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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!

© 2024 Elite Plumbing & Home Services. All rights reserved.

5 Factors to Consider Before Water Heater Installation

Installing a new water heater is a significant investment, both in terms of the cost of the unit itself and the labor involved in setting it up. As such, it’s essential to carefully consider all the factors involved in the installation process before deciding. If you are wondering if it is the right time to get a water heater replacement, here are a few signs you should look out for.

Age of the unit:  Water heaters have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. If your water heater is approaching or has exceeded this age, consider replacing it.

Frequent repairs:  Do you need to repair your water heater regularly, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace the unit rather than continuing to pay for repairs.

Poor performance:  If you are not getting enough hot water or if the water is not hot enough, this may be a sign that your water heater is not functioning properly.

If you face any of these issues with your water heater , consider replacing it. Here are the five factors you should consider when planning a water heater installation.

Size of the Unit

One of the most important factors when searching a water heater is the size of the unit. You’ll need to consider your household size, the number of bathrooms you have, and the amount of hot water you typically use. If you get a water heater that is too small, you may find yourself running out of hot water regularly. If you opt for a unit that is too large, you’ll be paying for more hot water than you need, which can be a waste of money.

Fuel Type 

Water heaters are typically powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. Each fuel type has its pros and cons, so you’ll need to consider which option is best for your home. For example, natural gas water heaters are more efficient than electric ones, but they may only be an option if you have a gas line in your home.

Energy Efficiency

Water heaters are a significant source of energy consumption in your home, so it’s essential to choose an energy-efficient model to save on your monthly utility bills. Look for units with an Energy Star rating, indicating that they meet specific energy efficiency standards. Consider tankless water heaters. It heats water on demand rather than storing it in a tank. Tankless water heaters tend to be more energy efficient than traditional tank-style heaters.

Cost

Be sure to consider the upfront cost of the unit itself, as well as the cost of any additional materials or labor that may be required. You should also factor in the long-term cost of operating the unit, as some fuel types may be more expensive to use than others.

Warranty

Finally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer of the water heater you are considering. Look for a warranty that covers both the tank and the parts and any labor costs associated with repairs. A good warranty will give you the peace of mind and protect you if something goes wrong with the unit.

It’s always a wise idea to have a professional evaluate the present unit for water heater repair before deciding. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the best water heater for your home and your budget. Check out Elite Plumbers in Maryland when you need professional help for water heater installation or repair. Their services are fast, reliable, and affordable. Contact today !

What Are the Most Common Problems With Water Heaters?

A water heater is one of the most indispensable appliances in any household. We often take it for granted and don’t give it much thought unless it starts showing signs of problems. Modern water heaters are quite durable and designed to be long-lasting, but some problems do occur from time to time. Problems with the water heater can bring a lot of chaos into your daily routine because hot water is needed for so many chores. Hence it is important to know about the most common problems with water heaters. The more you are aware, the more appropriately you will be able to diagnose and address it without much hassle. For bigger issues, you should always opt for professional water heater repair services.

Here are some of the common water heater issues that you may face.

Water Leakage

As the water heater becomes old, water leaks inevitably occur. The water in the heater corrodes the tank and cracks appear that lead to water leaks. There are other reasons for water leaks as well – loosening of water inlet and outlet pipes or leaks from the pressure relief valves, which can be rectified by little adjustments. If water leakage is due to an aging water heater, you should consider water heater replacement.

Water Takes Too Long to Heat

There can be many reasons why your water heater takes too long to heat the water. Your thermostat may be set too low, or there is a problem with the gas connection, or the heating element is covered in deposits. Cleaning or fixing these parts can solve the issue. In some cases, the water heater installed in the house can’t serve the home’s needs.

It means that the water heater installation hasn’t been proper and a professional must look into it to see if you need to increase the capacity of the heater.

Low Hot Water Pressure

If your house is old, the plumbing network likely has pipes and that can lead to low hot water pressure. If your home has a modern plumbing network and the water pressure is still low, check the aerators in your sink for any clogs. Check the water inlet valve if it has become partially closed accidentally.

Discolored water

Discolored water is often a sign that the inner lining of your tank is corroded. A failing anode rod is often the cause. Call in a professional plumber to determine if replacing the anode rod can help.

Odd Noises in the Water Heater

Sediment build-up inside the water tank is the most common cause of noises coming from a water heater. Flushing the water heater can help. If the problem persists even after that, it is better to call in a professional plumber to have a look at it

If you are looking for professional plumbers in Maryland, you can rely on the services of Elite Plumbing. With professional services and upfront pricing with no hidden charges, they are the go-to service provider for any plumbing needs. Contact today!

Why Is My Water Heater Not Heating?

Turning on your hot water dap and discovering a lack of hot water is frustrating. The problem is likely with your water heater, but what could cause this equipment to stop working? 

We at Elite Plumbing know that you rely on hot water for many daily activities like bathing and washing clothes. Here, we explain some of the most common reasons for water heaters to stop producing hot water. 

Reasons Your Water Heater Might Not Be Heating

Not having access to hot water is a major inconvenience. Unfortunately, water heaters can stop functioning due to fuel problems, equipment damage, and faulty parts.

No Power Source

All water heaters must have sufficient fuel from whatever power source they draw from to heat water. For instance, gas water heaters will not work if the equipment isn’t receiving enough natural gas. The same goes for electric models without access to electricity. 

If your electric unit isn’t working, check your electric panel for a tripped breaker and ensure its power cord is operational without damage. If your water heater uses natural gas, ensure there aren’t any disruptions to the supply with the gas line or your natural gas company.

Limescale Buildup

A common problem with water heaters is limescale buildup from excess minerals in the water supply settling around the tank, valves, and pipelines. As the system heats water with many minerals, the moisture evaporates and leaves behind remnants of the minerals. Too much mineral buildup can lead to loud noises from the heater, foul-smelling water from the tap, and heating element failure. 

Flushing your water heater can help remove limescale buildup. Consider investing in a water heater filter or water softener to reduce the risk of additional limescale buildup.

Faulty Thermostat

Sometimes water heaters are fully functional yet their thermostats are faulty, which prevents the equipment from working correctly. If your water heater uses one heating element and experiences any type of thermostat failure, the unit won’t produce hot water. 

Water heaters with two heating elements often have an upper and lower thermostat. If the upper one fails, the heater won’t produce hot water, and limited hot water would be available if the lower thermostat is faulty. For that reason, it’s always best to test your water heater’s thermostats if the unit doesn’t yield enough hot water if it produces any at all. 

Contact the Professionals for Water Heater Repair Today

Whether you have a tank water heater, a tankless water heater, or a heat pump water heater in your home or business, you need it to be fully functional at all times to supply your property with a steady flow of hot water. If anything prevents your water heater from working correctly, count on Elite Plumbing to get to the root of the problem and implement the best solution for it. 

Our licensed professionals have nearly two decades of experience meeting the plumbing needs of residents throughout Anne Arundel, Baltimore, and Howard counties in Maryland. We offer the highest quality work at the most affordable rates. Call (443) 343-2284 today to request water heater servicing with Elite Plumbing today. 

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