--- title: When to replace a water heater [5 signs that it's time] description: Water heater replacement. Plumbing tips for homeowners. When to replace a water heater | KMP Plumbing Mansfield TX www.kmpcorp.com image: https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hubfs/KMP%20Offer/water%20heaters/replace%20water%20heater33.png --- [![Kennedale Mansfield Plumbing](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hubfs/images/logo.png)](http://www.kmpcorp.com/) - [About](https://www.kmpcorp.com/about-us/) - [Schedule Service](https://www.kmpcorp.com/schedule-service/) - [Residential](https://www.kmpcorp.com/residential-plumbing-services/) - [Commercial](https://www.kmpcorp.com/commercial-plumbing-services/) - [Careers](https://info.kmpcorp.com/careers-kmp/) - [Blog](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/blog) # Kennedale Mansfield Plumbing # When to replace a water heater \[5 signs that it's time\] ### ![kennedale mansfield plumbing, mansfield plumbing mansfield tx, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/KMP%20Offer/water%20heaters/replace%20water%20heater33.png?width=1171&name=replace%20water%20heater33.png "kennedale mansfield plumbing, mansfield plumbing mansfield tx, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx") ### plumbing maintenance for homeowners Plumbing problems can be prevented by regular plumbing maintenance. We recommend checking your home's water heater at least twice a year. #### Home Water Damage Statistics - Water Heaters - Water heater failure is one of the top 5 sources of residential water losses. - Water heater  failures cost an average of $4,444 per incident after the deductible was paid. - 69% of all water heater failures result from a slow leak or sudden burst.  \*Stats from [IBHS Water Damage Studies](https://disastersafety.org/ibhs/water-damage-studies/) [read more about base leaks here](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/blog/plumbing-tips-for-homeowners-toilet-leaking-at-base) ##### (A water heater burst in the home looks like this 👆) ##### Consider these 5 signs - Water heater age - Rust - Leaks - Temperature - Popping/Knocking noise - If you have any questions, concerns, or need a plumbing professional, give us a call at 817-453-8028. KMP offers a convenient way to schedule service online: [www.kmpcorp.com/schedule-service/](http://www.kmpcorp.com/schedule-service/).  ## 1. AGE #### Consider replacing a water heater that is 10 yrs or older. Most water heater failures occur when the unit has reached its life expectancy of 8-12 years. The older your water heater is, the more likely it is to fail. If your water heater has made it 12 yrs, there's good and bad news. The good news is: that's longer than most units 'live', the bad news is: it's prob time to replace if you're having problems.      ## 2. RUST #### Water heaters fail due to rust and corrosion. Almost all water heater failures, 'boil down' to 2 things: rust and corrosion.  As the tank deteriorates, the chances of a leak or sudden burst increase. There is no way to reverse rust/corrosion. If rust is present, and the tank is **not** leaking: **it will soon**. Much like a car, proper maintenance can extend the life of your water heater, and delay the need to replace.  ![kennedale mansfield plumbing, plumber mansfield tx, water heater mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/KMP%20Offer/water%20heaters/replace%20water%20heater%20RUST.png?width=1024&name=replace%20water%20heater%20RUST.png "kennedale mansfield plumbing, plumber mansfield tx, water heater mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx")  - Cause: steel + water = rust and corrosion. - Effect: Rust, corrosion, tank deterioration - How to prevent: - Inspect/replace the “sacrificial” anode rod once a year. Rod will need to replacement every 4-5 years depending on the type of water you have. - Flush/drain the tank at least once a year. - Note: There is no way to reverse rust/corrosion. - If rust is present, and the tank is **not** leaking: **it will soon**.   ##### Where to check for rust: - Around top/bottom of tank. - Connections: Water inlet & outlet, pressure relief valve.  - Rust in hot water: If your hot water is brown/rusty color this is a sign of a dissolved anode. Depending on the age of the water heater, and how much deterioration has occurred, you will most likely need to replace the unit.   ## 3. LEAKS #### A leaking tank is a sign you need a new water heater.   Most cases: a leaking tank is irreparable as the tank has deteriorated and failed. It is important to first determine where the leak is coming from.   ![KMP kennedale mansfield plumbing, replace water heater, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/KMP%20Offer/replace%20water%20heater%20LEAKS.png?width=1024&name=replace%20water%20heater%20LEAKS.png "KMP kennedale mansfield plumbing, replace water heater, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx") ##### Check for leaks in these places: - Water lines - Pressure relief valve - Drain valve - Tank (top/bottom)  - A leak from your water heater tank is usually cause by an internal problem and is rarely repairable.   - Depending on where the leak is coming from, as well as the age and condition of your water heater: you may be able to repair it. Take into consideration: the cost of the repair, and the life expectancy of the water heater after the repair.  - Remember: There is no way to reverse rust/corrosion. - How to prevent: Water Heater Maintenance  - Note: Prevent further water damage from leaks by shutting off the water and power to your water heater. Call a professional.     ## 4. Temperature #### Water is lukewarm or not getting hot. ![kennedale mansfield plumbing, replace water heater, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/KMP%20Offer/water%20heaters/replace%20water%20heater%20temp.png?width=1024&name=replace%20water%20heater%20temp.png "kennedale mansfield plumbing, replace water heater, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx") - Cause: Usually a sign one or more of the parts has failed including: heating element, thermostat, dip tube. - Parts deteriorate over time, and need replacing throughout the water heaters lifespan. Depending on the age of the water heater, lukewarm water is a sign the unit most likely needs replaced.  • [Schedule water heater maintenance online](https://info.kmpcorp.com/schedule-service)   ## 5. NOISE #### Water heater is making a popping or knocking sound. ![kennedale mansfield plumbing, replace water heater, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/KMP%20Offer/water%20heaters/replace%20water%20heater%20burst.png?width=1024&name=replace%20water%20heater%20burst.png "kennedale mansfield plumbing, replace water heater, plumber mansfield tx, plumbers arlington tx") - Cause: sediment build up - Effect: Minerals settle at the bottom on the burner causing the unit to overheat as it runs longer to heat water. - How to prevent: Flush your water heater once a year to help prevent sediment build up and extend the life of your water heater.  - Note: Draining a water heater with significant amount of sediment build-up can cause leaks. - If your water heater is making noise, plan on replacing it soon to avoid the risk of a sudden burst and water damage.    ## 6. REPAIR OR REPLACE #### If you determine the water heater needs **REPAIRED**, consider the following: - Cost of the repair. - Life expectancy of water heater after the repair. - Cost of a new unit with labor. • KMP is here to answer your water heater repair or replace questions. Contact us here online, or give us a call 817-453-8028   #### If you determine the water heater needs to be **REPLACED**, consider the following: - Type of unit. Will you be replacing with the same type of water heating system? - Have you considered a tankless unit? - Size: Does the current unit meet the needs of your home or is a larger water heater needed. • KMP is here to answer your water heater repair or replace questions. Contact us here online, or give us a call 817-453-8028 [![Click Here for $100 Off  Water Heater Installation](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1744828/c097150b-14a5-476e-99a3-772260541b71.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1744828/c097150b-14a5-476e-99a3-772260541b71) ### Remember - Plumbing problems can be prevented by regular plumbing maintenance. - The best way to prevent water heater related water damage: - take care of the water heater repair as soon as plumbing problems occur. - check your home's water heater at least twice a year. - prevent water heater problems with regular water heater maintenance.   Plumbing problems can be so frustrating they can 'drive a preacher to drinkin'. When you realize it's time to call a plumber: how do you know who to call? [Do you need a 24-hour plumber ?](https://info.kmpcorp.com/about-us) Before you open your pocket book be sure to do your research and know your plumber. [Thinking of switching to tankless? 6 REASONS TO MAKE THE SWITCH](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/blog/home-plumbing-guide-tankless-water-heaters-make-the-switch) KMP makes scheduling plumbing repairs easy  [SCHEDULE PLUMBING SERVICE ONLINE ](https://www.kmpcorp.com/schedule-service/)   ### Subscribe to Email Updates #### **![](https://blog.kmpcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/logo/Logo-option6.png?width=191&name=Logo-option6.png "Logo-option6.png")**   1451 Heritage Pkwy | Mansfield, TX 76063 [info@kmpcorp.com](mailto:info@kmpcorp.com) © 2016 [Kennedale Mansfield Plumbing](http://www.kmpcorp.com/) Lic# M-17237