Water heaters don’t work for eternity. Even one that’s regularly tuned up will only run around 8–12 years, generally. If yours is 10 years old, or older, it’s important to know the symptoms that it’s dying. If not, you might not have warm water for a few days while you wait to install a new one.

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

1. Your Water Heater is Older 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 potentially have to replace it momentarily. As time passes, sediment collects up in your hot water heater, making it more complicated for it to warm water. In the end, the sediment will eat away at the tank and cause the heating pieces to fail. Corrosion can also cause water leaks, which might damage your Cedar Rapids home.

By replacing your water heater, you’ll get the most energy-efficient options. If you select an ENERGY STAR® water heater, you might get added 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 even more. For houses hat use less than 41 gallons of water each day a tankless water heater is often 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 lifetime of a tank water heater.

2. Water Heater is Leaking

Sometimes leaks are just the consequence of loose connections, wrong pressure or a valve needing replacement. But they can also be a symptom that your water heater tank has corroded or cracked. In any case you’ll need pro help from Ilten's to determine the problem.

3. Water is the Wrong Color

If your typically clear water abruptly becomes cloudy or rusty, your water heater may be at fault. Cloudy water is a symptom sediment has accumulated in the tank, while rusty water is a clue there’s rust in the tank or pipes. In either instance, Ilten's recommends having your water heater checked out by a professional

4. There’s a Lack of Hot Water

As sediment accumulates in the tank and on heating elements, your hot water heater needs more energy to create warm water. Due to this, it will require longer for it to heat up water, and heated water will be used up more quickly. Both are a hint that your water heater is going out.

To keep sediment from collectingin your tank, Ilten's advises having one of our specialists flush it yearly.

5. Water Heater is Making Odd 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 lead to cracks and leaks.

6. You’re Always Needing Water Heater Repair

Over its life, your water heater may require minor repairs, such as valve replacement. But if you’re constantly getting in touch with Ilten's for support or a crucial part has gone out, you need water heater installation.

It’s exhausting when your water heater is just about to fail or has gone out. But that’s not the case when you call Ilten's at 319-208-2351 for water heater installation in Cedar Rapids. From choosing the right option for your family and budget to expertly installing it, we make the entire process simple. Call us to schedule your appointment today!