1. Lack of Hot Water
Is your shower water lukewarm? Does it take a long time to get hot water from the tap? The most common sign of a failing water heater is a lack of sufficient hot water.
Most standard water heaters contain a 30 to 50 gallon storage tank. As the water is heated (usually by a gas or electric source), water minerals separate and settle at the bottom of the water storage tank. Over time, these mineral deposits build up in the tank and create a barrier between the burner and the water. This means that less heat reaches the water — and your showers get colder!
The more the sediment builds up, the harder your tank’s heating element has to work. Eventually, the heater will fail — either leaking or ceasing to operate altogether. The result? A costly water bill caused by leaking and a heater that needs to be completely replaced!
How to Solve It
Schedule an annual flushing of your water tank. If your home is prone to hard water, invest in water conditioning to keep water appliances running at their most efficient level.
2. Popping or Rumbling Noises
Water heater noises are another common culprit of water heater failure. If your water heater is making popping, creaking, or rumbling noises, it’s time to call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Hard water and mineral buildup are also to blame when it comes to water heater noises. The distinct popping water heater noise is caused by minerals forming a layer on the surface of the water heater. The sound is caused by pockets of air in the sediment layer boiling along with the water in your tank.
How to Solve It
If your water heater still makes noise once sediment has been flushed from the tank, there is probably a more serious problem with the unit overall. Heaters that pop, creak, or rumble despite periodic flushing are most likely on the verge of a crack or leak. The best alternative is a replacement before the tank causes a costly leak.
3. Cloudy Water
Does your water look cloudy? Do you detect a metallic scent — or even taste — in your tap water? Murky water and funky-smelling water are both signs of a failing water heater. Mineral deposits travel out of the water heater, clouding up the hot water flowing from your taps. A metallic odor and even taste can accompany these deposits. These mineral deposits can impact faucets, clogging elements that control the flow of water. Additionally, a cloudy orange or reddish color in water could mean your water heater tank or house pipes are rusty.
How to Solve It
If cloudy or rusty water bother you, you can filter water for a short-term fix. While it does not look appealing, the EPA reports that rust in water does not does not cause any immediate health concerns. But once rust has reached your tank or pipes, the only solution is to replace them. Take a proactive approach to replacing tanks or pipes before corrosion causes a leak.
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