Water heaters don’t run forever. Even a well-maintained one will only last around 8–12 years, normally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s essential to be aware of the clues that it’s dying. Otherwise, you might not have heated water for a few days while you wait to replace it.

Here are six common signs that your water heater is wearing out.

1. Your Water Heater is Past 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is older doesn’t necessarily mean it’s failing, but it does mean you’ll likely have to install a new one momentarily. As time passes, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it more complicated for it to warm water. Eventually, the sediment will corrode the tank and cause the heating components to fail. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which can damage your McKinney and Frisco residence.

By getting a new water heater, you’ll receive the most energy-efficient options. If you install an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you could get extra rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, because an ENERGY STAR style could save you up to $3,500 on energy over its lifetime.

Changing from a standard tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even greater amount. For houses hat use less than 41 gallons of water per day a tankless water heater is usually 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 last for around 20 years, which is about double the life expectancy of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaky

Sometimes leaks are just the result of loose connections, incorrect pressure or a broken valve. But they can also be a symptom that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need skilled help from Bell Mechanical Services to figure out the problem.

3. Water is the Wrong Color

If your usually clear water unexpectedly looks cloudy or rusty, your water heater might be the problem. Cloudy water is a sign sediment has built up in the tank, while rusty water is a sign there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either situation, Bell Mechanical Services suggests having your water heater checked out by a professional

4. There’s Inadequate Hot Water

As sediment accumulates in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater consumes more energy to make hot water. Because of this, it will take longer for it to warm water, and heated water will be used up more quickly. Both are a clue that your water heater is going out.

To prevent sediment from building up in your tank, Bell Mechanical Services 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 sign that sediment has built up in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, leading to the weird sounds. As time passes, the strain on your water heater can lead to cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Always Having to Have Water Heater Repair

Over its lifetime, your water heater might require small repairs, like valve replacement. But if you’re constantly calling Bell Mechanical Services for support or a critical part has stopped working, it’s time for water heater installation.

It’s stressful when your water heater is on the brink of failing or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you contact Bell Mechanical Services at 888-863-0560 for water heater installation in McKinney and Frisco. From picking the right style for your needs and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the complete process uncomplicated. Give us a call to request your appointment right away!