Have you ever craved a steamy shower, only to discover that your hot water is missing in action? Who wants to take a cold shower, especially during our chilly Minnesota winters? Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing understands that a well-functioning water heater means the difference between comfortable warmth and an unwelcome ice bath. Don’t ignore potential trouble indicators, which can become costly repairs if you wait too long. Turn to the local experts at Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbling to keep the hot water flowing at home.
Signs your water heater needs service
Your water heater often gives you subtle hints that something is wrong before it completely gives out. Paying attention to these signs can save you from a cold shower and a plumbing emergency.
- No hot water or not enough hot water: This is the most obvious sign. If your shower starts lukewarm, or you run out of hot water after only a few minutes, it could indicate a problem with the heating element, a faulty thermostat, or a tripped circuit breaker. Don’t assume the problem will fix itself. This is a clear signal that a component needs attention.
- Strange noises: Do you hear a rumbling, popping, or banging sound from your water heater? These noises are often a result of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As the heating element heats up the sediment, it creates these sounds. This buildup reduces efficiency and can damage the tank over time.
- Discolored or smelly water: If your hot water looks rusty or has a metallic smell, it could be a sign of a corroded anode rod or the tank itself. If the water smells like rotten eggs, it’s likely a bacterial issue within the tank. Neither is something you want to ignore.
- Leaking water: A puddle of water around the base of your unit is a serious red flag. A failing pressure relief valve, a loose connection, or a crack in the tank itself can cause this. Even a small leak can lead to significant water damage and compromises the unit’s integrity.
When to consider a full replacement
Sometimes, a simple repair just isn’t enough. Consider these four key indicators that it’s time to say goodbye to your old water heater and invest in a new one.
- Age of the unit: A standard tank-style water heater has an average lifespan of 10-15 years. If your unit is approaching or has surpassed this age, it’s living on borrowed time. Even if it’s still working, its efficiency is likely decreasing, and the risk of a major failure increases significantly.
- Frequent or expensive repairs: Have you had to call a plumber multiple times in the past year to fix the same issues? Are the repair costs starting to add up? If so, the money you’re spending on repairs might be better invested in a brand-new, more reliable, and energy-efficient unit.
- Inefficiency and rising energy bills: As water heaters age, they lose their ability to heat water efficiently, forcing them to work harder and longer. If you’ve noticed a sudden or gradual increase in your energy bills with no other explanation, your water heater could be the culprit.
- Corrosion of the tank: Rust or corrosion on the outside of the water tank is a terminal sign. It indicates the tank’s protective lining has failed and a leak is imminent. A rusted tank cannot be repaired. Consider replacement to avoid a catastrophic flood in your home.
When faced with water heater woes, you need a plumbing partner you can trust. Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is that partner. We specialize in water heater services and are dedicated to providing the best solutions for our community. Whether your unit needs a simple repair or a full replacement, our team of skilled plumbers will accurately diagnose the problem and provide a transparent, upfront quote. We handle everything from fixing minor leaks and flushing tanks to installing new, high-efficiency traditional or tankless water heaters.
Don’t let water heater problems disrupt your comfort. Contact Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today at (320) 559-3407 to schedule service and let us get your hot water back on track. We’re here to provide professional, reliable service and peace of mind.