Water heaters don’t last indefinitely. Even one that’s regularly serviced will only run around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s essential to be knowledgeable about the clues that it’s wearing out. Or else, you could be without heated water for a couple days while you wait for a new one.

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

1. Your Water Heater is Older than 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is dated doesn’t necessarily mean it’s needing to be replaced right now, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to replace it soon. Over time, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to warm water. Ultimately, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating pieces to stop working. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which may damage your Alliance home.

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

Changing from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you an even bigger amount. For houses hat require less than 41 gallons of water per day a tankless water heater is typically 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 typically run for around 20 years, which is about twice the life span of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Losing Water

In some cases leaks are just the result of loose connections, wrong pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a clue that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need professional assistance from Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces to figure out the trouble.

3. Water is Discolored

If your usually clear water suddenly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater might be at fault. Cloudy water is a symptom sediment has grown in the tank, while rusty water is a hint there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either case, Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces suggests having your water heater checked out by a professional

4. There’s Inadequate Hot Water

As sediment builds up in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater works harder to make warm water. Due to this, it will take longer for it to heat up water, and heated water will run out much more quickly. Both are a sign that your water heater is failing.

To prevent sediment from building up in your tank, Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces recommends having one of our professionals flush it annually.

5. Water Heater is Making Unusual Noises

Like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a hint that sediment has grown in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, leading to the strange sounds. As time goes on, the strain on your water heater can result in cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Always Needing Water Heater Repair

Over its lifetime, your water heater might have to have small repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re often contacting Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces for help or a major 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 quit working. But that’s not the case when you get in touch with Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces at 308-762-1613 for water heater installation in Alliance. From picking the right option for your home and budget to expertly putting it in, we make the entire process uncomplicated. Give us a call to schedule your appointment right away!