consistent hot water.
• Lower utility costs: Lower your monthly utility costs with an energy-efficient water heater. Newer models don’t have to work as hard to meet your hot water needs.
• Improved safety: With a new water heater, you won’t need to worry about leaks or rust contamination, improving safety.
• Modern features, better warranties: Get modern features, such as compact designs and self-diagnostics by replacing your water heater. You’ll also have a new warranty in place to cover any necessary repairs.
• Potential to upgrade to tankless options: By replacing your current water heater, you can upgrade to a tankless model. Tankless water heaters provide endless hot water on demand and take up less space than traditional models.

Why Kentucky Homeowners Trust Dauenhauer

Homeowners in Kentucky trust Dauenhauer’s experienced installation technicians for knowledgeable recommendations and top-quality service.

Our technicians work across Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown, and Shelbyville. We offer fast service and emergency availability to our customers, so you can rest assured you’re in good hands. We’re also knowledgeable about Kentucky’s hardwater and how it impacts your water heater.

We provide honest recommendations, including repair vs. replacement guidance. With fair pricing, upfront quotes, and top-brand equipment, you can trust Dauenhauer for water heater installation.

Contact Dauenhauer for Water Heater Replacement in Louisville

Water heaters don’t last forever. They begin to show warning signs long before they fail completely. Act early to avoid water damage or cold showers by replacing your water heater.

If your water heater is showing any of these signs, email us today. Our team proudly serves Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown, and Shelbyville with expert replacement and installation services.