Water heaters don’t work forever. Even one that’s regularly serviced will only work around 8–12 years, on average. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s essential to know the clues that it’s dying. Otherwise, you could be without warm water for a couple days while you wait for a new one.

Here are six common hints that your water heater is going bad.

1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is aging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s wearing out, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to replace it shortly. As time passes, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to warm water. Ultimately, the sediment will erode the tank and cause the heating components to stop working. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which could damage your Manassas home.

By replacing your water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient features. If you choose an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you might be eligible for extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, since an ENERGY STAR water heater could save you up to $3,500 on water heating over its lifetime.

Going from a standard tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For houses hat use less than 41 gallons of water daily a tankless water heater is often 24–34% more efficient than a tank water heater, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. What’s even better is that tankless water heaters usually run for around 20 years, which is about double the lifetime of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaky

Sometimes leaks are just the result of loose connections, inaccurate pressure or a faulty valve. But they can also be a hint that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. Regardless you’ll need skilled assistance from Woody's Sudden Service to determine the trouble.

3. Water is Cloudy or Rusty

If your typically clear water suddenly looks cloudy or rusty, your water heater could be at fault. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has built up in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either situation, Woody's Sudden Service suggests having your water heater examined by a pro

4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water

As sediment increases in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater works harder to make heated water. Due to this, it will need longer for it to heat up water, and warm water won’t last as long. Both are a clue that your water heater is failing.

To prevent sediment from accumulatingin your tank, Woody's Sudden Service advises having one of our professionals flush it annually.

5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises

Just like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a clue that sediment has built up in your tank. Sediment makes it more strenuous for the water heater to heat water, leading to the unusual sounds. Over time, the stress on your water heater can create cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Frequently Needing Water Heater Repair

Over its lifetime, your water heater might require little repairs, such as valve replacement. But if you’re constantly getting in touch with Woody's Sudden Service for support or a critical part has failed, you need water heater installation.

It’s exhausting when your water heater is just about to fail or has quit working. But that’s not the case when you get in touch with Woody's Sudden Service at 703-278-2036 for water heater installation in Manassas. From picking the right option for your family and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the whole process easy. Call us to request your appointment today!