6 Signs Your Water Heater is Failing

Contact the Needham Oil team before you lose hot water.

Every month, we talk to homeowners from Medway to Wayland (and plenty of other places in Middlesex and Norfolk Counties) about their hot water systems. We understand that many people don’t think about their water heater until they suddenly find themselves without a hot shower. But it’s crucial that you check on your water heater from time to time to ensure it isn’t struggling. If you think it’s nearing retirement, then Needham Oil Complete Heating & Cooling is here to help.

The lifespan of a water heater

The average storage-tank water heater lasts around 10 to 12 years. If you aren’t sure when your unit was installed, check the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker. Typically, the first digits of this number correspond with the manufacture date. A quick web search of the brand and model should provide a guide for reading the number.

Signs that your storage tank water heater is struggling.

As a water heater gets up in years, it will show signs of age. One of the most common causes of water heater failure is internal corrosion caused by particles in the water. These particles eat away at your tank’s lining over time, eventually leading to a complete breakdown. Some warning signs include the following:

1. Higher energy bills despite no change in your water usage. This could indicate that your water heater has lost efficiency and is struggling.
2. Strange noises, including popping, rumbling, screeching or hissing. A well-functioning water heater should run relatively quietly.
3. Rusty or brown water from the tap, indicating accumulation of sediment in the tank.
4. Water around your tank. A leaking water heater is likely on its last legs.
5. Inconsistent hot water. If you’re getting lukewarm water from the tap, or your showers suddenly go cold, it might be time for an upgrade.
6. Difficulty draining your water heater’s tank. We recommend you flush your water heater once a year to prevent sediment buildup. If you’re having trouble draining the tank, then the sediment may be blocking your valve.

Reach out to the Needham Oil team today if you notice these warning signs.

As you might imagine, some of these issues can be addressed with water heater maintenance, but others are far more serious. Needham Oil Complete Heating & Cooling has skilled HVAC technicians who can look at your unit and determine if it needs to be replaced.

But you need to be proactive about contacting us if you suspect your water heater is in trouble.

The worst possible time to inquire about a water heater installation is when your current unit has just failed. You’ll be left without hot water while we rush to secure new equipment for you. Your replacement options will be limited, and you’ll be horribly inconvenienced in the interim. Not only that — failing water heaters can cause tremendous water damage. If you stay ahead of the game, our team can replace your unit before it spills gallons of water in your home.

Our HVAC pros are ready to help you upgrade to an efficient new water heater. Reach out to us for a free estimate.