Water heaters don’t run forever. Even a well-maintained one will only work around 8–12 years, on average. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s critical to be knowledgeable about the signs that it’s wearing out. If not, you might not have hot water for several days while you wait to install a new one.

Here are six common clues that your water heater is dying.

1. Your Water Heater is More Than 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is older doesn’t necessarily mean it’s needing to be replaced right now, but it does mean you’ll potentially have to get a new one shortly. As the years go by, sediment accumulates up in your hot water heater, making it more complicated for it to add warmth to water. Eventually, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating pieces to malfunction. Corrosion can also result in water leaks, which might damage your Rockford home.

By replacing your water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient features. If you install an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you could get added rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t quit there, since an ENERGY STAR style could save you up to $3,500 on utilities over its lifetime.

Switching from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For families hat need less than 41 gallons of water daily 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 frequently work for around 20 years, which is about twice the life span of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaky

Sometimes leaks are just the outcome of loose connections, wrong pressure or a faulty valve. But they can also be a hint that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need pro help from Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling 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 the problem. Cloudy water is a symptom sediment has built up in the tank, while rusty water is a sign there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either instance, Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling recommends having your water heater examined by a professional

4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water

As sediment accumulates in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater consumes more energy to create heated water. As a result, it will take longer for it to warm water, and heated water won’t last as long. Both are a hint that your water heater is going out.

To stop sediment from collectingin your tank, Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling recommends having one of our pros flush it annually.

5. Water Heater is Making Odd Noises

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

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

Over its life span, your water heater could require small repairs, such as valve replacement. But if you’re frequently getting in touch with Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling for support or a major part has stopped working, it’s time for water heater installation.

It’s draining when your water heater is just about to stop working or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you contact Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling at (815) 914-6197 for water heater installation in Rockford. From picking the right solution for your home and budget to expertly installing it, we make the whole process uncomplicated. Give us a call to request your appointment now!