How to know if your hot water heater is about to leave you in the cold

Be smart! Don't wait for a catastrophe - whether it's a flood or a coooold shower.

If you're experiencing any of the water heater failure signs below, give Whitworth & Sons a call. We can quickly repair or replace your hot water heater before disaster strikes!

How old is your water heater?

No idea? No problem. Find the age by looking for the serial number on the manufacturer's sticker.

The serial number contains the date that the water heater was manufactured - in a fun matrix code sort of way. For example, my hot water heater has a date code that reads "F16109849".

F is for the month. F = the 6th letter in the alphabet. 6 = June (fun, right?)

Next, the first two digits of the serial number are 16, which represents the year, 2016.

So, my hot water heater was made in June of 2016.

Each manufacturer has a similar date code, and they can vary. If you're unsure, check the manufacturer's website for a serial look-up to find out.

Hot water heaters that are older than 10 years should be replaced before causing a problem. If your water heater is in a location that will not cause damage if the tank leaks or ruptures, then you can wait and run the risk of paying more for a late night service call. Be proactive and replace before it causes you more grief!

Popping, Rumbling, or other Noises?

Water heaters were not made to be noisemakers. Noises are a tell-tell sign of an impending water heater failure. Hard water and mineral buildup are to blame when it comes to these noises. The distinct popping water heater noise is caused by minerals forming a layer on the surface of the water heater. The sound is caused by pockets of air in the sediment layer boiling along with the water in your tank.

Leaky, Drippy Mess?

If you notice any amount of water around your water heater you may have a small leak or fracture. As the metal heats, it expands causing water to leak from the small fractures. You'll never know when your next hot shower will cause your water heater to flood your entire home.

Cloudy, rusty, metallic-smelling water?

Murky water and funky-smelling water are both signs of a failing water heater. Mineral deposits travel out of the water, clouding up the hot water flowing and straight to you. A metallic odor and taste are common side dishes to the murk. Additionally, a cloudy rust color in your water could mean your water heater tank or house pipes are rusty. No one can feel clean when showering in these kind of conditions.