How to Know If You Need a New Water Heater
A water heater isn’t something most homeowners think about—until it stops working. Cold showers, rusty water, and strange noises can all point to a failing unit. But how do you know whether you need a repair or a full replacement?
Here’s what to look for when deciding if it’s time for a new water heater.
1. It’s Over 10 Years Old
Most tank-style water heaters last 8 to 12 years with regular maintenance. After a decade, the risk of failure increases significantly. Components start to wear down, sediment builds up inside the tank, and efficiency drops.
You can find your water heater’s age by checking the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker—usually located near the top of the tank. If your unit is approaching the 10-year mark or older, start thinking ahead to avoid a surprise breakdown.
2. You’re Running Out of Hot Water Faster
Does your hot water run out halfway through your shower? That could mean your water heater isn’t functioning at full capacity. Over time, sediment builds up in the bottom of the tank, reducing its ability to heat and store water efficiently.
This is especially common in areas like Mount Holly, NC, where hard water contributes to mineral deposits inside the tank.
3. Discolored or Rusty Water
If your hot water looks brown, yellow, or rusty, that’s a red flag. It could indicate internal corrosion. Once the inside of your water heater tank starts to rust, leaks are only a matter of time.
You can test this by running cold and hot water separately. If only the hot water is discolored, the issue likely lies with your heater, not your pipes.
4. Rumbling or Banging Sounds
As sediment hardens at the bottom of the tank, it causes popping or rumbling noises when the burner heats the water. These sounds mean your heater is working harder than it should, which accelerates wear and increases energy use.
Ignoring these sounds can lead to cracks in the tank—and a total failure.
5. Leaks Around the Base
Water pooling around the bottom of your heater is a serious problem. Small leaks often start at the fittings or pressure relief valve, but if the tank itself is leaking, there’s no safe or effective repair.
A leaking tank means it’s time to replace the unit.
6. Spike in Energy Bills
An old or inefficient water heater can cause a noticeable increase in your utility bills. It takes more energy to heat the same amount of water when your tank is clogged with sediment or its insulation has degraded.
A modern, energy-efficient unit—especially a tankless system—can cut your monthly costs and deliver hot water on demand.
7. It Can’t Keep Up With Your Household
Have you added a bathroom, upgraded to a bigger bathtub, or welcomed more people into your home? Your current water heater may simply be too small. If it’s constantly struggling to meet your family’s hot water needs, upgrading to a larger capacity or a tankless system might be the answer.
Repair vs. Replace: What’s the Right Move?
If your water heater is less than 8 years old and the issue is minor—like a faulty thermostat or heating element—repair might make sense. But if your unit is:
Older than 10 years
Leaking from the tank
Struggling to heat water
Causing high energy bills
…it’s time to start shopping for a replacement.
The Mount Holly Plumbing Advantage
At Mount Holly Plumbing, we offer fast, honest assessments of your system. We’ll inspect your water heater, discuss your household’s needs, and help you choose the right solution—whether that’s a quick repair or a brand-new installation.
We work with traditional tanks, tankless water heaters, and energy-efficient models to fit your budget and preferences.
Ready for an Upgrade?
Don’t wait for a cold shower or a flooded floor. If you notice any of the signs above, call Mount Holly Plumbing today to schedule a professional inspection or get a free estimate for water heater replacement in Mount Holly, NC.
