Water heaters don’t work indefinitely. Even one that’s regularly serviced will only run around 8–12 years, normally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to know the hints that it’s wearing out. Otherwise, you could be without hot water for a few 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 More Than 10 Years Old

Just because your water heater is aging doesn’t necessarily mean it’s wearing out, but it does mean you’ll likely have to get a new one momentarily. As the years go by, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it more difficult for it to heat water. In the end, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating components to fail. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which might damage your Florissant and St. Charles residence.

By getting a new water heater, you’ll have access to the most energy-efficient features. If you select an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you might get additional rebates and discounts. But the savings don’t stop there, as an ENERGY STAR style could save you up to $3,500 on energy over its lifetime.

Switching from a regular tank water heater to a tankless water heater can save you even more. For houses hat need less than 41 gallons of water each 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 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 consequence of loose connections, incorrect pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a sign that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need skilled assistance from B & B Heating & Cooling to determine the trouble.

3. Water is Discolored

If your usually clear water unexpectedly appears cloudy or rusty, your water heater may be at fault. Cloudy water means sediment has grown in the tank, while rusty water means there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either case, B & B Heating & Cooling suggests having your water heater examined by a professional

4. There’s Not Enough Hot Water

As sediment increases in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater consumes more energy to make warm water. Due to this, it will take longer for it to heat up water, and hot water won’t last as long. Both are a clue that your water heater is going out.

To keep sediment from building up in your tank, B & B Heating & Cooling recommends having one of our specialists flush it every year.

5. Water Heater is Making Weird Noises

Like cloudy water, popping and rumbling sounds are a sign that sediment has accumulated in your tank. Sediment makes it more difficult for the water heater to heat water, resulting in the odd sounds. As time passes, the stress on your water heater can result in cracks and leaks.

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

Over its life span, your water heater may need little repairs, including valve replacement. But if you’re frequently getting in touch with B & B Heating & Cooling for help or a major part has failed, it’s time for water heater installation.

It’s exhausting when your water heater is just about to stop working or has quit working. But that’s not the case when you get in touch with B & B Heating & Cooling at 314-325-7552 for water heater installation in Florissant and St. Charles. From picking the right solution for your family and budget to expertly hooking it up, we make the entire process easy. Give us a call to book your appointment right away!