Author: Johnny Chandler

The Warning Signs of an Old or Failing Water Heater: A Homeowner’s Guide

Written by Johnny Chandler on January 8, 2025. Posted in Water Heaters. No Comments on The Warning Signs of an Old or Failing Water Heater: A Homeowner’s Guide

The New Year is the perfect time to take stock of the systems that keep your home running smoothly—starting with your water heater.

Whether it’s a chilly morning shower that never gets hot enough or an unexpected spike in energy bills, an aging water heater can cause more trouble than you realize.

At Elite Plumbing & Home Services, we specialize in water heater repairs and replacements for homeowners in Annapolis, Pasadena, and throughout Anne Arundel County.

Here’s how to tell if your water heater is ready for retirement and why upgrading could be the smartest move you make this year.

1. Your Water Isn’t Hot Enough (or Stays Cold)

If you’ve noticed lukewarm water, or worse, ice-cold showers no matter how long you wait, your water heater may be struggling. This is often a sign of sediment buildup inside the tank, worn-out heating elements, or an aging system that simply can’t keep up anymore.

In Maryland, where winter temperatures can dip low, consistent hot water isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. If your water heater can’t perform reliably, it’s time to start considering a replacement.

What to Do:

For minor issues like sediment buildup, flushing the tank can sometimes help.
If the water heater is older or consistently underperforming, a professional plumber can inspect and recommend an upgrade.

2. It’s Over 10 Years Old

Most traditional tank water heaters last about 10–12 years, depending on maintenance and water quality. After this point, they begin to break down, lose efficiency, and risk leaks or failures.

Check the manufacturer’s label on the unit for its installation date. If you’re nearing the 10-year mark, a proactive replacement can save you the stress of sudden breakdowns.

Why It Matters:
Older water heaters use more energy to heat water, which increases your utility bills. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient model—like a tankless water heater—can lower your monthly costs and provide unlimited hot water on demand.

3. Strange Noises Are Coming from Your Water Heater

Banging, rumbling, or popping sounds from your water heater are more than just annoying—they’re a sign of trouble. These noises are typically caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As water heats, the sediment hardens and causes the tank to overheat, making the water heater work harder than it should.

Over time, this extra strain can lead to cracks, leaks, and reduced performance. If the noise persists despite flushing, your unit may be nearing the end of its life.

4. Your Water Looks Rusty or Discolored

Have you noticed rusty or brownish water coming out of your taps? This is often caused by corrosion inside your water heater tank. The anode rod, a part designed to prevent rust, may have worn out, allowing rust to develop and contaminate your water.

Discolored water is not only unpleasant but can also damage your plumbing fixtures and appliances. If rust is present, it’s often a sign the tank is deteriorating and a replacement is needed.

5. There’s a Leak or Pooling Water Around the Tank

If you see water pooling around the base of your water heater, it’s a clear sign of a leak. Small cracks or fractures in the tank develop over time, especially as the water heater ages and undergoes constant heating and cooling.

Leaking water can quickly escalate to major water damage in your home. If you notice a leak, shut off the water supply and call a plumber immediately. Replacing the unit is often the safest and most cost-effective solution.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Water Heater

Replacing your old water heater isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about making an investment in your home’s comfort, efficiency, and value. Here are the benefits of upgrading:

Energy Efficiency: Modern water heaters use less energy, lowering your monthly utility bills.
Reliable Hot Water: No more cold showers or running out of hot water halfway through your morning routine.
Tankless Options: Consider upgrading to a tankless water heater for on-demand hot water and endless supply.
Prevent Expensive Repairs: Replacing an aging unit now can save you the hassle and cost of emergency breakdowns later.
Increased Home Value: A new, energy-efficient water heater adds value to your home, which is a great advantage for resale.

Why Trust Elite Plumbing for Your Water Heater Replacement?

At Elite Plumbing & Home Services, we’re proud to be family-owned and operated with over 20 years of experience helping homeowners in Annapolis, Pasadena, and surrounding Anne Arundel County communities.

Here’s what makes us the trusted choice:

Honest, Candid Advice: We only recommend replacements when absolutely necessary.
Licensed and Insured: Our team is fully certified to handle water heater repairs and installations safely and professionally.
Competitive Pricing: Upload a quote from another plumber, and we’ll inspect your system to see if we can beat it.
Expert Installation: Whether you’re upgrading to a tankless unit or replacing an old tank, we’ll ensure your new system runs flawlessly.

Get Your Water Heater Winter-Ready with Elite Plumbing

The New Year is a fresh start—don’t let an unreliable water heater hold you back. Whether you’re dealing with cold showers, strange noises, or signs of rust, Elite Plumbing & Home Services is here to help with expert water heater repairs and replacements.

From Annapolis to Severna Park and beyond, our team is ready to deliver reliable, honest service you can trust. We’ll inspect your current water heater, provide clear recommendations, and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.

Call us today at (443) 343-2284 or visit eliteplumbingmd.com to schedule your water heater inspection. Start the New Year with dependable hot water and peace of mind!

Why Is My Water Bill So High? Common Culprits and Solutions

Written by Johnny Chandler on December 20, 2024. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on Why Is My Water Bill So High? Common Culprits and Solutions

A surprise spike in your water bill can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time renter in Glen Burnie or a seasoned homeowner in Annapolis, seeing those extra dollars on your bill might leave you scratching your head.

Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and the reasons behind high water bills are often simpler than you’d expect. Let’s walk through the common culprits and practical solutions to help you get your water usage (and your bill) under control.

1. The Sneaky Drip: Leaky Faucets and Pipes

Think about the last time you noticed a drip from your kitchen sink or bathroom faucet. Unfortunately, even a small leak can waste a surprising amount of water over time.

For residents in Pasadena or Severna Park, where older homes are common, hidden leaks in aging plumbing systems can drive up your water bill without obvious signs. If there’s a pipe leaking behind your walls or underground, the problem might be even worse. You can easily tighten a loose faucet or replace a worn washer if the leak is external.

However, if you suspect a hidden leak, such as damp spots on walls, unexplained puddles, or a continuously moving water meter when no water is in use, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. Professionals have the tools to detect and repair leaks without tearing apart your home unnecessarily.

What You Can Do:

Check for visible drips around your faucets, showerheads, and pipes under sinks.
If you can’t find the source, try turning off all the water in your home and watch the meter. If it’s still moving, you’ve likely got a hidden leak.
For hard-to-find issues, it’s best to call a professional plumber who can inspect and repair the problem.

2. Toilet Trouble: The Hidden Water Waster

Toilets are notorious for wasting water without anyone noticing. If your toilet is running after you flush—or even if it looks fine but has a silent leak—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water every month. The culprit is usually a worn-out flapper, which is the rubber piece inside the tank that stops water from flowing into the bowl.

How to Check:

Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank (where the water collects). Wait 10–15 minutes without flushing. If the color appears in the bowl, you’ve got a leak.
Replacing a flapper is a quick fix and costs just a few dollars. You can find step-by-step guides online, or a plumber can do it for you if you’re not feeling handy.
However, if the problem persists despite these repairs, a plumber can inspect the internal components for more complex issues. A professional can also ensure the toilet is installed correctly and working efficiently to prevent future leaks.

3. Old Appliances That Drink Too Much Water

If your home still has older appliances like a washing machine, dishwasher, or even an outdated water heater, they might be using more water than necessary. Over time, newer models have become much more efficient, meaning they use less water to get the same job done.

If your appliances are showing their age and your water bill is consistently high, it might be time to consider upgrading. While new appliances can be a bit of an investment upfront, they’ll save you money on water and energy bills over time.

4. The Great Outdoors: Sprinklers, Hoses, and Spigots

If you have a yard or garden, outdoor plumbing can be another big reason for water waste. Leaks in sprinkler systems, cracked hoses, or dripping spigots can quickly add up, especially if you don’t notice them right away. Even a small leak outside can waste hundreds of gallons over the course of a few weeks.

Simple Fixes:

Check your yard for soggy spots or puddles that don’t seem to go away. These could be signs of a leak in your sprinkler system or outdoor pipes.
Tighten hose connections and inspect sprinklers for cracks or damage. Replacing a sprinkler head or fixing a leaky spigot is usually a quick and inexpensive fix.
While replacing a cracked hose or tightening a loose spigot is manageable, identifying underground irrigation system leaks often requires professional expertise. A plumber or irrigation specialist can use advanced tools to locate and repair these leaks without disrupting your entire yard.

5. A Faulty Water Meter Could Be the Problem

If you’ve checked your home for leaks, updated your appliances, and adjusted your habits, but your water bill is still unusually high, there’s a chance the problem isn’t on your end. Sometimes, water meters can malfunction and overestimate how much water you’re using. In Millersville and Riva, where many homes rely on older water systems, a professional assessment can help pinpoint less obvious issues.

What To Do:

Contact your water utility provider to request a meter inspection. They’ll check to see if the meter is working properly.
You can also track your own water usage for a few days and compare it to the meter’s readings to spot discrepancies
If they determine the meter is accurate, a professional plumber can perform a thorough inspection of your home’s plumbing to rule out hidden issues.

6. Your Daily Habits Might Be Adding Up

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your plumbing or appliances—it could just be a matter of everyday habits. We all have routines that feel harmless, like enjoying a long, relaxing shower, running the dishwasher before it’s full, or leaving the water on while brushing your teeth. These small things don’t seem like much in the moment, but over time, they can quietly contribute to higher water bills.

Simple Adjustments to Consider:

Try shortening your showers a bit, and consider switching to a water-saving showerhead. These are affordable, easy to install, and can help reduce water usage without sacrificing comfort.
Wait until you have a full load before running the dishwasher or washing machine to make the most of each cycle.
Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving—it’s a small step that can save a surprising amount of water over time.

Making these small changes doesn’t mean giving up the things you enjoy. It’s about finding a balance that helps conserve water and keeps your bill more manageable, all while fitting seamlessly into your routine.

Stay Ahead of the Problem

No one likes a high water bill, but the good news is that most issues can be fixed quickly and affordably if you know where to look. Regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing surprises, so make it a habit to inspect your home’s plumbing every so often.

Need Help? Call Elite Plumbing & Home Services

If you’re still scratching your head over a high water bill, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. At Elite Plumbing & Home Services, we’ve been proudly serving homeowners across Pasadena, Annapolis, and beyond for over 20 years. We specialize in finding and fixing leaks, upgrading appliances, and helping homeowners save on their water bills.

With over 20 years of experience, we’re here to make sure your plumbing works exactly as it should—without breaking the bank. Call us today at (443) 343-2284 or visit our website to schedule an inspection.