Let’s be honest. Most people don’t think about their water heater until something goes wrong. But when it does? It can mess up your whole day. Cold showers. Weird noises. Rising energy bills.
If you’re a homeowner in Lee’s Summit, MO, or Mission, KS, you know how important reliable hot water is, especially when temperatures drop. At LBA Services, we’ve seen it all. We’re here to help you spot the early signs of trouble before it turns into a plumbing emergency.
Below are the top signs your water heater may need to be replaced.
1. Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old
Most traditional water heaters last about 8 to 12 years. After that, performance starts to drop. If your water heater is over a decade old, it’s smart to start thinking about a replacement before it stops working completely.
You can usually find the manufacture date on the label. Or give LBA Services a call and we’ll help you figure it out.
2. Hot Water Runs Out Too Quickly
Remember when you used to enjoy a full shower with plenty of hot water? Now it turns cold halfway through? That could be a sign that your water heater is becoming less efficient. Over time, sediment accumulates inside the tank, reducing its capacity and making it more difficult to heat the water. As a result, you end up with less hot water and increased energy consumption.
3. Rusty or Discolored Hot Water
If your hot water comes out looking brown, orange, or rusty, there’s a good chance the inside of your tank is corroding. That rust will eventually eat through the tank wall, leading to leaks or a full burst.
If the rust only appears when you turn on the hot water, call a plumber right away.
4. Strange Noises Coming From the Tank
Does your water heater make rumbling, banging, or popping sounds? That’s not normal.
These noises usually mean sediment has hardened at the bottom of the tank. When the water heater fires up, water gets trapped under the sediment and creates pressure, which causes those loud sounds.
It’s a sign your heater is overworked and may be close to failing.
5. Water Pooling Around the Base
If you notice water leaking around the base of your water heater, don’t ignore it. This could be caused by a cracked tank or a loose valve.
Unfortunately, if the tank itself is leaking, it can’t be repaired. You’ll need a full water heater replacement to prevent water damage and bigger problems down the line.
6. Inconsistent Water Temperatures
If your water is hot one minute and lukewarm the next, something is wrong. It may be the thermostat, the heating element, or just general wear and tear.
Inconsistent performance is often a warning sign that your water heater is wearing out.
7. Rising Energy Bills
Older water heaters use more energy, especially if they’re full of sediment or have failing parts. If you’ve noticed your utility bill going up without any changes to your routine, your water heater might be the cause.
Switching to a modern, energy-efficient model can lower your bills and improve performance.
8. You’re Scheduling Frequent Repairs
One repair is no big deal. But if you’ve had two or more service calls in the past year, your water heater might be more trouble than it’s worth.
Instead of pouring more money into an aging system, consider replacing it with a newer, more reliable model.
Why Replace It Now?
Replacing your water heater before it fails can save you time, money, and frustration. A leaking or broken unit can cause serious water damage, and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time.
At LBA Services, we help homeowners in Lee’s Summit and Mission, KS, stay ahead of these problems. Our licensed plumbers provide expert advice, professional installation, and honest pricing. No surprises.
Not Sure What to Do? Call LBA Services
If you’re unsure whether your water heater is still good or needs replacing, call the pros at LBA Services. We’ll inspect your unit, explain your options, and help you choose the best solution for your home and budget.
We offer a range of high-efficiency water heaters that save energy, reduce costs, and give you reliable hot water every day.
Schedule your water heater inspection today.
Whether you need water heater repair, water heater installation, or just an expert opinion, we’re here for you.
