Texans in northeast Houston are proactive people by nature. We show “pride of ownership” in our property, and we tend to circumvent potential problems before they become expensive disasters. All homes and businesses have water heaters, and they are conveniently tucked away where you seldom think about them until there’s a clue that something’s amiss.

Warning Signs Your Hot Water Heater is Going Out

  1. Age & Usage – Obviously, usage impacts equipment durability. A growing family or multi-office floor uses much more hot water than, say, a retired couple or a one-person business. Additionally, hard water buildup varies from area to area; city water may be freer from minerals than well water. Water heaters usually last 6-10 years, depending on usage, and if yours is older, schedule routine inspections and maintenance for many more years of service.
  2. Discoloration – Muddy or rusty-colored hot water could indicate a couple of problems. Your water heater may be rusting inside, a precursor to leaking. If you have galvanized pipes, they may be rusting inside-out. Your plumber can tell you what the problem is and your repair/replacement options.
  3. No Water or Leak – No hot water at all signals a broken heating element or gas thermocouple. Any leaking around water heaters could indicate some problems, none of which are DIY (do-it-yourself). You should call your plumber before serious damage occurs.
  4. Noise – If your water heater has taken on a new personality and complains with creaks, groans, bangs, or knocks, that may indicate a sediment build-up near the heating element. Your plumber has experience cleaning and flushing water heaters.

Scheduling routine inspection and maintenance is the best recommendation we have for property owners. It can prolong the life of your plumbing lines and equipment, and save money by maximizing energy usage. But if you’re one of those people who don’t want to call the plumber until there’s a problem, you’re not alone! Knowledge is power, and knowing when to call the plumber is something Bradbury Brothers Services wants to help you understand. There’s no charge for questions; even assessments are free, so why wait? Call 281.661.4283 or contact us for information.