Your water heater is one of the most hardworking appliances in your home, but it's easy to take for granted until something goes wrong. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to cold showers, water damage, or even a burst tank. Here are the top 5 signs that you need to call Cotton City Plumbing for water heater repair immediately.
1. Strange Noises
If you hear popping, banging, or rumbling sounds coming from your water heater, it's likely due to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As the sediment is heated, it hardens and bangs against the tank walls. This not only reduces efficiency but can also cause the tank to crack.
What to do: Call Cotton City Plumbing for a professional tank flush and inspection. Regular maintenance can prevent this issue and extend your water heater's lifespan.
2. Rusty or Discolored Water
If your hot water comes out brown, rusty, or with a metallic smell, it could indicate that the inside of your tank is rusting. If left unchecked, the rust will eat through the steel tank, leading to a major leak.
Note: If both hot and cold water are rusty, the issue might be with your pipes instead. Our technicians can diagnose the exact source of the problem.
3. Lack of Hot Water
This is the most obvious sign. If your water never gets hot enough, or if you run out of hot water much faster than usual, a heating element or the thermostat may have failed. In gas units, it could be a pilot light or burner issue.
Common causes in Lubbock: Hard water sediment buildup, failed heating elements, or thermostat malfunction. Our team can quickly diagnose and repair the issue.
4. Leaking Around the Tank
Puddles of water around the base of your water heater are a serious red flag. While it could be a loose connection or a faulty relief valve, it often indicates a crack in the tank itself.
Important: A leaking tank cannot be repaired and must be replaced immediately to prevent flooding. Call us for emergency service at (806) 441-4110.
5. Age of the Unit
Most traditional tank water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and starts acting up, it's often more cost-effective to replace it with a new, energy-efficient model rather than paying for repeated repairs.
Lubbock's hard water: Our mineral-rich water can shorten water heater lifespan. Regular maintenance and water treatment can help extend the life of your unit.
Don't Wait for a Cold Shower!
If you notice any of these signs, contact Cotton City Plumbing today. Our expert technicians can diagnose the issue and recommend the best solution for your home.