5 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Immediate Attention

Your water heater works quietly in the background every day, but when it starts to fail, the signs are often easy to miss. If you catch the problem early, you can avoid major damage and expensive repairs. Whether you have a gas or electric unit, here are five signs your water heater needs immediate attention from a professional.

1. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Hot water should be steady and predictable. If you’re noticing that the water turns lukewarm or cold without warning, your water heater may be struggling to keep up. This could point to a faulty thermostat, a failing heating element, or heavy sediment buildup reducing the tank’s efficiency. A technician can run a proper diagnostic and get things working again.

2. Strange Noises Coming From the Tank

Water heaters are not supposed to make noise. If you hear banging, cracking, or popping, those sounds usually come from sediment cooking at the bottom of the tank. The harder your unit works to heat through the debris, the more stress it puts on the internal parts. Ignoring these noises increases the chance of a leak or total breakdown.

3. Leaks Around the Base

Any sign of water at the base of your unit is a problem. Leaks can happen due to a loose valve, a corroded connection, or even a hairline crack in the tank. Even a small amount of moisture can lead to mold, mildew, or water damage to surrounding flooring and walls. A licensed plumbing company should inspect the unit immediately to prevent the damage from spreading.

4. Rusty or Discolored Water

If brown or yellow water comes out when you turn on the hot tap, that’s a sign of corrosion inside your water heater or plumbing lines. In many cases, the anode rod inside the tank has deteriorated and can no longer protect the steel from rusting. Left unchecked, this kind of internal damage will eventually lead to leaks and contamination.

5. It's Reached the End of Its Lifespan

Most standard water heaters last between 8 and 12 years. If yours is approaching or past that range, it’s more likely to develop problems even if it seems to be running fine. Old tanks lose efficiency, heat water more slowly, and are at higher risk for leaks or pressure issues. Regular maintenance can help, but after a certain point, replacement is the safer and more cost-effective choice.

Why Annual Water Heater Service Matters

A water heater that’s neglected year after year is more likely to break down without warning. Scheduling annual service can help flush sediment, check for failing components, and catch wear before it turns into a leak or safety hazard. For gas units, a yearly inspection also ensures proper ventilation and burner performance, which can prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

In addition to extending your water heater’s lifespan, routine service also helps maintain its efficiency. A system running with clean components and accurate temperature settings uses less energy and delivers hot water faster. If it’s been over a year since your last water heater check, now is the time to make it part of your maintenance routine.

If your water heater is showing any of these signs, call Mathis Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. today at Missing required attribute: Missing required 'which' attribute on shortcode phone-number.to schedule a professional inspection or repair.